“We are not dancing tonight, although there is a ball at the Winter Palace,” the Grand Duchess said to Mary. “I thought, dear child, that you might be tired after your long voyage at sea. But next week you must be present! It is a special occasion and we are all to appear in Russian dress. I have already ordered a gown for you and one for your cousin, Alida.”
“How very kind of you, ma’am!” Mary exclaimed.
“I think you will enjoy the ball,” the Grand Duchess answered. “It’s always an amazing spectacle! The men especially look magnificent in their full regalia.”
“I shall look forward to it,” Mary said politely.
“Tomorrow I am giving a ball here in your honour,” the Grand Duchess went on. “I have decided that it should be a ‘White Ball’ because soon the winter will be here and St. Petersb
