chasing each other.

"She will be the entire day with my mother, and I shall not see
her," he murmured. Then, turning hastily to Pollnitz, he asked, "How
is the queen-mother? Did I not hear that she was suffering?"

"Certainly, your highness, a severe attack of gout confines her to
her chair, and holds her prisoner."

"Poor mother! it is long since I saw you."

"It is true, the queen complained of it the last time I spoke with
her," said Pollnitz, with a perfectly serious face, but with inward
rejoicing.

Another pause ensued. The prince appeared to reflect, and to
struggle with his own thoughts and wishes. Pollnitz stood behind
him, and noted every motion, every sigh that he uttered, with his
malicious smiles.

"I believe," said the prince, with still averted face, perhaps to
prevent Pollnitz from seeing his blushes--"I believe it would be
proper for me to inquire to-day personally after my mother's health;
it is not only my duty to do so, but the desire of my heart."

"Her majesty will be pleased to see her beloved son again, and this
pleasure will hasten her recovery."

The prince turned hastily and glanced sharply at Pollnitz, as if he
wished to read his inmost thoughts. But the countenance of the