"I suppose the answer to that question would depend a great deal upon who you ask. I shall give you the polite answer, for the time being."

She might have curtsied then, but they had already teased at that exchange. So instead, if possible, her posture grew even straighter.

"Jeanne-Antionette Poisson, Madame de Pompadour. Most late the mistress of our king, Louis XV." Her smile was somewhat distant. "If you wish for more details, you shall have to speak to them."

Them, of course, being the general crowd they passed on their journey.

"You will have your opportunity this evening." Her tone became more brisk. "That is, of course, if we can make you presentable."