The
like birds may pass very well in the gallant boudoir of a certain
marquise, but not in a royal palace of Berlin."
Pollnitz shrank back in alarm, and fixed an imploring look upon the
princess. Amongst the French officers arose an angry murmur,
swelling louder and louder, more and more threatening, and
completely drowning the music which was just recommencing.
The queen bowed down to the princess. "I pray you, sister," said she
in a low voice, "remember that we are poor, unprotected women, and
not in a condition to defend ourselves. Let us appear not to remark
this unmannerly conduct, and let us remember that the king has made
it our duty to receive the French officers with marked attention."
"You, sister, are simply a slave to the commands of the king. He is
more truly your master than your husband," said the princess,
angrily.
The queen smiled sweetly. "You are right; I am his slave, and my
soul has chosen him for its lord. Blame me not, then, for my
obedience."
"Do you intend to allow the arrogant presumption of these haughty
Frenchmen to go unpunished?"
"I will take pains not to observe it," said the queen, turning her
attention again to the music.
Pages:
629
630
631
632
633
634
635
636
637
638
639
640
641
642
643
644
645
646
647
648
649
650
651
652
653