So far as I could tell from the faces, those present were at best but partially informed.

They were certainly ignorant of all details, and even of the entire programme of the day.

There is a certain kind of expectation which is not concerned in the mere execution of fore-ordered things.
The aero on which the King and Queen had come down from the mountain now arrived on the platform in the charge of a tall young mountaineer, who stepped from the steering-platform at once.

King Rupert, having handed his Queen (who still carried her baby) into her seat, took his place, and pulled a lever.

The aero went forward, and seemed to fall head foremost off the fort.