Page:Fashions for Men And The Swan Two Plays (NY 1922).pdf/221

 —You intended to show them to the boys to-night.

—Yes, your highness, in the tower.

—You love the stars.

—Very much, your highness.

—And you know all about them?

—I know very little about them, your highness. But even that little is marvellously beautiful.

—There will be no star-gazing to-night.

—As your highness commands.

—We are having a farewell reception to-night in honor of the Crown Prince. He goes away to-morrow.

—Too bad.

—The official personages of the neighborhood have been asked to come. There won't be many. I have expressed the desire that you be invited too. [, wide-eyed with astonishment, comes a pace or two nearer.] That is why I said you couldn't look at the stars to-night.

—[Modestly.] I am very happy, your highness; and if anything could make me happier, it is the privilege of receiving the invitation from your highness' own lips.

—The reception is likely to be stiff and formal. I hope you won't be bored.

—I couldn't be bored where your highness was.

—In case you do find the society of offi