That evening, Andelbert and I were once again invited to dine with the King. I was happy to see Lafayette and enjoyed chatting with him. He seemed obsessed with the British colonies in the Americas and believed that they would soon declare independence. Which would inevitably result in war. In which case, the Colonies would need a navy to fight the British. Lafayette hoped the King would provide the navy and that he would be the one chosen to lead it against the British. Then he seemed to lose interest in the topic.

“Enough politics. What have the two of you been doing? Besides making silent horseshoes?” Lafayette asked.

“My time has been fairly uneventful since then. But Andelbert has been busy.”

“And I am curious. What have you been about, Andelbert?”

“I took a tour of the Palace kitchens and the food gardens,” Andelbert replied.

“Why in Heaven’s name would you do that?”

“I was a baker’s apprentice for a time, and I love baking. I was curious to see where such amazing dishes are prepared.”

“You are full of surprises. I had never given the kitchens a thought. Was it all you imagined?”

“Much more.”

“Andelbert is being modest,” I said. “He bakes bread that wins the hearts of all who taste it. It is quite remarkable.”

“Is this true?” Lafayette asked.

“In all modesty, it is. In fact, I am hoping to bake a loaf for the King. I sent an inquiry to the kitchen about doing so.”

Lafayette smiled and said, “The two of you bring me new joy each time we meet. Leave it to me. I will see to it that you are allowed to bake your magical bread. I, for one, am eager to try it.”

“Thank you, Lafayette. I would be greatly honored.”

We enjoyed another feast of a dinner with countless courses. As the final course arrived, the King said, “Baron Blastfurnace, rise.”

I nervously stood up.

“I wanted to commend you again for your silent horseshoe exhibition yesterday. The royal smiths are busy crafting more as we speak.”

“It was my honor and pleasure, Your Highness.”

“I want to thank you with more than words, Baron. I am having a sword made for you as a gift. It is a copy of my own, with the exception of a horseshoe engraved on the blade.”

“Your gift is beyond generous, Your Highness. I am humbled and grateful.”

Lafayette rose and said, “Your Highness, may I beg your indulgence? I have learned of a new wonder created by the Blastfurnace brothers.”

“If it is as clever as the silent horseshoe, I am indeed interested in hearing about it,” the King replied.

“It may not be as clever as the horseshoes, Your Highness, but I am assured it is equally enjoyable.”

“Go on.”

“Monsieur Andelbert Blastfurnace is renowned for his baking skill. He bakes a bread that is irresistible in flavor. He would be greatly honored if he were allowed to bake a loaf of the bread for Your Highness.”

The King laughed and said. “You are very shrewd, Marquis. You know well my fondness for bread. Let it be done. I look forward to being impressed by a Blastfurnace brother once again.”

“Thank you, Your Grace.”

Lafayette and I sat down. Lafayette turned to Andelbert and whispered, “Don’t let me down.”

Andelbert looked as though he would faint.