and asked if she would receive me. This step created much interest, and was met with shouts of approval. The princess was very popular, and the chancellor himself had not scrupled to hint to me that the more I pressed my suit, and the more rapidly I brought it to a prosperous conclusion, the stronger should I be in the affection of my subjects. The chancellor, of course, did not understand the difficulties which lay in the way of following his loyal and excellent advice. However, I thought I could do no harm by calling; and in this view Fritz supported me with a cordiality that surprised me, until he confessed that he also had his motive for liking to visit the princess' house, which motive was no other than a great desire to see the princess' lady in waiting and bosom friend, the Countess Helga von Strofzin.
Etiquette seconded Fritz's hopes. While I was ushered into the princess' room he remained with the countess in the antechamber; in spite of the people and servants who were hanging about I doubt not that they managed a tête-à-tête; but I had no leisure to think of them, for I was playing the
