possibility, a chance, if other expedients had failed, but
thoroughly worth taking. His man Kronberg was a good shot, but he might
have missed, and if so Europe was large, and Herr Renwick clever. The
hook of Leo Goritz was baited with a delectable morsel--most
delectable--it would have been childish not to use it. Where Marishka
Strahni was, there also was the heart of Renwick--the Englishman with
the nine lives--the last of which must be taken.

This duty accomplished, Goritz went to a room upstairs, bathed and
dressed in the uniform which had been provided, packing a large bag with
several objects besides clothing and necessities of the toilet,
including two automatic pistols, and went down to the Embassy office.
All this had occupied an hour. He was awaiting Marishka when, somewhat
refreshed and newly attired, she descended and entered the Embassy
office. His Excellency rose and bowed over her hand--

[Illustration: His Excellency rose and bowed over her hand--]

"Captain Goritz tells me that you have consented to help us in this
extraordinary affair. I wish you Godspeed, Countess Strahni, and a safe
return," he added with some deliberateness.

She glanced at Captain Goritz who stood in a military attitude, but he
only smiled politely and said nothing.

"I thank Your Excellency for your hospitality and protection," she said
slowly. "I am sure that I shall be quite safe with Captain Goritz----"

"Ober Lieutenant Carl von Arnstorf, at your service," corrected Goritz,
"of the Third Regiment, Fifteenth Army Corps."

Marishka smiled.

"And I?"

"Frau Ober Lieutenant von Arnstorf," said Goritz shortly.

"It is necessary, I suppose?"

Goritz bowed, and his Excellency added, "It simplifies matters greatly,
Countess Strahni."

Marishka shrugged. It was no time for quibbling.

"The way is clear?" asked the Ambassador of von Mendel.

"Quite, Excellency. The side street has been patrolled for ten minutes."

Goritz opened a door which led to a small staircase, and he and Marishka
descended and went through the kitchens to a small street or alley where
a machine was awaiting them. A question--a reply from a man who had
brought down their bags, and they moved slowly out of the alley into a
small street.

A bath, food, and a glass of wine had restored Marishka, and she now
faced the immediate future with renewed hope and courage. Apart from the
belief, fostered by the careful detail of her companions arrangements