When I want to see one of those big people I write a note: 'Princess So-and-So desires an interview with So and-So,' and then I take a cab and go myself two, three, or four times--till I get what I want.

I don't mind what they think of me.

" "Well, and to whom did you apply about Bory?" asked the countess.

"You see yours is already an officer in the Guards, while my Nicholas is going as a cadet.