us of all, lazily, half-insolently observant, yet
wholly unconcerned. Some observers choked back a sudden
exclamation. A hush fell in the great room, then followed a low
buzzing of curious or interested, wise or ignorant human bees.

There were many in Washington social circles who knew by sight or
by reputation Josephine, Countess St. Auban, no longer than six
months ago pronounced by one journal of the capital to be the most
beautiful and the most dangerous woman in Washington. Yet even the
most hostile of these suddenly suspended judgment as they saw her
advance met now by that of the old Hungarian general himself. With
the enthusiasm of a boy he fell upon her, both his hands extended.

"Countess--my dear child--at last you are here!" he exclaimed.
Taking her by the hand he led her back to the line of his official
company, volleying rapid exclamations in his native tongue. Eager
groups fell into line near at hand, seeking to know what was toward.

"You left us!" at length exclaimed the old general, politely
speaking in his best English, since these others were thus bound to
hear. "Where you had gone we did not know. It was as though the
heavens had opened. See then, Sir,"--he addressed the naval
officer who stood near at hand--"the Countess St. Auban was one of
the most important members of our little company--she was to come
in advance of us, who also are in advance of a greater number. For
a time we heard from her, then all was silent! She had
disappeared!--But now, at last, my dear Countess, you are here! We
shall succeed, it is certain; henceforth you will be of our party.
Is it not true?"

Political, social and journalistic Washington then and there begged
a sudden though silent pardon of the Countess St. Auban. A few
journalists left the room quickly. An attache of the Austrian
legation also hurriedly took his leave.

"But where have you been, my dear?" again demanded General
Zewlinski, his hand again affectionately grasping that of Josephine
St. Auban. "We have so missed you."

"I have been visiting some of the more remote parts of this
country," replied she in even tones.

"So, then, you have not forgotten our mission from Hungary! Well,
now we shall surely have the invitation for our Kossuth to come?
Is it not true?"

"Assuredly, my dear General. You will find this country eager to
meet him. But alas! I fear that Kossuth himself will find problems
also in this country."

"Our ow