“Madame Henriette, her mother, is a woman somewhat cold in manner, slightly pretentious, but full of noble thoughts. The princess’s education may have been neglected, but her principles, I believe, are good. Such at least was the opinion I formed of her when she resided in France; but she afterwards returned to England, and I am ignorant what may have occurred there.” “What do you mean?” “Simply that there are some heads naturally giddy, which are easily turned by prosperity.” “That is the very word, madame. I think the princess rather giddy.” “We must not exaggerate, Philip; she is clever and witty, and has a certain amount of coquetry very natural in a young woman; but this defect in persons of high rank and position, is a great advantage at a court. A princess who is tinged with coquetry usually forms a brilliant court; her smile stimulates luxury, arouses wit, and even courage; the nobles, too, fight better for a prince whose wife is beautiful.” “Thank you extremely, madame,” said Philip, with some temper; “you really have drawn some very alarming pictures for me.” “In what respect?” asked the queen, with pretended simplicity. “You know, madame,” said Philip, dolefully, “whether I had or had not a very great dislike to getting married.” “Now, indeed, you alarm me. You have some serious cause of complaint against Madame.” “I do not precisely say it is serious.” “In that case, then, throw aside your doleful looks. If you show yourself to others in your present state, people will take you for a very unhappy husband.” “The fact is,” replied Philip, “I am not altogether satisfied as a husband, and I shall not be sorry if others know it.” “For shame, Philip.” “Well, then, madame, I will tell you frankly that I do not understand the life I am required to lead.” “Explain yourself.” “My wife does not seem to belong to me; she is always leaving me for some reason or another. In the mornings there are visits, correspondences, and toilettes; in the evenings, balls and concerts.” “You are jealous, Philip.” “I! Heaven forbid. Let others act the part of a jealous husband, not I. But I _am_ annoyed.” “All these things you reproach your wife with are perfectly innocent, and, so long as you have nothing of greater importance--” “Yet, listen; without being very blamable, a woman can excite a good deal of uneasiness. Certain visitors may be received, certain preferences shown, which expose young women to remark, and which are enough to drive out of their senses even those husbands who are least disposed to be jealous.” “Ah! now we are coming to the real point at last, and not without some difficulty. You speak of frequent visits, and certain preferences--very good; for the last hour we have been beating about the bush, and at last you have broached the true question.” “Well then, yes--” “This is more serious than I thought. It is possible, then, that Madame can have given you grounds for these complaints against her?” “Precisely so.”