" Not at all bad!" he thought, examining her, "not at all bad, that little companion! I hope she will bring her along with her when we're married, la petite est gentille.

" * *The little one is charming.

The old prince dressed leisurely in his study, frowning and considering what he was to do.

The coming of these visitors annoyed him.

" What are Prince Vasili and that son of his to me? Prince Vasili is a shallow braggart and his son, no doubt, is a fine specimen," he grumbled to himself.