ferential respect, but seemed
astonished to find in her company the young woman who had called on him
a few hours previously with the Director of the Police.

"I wanted to ask you," said Jennie, "to finish your analysis somewhat
earlier than four o'clock to-morrow. I suppose it can be done?"

The man of science smiled and looked at her for a moment, but did not
reply. "You will oblige my friend, I hope," said the Princess.

"I should be delighted to oblige any friend of your Highness," answered
the chemist slowly, "but, unfortunately, in this instance I have orders
from an authority not to be disputed."

"What orders?" demanded the Princess.

"I promised the analysis at four o'clock to-morrow, and at that hour it
will be ready for the young lady. I am ordered not to show the analysis
to anyone before that time."

"Those orders came from the Director of Police, I suppose?" The chemist
bowed low, but did not speak.

"I understand how it is, Jennie; he came here immediately after seeing
you home. I suppose he visited you again within the hour after he left
with this young lady--is that the case, Herr Feltz?"

"Your Highness distresses me by asking questions that I am under pledge
not to answer."

"Is the analysis completed?"

"That is another question which I sincerely hope your Highness will not
press."

"Very well, Herr Feltz, I shall ask you a question or two of which you
will not be so frightened. I have told my friend here that you would do
anything for me, but I see I have been mistaken."

The chemist made a deprecatory motion of his hands, spreading them out
and bowing. It was plainly apparent that his seeming discourtesy
caused him deep regret. He was about to speak, but the Princess went
impetuously on.

"Is the Director of Police a friend of yours, Herr Feltz? I don't mean
merely an official friend, but a personal friend?"

"I am under many obligations to him, your Highness, and besides that,
like any other citizen of Vienna, I am compelled to obey him when he
commands."

"What I want to learn," continued the Princess, her anger visibly rising
at this unexpected opposition, "is whether you wish the man well or
not?"

"I certainly wish him well, your Highness."

"In that case know that if my friend leaves this shop without seeing the
analysis of the material she brought to you, the Director of Police will
be dismissed from his office to-morrow. If you doubt my influence with
my husband to ha