'We began equal; O, there I will be bold: we have both beautiful complexions.

But while I study mine, your Highness tans himself.' 'A perfect negro, madam; and what so fitly--being beauty's slave ?' said Otto.--'Madame Grafinski, when is our next play?
I have just heard that I am a bad actor.' '_O ciel_!' cried Madame Grafinski.

'Who could venture?
What a bear!' 'An excellent man, I can assure you,' returned Otto.
'O, never! O, is it possible!' fluted the lady.

'Your Highness plays like an angel.' 'You must be right, madam; who could speak falsely and yet look so charming ?' said the Prince.

'But this gentleman, it seems, would have preferred me playing like an actor.' A sort of hum, a falsetto, feminine cooing, greeted the tiny sally; and Otto expanded like a peacock.