"Not permitted?" asked Victor, astonished; "what kind of tyranny is this? Has it become the fashion here to be virtuous? Then impart to me, at least, what other lady, from political reasons, may only be admired by me in the distance?"
"I believe that you have free choice," replied Prince Benno, depressed.
"What a blessing for me that I am not Hereditary Prince! But what has occasioned the Sovereign to invite me here so graciously?"
"We do not know; Siddy also was surprised."
"And I, fool, thought she had a hand in the game."
"If she had attempted anything of the kind, you would assuredly have had no invitation."
"That he does not like me is evident. I had a cool reception."
"Perhaps he wishes to have you married."
"To whom?" asked Victor, quickly.
"He has caused you to visit amongst our relations," replied the Hereditary Prince, cautiously.