CHAPTER THREE“Will Papa see me, Magda?” Ilona asked.
“The Aide-de-Camp said the King will see no-one, M’mselle.”
Ilona walked across the Boudoir which adjoined the Queen’s bed-room and stood looking out of the window.
Down in the valley she could see flags being hoisted in the City. They were blowing on the warm wind and silhouetted against the white buildings in brilliant patches of colour.
“It is absurd!” she said. “I must find out what is happening and what arrangements have been made for tomorrow.”
Magda did not reply and Ilona knew from the expression on the old woman’s face that she was worried.
“It will be all right, Magda,” she said reassuringly. “I am sure it will be all right.”
She was speaking as much to encourage herself as her maid, and as she spoke the fear and apprehe
