anded in a tone of suppressed excitement. "Is it for the sea voyage
that you and your friend the Baron de Grost cross the Atlantic this
particular week, on the same steamer as myself, as Mr. Sirdeller,
and--and the Duchesse? One does not believe in such coincidences! One is
driven to conclude that it is your intention to interfere."

"The affair almost demands our interference," Sogrange replied smoothly.
"With every due respect to you, Prince, there are great interests
involved in this move of yours."

The Prince was a big man, but, for all his large features and bearded
face, his expression was the expression of a peevish and passionate
child. He controlled himself with an effort.

"Marquis," he said, "it is necessary--I say that it is necessary that we
conclude an alliance."

Sogrange nodded approvingly.

"It is well spoken," he said; "but remember--the Baron de Grost
represents England, and the English interests of our society."

The Prince of Marsine's face was not pleasant to look upon.

"Forgive me if you are an Englishman by birth, Baron," he said, turning
towards him, "but a more interfering nation in other people's affairs
than England has never existed in the pages of history. She must have a
finger in every pie. Bah!"

Peter leaned over from his place.

"What about Germany, Mr. Fanshawe?" he asked with emphasis.

The Prince tugged at his beard. He was a little nonplussed.

"The Count von Hern," he confessed, "has been a good friend to me. The
rulers of his country have always been hospitable and favourably
inclined towards my family. The whole affair is of his design. I myself
could scarcely have moved in it alone. One must reward one's helpers.
There is no reason, however," he added, with a meaning glance at Peter,
"why other helpers should not be admitted."

"The reward which you offer to the Count von Hern," Peter remarked, "is
of itself absolutely inimical to the interests of my country."

"Listen!" the Prince demanded, tapping the table before him. "It is true
that within a year I am pledged to reward the Count von Hern in certain
fashion. It is not possible that you know the terms of our compact, but
from your words it is possible that you have guessed. Very well. Accept
this from me. Remain neutral now, allow this matter to proceed to its
natural conclusion, let your Government address representations to me
when the time comes, adopting a bold front, and I promise that I will
obey them.