XXIII
AT THE INN OF THE TWISTED PINES
I lunched with the King and the Princess Dehra as arranged. Frederickleft before the coffee, and Dehra ordered it served in her library.When the footman had brought it she dismissed him.
"Now," said she, "come and tell me all about yourself."
I went over and sat on the arm of her chair. She lit a cigarette andput it between my lips--then, lit one for herself.
"Do you remember the first time you did that?" I asked.
"Yes," said she, "it was the night you flirted so outrageously with mein front of Lotzen."
"I don't care what you call it, since we are not flirting now," said I.
She took my hand between hers and smiled up at me.
"And, maybe, it was not all flirting, then," she said.
There are certain occasions which justify certain actions. I thoughtthis was one.
Then I said: "Tell me about Lotzen's visit with you in the North."
"He was there a week."
"More's the pity," said I.
"For him--yes."
"For him?" I echoed.
She nodded. "I feel very sorry for Ferdinand." Then she blushed. "Ithink he does love me, Armand."
"I can't blame him for that," said I. "He's a queer sort if hedoesn't."
"Foolish!" she laughed, giving me a little tap with her fan. "And yousee, dear, he might have had a chance if you had not come."
I bent down until her hair brushed my face.
"And he has none now, sweetheart?" I said softly.
"You know that he has not."
"And does he know it?"
"Yes--he knows it--now. I told him the day he left."
I was beginning to understand Lotzen's sudden change of demeanor towardme.
"What did you tell him, little woman?" I asked.
She looked up with a bright smile.
"See how I've spoiled you," she said.
"Then, spoil me just a little more," I urged.
"Well--I told him it was you," she whispered.
The understanding was growing rapidly.
"And what did he say to that?"
"I know, Armand, you don't like him; and, there, you may do him aninjustice. He said only the kindest things about you--that you wereable, courteous, brave--a true Dalberg; and that, if it could not behe, he was glad it was you."
I smiled. "That was clever of him," I commented.
"And he, too, does not believe the Spencer woman's story."
"His cleverness grows," I laughed. "It only remains for him torenounce his right to the Crown."
"He said it was for the King to choose which was the worthier, andthat, if it fell to you, he would serve you faithfully and well."
I put my hand on her head and softly stroked her hair.
"And you believed him, dear?" I asked.
She looked up quickly.
"Yes--I believed him. I wanted to believe him--Did he deceive me?"
"Listen," said I. "He reached Dornlitz two days ago. Yesterdayafternoon he insulted me repeatedly in my office at Headquarters. Lastnight I attended the Vierle Masque. While in the Garden I was struckin the back with a dagger."
"Stabbed!" she exclaimed, and clutched my arm.
"No, dear--not even scratched, thanks to Bernheim's steel vest I waswearing. Half an hour later, our cousin of Lotzen, with Mrs. Spenceron his arm, met me, alone, in a retired part of the Garden, forced aduel, and did his level best to run me through, by a trick of fence hethought he, alone knew."
"And, again, the vest saved you?"
"No--I was fortunate enough to disarm him."
"Glorious, dear, glorious!" she exclaimed. And tears filled her eyes.
And, as it was I that had caused them, it was but fair that I shouldtake them away.
Then she made me go over the whole story in detail.
"Of course you will tell the King," said she.
"Maybe," said I. "I've not decided yet."
She got up. "There is just time for me to get into riding dress," shesaid. "But, first; this is Thursday--if you do not tell His Majesty ofLotzen's perfidy by Saturday, I shall do it, myself."
And I knew she would--so I made no protest.
"Put on the green habit and the plumed hat, dear," I said, as I heldback the door.
I have always liked green--the dark rich green of the forest'sdepth--and, if there were anything more lovely than the Princess Dehra,when she came back to me, it is quite beyond my Imagination to conceiveit. He is a poor lover, indeed, who does not think his sweetheartfair; yet, he would have been a poor sort of man, who would not havebeen at one with me, that afternoon.
And I told her so--but she called me "Foolish!" once again, and ranfrom me to the private exit of her suite, where our four companionswere awaiting us. But I had my reward; for she waved the groom asideand let me swing her into saddle and fix her skirt.
How easy it is for a clever woman to manage a man--if she care to try.
It was a beautiful afternoon--the road was soft and the track smooth.Much of it led through woodland and along a brawling stream. Thehorses were of the sort that delight the soul--I doubt if there weresix better saddlers in the whole Kingdom of Valeria. I know there wereno prettier women, and, I think, no happier men.
We passed many people--mainly country-men--and they all knew thePrincess and loved her--bless her!--if their greetings went for aught.Me, they eyed with frank curiosity; and, more than once, I caught thedrift of their comments.
"A pretty pair," said one, as Dehra and I drew near, our horses on awalk.
"It's a pity he has a wife," the other answered. And Dehra frowned.
"They match up well," said a fellow, as we paused a moment at a springbeside a small road house.
I glanced at Dehra; and got a smile in return.
"That they do. He does not look like a foreigner," was the answer.
"He is Dalberg on the outside, anyway," said a third.
"Then, he is Dalberg inside, too--it starts there, with them," said thefirst.
And so it went, until we reached the Inn of the Twisted Pines.
