A wave of curiosity, arresting talk, spread swiftly down.

There was an uncanny, dead silence, broken only by a raucous voice proceeding from a very fat Lord of Appeal some distance away: "After my bath I always lie flat on my back and bring my knees up to my chin." There was a convulsive, shrill gasp of laughter, which would have instantly developed into an hysterical roar, had not the young Prince, with quick, tactful disregard of British convention, sprung to his feet, and with one hand holding champagne glass, and the other uplifted, commanded silence.

So did the stars in their courses still fight for Paul.

"My lords, ladies and gentlemen," said the Prince, "I have the pleasure to announce the engagement of Her Highness the Princess Sophie Zobraska and Mr.Paul Savelli.

I ask you to drink to their health and wish them every happiness." He bowed to the couple, lifted his glass, and standing, swept a quick glance round the company, and at the royal command the table rose, dukes and duchesses and Cabinet Ministers, the fine flowers of England, and drank to Paul and his Princess.
"Attrape!" she whispered, as they got up together, hand in hand.