Page 45 (1/2)

Princess Elizabeth s ti

"I have yet one more request to make," said the marquis, when about to

take leave "But it is a request that no one but yourself ned to her friends to withdraw into the open anteroom

"Well, marquis," she then said with some curiosity, "letand ret that the noble Princess

Elizabeth is not surrounded with that wealth and splendor which is her

due as the daughter of the great e begs the favor of being allowed to ood the

delinquency toward you of the present Russian regency, and that heyou with the means necessary to enable

you to establish a court suitable to your birth and position I am

provided with sufficient funds for these purposes You have only to send

ned by you,

and any sum you may require will be immediately paid!"

"Oh," said the princess, with eratitude to the generous King of France

I anificant woman, who can thankfully accept but never

requite his kindness"

"Who knows?" said the nificantly "You may one day become the

most powerful woman in Europe, for your birth and your destiny call you