But the trouble passed quickly, and was not really severe.

The Prince said a word or two between each figure, and did not seem to expect a reply.
He made a few words go a long way, and was well trained in the work of easing the burden of his own greatness for those who were for the moment inflicted with it.

When the dance was over he was allowed to escape after the ceremony of a single glass of champagne drunk in the presence of the hostess.

Considerable skill was shown in keeping the presence of his royal guest a secret from the host himself till the Prince was gone.

Melmotte would have desired to pour out that glass of wine with his own hands, to solace his tongue by Royal Highnesses, and would probably have been troublesome and disagreeable.