he arrival of the Sovereign.

While M. Vicart, in company with a special agent, made a rapid
examination of the station and satisfied himself that all preparations
had been thoroughly carried out, M. Caldoni was talking to the
station-master.

"The King's special train is to start exactly at 10.17, that is to say,
it will follow, at an interval of 10 minutes number 322."

"The 322 is the Cologne express, isn't it?" inquired M. Caldoni.

"Yes, the Cologne express."

* * * * *

In the meantime a vast crowd of the curious who had learned of the
departure of the King by the evening papers, filled the waiting-rooms
and platforms. Journalists were grouped apart and the invited guests
included numerous persons of quality. Among them was Baron Weil, member
of the Council of Administration, and delegated to represent it at the
ceremony of departure. Lieutenant Colonel Bonnival was also there to
represent the State. At the station entrance, M. Havard stood alone,
waiting the arrival of the automobile which contained M. Annion, in
attendance upon the King.

* * * * *

Making his way noiselessly in and out of the crowd, Juve gradually drew
near the front ranks and reached the cordon of special officers whose
duty it was to bar the way to the platform of departure. Here Juve ran
into Michel, and the two men silently shook hands. Juve was about to
show his card, but Michel smiled:

"No need for you to show it, Juve."

The detective now mingled with the guests, and as he reached the
reception-room he moved behind a lady who had just arrived. Waiting a
favorable opportunity he approached her:

"Pardon me," he began in a dry voice, "one moment, please."

The lady turned sharply:

"Monsieur, who are you? What do you want?"

"I am Juve, of the Secret Service."

"And I am the Grand Duchess Alexandra, relative of the King of
Hesse-Weimar."

"No, you are Lady Beltham. I recognize you and it will be no use to deny
it."

The adventuress started panting, in her eyes a look of fear.

"Ah," she stammered.

"I've got you, Lady Beltham. The time to pay has come. You are under
arrest." Then in a whisper he added, "Where is the diamond?"

There was a silence. Lady Beltham lowered her eyes.

"Better tell me, and avoid the scandal."

"Don't make a scandal, I implore you. I have the diamond with me."

* * * * *

At this moment the