I heard the sentry explain, in Rudarlian, that it was impossible for her to have audience with me.
The next moment the door was flung open and in flew the owner of the voice. The sentry had evidently been fooled by a pretended retreat; and had grasped a portion of her gown as she dashed past him. Zip! something had given way.
"Fancy treating a lady like that; it's a shame!"
It was as much as I could do to keep my face straight, as I signed to the sentry to close the door.
The "lady" was examining the back part of her skirt with an angry expression on her face, taking no notice of me whatever; but having repaired the damage--presumably with pins--she looked round and saw me standing near her.
"Lord, your Majesty!" she cried, dropping on her knees.
"You wished to speak to me, I believe."
"Yes, please your Majesty."
"Then supposing you take this seat, you will find it more comfortable than the ground, I daresay."
"Thanks, your Majesty."