Aribert found his nephew despondent and taciturn.

On the previous day, when, after the futile interview with Sampson Levi, Prince Eugen had despairingly threatened to commit suicide, in such a manner as to make it 'look like an accident', Aribert had compelled him to give his word of honour not to do so.
'What wine will your Royal Highness take ?' asked old Hans in his soothing tones, when the soup was served.
'Sherry,' was Prince Eugen's curt order.
'And Romanee-Conti afterwards ?' said Hans.

Aribert looked up quickly.
'No, not to-night.

I'll try Sillery to-night,' said Prince Eugen.
'I think I'll have Romanee-Conti, Hans, after all,' he said.

'It suits me better than champagne.' The famous and unsurpassable Burgundy was served with the roast.