At these
meetings I learned a great deal about her. She was known to be the
most capricious woman at court, and that she was as courageous as she
was daring; and that the Prince might consider himself lucky if he got
her, King's will or no King's will. She had little liking for her
intended. She treated him contemptuously and held his desires in utter
disregard. One fine morning I was told that the Prince was beginning
to notice my attentions, that he was one of the most noted pistol shots
and swordsmen on the Continent, and that if I had any particular regard
for my epidermis I would cease my attendance on the Princess at once.
This, of course, made me more attentive than ever; for I can hold my
own with any man when it comes to pistols, and I can handle the rapier
with some success.
It was one night at the opera that the climax was brought about. I sat
in one of the stalls diagonally across from the royal box, where she
sat. She saw me and gave me the barest nod of recognition. Perhaps
she did not wish to attract the attention of the royal personages who
sat with her; for the nod struck me as clandestine.
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