The Emperor Franz Joseph [antikvár]

First LoveIt was Carnival time in Vienna in the year 1851. Balls and parties followed each other in never-ending succession. The desire for pleasure, frustrated by several years of revolutionary turmoil, was once again asserting itself, and the population was bent on enjoyment. The young, as yet unmarried, Emperor was no exception and he was also an enthusiastic dancer. His slender figure, blue eyes and elegant appearance made a favourable impression on the ladies. What an honour it was, and at the same time what hopes were roused among those members of the fair sex whom he chose as his partners. Envious eyes were cast in his direction when it was obvious that he favoured the young Countess Elizabeth Ugarte, lady-in-waiting to his mother. At Princess Kinsky's ball he danced nine waltzes and two cotillons with her, and had escorted her through the rooms and brought her refreshments like a schoolboy in love. And when they finally disappeared together behind the palm trees a breath of scandal was in prospect.Gossip is notoriously fleet of foot and it was not long before wagging tongues were busily at work ir^ the salon of the Emperor's mother, the Archduchess Sophie, who promptly summoned the Countess to her presence.'You seem to be enjoying this year's Carnival, my dear Elizabeth.''Yes, indeed, Your Highness, but it is rather strenuous,' laughingly replied the pretty, aristocratic young woman.'You have been dancing a great deal with His Majesty, have you not?''Yes, Your Highness. It was such a very great pleasure to pass the evenings with such a wonderful dancer.''The Emperor was also full of praise for you as a partner.''I am glad to hear you say so. At Princess Kinsky's ball