And this is a proof of what genius and perseverance can do, and should act as a warning to great people never to have SECRETS--if they can help it.
I knew the Princess hated me; but what did I care?
She knew I knew all: and indeed, I believe, so strong was her prejudice against me, that she thought I was an indelicate villain, capable of betraying a lady, which I would scorn to do; so that she trembled before me as a child before its schoolmaster.

She would, in her woman's way, too, make all sorts of jokes and sneers at me on reception days; ask about my palace in Ireland, and the kings my ancestors, and whether, when I was a private in Bulow's foot, my royal relatives had interposed to rescue me, and whether the cane was smartly administered there,--anything to mortify me.

But, Heaven bless you! I can make allowances for people, and used to laugh in her face.

Whilst her jibes and jeers were continuing, it was my pleasure to look at poor Magny and see how HE bore them.

The poor devil was trembling lest I should break out under the Princess's sarcasm and tell all; but my revenge was, when the Princess attacked me, to say something bitter to HIM,--to pass it on, as boys do at school.