Each shadowy nook, each velvety recess, seemed to glow
with the wizardry of love-lamps that had been lighted with the building
of the Castle. How many hearts had learned the wistful lesson in these
aged halls? How many loves had been sheltered here?

He walked on air. He pinched himself--and even then was not certain that
he was awake. It was too good to be true.

He was ushered into a large, sedately furnished room. A score of men
were there before him--sitting or standing in attitudes of attention,
listening to the words of General Braze. King's entrance was the signal
for an immediate transfer of interest. The General bowed most politely
and at once turned to Count Halfont with the remark that he had quite
finished his suggestions. The Prime Minister came forward to greet the
momentarily shy American. King had time to note that the only man who
denied him a smile of welcome was Count Vos Engo. He promptly included
his rival in his own sweeping, self-conscious smile.

"The Council has been extolling you, Mr. King," said the Prime Minister,
leading him to a seat near his own. Truxton sat down, bewildered. "We
may some day grow large enough to adequately appreciate the invaluable,
service you have performed in behalf of Graustark."

Truxton blushed. He could think of nothing to say, except: "I'm sorry to
have been so late. I was detained."

Involuntarily he glanced at Vos Engo. That gentleman started, a curious
light leaping into his eyes.

"Mr. King, we have asked you here for the purpose of hearing the full
story of your experiences during the past two weeks, if you will be so
good as to relate them. We have had them piecemeal. I need not tell you
that Graustark is in the deepest peril. If there is a single suggestion
that you can make that will help her to-night, I assure you that it will
be given the most grateful consideration. Graustark has come to know and
respect the resourcefulness and courage of the American gentleman. We
have seen him at his best."

"I have really done no more than to--er--save my own neck," said Truxton
simply. "Any one might be excused for doing the same. Graustark owes a
great deal more to Miss Tullis than it does to me, believe me, my lords.
She had the courage, I the strength."

"Be assured of our attitude toward Miss Tullis," said Halfont in reply.
"Graustark loves her. It can do no more than that. It is from Miss
Tullis that we have learned the extent of your valorous achievem