Princess Mary looked at her brother in surprise.

She did not understand what he was laughing at.

Everything her father did inspired her with reverence and was beyond question.

"Everyone has his Achilles' heel," continued Prince Andrew.

"Fancy, with his powerful mind, indulging in such nonsense!" Princess Mary could not understand the boldness of her brother's criticism and was about to reply, when the expected footsteps were heard coming from the study.