"Siddy patronizes learning," explained the Hereditary Prince. "We now have literary tea-parties, she has pieces read and rôles assigned. Take care, you will have to join it."
"I only read villains' parts," replied Victor; "or, at the most valets' rôles."
"The inferior parts are always my share," said the Hereditary Prince. "The best that falls to my lot is a good-natured father, who ends by giving his blessing."
"He has talent for nothing but open-hearted goodness; he protests if he has more than four verses to recite, and even with that there are pauses during which he fidgets with his lorgnette."
"His proper vocation would be that of pastor," said Victor, mockingly. "He would favor his congregation with short sermons, and set them a virtuous example."
"If he were only better than you, there would be no merit in it, Victor. You have the reputation of playing such naughty tricks that we are not allowed even to know them?"
"All calumny!" cried Victor, "I am harshly judged in my regiment because of my strict principles."
"Then Heaven preserve us from an invasion of your comrades. I am glad that you mean to pass your leave of absence in our parts; but I am surprised at it. You are free: the whole world is open to you."
"Yes, free as a jackdaw that is thrown out of its nest," replied Victor; "but there are times when it occurs to one that a garrison has not all the charms of home."
"And that you seek with us?" asked the Princess. "Poor cousin! But meanwhile you have been campaigning. I congratulate you. We hear that you behaved gallantly."