Fiction > Book editions > London, 1885 - Prince Otto

PRINCE OTTO
O^T
GHAPTEE lY.
WHILE THE PRINCE IS IN THE ANTE-EOOM.
Greatly comforted by the exploits of the morn-
ing, the Prince turned towards the Princess's
ante-room, bent on a more difficult enterprise.
The curtains rose before him, the usher called
his name, and he entered the room with an
exaggeration of his usual mincing and airy
dignity. There were about a score of persons
waiting, principally ladies ; it was one of the
few societies in Grlinewald where Otto knew him-
self to be popular ; and while a maid of honour
made her exit by a side door to announce his
arrival to the Princess, he moved round the
apartment, collecting homage and bestowing
compliments, with friendly grace. Had this
been the sum of his duties, he had been an ad-
mirable monarch. Lady after lady was im-
partially honoured by his attention.
'Madam,' he said to one, 'how does this
happen? I find you daily more adorable.'
' And your Highness daily browner,' replied