"Quite true, Mr. Moore, but I fancy I can do without such excitement in the future."
"I rejoice to hear you say that, your Highness," said Moore, sincerely.
"Indeed, Mr. Moore? And why so, if I may ask."
"Because," said the poet so winningly that it was quite impossible for even a prince of the blood to take offence, "'The First Gentleman of Europe' is too proud a title to be lightly risked."
Wales grew red and bit his lip.
"I accept your reproof," he said. "It is not undeserved."
"Not reproof, your Highness. Friendly advice, nothing more."
"As you would have it, Mr. Moore," responded the Prince, wearily.
Meanwhile Bessie had found the teapot to be one exception to the general ruin wrought of Moore's household utensils.
"Would it please your Highness to have a cup of tea?" she asked, timidly.