It was an old log and plaster building; of many gables and smallwindows; standing back a trifle from the road, with a high-walled yardon all four sides. I had taken the precaution, that morning, todispatch an orderly to apprise the landlord of our coming; and everyhuman being about the place was drawn up within the enclosure to greetus. Old Boniface met us at the gateway and held my stirrup as Idismounted.
"My poor house has had no such honor," he said, "since the time theGreat Henry stopped for breakfast on his return from the Titian War."
"Well, my good man," said I, "you doubtless don't recollect the GreatHenry's visit, but, if your supper is what we hope for, I promise youwe will honor it as highly as he did that breakfast."
"Your Highness shall be served this instant."
"Give us half an hour and a place to get rid of this dust," said I.
I fancy the Inn had been changed but little since old Henry's day; andthe big room, where our table was spread, certainly not at all. Theoak floor was bare and worn into ruts and ridges--the great beamrafters overhead were chocolate color from smoke and age--the hugefireplace and the wall above it were black as a half-burnt back log.But the food! My mouth waters now at the thought of it. No crazyFrench concoctions of frothy indigestibleness; but good, sweetcooking--the supper one gets among the old families of Maryland orVirginia. It took me back more than a score of years to my young dayson the dear old Eastern Shore.
And, in the midst of it, came the jolly Boniface, bearing, as carefullyas a mother does her first-born, three long bottles, cobwebbed anddirty. Eighty years had they been lying in the wine-bin of the Inn,guarding their treasure of Imperial Tokay. Now, their ward wasended--and the supper was complete; though, in truth, it had beencomplete before.
And, when we had eaten the supper and had drunk most of the Tokay, wefreshened up t
he glasses with what remained. Then, arising, I gave thetoast which all could drink:
"To the one we love the best!"
But, even as we drained it, there came through the open window theclatter of horse's hoofs and, as the glasses smashed to bits among thechimney stones, the door swung open and my senior Aide entered, hot anddusty.
He caught my eye, halted sharply, and his hand went up in salute.
"Welcome, Colonel Bernheim," I said.
Again he saluted; then drew out an envelope and handed it to me.
"Important papers for Your Highness," he said. "They were received atHeadquarters after your departure and, as they required actionto-night, I thought it best to follow you."
With a word of apology, I walked over to the nearest window and slowlyread the letters. There were two and they were very brief. Then Iread them again--and yet again.
Those at the table had, of course, resumed their talk, but Bernheimstill stood at attention. I motioned him to me.
"These are copies," I said.
"I made them, sir, from the originals--while they were en route," headded with a dry smile.
"And the originals?"
"Each was delivered promptly."
"You have no doubt of their genuineness?" I asked.
"Absolutely none--though, of course, I know only the handwriting of theanswer."
"Well done," said I; "well done!" Then I read the two papers again.
"Do you think he means it?" I asked, tapping the smaller paper.
"After last night, undoubtedly. And you must be there, sir--you and awitness," said Bernheim.
I thought a bit--then I took out my watch. It was just six o'clock.
"There is ample time," said I; "and it's worth the try. Can it bearranged, do you think?"
Bernheim's face brightened. "It can, sir. If it's the room I think itis, there will be no difficulty; and we can depend on the manager--hehas been well trained by the Secret Police. You will come?"
"Yes, I'll come; but they come, too," and I nodded toward the table.
"Better bring only Courtney, sir," he urged.
"No," said I; "several witnesses will be needed. And, besides, I wantthem out of satisfaction to myself."
"It may wreck the whole business," he persisted.
"I'll risk it," said I.
Bernheim was wise. He always seemed to know when to quit.
"Very good, sir," he said. "How soon do we start?"
I put my hand on his shoulder.
"You are a perfect treasure, Bernheim," I said. "Come, we will startat once. Is your horse good for a fast ride back?"
"Entirely, sir."
"Then you can give me the story on the way," I said. "Meanwhile, getsome refreshment."
I went back to the table--and it was amusing how suddenly theconversation ceased and everyone looked at me. I smiled reassuringlyat Dehra, for there was concern in her eyes.
"Four of you," said I--"you, Princess; and you, Lady Helen; and you,Courtney; and you, Moore, were present at--and you, Mademoiselled'Essolde, have heard of--a certain supper party on the Hanging Garden,some weeks back, whereat a certain woman proclaimed herself my wife.That was the first act in a play which has been progressing ever since.The plot has thickened lately--as witness the duel at the Masque, lastnight. And now, unless I greatly err, the last act is set for thisevening. If you care to see it I shall be glad for yourcompany."--Then I laughed. "A long speech," said I; "but it soundedwell."
"And promises best of all," said Courtney.
Then I ordered the horses; and, while we waited, I gave the letters toCourtney.
"Read them," I said. "The originals passed through Bernheim's handsthis afternoon--'while en route,' as he puts it."
He read them carefully.
"You contemplate giving them an audience?" he asked.
"Exactly that," said I.
"Is it feasible?"
"Bernheim says it is."
He looked at me thoughtfully, a moment. "It would be a great stroke tohave the King there," he said.
"I'll make a try for him," I answered; "but the time is very short."
It was ten miles to Dornlitz, and we did it in an hour. On the way, Iexplained the whole situation to the Princess and read her the letters.She was amazed--and her indignation was intense. Nor did she hesitateto express it freely before Bernheim. And I saw his stern face breakinto a glad smile. It told him much.
