However, fortunately, they will not expect the usual amount of compliments.

They will be really wanting to hear of the battle, and most of them will be interested in some special friend with the army, and will want to inquire about him." "It will not be so bad, then," Hector said.

"If I only have to talk of military matters I shall not mind, but it will be painful indeed if I have to give news of the death of anyone dear to the lady I am speaking to." "I don't think that you need fear very much about that.

Enghien is pretty sure to have sent a list containing the names of any court gallants that have fallen, and their relatives will at once have been notified of it, and will not be present at the court.

As to the others, who have merely lost lovers, they will not break their hearts over it.
It is the fashion to change them so rapidly that probably not a few of the ladies will have consoled themselves for their absence already.
However, to begin with, I daresay I shall be able to act as your mentor and guide, and point out to you who is who, so that you can avoid falling into serious errors.