“Forgive me for interrupting, but I was hoping we might have a moment together in private.” “Your royal highness,” Darnley said, with a quick bow. Hopefully, by then, he’ll be much improved.”Īs he spoke, Stephen noticed the prime minister, David Darnley, approaching.
Tell your husband that I will come and see him as soon as I return from my trip abroad. “Thank you for saying so,” he said.Īfter a moment of silence, Stephen smiled again. It’s all they’re talking about on the news channels.” Your address, for example, was a triumph. But please, do not let us ruin your evening, your royal highness. “I’m afraid his condition has not improved. “Yes, among several,” Jason replied for his mother, who dropped her gaze. I know your daughter, Elizabeth, is a doctor now. “Please, let me know if there is anything I can do. “I’m so sorry to hear that, my dear lady,” Stephen said, taking her hand. Obviously, the earl’s condition was worse than the countess let on. Stephen met Jason’s eyes, but looked away quickly when he saw the pain evident there.
“He sends his best wishes and congratulations, of course, your royal highness.” “I’m afraid Martin is not feeling well these days,” the countess said. The countess and her son exchanged an uneasy glance. And where is the Earl? After all his hard work planning today’s ceremonies, I was disappointed to miss him at the coronation.” I’m afraid neither of you look as though you are enjoying the evening. Her son and one of Stephen’s oldest friends, Jason Howes, stood silently next to her, eyeing the festivities disinterestedly. Perhaps I’ll have a little time to mingle.Īmidst the twinkling lights and fragrant bouquets hand-cut from the royal gardens, Stephen spied Olivia Howes, Countess of Trentham, looking tired and frail.
Their Imperial Majesties Emperor George VI and Empress Catherine of Torenth spun blissfully on the dancefloor, seemingly oblivious to all around them. To his left, Archbishop Anscom was keeping King Nicholas II and Queen Margaret of Allycia in conversation – God bless the old man for helping keep everyone occupied, Stephen thought.
As a bachelor, he felt it would be unseemly for him to choose a partner, as anyone not chosen would take offense. Stephen had done away with the tradition of the new monarch having the first dance. The guests had been arriving since half-past seven, so he barely had time to shower and change into a fresh uniform before making his entrance at the ball, moving quickly from group to group and accepting their deep bows and curtsies with a warm smile.Īs the orchestra, hidden in the gold reception room behind screens, played waltzes by Mozart (Stephen’s favorite – indeed, his mother had thought of everything), couples whirled on the dance floor. To Stephen, the day had been a blur, but the promise of rest was still hours away.
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