t been expecting her from this direction, but
the sound of her voice fell like the balm of her presence upon his
spirit.

"Thank God," he gasped. "Marishka, I was afraid----"

"I came as soon as I could," she whispered rapidly in English. "It was
difficult. I could make no excuses for leaving. I pleaded fatigue and
went to my room. And when the opportunity offered, stole out through the
garden."

"And your absence will not be discovered----?"

"Not until tomorrow--when, please the Holy Virgin, I shall be at
Schoenbrunn."

He took her in his arms and kissed her warmly, but he felt the restraint
in her caress.

"Hugh, beloved, let us wait upon duty for our own happiness. I cannot
rest until I have told our dreadful secret. You have a motor car?"

"Come," he said. And taking her small valise with his own, he led the
way to the spot where the machine was awaiting them. Marishka gave
directions and in a few moments they were off. The danger of detection,
once beyond the village, was slight, and their purpose to reach the
railroad at Budweis and take a late train to Vienna was not difficult of
accomplishment. The machine was none too good, but the road for the main
part was excellent. Renwick's arm was about the girl, and they sat
discussing their plans for the immediate future.

"You have no fear for what you are about to do?" he asked.

"What should I fear?" she said lightly. "I am only doing my duty."

"There will be difficulties, will there not?"

"Perhaps. But I shall succeed. Prince Montenuovo, the High Chamberlain
of the Court will listen to me."

"But you will not tell him all."

"Not unless it is necessary. You, Hugh, will take me to him."

Renwick was silent for a moment.

"Marishka," he said at last, "we share a terrible duty, yours to
Austria, and mine to England----"

"But mine--is it not the greater?" she pleaded. "You must not speak,
Hugh, until I have given you permission."

Renwick folded his arms and gazed stolidly into the darkness.

"I must tell what I know to Sir Herbert," he said firmly. "You must not
ask me to be silent."

He noticed the change in her voice as she replied, "Is my happiness so
slight a thing that you can refuse the first request I make of you?"

He caught her hand to his lips.

"Marishka, you know----"

"My first request----"

"There is nothing in the world that I would not do for you. You would
think little of me if I did not do my duty."

"And of your du