“Of course I am, if you agree.”
“Is it likely that I should refuse? It is a compact, then?”
“Between us two mothers. Naturally the children must know nothing, or it would make them self-conscious when they are older. And of course there is no need to tell any one else for years and years yet.”
“Will you leave that to me, Nestchen? If we are to bring our scheme to pass, I must be free to enlist allies as opportunity offers. But if you will put the matter into my hands, I engage that we shall succeed.”
“Yes; I will leave it to you, Ottilie. You are so clever, you never blunder.”
“You have paid a long visit to your cousin,” said the Prince of Dardania, as he helped his wife out of the carriage on her return to their country-seat. “I hope it has been a pleasant one?”
The Princess made him no answer, but pointed to the little girl, who was being carried off by her nurse. “We must take care of her,” she said. “She will wear a crown one day.”
“What! have you betrothed her to his Majesty King Michael?” cried Prince Alexis, with a burst of laughter.
“Exactly. Ernestine and I have agreed that they are to marry when they grow up.”
“Poor babies! You have settled their future early. May I ask whether our friend Count Mortimer was consulted?”