Instinctively Forella was drawn to her and she was almost sure that the Princess felt the same.
Then, as she sat down, the Princess said,
“You are very lovely, and it is not surprising for the Rakozis are noted for their beautiful women, are they not, János?”
“So I have always heard,” he replied, “and so I am certainly ready to agree with what you say.”
“You flatter me,” Forella said, but her eyes were twinkling in a way that told the Prince that she was amused by his play-acting.
“I am afraid you may find it very dull here,” the Princess said to her, “but János tells me you are in mourning and that you wish to be very quiet.”
“That is what I hope to find,” Forella answered, “and I can only thank you for having me as your guest.”
“I should be thanking you,” the Princess replied. “Bu
