“Lord Quorn,” His Highness cordially continued, “I am really most pleased that you could accept my invitation.”
“You do me too much honour, sir. And may I take it that your courtesy in selecting me for an invitation for your probably enjoyable ball is a sign of your gracious forgiveness?”
“You may, Lord Quorn.”
“Then I have the honour, sir, to declare myself, without any reserve whatsoever, to be your Highness’s most obedient servant.”
“And I, sir,” said Mr. Woodhouse Adams.
“Gentlemen,” said His Highness, “you are very kind.”
“Your condescension, sir, but points our crudity,” protested my lord. “May I, however, further trespass on your indulgence by asking to be allowed to enroll myself as the humblest among your daughter’s suitors?”
“We can talk this matter out more comfortably,” said His Highness agreeably, “in my study. Ho, there! Ho, page!”
“Altesse!”
“Conduct milord Quorn and Mr. Woodhouse Eves to my study, and see to it that they have suitable refreshment. Lord Quorn, I will join you not a moment after I have received my guests.”