"It seems that the play of to-night did not amuse you much, mamma." She looked into the teacup so steadily that she could not see her mother's tears or expression of face. But that face grew bright on a sudden and was covered with an unrestrained smile.
"Is Cara sleeping?" inquired she.
"Of course; her room is quite silent, and so is Miss Mary's. Why do you not drink tea, mamma?"
Malvina raised the spoon slowly to her lips, and Irene began to speak calmly:
"I heard very unexpected news to-day. It seems that father has told Prince Zeno, who inquired about the matter, that he will not consent to my marriage with Baron Blauendorf."
"Why call that news unexpected?" asked Malvina, looking at her daughter.
Irene shrugged her shoulders slowly.
"I did not suppose that father would devote his precious time to things so trivial. This is unexpected and may bring trouble."
"What trouble?" inquired Malvina, with alarm.
"Father's opinions and mine may be in opposition."