scene after scene, caricature after caricature, were poured out with
prodigal expenditure for the amusement of the Prince, who did nothing
during the exhibition but smile, stroke his whiskers, and at the end of
the best stories fence with his forefinger at the Baron's side, with a
gentle laugh, and a mock shake of the head, and a "Eh! Von Konigstein,
you're too bad!" Here Lady Madeleine Trevor passed again, and the Grand
Duke's hat nearly touched the ground. He received a most gracious bow.

"Finish the story about Salvinski, Baron, and then I will present you
for a reward to the most lovely creature in existence, a countrywoman of
your friend, Lady Madeleine Trevor."

"I have the honour of a slight acquaintance with her," said the Baron;
"I had the pleasure of knowing her in England."

"Indeed! Fortunate mortal! I see she has stopped, talking to some
stranger. Let us turn and join her."

The Grand Duke and the two friends accordingly turned, and of course the
silent gentlemen in the rear followed with due precision.

"Lady Madeleine!" said the Grand Duke, "I flattered myself for a moment
that I might have had the honour of presenting to you a gentleman for
whom I have a great esteem; but he has proved to me that he is more
fortunate than myself, since he had the honour before me of an
acquaintance with Lady Madeleine Trevor."

"I have not forgotten Baron von Konigstein," said her ladyship, with a
serious air. "May I ask his Highness how he prospered in his negotiation
with the Austrian troop?"