When my uncle called me to court I was only too eager to come. There was the promise of new dresses and jewels and even more wonders in store if I agreed to come. Of course, I was sad to leave behind my lover, I’d grown so accustomed to his caresses, but the promise of new dresses and jewels was just too tempting to resist.

At fifteen, I am positively ancient. It’s a pity I’m still single because I’m so beautiful. When I found out yesterday my friend was to be married, I turned green with envy! But I’d still rather be me than her. I’d rather be at the king’s court serving Queen Anne, even if she is plain and wears frumpish gowns and speaks only German.

They tell me the king already wants out of his marriage. Maybe he’ll knock off another head, I suggest, and the court laughs at my witticism. I am very popular at court, even more popular than my cousin Anne was. We don’t mention her in my family, of course, not since her execution. But I still remember how very high she rose and how very, very low she fell.