After dressing for dinner in our new suits, Andelbert and I knocked on the door of Elise and Maria’s room.

“We will be a while. Wait for us in the hall of mirrors,” Maria said through the door.

“As you wish,” Andelbert replied, and we made our way to the designated meeting place.

The hall of mirrors is a long hallway lined with mirrors on one side and windows on the other overlooking the gardens. Glass chandeliers hang at regular intervals from the ceiling. When the sun shines, it is quite a spectacle, with light bouncing in every direction.

Andelbert and I were gazing out the windows at the gardens when we heard a voice behind us.

“Is it not a grand view? I always find myself here whenever I visit the Palace.”

Andelbert and I turned and found ourselves in the company of a striking woman of unmistakable nobility. She wore a blue gown with green gloves. And her neck was adorned with layers of silk and lace.”

“It is a marvel, indeed. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Baron Britpop Blastfurnace of Kapri in the Austrian Netherlands. And my companion is Monsieur Andelbert Swift.”

“I am pleased to meet you both. I am Caroline Stéphanie Félicité, Comtesse de Genlis. My husband is Charles-Alexis Brûlart, Comte de Genlis. He is off discussing politics somewhere. No doubt solving the world’s problems or boring someone to tears. I have no patience for politics. I would rather enjoy life.”

“They do seem to be at odds with each other,” I replied.

The Comtesse laughed.

“Tell me, Baron. What brings you to the Palace? And why is one so handsome not in the company of a woman?”

I was taken aback by her forwardness.

“Monsieur Swift and I are waiting for our companions while they dress for dinner. I had business in Bordeaux and decided to pay a social visit to the King and Queen.”

“A social visit? So you are well-acquainted with the royal majesties and are not here in an attempt to earn favor, like most aristocrats?”

“It would prefer not to answer that question. I fear my answer could only be perceived as bragging or condescension.”

The Comtesse laughed again.

“You are not only handsome but shrewd. Your companion is a fortunate woman.”

I was starting to get flustered. Fortunately, Maria and Elise entered the hall to rescue me. Both Maria and Elise were stunning in their new gowns. They had obviously put the extra dressing time to good use, styling their hair in a most pleasing fashion.

“Comtesse de Genlis. How wonderful to see you again,” Maria said.

“My dear Maria. I was sad to hear you had married and left the Palace. It puts me in the difficult position of trying to find another staff member to gossip with.”

“I am sure you will have no difficulty. I see you have met my husband, Andelbert.”

“Only the briefest of introductions. But I can see why you would leave a position in the Palace to become his bride.”

“You are an incorrigible flirt.”

“It is true, my Dear. Much to my husband’s dismay.”

Maria and the Comtesse both laughed.

“I recently finished reading The Knights Of The Swan. I loved it,” Maria said.

“You are very kind, my Dear. It does my heart good to hear it.”

“Britpop, the Comtesse is a writer. She writes about education. She also writes comedies and plays. And the most wonderful sentimental novels.”

“Truly? How remarkable,” I said.

“Britpop is a writer also,” Maria stated.

“I would hardly say that,” I replied. “Especially in the company of one so prolific. I merely wrote one manuscript chronicling my adventure of the past year.”

“I love a good adventure. Do you have a copy I could read?” Comtesse de Genlis asked.

“Unfortunately, no. There are only two copies in existence.”

“Then you must make another and send it to me.”

“It would be my great honor.”

“Now tell me.” The Comtesse inquired about Elise. “Who is this exquisite beauty?”

“Forgive my manners. May I present Elise Boissonnaeu,” I said.

“I am charmed, my Dear. I love your red hair. And that gown is divine. You and the Baron make a beautiful couple.”

“Oh, we are not a couple. Only friends,” Elise replied.

“What a shame.”

I think I saw Elise blush a little.

“I shall not spoil your fun. I will take my leave and see you all at dinner. I enjoyed our chat, Baron. Please be sure to send me that manuscript.” The Comtesse said.

“I will,” I replied.

We all watched as the Comtesse left the hall.

“The Comtesse is quite something,” I stated.

“She is unlike anyone I have ever met,” Maria said.