The prince wore the full uniform of an Austrian major general; in his hand he held his hat with its green plume and a sealed letter. On his breast he wore the Hanoverian Guelphic Order, and around his neck the Austrian Order of Leopold.
He hastened to the king who embraced him warmly.
"My dear Karl," cried King George, "what procures me the unexpected happiness of seeing you here? But first tell me how are your people?"
"Thank you for your kind interest," replied the prince, "we are all better at home, and my wife has quite recovered."
"And the Duchess of Ossuna?"
"I have excellent accounts of her."
"And you--how is your health?"
"My nerves plague me at times, otherwise I am well."
"So!" said the king, "and now sit down and tell me what brought you here. I heard a rumour through Count Ingelheim."
The prince seated himself near the king. "I wish I came in less serious times, on a less serious mission," he said sighing; "the emperor sends me to you. Here is his letter."