The Kaiser's Confidante : Mary Lee, the First American-Born Princess

New opportunities in the old world -- Married into the royal mob -- A princess in her own right -- Another chance at love -- Mentoring a future empress -- Religion and philanthropy -- A clear path to the throne -- Ensconced in power -- Father figure -- "The Empress' American rival" -- Distaff diplomacy -- Command in the Boxer Rebellion -- Alfred's return from China -- The long-delayed visit to america -- Death and solitude -- Epilogue.;"New York City native Mary Esther Lee (1837-1914) first married the Prince von Noer and was created a princess in her own right after his death. She then married Count Alfred von Waldersee. This biography chronicles the life of an American woman whose wealth and influence enabled her to rise to power in the Prussian royal court"-- New York City native Mary Esther Lee (1837-1914) first married in 1864 the Prince von Noer, brother of the Queen of Denmark, and was created a princess in her own right after his death. An active philanthropist to Protestant causes, she then married Count Alfred von Waldersee whose close ties to the Prussian court made her an intimate friend of Kaiser Wilhelm II and a mentor and valued friend to his young wife. Although she preferred to remain in the background, Mary's influence caused intense jealousy by those at court who resented her friendship with the kaiser and kaiserin. This biography chronicles the remarkable life of an American woman whose wealth and influence enabled her to rise to power in the Prussian royal court. "New York City native Mary Esther Lee (1837-1914) first married the Prince von Noer and was created a princess in her own right after his death. She then married Count Alfred von Waldersee. This biography chronicles the life of an American woman whose wealth and influence enabled her to rise to power in the Prussian royal court"-- Provided by publisher