He whispered that she had commanded the introduction.

I expected to see some red-faced dowager who wanted to ask me about my country and bore me with her guttural accents.

To my intense pleasure, I found myself at the side of the beauty whom I had been admiring.

There was a humorous light in her eyes as she put some questions to me.
"Do you speak German ?" she asked in that language.
"Poorly, your Highness," I answered.
"Perhaps, then, you speak French ?" "As I do my mother tongue," said I.
"I am interested in Americans," she said.
"Collectively or individually ?" I tried to say this with perfect innocence, but the smile on her lips told me that I had failed.
"Yes, I was sure that you would interest me." She tapped the palm of her hand with the fan she held.

"Shall I tell you why I desired to meet you ?" I nodded.
"I have heard it said that the American bows down before a title; and I am a woman, and curious." Said I, laughing: "Your Highness has been misinformed.