American, a very nobody? Something unusual was about to take place and
I was to be a witness or a participant of it. That was as far as my
talent for logical deduction went. Promptly at the stated time I stood
at the side of the carriage. It was the plainest sort of an affair.
Evidently it had been hired for the occasion. The door opened.

"Step in, monsieur," said a low voice in French. I obeyed. The horse
started. As we spun along the pavement a light flashed into the
window. The Princess sat before me. There was a ringing in my ears,
and I breathed quickly. But I said no word; it was for her to speak
first.

"Monsieur is an American," she began. "The American is of a chivalric
race."

"That should be the aim of all men," I replied.

"But it is not so. Monsieur, I have been studying you for the past
week. To-night I place my honor and my fame in your hands; it is for
you to prove that you are a knight. I trust you. When I have said
what I shall say to you, you may withdraw or give me your aid, as you
please."

"I am grateful for your confidence, your Highness," said I. "What is
it that you wish me to do?"

"Have patience, monsieur, till the ride is done," she said. "Do not
speak again till I permit you. I must think."

The journey was accomplished in half an hour.