presently in the presence of Royalty, her dress _decollete_, her figure
superb, her jewels famous throughout the world. Cicely looked at her
and gasped--Douglas was speechless. She herself maintained a
magnificent composure, although she had, as a matter of fact, received a
shock.

"I admit, my friend," she said, holding out her hand to Douglas, "that
my visit is unusual, but I can assure you that I am not a ghost. Try my
fingers, they are very real."

Douglas recovered himself and drew a long breath.

"I am very glad to see you," he said, "but if I had had any idea that
you really wished to see me I would have spared you the trouble of
coming to such an outlandish place."

"Oh, I can assure you that I have rather enjoyed it," she answered him.
"My coachman believes that I am mad, and my maid is sure of it. Won't
you introduce me to your friend--your sister, perhaps?"

Douglas preserved his composure.

"This is my cousin, Cicely Strong," he said, "the Countess de Reuss.
The Countess de Reuss was very kind to me, Cicely, when I was ill. I
think I told you about her."

Cicely was timid and nervous, nor did she at all understand the
situation.

The Countess nodded to her kindly.