Passages of wit, loaded with allusion, flew round the table: "A German ducat is change for an English half-guinea," and the like sprightly things.

Nay at one time, Hotham's back being turned, they openly drink,--his Majesty in a state of exhilaration, having blabbed the secret:--"To the health of Wilhelmina Princess of Wales!" Upon which the whole Palace of Charlottenburg now bursts into tripudiation; the very valets cutting capers, making somersets,--and rushing off with the news to Berlin.

Observable, only, that Hotham and Dubourgay sat silent in the tripudiation; with faces diplomatically grave.

Several points to be settled first; no hallooing till we are out of the wood.
News came to Berlin Schloss, doubtless at full gallop, which would only take a quarter of an hour.

This is Wilhelmina's experience of it.