The effect on Max was instantaneous.

After looking into the princess's face, he said:-- "I wish to thank Your Highness for saving my life.

I surely had been killed but for your timely help." The situation bordered on the ridiculous.
"Do not thank me, my Lord Count," responded the princess, in cold and measured words.

"I should have done the same for any man in your hard case.

I once saved a yokel in like manner.