I
admit I was a bit curious as to the matter--and here I saw my
opportunity.
"If you will permit," said I, "I'll send an Aide to invite the Radnors
and you to the Royal Box during the last act, and then, later, to be my
guests at supper on the Hanging Garden."
"You're very kind, old man," said he; "and as for old Radnor you will
endanger his life--he will just about explode with importance."
"I trust not," said I; "I like Lord Radnor--and then explosions are
disconcerting at the Opera or a supper."
I had good reason, later, to remember this banter--for there was an
explosion at the supper that night that was more than disconcerting;
but Lord Radnor was in no way responsible.
XIII
IN THE ROYAL BOX
When the Princess and I entered the Royal Box that night the applause
was instant and enthusiastic. I kept a bit in the rear; the greeting
was for her. And she smiled that conquering smile of hers that went
straight to every individual in the audience as a personal
acknowledgment. I had seen it frequently in the past month; yet, every
time, to marvel only the more. Small wonder, indeed, that she was the
toast of the Nation and the pride of the King.
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