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Updated: May 3, 2025
The prince, and even the reigning queen, took advantage of his permission. The queen was deserted by her suite, and left almost entirely alone in the large saloon. Her marshal, Count Rhedern, his wife, and the page who held her train, were the only persons who remained. Sophia Dorothea heaved a deep sigh; she felt that she was no longer a queen, but a poor widow who had vacated the throne.
I should think the nobility of our kingdom was not so poor in beautiful and marriageable ladies that a Count Rhedern should find it necessary to stoop so low in search of a wife. Look behind you, count, and you will see the loveliest ladies, all of whom are of pure and unblemished descent." "True, your majesty.
No one else could enter this saloon without special invitation. The newly-made Countess Rhedern made her entrance on the arm of her husband. Her face was perfectly tranquil and grave; an expression of determination rested on her features, which, although no longer possessing the charm of youth and beauty, were still interesting. Her countenance was indicative of energy and decision.
There was now wanting but one thing, and that was a suitable costume for this important occasion, and Count Rhedern assured her, with a sigh, that it would be very difficult to prepare it, as it would be almost impossible to find a tailor who would undertake to make, in so short a time, the gold-brocaded train which was necessary.
"I will not adopt the French fashions! that would be an insult to my ancestors. I will remain true to the good old German customs." "Reflect," said Count Rhedern, "how much this obstinacy will cost you. You will lose all the patronage of the court; all the world adopts the new French fashions."
In a word, you chose me because you were tired of being dunned by your creditors, and of living in a state of secret misery; and I I bought Count Rhedern with my millions, in order that I might appear at court." "Well, truly, these confessions are very curious, highly original," said Count Rhedern, with a forced smile. "They are, however, necessary.
"Your majesty, it is because I am mindful of the duties which my rank impose on me, and of the demands which a cavalier of my standing should meet, that I have determined to make this misalliance. Your majesty will be indulgent if I dare open before you the skeleton closet, and unveil the concealed misery of my house. The Counts Rhedern are an old and illustrious race.
Happily, Countess Rhedern, the wife of her marshal, was still there; upon her she could at least vent her rage. "Madame," said she, looking angrily at the countess "your train is too long; you should have brought some of the lads from your father's store to carry this train for you, in order that it might be more minutely examined." The countess bowed.
You have my consent, and I think I can safely promise you that of my son the king. Make your arrangements and fear nothing. I guarantee that the king will not refuse your request." "After what your majesty has said, I feel assured on this point," exclaimed Count Rhedern, with a sigh. "How, and you still sigh, count?"
The fan was of real Chinese workmanship, and ornamented with incomparable carvings in ivory, and beautiful paintings. The queen acknowledged the thrice-repeated courtesy of Countess Rhedern, with a slight inclination of the head only, while Queen Elizabeth Christine greeted her with a gracious smile.
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