mong the old families of Maryland or
Virginia. It took me back more than a score of years to my young days
on the dear old Eastern Shore.

And, in the midst of it, came the jolly Boniface, bearing, as carefully
as a mother does her first-born, three long bottles, cobwebbed and
dirty. Eighty years had they been lying in the wine-bin of the Inn,
guarding their treasure of Imperial Tokay. Now, their ward was
ended--and the supper was complete; though, in truth, it had been
complete before.

And, when we had eaten the supper and had drunk most of the Tokay, we
freshened up the glasses with what remained. Then, arising, I gave the
toast which all could drink:

"To the one we love the best!"

But, even as we drained it, there came through the open window the
clatter of horse's hoofs and, as the glasses smashed to bits among the
chimney stones, the door swung open and my senior Aide entered, hot and
dusty.

He caught my eye, halted sharply, and his hand went up in salute.

"Welcome, Colonel Bernheim," I said.

Again he saluted; then drew out an envelope and handed it to me.

"Important papers for Your Highness," he said. "They were received at
Headquarters after your departure and, as they required action
to-night, I thought it best to follow you."

With a word of apology, I walked over to the nearest window and slowly
read the letters. There were two and they were very brief. Then I
read them again--and yet again.

Those at the table had, of course, resumed their talk, but Bernheim
still stood at attention. I motioned him to me.

"These are copies," I said.

"I made them, sir, from the originals--while they were en route," he
added with a dry smile.

"And the originals?"

"Each was delivered promptly."

"You have no doubt of their genuineness?" I asked.

"Absolutely none--though, of course, I know only the handwriting of the
answer."

"Well done," said I; "well done!" Then I read the two papers again.

"Do you think he means it?" I asked, tapping the smaller paper.

"After last night, undoubtedly. And you must be there, sir--you and a
witness," said Bernheim.

I thought a bit--then I took out my watch. It was just six o'clock.

"There is ample time," said I; "and it's worth the try. Can it be
arranged, do you think?"

Bernheim's face brightened. "It can, sir. If it's the room I think it
is, there will be no difficulty; and we can depend on the manager--he
has been well trained by th