Towards the end of the meal, the topics of conversation became more personal, bearing more directly on the future of Rudarlia.
It was at this point that I began to feel a rather comic uneasiness, for my instinct told me that before long some remark would lead up to the subject of my marriage, and I knew that Zeula would be responsible for it, as he was wrapped up in the subject.
I was not mistaken, for he made a remark about a King without heirs. My mother glanced at me quickly. I deliberately winked at Mr. Neville, who laughed outright.
"So, Prince," said I, "you have thrown your bomb."
"I awaited a fitting opportunity, your Majesty."
"Pray forget ceremony," murmured my mother.
"Then, Mr. Smith," said I, with a grimace, "you have given me indigestion."
"I did not ask you to bolt your food, Victor."
"Meaning?"
"That there is no particular hurry."