书城公版LITTLE NOVELS
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第184章 MR. MEDHURST AND THE PRINCESS.(6)

"Shakespeare," the secretary replied, "tells us that 'one man in his time plays many parts.' Under what various aspects the Prince's character may have presented itself, in his younger days, I am no t able to tell you. Since l have been here, he has played the part of a martyr to illness, misunderstood by his doctors.""And his daughter, the Princess--what do you say of her?""Ah, she is not so easily described! I can only appeal to your memory of other women like her, whom you must often have seen--women who are tall and fair, and fragile and elegant; who have delicate aquiline noses and melting blue eyes--women who have often charmed you by their tender smiles and their supple graces of movement. As for the character of this popular young lady, I must not influence you either way; study it for yourself.""Without a hint to guide me?"

"With a suggestion," he replied, "which may be worth considering.

If you wish to please the Princess, begin by endeavoring to win the good graces of the Baroness.""Who is the Baroness?"