If the women gasped with complete surprise at her appearance, the men’s eyes warmed as she received them before dinner and then smiled with delight at the presents they had brought her.
The people who were to dine at the Palace arrived first.
When they were announced in the huge Reception room, which was also decorated with flowers, Prince Serge and Princess Catherine welcomed them.
Lavinia stood beside her father and was introduced to each visitor because it was her party.
They came from every Principality because Prince Serge was very popular.
As he was known to be rich and able to afford the very best on such a special occasion, it would be a pity to stay away even if it meant a long journey and in most cases it was impossible to return to their homes that night.
It was therefore
