The Princess took it in, on the spot, firmly grasping it; she heard them together, her father and his wife, dealing with the queer case.

"The Prince tells me that Maggie has a plan for your taking some foreign journey with him, and, as he likes to do everything she wants, he has suggested my speaking to you for it as the thing most likely to make you consent.

So I do speak--see ?--being always so eager myself, as you know, to meet Maggie's wishes.

I speak, but without quite understanding, this time, what she has in her head.

Why SHOULD she, of a sudden, at this particular moment, desire to ship you off together and to remain here alone with me?
The compliment's all to me, I admit, and you must decide quite as you like.