"We have commanded our treasurer," said the Prince, "to pay to you out of our privy purse three marias[20] for the work which you have handed to us."
[20] Maria. An old Hungarian coin worth about thirty-five kreutzers.
"Your Highness was pleased to observe—" stammered the confounded poet.
"You heard very well. I said three marias. That is about the value of the writing materials which you have wasted upon this pedigree. Another time employ your leisure more profitably."
The Prince then signified that the audience was at an end.
The gentlemen quitted the tent with many a deep obeisance. Kucsuk Pasha alone remained behind.
During the whole of this scene the Pasha had been shaking his head, as if he had not expected all this from Apafi. He could not help remarking too that Apafi now needed no one to remind him how to preserve his princely dignity in the presence of others. Apafi wore an affable air; but it was the affability of princely condescension.
"We have learnt with regret," he began, turning towards the Pasha, "that we must shortly lose you, whose valour we so much admire, whose friendship we so much esteem."
The Pasha looked up with astonishment.
"What means your Highness?"