“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 the Secret Police.  You will come?”

“Yes, I’ll come; but they come, too,” and I nodded toward the table.

“Better bring only Courtney, sir,” he urged.

“No,” said I; “several witnesses will be needed.  And, besides, I want them out of satisfaction to myself.”

“It may wreck the whole business,” he persisted.

“I’ll risk it,” said I.

Bernheim was wise.  He always seemed to know when to quit.

“Very good, sir,” he said.  “How soon do we start?”

I put my hand on his shoulder.

“You are a perfect treasure, Bernheim,” I said.  “Come, we will start at once.  Is your horse good for a fast ride back?”

“Entirely, sir.”

“Then you can give me the story on the way,” I said.  “Meanwhile, get some refreshment.”

I went back to the table—­and it was amusing how suddenly the conversation ceased and everyone looked at me.  I smiled reassuringly at Dehra, for there was concern in her eyes.

“Four of you,” said I—­“you, Princess; and you, Lady Helen; and you, Courtney; and you, Moore, were present at—­and you, Mademoiselle d’Essolde, have heard of—­a certain supper party on the Hanging Garden, some weeks back, whereat a certain woman proclaimed herself my wife.  That was the first act in a play which has been progressing ever since.  The plot has thickened lately—­as witness the duel at the Masque, last night.  And now, unless I greatly err, the last act is set for this evening.  If you care to see it I shall be glad for your company.”—­Then I laughed.  “A long speech,” said I; “but it sounded well.”

“And promises best of all,” said Courtney.

Then I ordered the horses; and, while we waited, I gave the letters to Courtney.

“Read them,” I said.  “The originals passed through Bernheim’s hands this afternoon—­’while en route,’ as he puts it.”

He read them carefully.

“You contemplate giving them an audience?” he asked.

“Exactly that,” said I.

“Is it feasible?”

“Bernheim says it is.”

He looked at me thoughtfully, a moment.  “It would be a great stroke to have the King there,” he said.

“I’ll make a try for him,” I answered; “but the time is very short.”

It was ten miles to Dornlitz, and we did it in an hour.  On the way, I explained the whole situation to the Princess and read her the letters.  She was amazed—­and her indignation was intense.  Nor did she hesitate to express it freely before Bernheim.  And I saw his stern face break into a glad smile.  It told him much.

At the Palace we drew rein.