As the first half of the novel draws to a close, a responsible author – seeking their readers’ approval – should prepare them for an imminent, unexpected twist. However, before a fresh impulse re-ignites Archduchess Marianne’s full engagement, let us enjoy a moment of anticipation and join an after-supper entertainment in her salon.
Beyond great festivities, social gatherings in one apartment or another at court were a common way to spend the evening. More or less permanent circles formed according to title, official function, or simply personal friendship with the host or hostess. After supper, guests amused themselves by playing cards, making music, and conversing. As in every epoch, the sensational and the strange were favourite topics of discussion.
When reading Bohemian legends, one encounters personal and geographical names familiar from history: a pair of deer’s antlers on the wall of Palace Schwarzenberg in Prague; unhappy Chancellor Mitrowitz, terrified of being buried alive; the miracle of the five brothers, the rioters in Kaden; the last Lobkowitz killed beneath a falling oak tree. These recognisable motifs inspired me to weave some of these legends into the narrative.
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