ite a squash eh.

A bit over powering your Highness said the earl who was quite used to
all this may I introduce my friend Lord Hyssops he is staying with me
so I thought I would bring him along if you dont mind Prince.

Not at all cried the genial prince looking [Pg 69] rarther supprised.
Mr Salteena bowed so low he nearly fell off the platform and as the
prince put out a hand Mr Salteena thought he had better kiss it. The
Prince smiled kindly I am pleased to see you Lord Hyssops he said in a
regal voice.

Then the Earl chipped in and how is the dear Queen he said reveruntly.

Not up to much said his Highness she feels the heat poor soul and he
waved to a placard which said in large letters The Queen is
indisposed.

Presently his Highness rose I think I will have a quiet glass of
champaigne he said you come too Clincham and bring your friend the
Diplomats are arriving and I am not much in the mood for deep talk I
have already signed a dozen documents so I have done my duty.

They all went out by a private door and found themselves in a smaller
but gorgous room. The Prince tapped on the table and instantly two
menials in red tunics appeared. [Pg 70] Bring three glasses of champaigne
commanded the prince and some ices he added majestikally. The goods
appeared as if by majic and the prince drew out a cigar case and
passed it round.

One grows weary of Court Life he remarked.

Ah yes agreed the earl.

It upsets me said the prince lapping up his strawberry ice all I want
is peace and quiut and a little fun and here I am tied down to this
life he said taking off his crown being royal has many painfull
drawbacks.

True mused the Earl.

Silence fell and the strains of the band could be heard from the next
room. Suddenly the prince gazed at Mr Salteena. Who did you say you
were he asked in a puzzled tone.

Lord Hyssops responded our hero growing purple at the lie.

Well you are not a bit like the Lord [Pg 71] Hyssops I know replied the
Prince could you explain matters.

Mr Salteena gazed helplessly at the earl who had grown very pale and
seemed lost for the moment. However he quickly recovered.

He is quite alright really Prince he said His mother was called Miss
Hyssops of the Glen.

Indeed said his royal Highness that sounds correct but who was your
father eh.

Then Mr Salteena thourght he would not tell a lie so in trembly tones
he muttered My poor father was but a butcher your Highness a very
honest