At the Palace we drew rein.
"Be at the Hotel Metzen at eight forty-five," said I. "Come by theCourt entrance--you will be expected."
Then they rode away, and I hastened to the King.
As good luck would have it, Frederick was in his cabinet and receivedme instantly. He read the letters and looked at me inquiringly.
"It means a plain talk between them," I explained; "and I propose tohear it. I am, sure it would interest Your Majesty--much happenedyesterday." And I told him of the Vierle Masque.
Frederick frowned a bit--thought longer--then smiled.
"I don't much fancy eaves-dropping; but, sometimes, the end justifiesthe means," he said. "I'll join you."
"There will be other witnesses, Sire," I said--and named them.
"I don't like it," he said.
"I can stop them," I suggested.
He considered. "No," said he, "I understand why you want them. I'llcome--they will be discreet. And the Princess would wish it so. I'llbring her, myself."
Then I rode to the Metzen. Bernheim had preceded me and, with themanager of the Hotel, awaited me at a side door. The corridor wasdimly lighted but I drew my cape well over my face and, is a moment, wewere in a small reception room.
"Monsieur Gerst," said I to the manager, "I need your assistance."
Gerst bowed very low.
"Your Royal Highness has but to command," he said.
I was quite sure of that, however. An Archduke of Valeria would havebeen quite enough, but the Governor of Dornlitz was beyond refusal. Icould have closed his Hotel by a word, and there would have been noappeal.
"Thank you, monsieur," I said. "You have as a guest, a certain MadameArmand Dalberg."
"A guest by Your Highness's express permission, you will remember," hesaid.
"Very true," said I. "Now, this Madame Dalberg expects a visitorto-night at nine o'clock."
He gave me a quick glance.
"You know him?" I asked.
"No, Your Highness. I only know madame gave orders to admit no oneto-night except a gentleman who would come at nine."
I nodded. "It's the same," said I. "And what I want, is to hear allthat occurs between Madame Dalberg and this visitor."
Gerst smiled. "That will be easily arranged, Your Highness--the placeis already provided."
"The concealed Gallery?" asked Bernheim, quickly?
"Yes, Colonel." Then, to me, he explained: "Madame's reception roomwas once a part of a small, state dining-room. Back of the end wallruns a gallery where guests sat to listen to the speeches. It isthere, now--and the tapestries, with which the walls are hung,completely hide it."
"It can be reached from the floor above?" I asked.
"Yes, Your Highness; a narrow stairway admits to it."
"Can we enter without being overheard by those in the room below?"
"Very readily, sir; the gallery was so designed that its noises wouldnot disturb those in the dining-room."
"We are in good luck, Bernheim," I said.
"We shall need all of it, sir, with eight spectators."
And he was right. It was foolish to risk success for only asentimental reason. I knew, perfectly well, the proper course was forno one but the King and myself to be in the gallery; yet, there enteredmy Dalberg stubbornness. I purposed that some of those, who had seenme accused that night on the Hanging Garden, should see me exculpatedto-night.
It may be, that some will question the propriety of my action, and thegood taste of those who were my guests. A
s to the latter, it must beborne in mind that my invitation was in the nature of a command, whichit would have been vastly discourteous to decline. And, besides, theywere my friends. As for myself, I have no excuses to offer--and,methinks, I need none. The situation had long passed the refinement ofethics. It was war; and war not of my declaring. Neither was Iresponsible for the style of the campaign. Madeline Spencer deservedno consideration from me--and no more did her visitor.
XXIV
THE END OF THE PLAY
I had, yet, an hour to spare, so Bernheim and I returned to the Epsau.I donned the evening uniform of the Red Huzzars, with the broad Ribbonof the Lion across my breast and the Cincinnati around my neck. I wasminded to be the Dalberg Archduke to-night.
Then, having dispatched Bernheim to the Palace to escort the King andthe Princess, I drove to the Metzen, where Gerst piloted me, by privatecorridors, to the apartments reserved for me, and which adjoined theGallery.
The King and the Princess were the last to arrive. As I greeted them,Dehra detained me.
"Shall we be able to see as well as hear?" she asked.
"Yes," said I, "if you wish."
"I do wish," she said. "I'm savage to-night."
I laughed. "It's very becoming, dear."
Then the great bell of the Cathedral began to chime the hour; and, witha word of caution, I led the way to the Gallery.
The floor was covered with a thick carpet and eight small chairs wereplaced close to the railing. The tapestry was very old and thin and,by putting one's face close to it, the room below was rather dimly, yetquite sufficiently, visible. Its dimensions were unusuallyample--possibly forty feet by sixty--and its furnishings most gorgeous.The chandelier and side-lights were burning, and a huge vase lamp, pinkshaded, was on the large table in the centre. At the moment, the roomwas untenanted.
In a little while a door opposite the Gallery opened and MadelineSpencer entered.
A woman usually knows her good points physically and how to bring themout. And Mrs. Spencer was an adept in the art--though, in truth,little art was needed. To her, Nature had been over generous.
She affected black; and that was her gown, now--cut daringly low andwithout a jot of color about it, save the dead white of her arms andshoulders, and a huge bunch of violets at her waist.
I thought I could guess whence the flowers came. And, though Idespised her, yet, I could but admit her dazzling beauty.
