But the King did not notice her impertinent remark. He went to a drawer, and took out a large piece of paper, and wrote on it as large as he could:
‘NOTICE.
‘During the next twenty-four hours, any one found kissing, embracing, congratulating, or suing for the hand of the Princess—or King—will be submerged three times in the Palace draw-well.
‘(Signed) Caret, etc. etc.’
‘That ought to do it,’ said the King, surveying his handiwork approvingly.
Just then the door opened, and two more old gentlemen—each wearing a ducal coronet—tottered in as fast as they could.
‘My dear Princess,’ ‘My darling wife,’ they duetted in feeble tones, showing as much joy as their faces were capable of, which made them look about as pleasant as a pair of Japanese masks.
‘Allow me to congratulate you,’ ‘Allow me to offer my congratulations,’ they went on.
‘Now you’ve done it,’ said the King. ‘Look here!’ And he showed them the notice.