'Don't you think,' Brühl said, 'that we succeeded in amusing the Prince?'
'Yes, and you proved a good marksman,' answered the girl. 'I don't doubt that you could shoot just as well at people--'
Brühl looked sharply at her.
'I am not very skilful,' he said coolly, 'but if I were obliged to defend His Majesty, I don't doubt I should shoot well. I noticed that you enjoyed your conversation with the Chamberlain Watzdorf.'
'Yes,' said the girl, 'Watzdorf is very witty, he shoots with words as you do with balls.'
'That is a very dangerous weapon. If one does not know how to handle it,' said Brühl, 'one might shoot oneself.'
The girl's mother interrupted this unpleasant conversation, Frances' look closed it. She wished to intercede with Brühl, but pride closed her mouth: besides she was not certain that Watzdorf did not exaggerate his peril.
The Princess had already left with her ladies in waiting, the Prince still remained. Sulkowski tried to come near him, and the Prince expressing his desire to walk some little distance, the favourite seized the opportunity and walked at his side. Brühl accompanied the Countess Kolowrath.
Sulkowski did not wish to postpone the affair, for he was afraid that Watzdorf might fly if it were delayed.
'It's a very unpleasant duty,' said Sulkowski, 'to be obliged to spoil your majesty's humour after such pleasant amusement.'