Chapter 1384: Switzerland's Split
After dinner, Joseph accompanied Alexandra to the Grand Trianon.
The clinking and clanging of tools rang out all around them. Dozens of craftsmen were busy renovating the place beneath the glow of gas streetlights.
"Look, an open-air studio will be built over there." The Crown Princess Consort eagerly pointed toward the raised platform beside them. "From there, you'll be able to see the entire fountain and those woods.
"This place will be turned into a concert hall. It won't be very large, but the acoustics will certainly be excellent."
Joseph kept smiling and nodding, occasionally offering a few simple suggestions for adjustments.
Yes, this was now the Crown Princess Consort's "private rest area."
It had originally been built by Louis XIV for Madame de Maintenon, and later served as a place where the King entertained guests. But Louis XVI spent all year in the Royal Workshop, leaving the place nearly abandoned. So he simply gave it to his daughter-in-law as a wedding gift.
Upon entering the palace with its pink exterior walls, Alexandra pushed open the spacious bedroom door and turned to Joseph. "Your place has practically become an office. Why not rest here from now on? That way, no one will come bothering you in the middle of the night."
She had long been full of complaints about ministers often coming to report work at the Crown Prince's Palace after ten at night.
The moment she finished speaking, Eman hurried over and bowed somewhat awkwardly. "Your Highness, may I disturb you for a moment?"
"Go ahead."
"Your schedule for tomorrow may need to be adjusted." Eman opened his notebook. "Mr. Galatin, Stadtholder of Geneva, has arrived at Versailles Palace and hopes to be granted an audience with you.
"Three councilors from the Canton of Solothurn,