lacked nothing but Steinbock's name.

"But the rascal will boast about it! He may blackmail all of you. He
may convince the public that he has really married her Highness."

"I thank not. We have not moved in this blindly. Steinbock we know to
have forged the name of the minister of finance. We hold this sword
above his head. And if he should speak or boast of it, your word would
hold greater weight than his. Do you understand now?"

"Yes, I understand. But I believe that I am genuinely sorry to have
blundered into this castle to-night."

"Oh, if you lack courage!"--carelessly.

I laughed. "I am not afraid of twenty Steinbocks."

Her laughter echoed mine. "Come, Mr.--by the way, I believe I do not
know your name."

"Warrington--Arthur Warrington."

"That is a very good English name, and a gentleman possessing it will
never leave two women in a predicament like this. You will understand
that we dare not trust any one at court. Relative to her Highness, the
duke succeeds in bribing all."

"But a rascal like Steinbock!"

"I know,"--a bit wearily.