Although war looms in the background, the Emperor and Archduchess Marianne turn to more pleasant subjects. For many centuries, hunting had been the principal leisure activity of the Viennese aristocracy, as the city was surrounded by vast, game-rich forests. Most of the Emperors, including Karl VI and Franz Stephan, were passionate hunters. The ladies of the court also appreciated hunting as a form of entertainment, and many of them were experienced in the sport; both Empress Maria Theresa and her mother, Elisabeth Christine, were noted sharpshooters.
All matters related to the hunt fell under the responsibility of the Oberstallmeister (Master of the Stables), who supervised a sizable staff: trappers, huntsmen, rifle bearers, kennel servants, gamekeepers and more. For the last ten years of his life, Prince Schwarzenberg held this position at the court of Karl VI.
As if overhearing father and daughter’s cosy conversation, the reader receives recent news from the court and the city, gaining an impression of the basic dynamics within the Imperial family. While discussing the start of the hunting season, I let the Emperor casually mention the name of Princess Schwarzenberg. At this point, it carries no particular meaning for Marianne; however, she recalls the moment later, as her investigation unfolds.
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