This brought the evening to a close.
Tea was served; their Majesties withdrew, and I fled to my apartment feeling that metaphorically I was covered with laurels.
November 28th.
DEAR A.,—To-day I was very high up, 'way up in the clouds, for I sat next to the Emperor.
Davilliers, one of the chamberlains, gave me his arm and conducted me to my place. The Emperor's first words were:
"I can't thank you enough for the pleasure you gave us last evening."
I tried to express my pleasure at these kind words.
"Did you see how we were affected when you sang 'Suwanee River'? I thought to laugh, instead of which I cried; how could you make it so pathetic?"
"That is my teacher's art," I replied.
"Who is your teacher?"