with perfect courtesy, 'I am wholly at your Highness's command; and

if you will excuse a rather summary toilet, I will even follow you,

as I am.'

'I thank you, sir,' said Otto.

So without more delay, the Prince leading, the pair proceeded down

through the echoing stairway of the tower, and out through the

grating, into the ample air and sunshine of the morning, and among

the terraces and flower-beds of the garden. They crossed the fish-

pond, where the carp were leaping as thick as bees; they mounted,

one after another, the various flights of stairs, snowed upon, as

they went, with April blossoms, and marching in time to the great

orchestra of birds. Nor did Otto pause till they had reached the

highest terrace of the garden. Here was a gate into the park, and

hard by, under a tuft of laurel, a marble garden seat. Hence they

looked down on the green tops of many elm-trees, where the rooks

were busy; and, beyond that, upon the palace roof, and the yellow

banner flying in the blue. I pray you to be seated, sir,' said

Otto.

Sir John complied without a word; and for some seconds Otto walked

to and fro before him, plunged in angry thought. The birds were all

singing for a wager.

'Sir,' said the Prince at length, turning towards the Englishman,

'you are to me, except by the conventions of society, a perfect

stranger. Of your character and wishes I am ignorant. I have never

wittingly disobliged you. There is a difference in station, which I

desire to waive. I would, if you still think me entitled to so much

consideration - I would be regarded simply as a gentleman. Now,

<<BackPagesTo menuNext>>