"Keep your hands up until the lady answers the question."

"Have no fear, lady," she answered, "it will only end one way."

But the old lady turned to the wall and did not answer him.

"The smoky lady who was trying on step-ins and everything," answered the boy.

"The lady won't answer the door, sir," the maid said in a tiny voice, obviously still more than a little uncertain about him.

That was not a question a lady answered.

The lady did not answer, but silently descended the staircase, the prince following her.

A pleasant lady with meaty arms sat in a chair and answered questions.

"I never had such a dress, sir," answered the lady.

The old lady did not answer, but her eyes were open and she was awake.