its, as did those around him. He had offered what he
had without hope of reward, because he had considered it his duty. And,
after all, what had the Osian done that he should be driven to this
ignominious end? His motives never could be questioned; each act had
been in some way for the country's good. Every king is a usurper to
those who oppose him.

Would the kingdom be bettered in having a queen against whom the
confederation itself was opposed? Would it not be adding a twofold
burden to the one? The kingdom was at peace with those countries
from which it had most to fear. Was it wise to antagonize them? Small
independent states were independent only by courtesy. Again, why had
Austria contrived to place an alien on the throne, in face of popular
sentiment? Would Austria's interests have been less safe in the advent
of rightful succession? Up to now, what had Austria gained by ignoring
the true house? Outwardly nothing, but below the surface? Who could
answer?

For eleven years he had tried to discover the secret purpose of Austria,
but, like others, he had failed; and the Austrian minister was less
decipherable than the "Chinese puzzle." He was positive that none of
the arch-conspirators knew; they were blinded by self-interest. And the
archbishop? The Marshal rubbed his nose again, not, however, because
it was cold. Did any one know what was going on behind the smiling mask
which the reticent prelate showed to the world? The Marshal poked his
chin above his collar, and the wrinkles fell away from his gray eyes.

The sky was clear and brilliant, and a tonic from the forests sweetened
the rushing air. The lake was ruffled out of its usual calm, and rolled
and galloped along the distant shores and flashed on the golden sands.
Above the patches of red and brown and yellow the hills and mountains
stood out in bold, decided lines.

Water fowl swept along the marshes. The doves in twos and threes
fluttered down to the path, strutted about in their peculiarly awkward
fashion, and doubtfully eyed the silent gray figure on the bench, as
if to question his right to be there this time of the morning, their
trysting hour. Presently the whole flock came down, and began cooing and
waltzing at the Marshal's feet. He soon discovered the cause.

Her Royal Highness was coming through the opening in the hedgerow which
separated the two confines. She carried a basket on her arm, and the
bulldog followed at her heels, holding his in