the sitting room has a goat's skin as a sitting place in front of the cottage's fireplace that is just a fire burning in a pit. It is incredibly small
sitting room, Inside Cottage
guest
lady of the house
I am a countess.  I am the cousin of the king.  I wish I was ruler.
How kind of you to travel so far to visit me!  Would you care for some refreshment? What gracious hospitality! Please, take this gift. I am grateful.  What a lovely rose!  Why this reminds me of the gardens at the King's palace - such magnificent gardens! You have been? This rose is indeed from the royal garden. I have brought it to you today with some news. And yes, please, a cup of tea if you don't mind.  Tea, right away! And bring some of that delightful teacake - I'm told that very recipe was served to the King himself just last week.  Do tell, what news do you bring? Well, I hope your heart is strong. This news is quite shocking. You see, the king did some geneology research and he sent me to tell you that it appears that you are his daughter.  What?!  This is indeed astounding news!! Am I to have audience before him?? YEs. He asked me to give you this handkerchief, you are to present it to the royal guard and they will know to take you directly to the king.  I can't believe this good fortune - forgive my tears, but to be daughter to his majesty - why that means I am next in line for the crown!! Yes. It does. You- princess laura of canterbury. It has a nice ring to it!  Oh my, I must summon my seamstress at once!!  A new gown will be needed; and so many other details to attend to!  But, please, do finish your teacake first....... Not necessary! From this point forward all of your needs will be attended to. The king loved your mother deeply, and he had no idea she died in childbirth. In fact, he had no idea you were expected at all, your mother was a servant, after all. 