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 ing its close; for me you are giving it, and as yet I have seen almost nothing of it. You have gratified me, indeed, by inviting the nobility of Prague when you heard of my intention to come here to inquire into certain affairs. You have saved me much time. I have met all the personages here with whom it was necessary for me to speak, and I can be on my way to Vienna at eight in the morning. I have surprised the nobles completely; willing or not, they had to express their opinions. They had no time to reflect, concoct schemes, or evade my questions. I discovered here, by the help of music and dancing, more than if I had invited them to my palace for official council— but not another word about that matter. I have just noticed how artistically your halls are decorated. Lead me through the apartments which you consecrated to pleasure, that I may thoroughly appreciate your taste.”

Although the Count was accustomed to bask in the sunshine of the royal family, yet when in obedience to the Emperor’s request he