“It seems that the King has just left the Castle for a few days. No doubt he has gone on one of his usual excursions.”
Ernest did not pay much heed, but the two girls looked at her with surprise, and Gertrude ventured to ask—
“Is it known where his Majesty has gone to, Madam?”
“I believe not. I am told that he took Herr Mark with him.”
“Johann!” This time it was Dorothea who spoke. “Has he gone away without leaving any message?”
The Princess smiled pleasantly.
“You forget he did not know you were in the Castle,” she said.
Then, turning once more to Ernest, she added—
“Come, sir, Lady Gertrude is waiting. Dorothea, I want you in the other room.”
Dorothea arose and followed her mistress, while Ernest grudgingly took his place at the chessboard.