I am not yet acquainted with the name of his wily mistress, but I shall learn it, and, when once noted in my memory, woe be unto her, for I shall never acknowledge such a marriage, and I shall take care that his mistress is not received at court--she shall be regarded as a dishonored woman." "Your majesty is very stern and pitiless toward the poor prince," said Madame Kleist, who had succeeded in suppressing her own emotions, and, following the lead of the king, she was desirous to let it appear that the subject was one of no personal interest to herself.
"No," said the king, "I am not cruel and not pitiless.

I must forget that I am a brother, and remember only I am a king, not only for the good of my family, but for the prosperity of my people.

My brother must marry a princess of wealth and influence.

Tell Prince Henry this.

Now," said the king, with an engaging smile, "let us speak of your lovely self.