Paul and the Princess had their conventional opportunity for conversation.

She spoke in French, daringly using the intimate "tu"; but of all sorts of things--books, theatres, picture shows.

Then tactfully she drew the Prince and his neighbour and Lady Danesborough into their circle, and, pulling the strings, she at last brought Paul and the Prince into a discussion over the pictures of the Doges in the Ducal Palace in Venice.

The young Prince was gracious.

Paul, encouraged to talk and stimulated by precious memories, grew interesting.