“Oh, no. Only during the season. We shall reside principally in the Gherardini Castle, among the Apennines, an old ancestral stronghold, which half charms, half frightens me; but I shall know more about it when I see it. And some day, Lilith, you will come and spend a summer with us there, and help to lighten the gloom.”
“I thank you very much. I think that I should like it extremely,” answered the younger lady.
The princess’ rich but plain toilet was soon finished, and she went below, accompanied by Lilith.
The prince was waiting for her in the lower hall, where all her household had gathered to bid the newly married pair good-bye.
Aunt Sophie stood there, leaning on the arm of the gallant old professor, and quietly smiling and weeping—the soft-hearted creature smiled and wept a little at every wedding.
The domestics were gathered behind.
The prince and princess took a kindly leave of all, and a most affectionate one of Aunt Sophie and Monsieur Le Grange.
So, followed by the good wishes of their friends, they left the maison.
Not until the assembled household had seen the traveling carriage roll out of the court-yard gate did they separate and disperse to their several quarters.
“I must go and see to those valuable wedding presents being locked carefully away. Indeed, I think I shall finally send them to the vaults of the bank. Will madame graciously excuse me?” inquired the polite Monsieur Le Grange, as he led Mrs. Downie to the little salon.