How like a child's dream these few days upon the marshes, talking to one who was no more than a looker-on at the great things of life, must seem! He could imagine her thinking of them with a shiver as she remembered her escape.

The Princess was right, she was very right indeed.

He rose to his feet.
"Madam," he said, "I have not pretended to misunderstand you.

I think that you have spoken wisely.

Your stepdaughter must solve for herself the great riddle.