There was a slight tone of dissatisfaction in the remark of the Princess, that she was always glad when new institutions were founded.
Frau Ceres had approached, accompanied by Manna.
The Princess addressed a few words to Frau Ceres, and then said to Manna that she looked wholly different from her brother, except that her eyes were like his.
"But where is Roland?"
He was now seen coming down the steps; he was urgently requesting Eric to go with him, while Eric and the Mother bade him go alone.
He obeyed, and was welcomed by their royal Highnesses in a very cordial manner.
The Prince went towards the house, where the Professorin was standing on the steps with Eric; he went up to her with quick step, holding out both hands, and saying how glad he was to see her again; then, pointing to the miniature, he added that he cherished a most grateful remembrance of its subject, and wore his image not on but in his breast. Eric seemed to be hardly noticed, till a glance from his mother said, "Speak to my son," and the Prince turned to him with the words:—
"I hope, dear Dournay, that you have a better pupil than your excellent father had in me."
Eric found nothing to say in reply, but bowed in silence. Pranken approached, and asked:—
"Will your Highness see the Park and the Victoria Regia in bloom first, or the house?"