the prince observed with great surprise, as he approached his villa, accompanied by rogojin, that a large number of people were assembled on his verandah, which was brilliantly lighted up. the company seemed merry and were noisily laughing and talking even quarrelling, to judge from the sounds. at all events they were clearly enjoying themselves, and the prince observed further on closer investigation that all had been drinking champagne. to judge from the lively condition of some of the party, it was to be supposed that a considerable quantity of champagne had been consumed already.