She moved slowly about the room, touching an ornament here, a picturethere. At length, she came to the table and, dropping languidly into achair, rested her elbow on the arm and, with chin in hand, stared intovacancy.
Presently, there was a sharp knock at the corridor door. She glancedquickly at the clock--then, picked up a book and, sinking back in easyposture, assumed to read.
"Entrez," she called, without looking up.
The door opened instantly and a man entered. A long military cloak wasover his plain evening dress; one fold was raised to hide his face. Hedropped it as he closed the door.
Mrs. Spencer lowered her book--then arose with all the sinuous graceshe knew so well how to assume.
"Welcome, Your Royal Highness," she said, and curtsied very low. "Itwas good of you to come."
The Duke of Lotzen tossed off his cloak--and, coming quickly over, tookher hand and kissed it.
"It was more than good of you to let me come," he answered.
"I feared you might not get my note," she said. "I believe I am underconstant surveillance."
He smiled. "Even the Secret Police would hesitate to tamper with mymail," he said.
"That was my hope," she answered.
He looked at her steadily, a moment.
"I am always ready to be a--hope to you," he said.
She dropped her eyes--then picked up a cigarette case from the table.
"Will Your Royal Highness smoke?" she asked.
"If you will light it for me."
(The Princess pressed my hand. I understood.)
Mrs. Spencer touched the cigarette to the tiny alcohol name; thenoffered it to the Duke.
"Someone has spoiled you," she said lightly.
Lotzen took her hand and, with it, put the cigarette between his lips.
"Unfortunately, no," he answered. "But I once saw a pretty woman dothat for another man."
(Again Dehra pressed my fingers.)
"And did he hold her hand afterward?" she asked--freeing her own fromthe Duke's.
"They were not alone," he said--and tried to take it again.
But she put both hands behind her.
"Come, Your Highness, this is not the Masque," she said. But there wasno reproof in her tones.
"Tell me," said he; "how did you know me, last night?"
"What matters it? Particularly, since it was only because you knew methat you spoke."
"You think I was searching for you?" he asked.
She blew a cloud of smoke under the lamp shade and watched it float outat the top.
"Were you?" she asked.
"If I said yes, would it please you?"
"Not unless I thought it true, monsieur--and, also, knew the reason."
He looked at her steadily a moment.
"What better reason could I have than that you are the most beautifulwoman in Valeria?"
She put her fan before her face.
"Your Highness's compliment is very delicate," she laughed.
"It wasn't meant for a compliment," he answered. "If you have lookedin your mirror, to-night, you know I speak the simple truth."
She got up and went over to a great glass, on the opposite wall.Lotzen followed her, and they stood there, a bit, looking in it.
"You like me in black?" she asked, smiling at him in the mirror.
"I like you in anything," he answered--and made as though to put hisarm around her waist.
She swung quickly away from him--just out of reach.
"Even in a gypsy dress?" she asked.
"It was charming--but, I think I prefer this," and he nodded toward hergleaming shoulders.
She made a gesture of dissent, and they went back to the table. Lotzendrew a small chair close and sat staring at her. She studied her fanand waited.
Then he hooked his hands about his knee and leaned back.
"Do you know," he said, "it's a crying shame you are married to my dearcousin."
She looked him full in the face--and smiled.
"Why didn't you make me a widow, then, last night, when you had thechance?"
Lotzen shrugged his shoulders.
"The chance was all right, but the end was bad--though you didn't stayto see it."
She laughed. "Didn't I? I stayed long enough to see your swordsticking in the turf. I took that to be the end--was there more of it,later?"
"No; that was the end--for that time."
"And for that particular method, I fancy," said she. "He wields apretty blade."
"Had you known it?" he asked.
"He was the best swordsman in the American Army," she answered.
"Ordinarily, that does not mean much," said Lotzen. "But, as a matterof fact, so far as I know, he has got only one superior in Europe."
"Then why not get that chap to fight him?"
The Duke laughed.
"I would be very willing to; only, the chap happens to be that infernalIrish adventurer, Moore, who is on his Staff."
"Why don't you try it again, yourself?" she asked.
He tapped his cigarette carefully against the ash receiver.
"Because I'm not yet tired of life," he said. "I know when I have metmy master."
"But, one of your thrusts might go home," she insisted.
He looked at her with an amused smile.
"Yes--it might," he said. "But, you see, my dear girl, what troublesme are the many thrusts he has, any one of which would be sure to gohome in me."
"You seem to have escaped, last night," she observed.
"Purely by his favor
--even luck hadn't a finger in it."
"But discretion had," she remarked. "He would not dare kill you."
Lotzen shook his head.
"You don't seem to know this husband of yours. A Dalberg will dareanything."
"Some Dalbergs," she scoffed.
The Duke flushed.
"I'm doing badly--you think me a coward," he said.
"Oh, no, Prince--only carefully discreet;" and she leaned back andslowly fanned herself.
He looked at her for a bit.
"Are you aware, my dear, that you are conniving at--some might call itinstigating--the death of your husband?" he asked.
She smiled. "Am I?"
"It is a very extraordinary situation," he said, blowing a ring ofsmoke and watching it circle away. "You are so tired of him you wanthim killed; he seems equally tired of you, and, moreover, he isdetermined to marry another woman. Yet, neither of you gets adivorce--and you actually follow him here--and he, then, actuallyrefuses to let you depart."
