Fiction > Book editions > London, 1886 - Prince Otto

292 PRINCE OTTO
' We have not time for that,' replied the
Prince ; ' but if you would oblige us with a cup
of wine without here, you will give a pleasure
and a service, both in one.'
The miller once more coloured to the nape.
He hastened to bring forth wine in a pitcher
and three bright crystal tumblers. ' Your
Highness must not suppose,' he said, as he filled
them, ' that I am an habitual drinker. The
time when I had the misfortune to encounter
you, I was a trifle overtaken, I allow ; but a
more sober man than I am in my ordinary, I do
not know where you are to look for ; and even
this glass that I drink to you (and to the lady)
is quite an unusual recreation.'
The wine was drunk with due rustic cour-
tesies ; and then, refusing further hospitality,
Otto and Seraphina once more proceeded to
descend the glen, which now began to open and
to be invaded by the taller trees.
'I owed that man a reparation,' said the
Prince ; ' for when we met I was in the wrong
and put a sore affront upon him. I judge by
myself, perhaps ; but I begin to think that no
one is the better for a humiliation.'
'But some have to be taught so,' she replied.
*Well, well,' he said, with a painful em-
barrassment. ' Well, well. But let us think of
safety. My miller is all very good, but I do