that, contrary to my wishes and commands, he is about to make a
secret and illegitimate marriage. I am not yet acquainted with the
name of his wily mistress, but I shall learn it, and, when once
noted in my memory, woe be unto her, for I shall never acknowledge
such a marriage, and I shall take care that his mistress is not
received at court--she shall be regarded as a dishonored woman."

"Your majesty is very stern and pitiless toward the poor prince,"
said Madame Kleist, who had succeeded in suppressing her own
emotions, and, following the lead of the king, she was desirous to
let it appear that the subject was one of no personal interest to
herself.

"No," said the king, "I am not cruel and not pitiless. I must forget
that I am a brother, and remember only I am a king, not only for the
good of my family, but for the prosperity of my people. My brother
must marry a princess of wealth and influence. Tell Prince Henry
this. Now," said the king, with an engaging smile, "let us speak of
your lovely self. You will, of course, marry again. Have you not
confidence enough in me to tell me the name of your happy and
favored lover?"

"Sire," said Louise, smiling, "I do not know it myself, and to show
what unbounded confidence I have in your majesty, I modestly confess
that I am not positively certain whether among my many followers
there is one who desires to be the successor of Kleist. It is easy
to have many lovers, but somewhat difficult to marry suitably."

"We need a marrying man to chase away the crowd of lovers," said the
king, smiling. "Think awhile--let your lovers pass in review before