There was a moment of embarrassment, then I continued:-- "I merely wondered why I don't sing," adding, "Of course, if Berlin doesn't want me I should like to know it." Count von Hochberg murmured something about giving me an answer the next day, but I insisted I must know that night. "Very well, then, Fraeulein," replied Count von Hochberg positively. "Within ten days you will sing here." Fate was ever watchful over me, and soon I was notified that "Traviata" was to be revived for me. What fun I had in composing the adorable role of Camille. And then, too, I was all afire with memories of the great Sarah as Marguerite Gauthier. I had _heard_ famous prima donnas in "Traviata," but few, other than the emotional Bellincioni, had ever successfully _acted_ the operatic heroine. I was allowed to eliminate much of the stilted traditional settings, and, with modern scenery and sumptuous dressing, I played this role so that it immediately became one of my most popular successes. In the romantic and handsome Franz Naval I had an inspiring partner. Our artistic connection was to endure many years, and we have left behind us, I can truthfully say, very beautiful memories in the hearts of our loyal German public. I particularly recall our joint successes in "Romeo," "Mignon," "Manon," "Faust," "The Black Domino," and such poetic operas. By this time rumors of the "crazy American" had spread over Berlin, together with reports that she was young, slender and, some said, beautiful. And then there were--eyes! The result was a notable increase in attendance of smart young officers and Court society. The Intendant arranged matters so that I sang quite frequently during the rest of my first season. CHAPTER VIII IMPERIAL ENCOURAGEMENT It was not until my second season at the Royal Opera that I saw or met the Kaiser. The Court had been in half-mourning during my first season, and members of the royal family had not visited the opera house. In January, 1903, the middle of my second season, a Hofmarshal from the Palace presented himself at our apartment and officially "commanded" my presence at the Palace that night. I was notified that I must wear the prescribed Court dress, either lavender or black, with gloves and no jewelry. The Hofmarshal, having delivered his message, was about to depart when I called him back. "I am very sorry," I said meekly, "but I never wear black and I never wear lavender. Neither color is becoming to me." "But it is the custom of the Court--" he began. "It is my custom," I replied firmly, "to wear what I choose when I sing, and according to my mood; and I choose to wear white. Furthermore I never wear gloves while singing."