"What must you think of me?" There was that in her Highness' tone
which dared me to express any opinion that was not totally
complimentary.

"I am not sufficiently well-born to pass an opinion upon your Highness'
actions," I replied, with excusable irony.

"Excellent!" she exclaimed. "I have grown weary of sycophants. You
are not afraid of me at all."

"Not in the slightest degree," I declared.

"You will not regret what you are about to do. I can make it very
pleasant for you in Barscheit--or very unpleasant." But this
threatening supplement was made harmless by the accompanying smile.

"May I offer the advice of rather a worldly man?"

"Well?"

"When Steinbock comes bid him go about his business."

The Honorable Betty nodded approvingly, but her Highness shrugged.

"Since you are decided,"--and I bowed. "Now, what time does this
fellow put in his appearance?"

Her Highness beamed upon the Honorable Betty. "I like the way he says
'this fellow'; it reassures me. He is due at nine o'clock; that is to
say, in half an hour. I will give you these directions. I do not wish