The fan kept moving slowly.
"A very extraordinary situation, indeed, Your Highness,--as you stateit," she said.
"As I state it?" he echoed.
She nodded. "You have omitted the one material fact in the case."
"And what is that?" he asked.
The fan stopped, and she laughed lightly.
"Simply this: I am not Armand Dalberg's wife."
(Dehra reached over and took my hand. The King looked at us both andnodded; then clapped me on the knee.)
For a space, Lotzen stared at Mrs. Spencer--and she smiled sweetly backat him.
"Not his wife!" he ejaculated, presently.
Her smile became a laugh.
"No, monsieur; not his wife."
This time, Lotzen's stare was even longer. Then, suddenly, he laughed.
"I thought, for a moment, you actually meant it," he said.
She put both elbows on the table and leaned forward.
"Come, monsieur, let us be frank with each other," she said. "Not onlyam I not Armand Dalberg's wife, but you have always known it."
He frowned. "My dear girl," he said, "I've been sorrowfully acceptingyour own word that you are his wife; how should I know that you'vebeen----" he hesitated.
She finished it for him--
"Lying, Duke, lying," she laughed.
He held up his hands, protestingly.
"Not at all, my dear; teasing is the word I wanted."
She lay back in the chair and laughed softly to herself.
"Do you fancy the Grand Duke Armand would call it teasing?" she asked.
He joined in the laugh.
"The victim never sees the joke," he said.
She sat up sharply.
"So, then, it was intended only as a joke?" she exclaimed. "I thoughtit had another object."
He frowned again.
"I don't quite follow you," he said.
She looked at him with a queer smile.
"My being brought to Valeria to pose as his wife," she explained.
"You don't mean you came here from America expressly for that purpose?"he asked.
Her smile grew broader.
"Really, Duke, you are most delicious," she said. "Armand Dalberg toldme, the other day, that I played my part beautifully--he should seeyou. You are a _premier artiste_."
"Madame flatters me," Lotzen answered with soft irony; then tried forher hand--and failed.
"Well, you may take it so," said she; "but, believe me, your cousindidn't mean it so, to me."
He moved over and sat on the edge of the table near her.
She leaned far back and put her hands behind her.
"Come, my dear, don't be so mysterious," he said.
"Let us be frank, as you suggest. You say you are not Armand'swife--that, I am only too glad to believe; I am delighted. You say Ihave always known it--that, of course, is a mistake. You say I amplaying a part, now--that, I don't understand."
"_Premier artiste_, surely," she laughed. Then, suddenly, grew sober."By all means, let us have a frank talk," she said. "It was for that Iasked you here to-night--But, first, light me a cigarette, and then goand sit down in that chair."
"Buy me with a smile," he said.
She bought him--then he did her bidding.
"I was silly enough to hope it was only I that you wanted to see," hesaid.
"My note gave no ground for such hopes, Your Highness," she said. "Itold you exactly what I wanted--to discuss a matter of immediateimportance."
"Oh, yes, I know--but then I was still thinking of the Masque."
She looked at him naively. "Surely, Duke, you are old enough to knowthat, of all follies, a Masque is chiefest and dies with the break ofday."
He shrugged his shoulders. "I am learning it, now, at any rate."
"And, don't forget, it was you who ended the pleasant promenade, topick a quarrel with the--Masque in Black."
"But with full purpose to resume it in a moment."
"After you had killed him? Very likely! Your sole thought would havebeen to get away."
"And to take you with me," he added.
She laughed. "Nonsense, Duke; besides, I would not have gone."
"And the promenade?" he asked.
"With the Black Masque dead the promenade would have been no longernecessary."
"Oh," said he: "I'm beginning to understand. You met me last night fora particular purpose; and that, being frustrated by the duel, is thereason for the appointment here this evening."
She was leaning idly back, and the fan had resumed its languid motions.
"Your Highness has stated it with charming exactness," she said.
His face grew stern; and I saw the hand, that hung beside his chair,clench sharply. Mrs. Spencer saw it, too.
"Don't be angry, Duke," she laughed. "Be grateful for the privilege itgives you of being here to-night."
Lotzen got up sharply and took a step toward the door.
"Going, Your Highness?" asked that softly-caressing voice.
He swung around. "No, I'm not going," he said--and sat down. "A manwould be a fool to leave you just because you treated him heartlessly."
This time, she lit the cigarette, voluntarily, and, leaning over, putit between his lips.
"Is that the way you saw it done?" she asked.
He seized her hand and held it for a moment; but, when he bent over it,she whisked it quickly away.
"Now, for the frank talk," she laughed.
"By all means," he said--and settled back to listen.
She toyed with her cigarette; blowing the smoke at the shade andwatching it rush out at the top. It seemed to be a favorite trick ofhers.
"Of course, Your Highness is aware that, by order of the Governor ofDornlitz, I am kept a prisoner within the walls of the inner city."
Lotzen bowed. "So, I have been informed."
"I have tried every possible means to escape: disguise, bribes,flattery--and all of no avail. My every motion is watched. I amdogged by half the Secret Police of the Capital. I'm not even sure ofthe fidelity of my own maid."
