The girl-Queen was in ecstasies.

She deigned a dance with the young Habral, and then all sat down to supper; and in the middle of it came the cry of Fire! The Queen shrieked; the flames were seen all around; and if the arms of the young Habral were opened to save her, or perish, could she cast a thought on Royalty, and refuse?
The Queen was saved the villa was burnt; the young Habral was ruined, but, if I know a Portuguese, he was happy till he died, and well remunerated! For he had held a Queen to his heart! So that was a pic-nic!' The Duke slightly inclined his head.
'Vrai Portughez derrendo,' he said.

'They tell a similar story in Spain, of one of the Queens--I forget her name.

The difference between us and your Peninsular cavaliers is, that we would do as much for uncrowned ladies.' 'Ah! your Grace!' The Countess swam in the pleasure of a nobleman's compliment.
'What's the story ?' interposed Aunt Bel.
An outline of it was given her.

Thank heaven, the table was now rid of the Great Mel.