Under the circumstances- Princess September was surrounded by many thoughts and fears as she kept on waiting for the bird to return. Negative thoughts such as if something happened to the bird, or if he might forget her or if he might take a fancy to somebody else were some of the worrisome circumstances that surrounded the Princess.

A very unfortunate remark- The remark made by the little bird about nearly not coming back that night because of his father-in-law giving a party and their constant efforts to make him stay was considered to be “unfortunate” by the Princess.