"You poor child," said Lotzen.
"I am sick of this sort of life. It's worse than a prison cell. Andit's got to end--and that, promptly. I sought you, last night, at theMasque to tell you that you must get me away and out of this miserableCountry. I have completed my bargain; it is now for you to completeyours."
The Duke's face took on a look of perplexity.
"My dear girl," he said, "I haven't the remotest notion what you meanby your bargain and mine; but, I'm very ready to aid you to escape.The difficulty is, I have absolutely no power over a single soldier orofficial in Dornlitz. The Governor's orders are absolute--none but theKing can reverse them. And, alas! at this moment, I have very littleinfluence with His Majesty."
"Then, you decline to aid me?" she asked, very quietly--the smoke wasagain going through the lamp shade.
"On the contrary, I am ready to do anythi
ng I can; but, I fear, I'mpowerless. Indeed, if you're under the close surveillance youindicate, it would be about impossible. And I know whereof I speak.You would be no more immune in my carriage than in a public cab. Evenif I were beside you, you could not pass the gates. It might, however,be effected in some way I cannot scheme, on the instant. I willinvestigate and, if I can devise any method, I shall do my utmost torelease you."
She straightened up--and the fan quit its beating.
"That sounds well--and may mean well; but, it's short of the mark,"said she. "I am determined not to remain in this town another day.You must get me away before to-morrow night."
"Impossible!" Lotzen exclaimed. "You know not what you ask."
She looked at him coldly.
"Very good, Your Highness," she said. "I have given you your chance.I have played fair with you. Now, we are quits."
"And you don't want my aid?" he asked.
"Not unless it's given before noon to-morrow."
He raised his hands.
"There are only two people in the world who could get you out ofDornlitz by noon to-morrow--the King and the Governor."
"Exactly," said she. "And, to one of them, I shall go in the morning."
"Better try Frederick," Lotzen laughed. "He has a weak side for apretty woman."
(I did not look at the King--but I heard him sniff angrily.)
"No--I shall try the Governor," she returned. "He told me, one day, inhis office, that, when I acknowledged that I was not his wife and thatthe marriage certificate was false, I would be permitted to leave theKingdom." She paused, a moment. "Does Your Highness wish me to go tothe Governor?"
I thought the Duke would weaken--but, as usual, I got a surprise.
"My dear girl," said he, "I shall be heartbroken if you leaveValeria--but, if that is all you need to do to be free to go--and youare not, in fact, Armand Dalberg's wife--then I am surprised that youhave not done it long ago."
She smiled, rather sadly.
"Yes, I fancy you are. I'm rather surprised myself. It would soundqueer, to some people in America, but I have actually tried, for oncein my life, to keep faith to the end. But it is as I alwaysthought--not worth the while. I'll know better again."
Then, she got up and, going behind her chair, leaned over the back.
"Does Your Highness realize what my going to the Governor means toyou?" she asked.
"I don't seem to be able to follow your argument," he said; "and I'm apoor guesser of riddles."
"It means that I shall have to tell the whole ugly story of how Ichanced to come to Dornlitz to pose as the wife of the Grand DukeArmand."
He took a fresh cigarette and carefully lit it. "But, my dear girl,"he said, "I don't see how that would affect me?"
She laughed.
"Still the _premier artiste_! Well, play it out. If you want to hearwhat you already know it's no trouble to tell you. Shall I begin atthe very beginning?"
"By all means!" said he. "Maybe, then, I can catch the point."
"Listen," said she. "For many years I have known Armand Dalberg. Oneday, several months ago, there came a man to me, in the City of NewYork. How he happened to find me is no matter. He spoke Englishperfectly--though I thought he was a Frenchman. The name on his cardwas Herbert Wilkes; but, I knew that was assumed, and I have learned,lately, who he is. Since you, too, know, it is quite unnecessary torepeat it. His offer to me was this: If I would go immediately toDornlitz and publicly claim the American, Armand Dalberg--who had justbeen restored to his rightful place as a Grand Duke of Valeria--as myhusband, I was to receive an enormous sum of money (the amount YourHighness also knows) and all expenses. I accepted instantly, mainlyfor the money; but, also, to satisfy a personal grudge I had againstMajor Dalberg. I made the one condition, however, that a marriagecertificate must be procured--the date for which I gave; choosing oneon which I happened to know Major Dalberg was in New York. And it wasdone. How, I neither knew nor cared. One-half the money was given mein advance--the balance to be paid the day I executed my mission. Ireceived it the morning following that scene at the Grand Duke's supperparty at the Hanging Garden. And, God knows, I earned every cent ofit! I was guaranteed protection while in Valeria, and to be at libertyto depart one week after I had made the public assertion of themarriage and had exhibited the certificate."
She paused.
"Now, perchance, Your Highness understands the matter," she added, andsmiled sweetly.
He flecked the ash from his cigarette and shook his head.
"I understand no more than I did at first, how this plot against theGrand Duke Armand affects me," he said.
"Of course, it may not occur to Your Highness--but it doubtless wouldto the King--who, of all living creatures, would be most benefited andwho most injured by my marriage story. However, if you are not myemployer, then, it will not hurt you. And, as I cannot imagine whoelse it could be, I shall simply fling the whole business overboard; goto the Governor to-morrow; tell the truth; endorse on the marriagecertificate the fact of its falseness; give it to him--and take thefirst train for Paris--And, I fancy, I shall read the betrothal noticeof the Princess Royal of Valeria and the Grand Duke Armand before I'vebeen there a week."
