told so by more observing men than you, Prince von
Steinheimer," said the girl, taking the telegram. It was from the
manager of the bank in Vienna, and it ran: "Special messenger leaves
with package by the Meran express to-night."

"Just as I thought," said Miss Jennie; "the diamonds never left the
bank. I suppose those idiots of servants which the Princess has round
her didn't know what they took away from Vienna and what they left.
Then, when the diamonds were missing, they completely lost their
heads--not that anyone in the castle has much wit to spare. I never saw
such an incompetent lot."

The Prince laughed.

"You think, perhaps, I have not wit enough to see that my wife cares for
me, is that it? Is that why you gave me my own letters?"

"Oh, you are well mated! The Princess now does me the honour of being
jealous. Think of that! As if it were possible that I should take any
interest in you, for I have seen real men in my time."

The Prince regarded her with his most severe expression.

"Are you not flattering yourself somewhat, young lady?"

"Oh, dear no! I take it as the reverse of flattering to be supposed that
I have any liking for such a ninny as you are. Flattering, indeed! And
she has haughtily dismissed me, if you please."

"The Princess has? What have you been saying to her?"

"Oh, I made the most innocent remark, and it was the truth too, which
shows that honesty is not always the best policy. I merely told her that
you had offered me ten times the amount of money she is paying me. You
needn't jump as if somebody had shot off a gun at your ear. You know you
did make such an offer."

"You confounded little mischief-maker," cried the Prince in anger. "Did
you tell her what it was for?"

"No. She did not ask."

"I will thank you to apply the cleverness you seem to possess to the
undoing of the harm you have so light-heartedly caused."

"How can I? I am ordered to leave to-night, when I did _so_ wish to stay
and see the diamond _denouement_."

"You are not going to-night. I shall speak to the Princess about it if
that should be necessary. Your mention of the diamonds reminds me that
my respected father-in-law, Mr. Briggs, informs me that a celebrated
detective, whom it seems he has engaged--Taylor, I think the name
is--will be here to-morrow to explain the diamond mystery, so you see
you have a competitor."

"Oh, is Cadbury coming? That is too jolly for anything. I simply _must_
stay and