embroidered in gold, glittering with the many orders upon their breasts,
while the jewelled hilt of the golden scabbards flashed in dazzling rays
of light. These lined the apartment or moved to and fro at the summon of
royalty. Ladies of honor were grouped at respective distances from their
sovereign mistress ready to obey her slightest behest. Their costly
robes, courtly grace, and distinguished appearance, befitted the noble
blood which ran through their veins as proof of their present proud
position. To a stranger the scene was impressive. On first entering the
train of attendants and military display is sufficient to quell the most
stout hearted. Passing along with as much dignity as the person can, he
is announced in loud stentorian tones by the lord chamberlain, who
glances at the card thus presented. Then advancing towards the throne,
kneeling down, kissing the back of His Majesty's hand, and passing along
in the train of his predecessor forms the remaining part of the
ceremony. During this time hundreds will have taken part in these
proceedings, happy in the thought of having received a respectful bow
from the grateful monarch in return for the deep and almost overpowering
embarrassment that possesses the one taking part in those imposing
ceremonies.

The rising blush on Lady Rosamond's cheek showed the excitement that
stirred the depths of her inward feelings. She was carried back to the
happy child days when no shade hovered near; when no bitter concealment
lurked in the recesses of her joyous heart; when her fond plans were
openly discussed before the sailor prince with intense merriment and
glee. Vainly she sighed as she thought of what might have been. Though in
the present the inference was distasteful, her ladyship could not dismiss
the subject. As she stands quietly awaiting her turn in the order of
presentation, let us once more picture the beautiful face and form which
have won our entire sympathy.

Lady Rosamond has lost none of the beauty hitherto depicted in her
charms. She is still lovely as when described while a guest at
Government House. Her cheek has lost none of its roundness; the outline
is full, striking, fresh and interesting; the expressive dark eyes have
lost not their usual brilliancy, save a mournful tenderness that is more
often betrayed than formerly; the lustrous black hair is wantonly
revelling in all the luxuriance of its former beauty. Time nor
experience has not the ruthless pow