himself, "those two giant forms at the side of the little Armenians
are certainly Barons Kalkreuth and Kaphengst, and that is my brother
with them. Poor Henry! you have made a bad use of your freedom, and
must, therefore, soon lose it. Ah! see how searchingly he turns his
head, seeking his beautiful odalisque! In vain, my brother, in vain!
For to-day, at least, we have made her a repentant Magdalen; to-
morrow she will be again a life-enjoying Aspasia. Ah, the prince
separates himself from his followers. I have a few words to whisper
in the ear of the gay Kaphengst."

The king stepped back into the room, and after resuming his mask, he
descended into the saloon, accompanied by his grand chamberlain.

Mirth and gayety reigned; the room was crowded with masks. here
stood a group in gay conversation; there was dancing at the other
end of the saloon. Some were listening to the organ-player, as he
sang, in comical German and French verses, little incidents and
adventures that had occurred during the present year at court,
bringing forth laughter, confused silence, and blushes. Some were
amusing themselves with the lively, witty chat of the son of the
Prince of Prussia, the little ten-year-old, Prince Frederick
William. He was dressed as the God of Love, with bow and quiver,
dancing around, and, with an early-ripened instinct, directing his
arrow at the most beautiful and fascinating ladies in the room.

Prince Henry paid no attention to all this; his wandering glance
sought only the beautiful Louise, and a deep sigh escaped him at not
having found her. Hastily he stepped through the rows of dancers
which separated the two cavaliers from him.