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Rh "Let me hear what the triumph was," said their hostess.

"You are aware that the entertainment last night was given in honour of the Queen of England. Few were admitted, as it was quite the household circle, and all ceremony was to be waived. So thought our young King; for when he led his partner to the dance, that partner was not the Princess Henriette, but Mademoiselle Mancini. The Queen rose, snatched away the King's hand, and led him to the pretty little fairy, whose eyes were already filled with tears—the fear of not dancing being before them. Louis turned away, saying, 'He would rather not dance at all than dance with a child.' His mother insisted—the English Queen interfered—Mademoiselle Marie was the very image of triumphant submission—and we all stood round, looking as innocent and indifferent as possible. The King gave way at last, and danced with la petite; but looks and words were alike addressed to your sister. Ay, and our white-handed Queen sees she must conciliate; for, at the close of the evening, she expressed her regret that she had been so hasty, and caressed Mademoiselle Mancini, as if there was something to be made up with her."