and princesses; are we not all born to be handled like a piece of
goods, and knocked down to the highest bidder? I, for my part, will
sell myself as dearly as possible; and, as I cannot be a happy
shepherdess, I will be a powerful queen."

"And I," said Amelia, "would rather wed the poorest and most obscure
man, if I loved him, than the richest and greatest king's son, to
whom I was indifferent."

"Foolish children," said the queen, "it is well for you that your
father does not hear you; he would crush you in his rage, and even
to-day he would choose a king for you, Amelia; and for you, little
Ulrica, he would seek a small margrave! Hark, ladies! I hear the
voice of the major domo; he comes to announce that the guests are
assembled. Put on a cheerful countenance. The king commands us to be
joyous and merry! but remember that Frederick has his spies
everywhere. When you speak with Pollnitz, never forget that he
repeats every word to your father; be friendly with him; and above
all things when he leads the conversation to the prince royal, speak
of him with the most unembarrassed indifference; show as little
interest and love for him as possible, and rather ridicule his
romantic life in Rheinsberg. That is the way to the heart of the
king; and now, my daughters, come."

At this moment the grand chamberlain, Pollnitz, threw open the doors
and announced that the company was assembled. The queen and
princesses followed the master of ceremonies through the room,
giving here and there a smile or a gracious word, which seemed a
shower of gold to the obsequious, admiring crowd of courtiers. Pride
swelled the heart of Sophia, as she stepped, to the sound of soft