"But tell me, if I should wish to choose my own household and my own intimates, would that liberty be allowed me ?" "Undoubtedly.

Nevertheless, it would be greatly to your advantage to surround yourself with persons speaking the language of the country and familiar with its ways." "And if I should win my cause, and should take a fancy to marry again, could I select a husband to suit myself ?" This was too much.

It was like throwing raw meat to a caged tiger.
"Without doubt," murmured Benjamin Vajdar between his teeth, at the same time casting furious glances at the servant behind his mistress's chair.
Suddenly the princess changed her tactics.

She wished to show her enemy that she dared leave her entrenchments and offer battle in the open field.
"Caro Beppo," said she, turning to the servant, "clear the table, please, and then stay outside until I call you.

Meantime, admit no one." The two were left alone, and Vajdar was free to say what he wished.
Blanka made bold to rise and survey herself coquettishly in the mirror, as if to make sure of her own beauty.