f the Queen-Regent Maria Cristina fingered his chin
uncertainly without moving, and Rollo's brow darkened ominously, while
the Sergeant began to look hopeful. Neither were in the mood to put up
calmly with any further refusal or hesitation.

"I am quite willing--nay, even anxious to oblige you," said Munoz; "I
would gladly undertake the commission, but--but----!"

He stopped as if searching for words, still, however, rubbing his chin.

"But what?" thundered Rollo. The blood of all the Blairs was rising.

"Well, to put the matter plainly, I have never appeared before her
Majesty in this condition before. You would not have me go as I am?"

"In what condition?" cried the Scot in great astonishment.

"Unshaven, and with my hair undressed. That idiot there"--pointing to
the trembling valet--"spilt the water just when you came in."

"Nay," laughed Rollo, much relieved that there was to be no shedding of
blood, "indeed you must forgive him for that. El Sarria there is
entirely to blame. And on this occasion I trust that her Most Catholic
Majesty will pardon the informality of your appearance. You can point
out to her that you come, not on your own part, but as the ambassador of
others who were somewhat over-earnest in persuading you. I am sure that
my two friends here will share with me the very serious responsibility
of your unshaven chin."

"That I shall not fail to represent to her Majesty," said the Duke,
bowing imperturbably.

And without any further objections he went out, followed by Concha. And
that young lady with all the dignity of responsibility swelling in pride
under the crossed folds of her _rebozo_, did not vouchsafe even so much
as one glance to Rollo, but passed her commanding officer with eyes like
those of a rear-rank man on parade, fixed immovably on the broad back of
Senor Munoz. As soon as they were alone, however, she moved up
alongside, fingering her pistol-butt significantly. For this little
Concha was quite resolved to use her discretion to the uttermost should
any treachery be intended--aye, or even the appearance of it.

During their absence the remaining quartette in the chamber of Don
Fernando Munoz held their ground without a word of mutual converse.
Rollo stared out of the window and listened eagerly to the slamming of
doors and the far-away murmur of voices in the direction of the royal
apartments. Ramon, like the natural fine gentleman he was, fixed his
eyes on the Persian rugs whic