"How can I decide to whom the letter belongs, as it bears no name?" said the princess, smiling.
"By opening and reading it," said the young girl, with apparent frankness. "The letter is from my mother, and I do not care to conceal its contents from your royal highness."
"Are you willing, Madame von Morien? shall I open this letter?"
But before the amazed and terrified young woman found time for a reply, Madame von Brandt approached the princess with a smiling countenance. She had in this moment of danger conceived a desperate resolution. The prince royal had informed her that this paper contained a poem. Why might not this poem have been intended for the princess as well as for Madame von Morien? It contained, without a doubt, a declaration of love, and such declarations are suitable for any woman, and welcome to all.
"If your royal highness will permit me, I am ready to throw light on this mystery," said Madame von Brandt.
The princess bowed permission.
"This letter belongs neither to Madame von Morien nor to Mademoiselle von Schwerin," said Madame von Brandt.
"You promised to enlighten us," exclaimed the princess, laughing, "and it appears to me you have made the mystery more impenetrable. The letter belongs neither to Madame von Morien nor to little Louise. To whom, then, does it belong?"
"It belongs to your royal highness."
"To me?" asked the astonished princess, while Madame von Morien gazed at her friend with speechless horror, and Mademoiselle von Schwerin laughed aloud.