Lotzen got up and went over to her.
"Do you know you are a very clever woman?" he said.
She looked archly up at him.
"You will enable me to escape?" she asked.
He took her hand--and, this time, it was not withdrawn.
"I will do my best," he said; "but, it's a fierce risk for me. Ifdetected, it would mean, at the very least, a year's banishment."
She smiled.
"It would mean something more than that if I told my story," she said.
"I'm doing it for you; not from fear of the story," he said softly.
"It's nicer, that way, isn't it?" she asked.
He put his arm around her--and she let him kiss her, once. Then, shedrew away.
"Sit down and let us talk it over," she said.
The King got up suddenly.
"Come along, Armand," he said, and hurried from the Gallery.
I followed him, without a word--for none was needed. The end ofLotzen's game was very near, indeed.
In the lower corridor, we met a servant.
"Show us to the apartments of Madame Dalberg," Frederick ordered.
A dozen steps brought us to a large double door.
"This is the entrance, Your Majesty," said the man.
The King rapped sharply. There was no prompt answer and he rappedagain.
In a moment, the door was opened by Mrs. Spencer's maid.
"Madame is not at home," she said mechanically.
Without a word Frederick brushed her aside and stepped quickly in--andI after him.
Mrs. Spencer sat facing the door and saw us enter. It is inconceivablethat she should not have been surprised, and, yet, she betrayedabsolutely no sign of it. Indeed, one would have thought we wereexpected guests. Truly, she was a very wonderful woman.
She said something, very low, to the Duke; then, came forward andcurtsied to the King.
"Your Majesty honors me overmuch," she said. And then to me--"Doesthis really mean that Your Royal Highness has at last decided toacknowledge me?"
Meanwhile, Lotzen had arisen and was standing stiffly at attention, hiseyes on the King. I thought his face was a trifle pale--and I did notwonder.
Frederick laughed, curtly, and motioned for her to rise.
"The play is over, Mrs. Spencer," he said. "We will have no moreacting, if you please."
She straightened, instantly.
"Your Majesty is pleased to be discourteous--but it seems to be aDalberg characteristic," she sneered. Then she broke out angrily:"And, as neither you nor that renegade there,"--indicating me with anod and a look,--"was invited here, I take it I am quite justified inrequesting you both to depart. You may be a King, but that gives youno privilege to force your way into a
woman's apartments and insulther. You are a brave gentleman, surely, and a worthy monarch. Isuppose you brought your pet to protect you lest I offer you violence.Well, I'll give him the chance."
Even as she said it, like a flash, she seized a heavy glass vase fromthe table and hurled it straight at the King.
It was not a woman's throw. Madeline Spencer had learned the man'sswing, in her Army days, and, had the vase struck home, the chances arethere would have been a new King in Dornlitz, that night.
And such was Lotzen's thought, for he smiled wickedly and glanced at me.
But, quick though she was, the King was quicker. He jerked his headaside. The vase missed him by the fraction of an inch and crashed tobits against the opposite wall.
Frederick turned and looked at the fragments, and at the cut in thehangings.
"Madame is rather muscular," he observed, dryly.
"And Your Majesty is a clever dodger," she said, with sneeringindifference--then leaned back against the table, a hand on either sideof her.
"Is it possible you are not going?" she asked.
The King smiled. "Presently, my dear madame, presently. Meanwhile, Ipray you, have consideration for the ornaments and the wall."
She shrugged her shoulders.
"As I cannot expect the servants to forcibly eject their King, and asthe Duke of Lotzen dare not, I presume I'll have to submit to yourimpertinent intrusion. Pray, let me know your business here--I assumeit is business--and get it ended quickly. I will expedite it all Imay. Anything, to be rid of you and that popinjay in red beside you."
"Your husband, madame," the King observed.
"Aye, my husband, for a time," she answered.
"Aye, Mrs. Spencer, your husband for a time--for a purpose--and for aconsideration."
She opened her eyes wide.
"Indeed!" she laughed. "I thought the acting was over, Sire."
Frederick's manner changed.
"It is," he said sharply. "We will come to the point. Have you inkand pen?"
"Is that what you came for?" she sneered. "Have you none at thePalace?"
"Quite enough to sign an order within an hour for your incarceration ifyou continue obdurate," he answered.
"A kingly threat, truly," she mocked. "And, what if I be not obdurate?"
"Then it will be an order permitting you to leave Valeria at once."
"Now, Your Majesty interests me," she said. "I have been waiting forthat a month and more. What is the price for this order?"
"Simply the truth, madame," said the King.
"Sometimes, the truth is the highest price one can pay," she answered.
"It will be very easy here," he said. "You have a paper purporting tobe a certificate of marriage between you and Armand Dalberg."
She inclined her head.
"On it you will endorse that it is a false certificate; that you arenot and never were his wife; that it was procured for you, in New York,long subsequent to its apparent date; and that you were paid anenormous sum of money--fill in the actual amount, please--to goimmediately to Dornlitz, exhibit the certificate, there, and publiclyclaim the Grand Duke Armand as your husband. That, madame, is all."
