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 nobility with loud cheers of happy surprise as they gathered in large numbers and in great splendor for a ball at the palace of Count Francis Válav Felsenburk, lord of Mokřin, Hlohov, Lužan Dobřic, Černá Skála, and other most beautiful and productive domains of Bohemia and Moravia.

The nobility of Prague had had their last reception for the winter at Prince Wildenšwert’s castle, and were now, as usual, preparing to return to their estates or to travel, when unexpectedly Count Felsenburk sent out invitations to a ball, wishing, as he said, to bid his honored friends farewell in his own home. With his invitation he not only created great excitement among the maids and chamberlains who had to unlock the chests already packed and take out and prepare the beautiful costumes and family jewels, but also surprised the nobility themselves.

The Count’s invitation and expression of warm friendship, so suddenly aroused, was a complete surprise. Among his acquaintances he was not supposed to be of an affectionate