GarGar, le Comte des Deux Chats sat with one of the court musicians playing duets on the lute. They were in the middle of singing, “Gather ye rosebuds while ye may,” when the sound of a flute and tambourine filled the air. On queue everybody in the room rose to their feet as Princess Pirouette entered. They all bowed and curtsied. The Princess gave a tiny wave of her hand and nodded acknowledgement, smiling serenely at everybody, and nobody in particular. “Pray continue,” she said. “That’s one of my favorite songs.” GarGar leaned over his lute and began to strum the introductory chords.
And the same flower that smiles today
tomorrow will be a-dying
GarGar hoped that the theme of the song would land on the Princess’ ears with extra meaning. He knew that she must hold some affection for him. ‘Ere long her prayed that this flower, now just a sprout, would grow to full bloom.