I was observing Lotzen; and, even now, his nerve never failed him. Hewatched the King, intently, as he spoke. At the end, his face took ona smile of cynical indifference--and, dropping from the respectfulposition in which he had been standing, he turned and sat on the table,one leg swinging carelessly over the corner.
Mrs. Spencer shot a quick glance at him--but he gave no answer back.
"Your Majesty has omitted one little matter," she said. "By whom shallI say the money was paid?"
"Thank you--so I had. Make it--by persons to you unknown."
Mrs. Spencer smiled frankly.
"Your Majesty was quite right," she said. "The play is over."
She touched a bell--the maid entered.
"My jewel case," she said.
The King crossed to a writing desk and, taking pen and ink, placed themon the table. Then the maid brought the casket.
From the bottom tray, Mrs. Spencer took a paper and handed it to theKing, who, after a glance, returned it.
"If your Majesty will dictate, I will write," she said.
Slowly, Frederick repeated the confession--and the pen scratched outline after line on the white page. When it was ended, she passed itback again to the King, and he read it carefully.
"Sign it, please," he said.
She looked up, with an amused smile.
"With what name?" she asked.
"Your lawful one," said Frederick.
"Madeline Spencer," she answered--and dashed it off.
Then, for the first time since we entered the room, the King looked atLotzen. Hitherto, he had ignored him, utterly.
"Witness it," he said sternly.
I smiled--and so did Madeline Spencer. It was the refinement ofretribution.
Without a word or a change of feature, Lotzen obeyed. Then Frederick,himself, signed it; and, folding it carefully, gave it to me.
"Will Your Majesty graciously pardon the violence I offered you?" Mrs.Spencer said.
Frederick nodded.
"Readily, madame," he said. "In a way, you were justified--and, then,you missed me. Had you hit me, my pardon might not have been required."
"And will you not tell me how you discovered the truth?" she asked.
"I chanced to learn of this meeting with His Royal Highness, the Dukeof Lotzen, and was a witness of all that occurred here between you."
"You cannot mean that you overheard our conversation!" she exclaimed.
"Every word," said the King.
"But where--and how?"
The Duke glanced up toward the Gallery--and a bitter smile crossed hisface.
"His Grace of Lotzen has guessed it," said Frederick.
She turned to the Duke interrogatingly.
"The gallery--behind the arras, yonder," he said.
"Exactly," said the King.
"And you forgot the Gallery?" Mrs. Spencer asked, mockingly.
"Yes," said he, with a shrug and a lift of his eyebrows, "I forgot it."
She turned to the King.
"I shall be ready, Sire, to depart for Paris on the evening train,to-morrow," she said.
"You shall have the permit in the morning," he answered.
Then he turned to Lotzen--and the Duke saw and understood. Hestraightened up and his heels came together sharply.
Frederick looked at him, sternly for a moment.
"It is unnecessary, sir, for me to particularize," he said. "You knowyour crimes and their purpose--so do I. The Court has no present needof plotters and will be the better for your absence. It has been overlong since you visited your titular estates, and they doubtless requireyour immediate attention. You are, therefore, permitted to depart tothem forthwith--and to remain indefinitely."
Lotzen's hand rose in salute.
"Yes, Your Majesty," he answered.
The King bowed to Mrs. Spencer.
"Madame, I bid you good evening and good-bye," he said.
She curtsied low.
"I thank Your Majesty for your gracious consideration," she said.
Then she stepped quickly toward me and held out her hand.
"Will you not say farewell, Armand--as in the days, long past?" sheasked.
I knew the Princess was looking; but I was in a generous mood. I tookher hand and bowed over it.
"Captain Dalberg bids farewell to Colonel Spencer's wife," I said.
Then I followed the King.
A week has passed since the night in the Gallery. Madeline Spencer hasgone--forever from my path, I trust. His Royal Highness, the Duke ofLotzen, has taken a long leave, and is sojourning on his mountainestates for the benefit of his health. There has been another supperof six at the Inn of the Twisted Pines--with four bottles of ImperialTokay; and, afterward, a charming ride home in the moonlight.
To-night
, there is to be a great State Dinner at the Palace, whereatHis Majesty will formally announce the betrothal of the Princess Royalof Valeria and Field Marshal, the Grand Duke Armand.
So much I know--and, surely, it is enough; and far more than enough.Yet, having that fixed and settled, there is another matter touchingwhich Dehra and I have a vast curiosity:
What says the great, brass-bound Laws of the Dalbergs? Has the Orderof Succession been changed? Will I supplant Lotzen as the HeirPresumptive?
But, on that, His Majesty is silent; and the Book is locked. Nor doeseven the Princess venture to inquire. Perchance, he is reserving itfor a surprise at the Dinner, to-night. Perchance, he thinks I havehonor sufficient.
Yet, none the less, do I wonder; and, I confess it, none the less do Ihope. Nor is the hope for myself alone--for, to be an Archduke ofValeria is rank enough for any man--but, also, for her whom I love, andthe Nation loves, and who was born to wear a Crown.
And, for her dear sake, do I pray, with all humility, yet, somehow,with the confidence of Right, that, in my unworthy self, the Line ofstubborn old Hugo may come to its own again.
The Colonel of the Red Huzzars Page 23