The little princess went round the table with quick, short, swaying steps, her workbag on her arm, and gaily spreading out her dress sat down on a sofa near the silver samovar, as if all she was doing was a pleasure to herself and to all around her.

" I have brought my work," said she in French, displaying her bag and addressing all present.

" Mind, Annette, I hope you have not played a wicked trick on me," she added, turning to her hostess.

" You wrote that it was to be quite a small reception, and just see how badly I am dressed.