"I never did lose it," replied the Duchess, "I believe some story got into the papers, but it was a down-right lie."
"So glad! I must tell you that I don't as a rule wear my crown at lunch, but I thought, to-day being a gala occasion—"
"Quite right!" said the Duchess. "And quite regal!"
"I could lend both of you tiaras, if it would make you feel more at your ease."
"I feel perfectly at ease as I am, thank you," replied the Duchess shortly.
"Nibbles gave me one of the family fenders," said the Marchioness, "but I never wear it—it gives me such a headache."
"Ah, dear Lady Muscombe, I can sympathise with you—but I have to put up with my headaches. I want you to come and shake hands with my husband—His Majesty, you know."
"Charmed," said the Duchess. "Is that His Majesty with the—er—auburn whiskers and moustache? I thought it must be.... How d'you do, sir?"
"Thank you, your Grace, I'm very tolerably well," said King Sidney, who was not entirely at his ease in welcoming such distinguished guests—especially as he was far from clear as to how and why they came to be there. "Glad you found time to—er—look us up. Hardly had time to settle down here ourselves yet—so you must take us as you find us."
"I never expected to find you all so magnificent, I can assure you," replied the Duchess.