Chapter IVOn the morning of his birthday the prince was woken up early by the room servants and, as the thought of the special day made its way through his mind, he felt excited and euphoric.
The weather was not very good to be honest, but behind the hills the sky was clear and the wind was blowing from the east: perhaps the day would improve and, in any case, there was no smell of rain in the air, he was sure of it.
Antonia was impatient and told him to not linger too long; he must be ready to welcome the first guests, who certainly would not be late in coming.
Alfredo had already arrived at the castle the previous day, as usual bringing along a numerous and talkative following of friends and young ladies, who had gladly taken advantage of the generous hospitality of the prince and had
