Queen Mary was momentarily stunned upon hearing the words, her heart starting to race. Could it be that her son was so enthusiastic because he was harboring thoughts about the princess of the Two Sicilies?
"Oh, that's right," she recalled, "Maria is a very intelligent girl, skilled in astronomy and mathematics. Perhaps it's these qualities that have attracted Joseph."
With some reluctance, she nodded: "That would be nice, dear, to show the Princess of the Two Sicilies our warmth and courtesy."
She then quickly added, "By the way, Clementine will also be arriving in Paris soon. Are you planning to go...?"
Joseph immediately smiled and bowed: "Of course, Mother, how could I not welcome a cousin who has come from afar?"
He certainly didn't mind welcoming more princesses, and it also served to cover up his intent to set a trap for Besanval while greeting Maria.