te of the
total dissimilarity between the Prince and the Gardener, he never for a
moment doubted that they were one and the same.

But why the Court Godmother should have chosen to act in this arbitrary
manner, and how she supposed it could promote Prince Mirliflor's object,
was incomprehensible.

It was only natural that he should rebel against her, and the Court
Chamberlain felt so much sympathy for the ill-used young prince that he
resolved to follow him to the gardens and offer his advice and
assistance.

Mirliflor had already begun to rake a flower-bed with vindictive energy,
when he heard himself addressed from behind, and turned to recognise the
elderly official he had good cause to remember.

"Hard at work, I see," began the Baron, with a casual air intended for
any witnesses of the interview. "Work," he added, cautiously lowering
his voice, "which, if I may be allowed to say so, Sire, can hardly be
other than distasteful to his Royal Highness Prince Mirliflor of
Clairdelune."

Mirliflor noticed the purple cap which was still in the other's hand,
and knew it would be useless to deny his identity. "So, Baron," he said,
"you have been eavesdropping _again_, have you? Well, if you were in the
Court Godmother's chamber just now, as I suppose you were, you know how
I come to be in this position."

"I am aware, Sire," he said, "that your Royal Highness has been induced
to accept it in the hope of obtaining the hand of--of a certain person
whom it would perhaps be inadvisable to name."

"Certainly we will not name her," said Mirliflor, "nor need we discuss a
matter that so entirely concerns myself."

"I should not permit myself the indiscretion, Sire, if I did not so
ardently desire that your Royal Highness's suit may prosper. But, so
long as you remain in--in the form you have deigned to assume, I cannot
think you will approach your Princess with the least chance of success!"

"I agree, Baron, but as the Court Godmother happens to think otherwise,
I'm powerless, you see."

"She is a most gracious and venerable lady," said the Baron; "but,
though her will is as strong as ever, her mind is evidently weakening.
If your Royal Highness would be guided by me, I will venture to say that
you would find it more to your advantage."

"Well, Baron, and what is your suggestion?"

"I have but to inform her Majesty of the facts," he said, "and she will
at once order the Court Godmother Vogelflug to restore your Royal