loyalty," he added gravely.

"In this instance," Dominey protested, "it is not a matter of loyalty.
Everard Dominey cannot throw himself at the feet of the Princess
Eiderstrom, well-known to be one of the most passionate women in Europe,
whilst her love affair with Leopold Von Ragastein is still remembered.
Remember that the question of our identities might crop up any day. We
were friends over here in England, at school and at college, and there
are many who still remember the likeness between us. Perfectly though
I may play my part, here and there there may be doubts. There will be
doubts no longer if I am to be dragged at the chariot wheels of the
Princess."

Seaman was silent for a moment.

"There is reason in what you say," he admitted presently. "It is for a
few months only. What is your proposition?"

"That you see the Princess in my place at once," Dominey suggested
eagerly. "Point out to her that for the present, for political reasons,
I am and must remain Everard Dominey, to her as to the rest of the
world. Let her be content with such measure of friendship and admiration
as Sir Everard Dominey might reasonably offer to a beautiful woman whom
he met to-day for the first time, and I am entirely and with all my
heart at her service. But let her remember that even between us two, in
the solitude of her room as in the drawing-room where we might meet,
it can be Everard Dominey only until my mission is ended. You think,
perhaps, that I lay unnecessary stress upon this. I do not. I know the
Princess and I know myself."

Seaman glanced at the clock. "At what hour was your appointment?"

"It was not an appointment, it was a command," Dominey replied. "I was
told to be at Belgrave Square at seven o'clock."

"I will have an understanding with the Princess," promised Seaman, as
he took up his hat. "Dine with me downstairs at eight o'clock on my
return."

Dominey, descending about an hour later, found his friend Seaman already
established at a small, far-away table set in one of the recesses of
the grill room. He was welcomed with a little wave of the hand, and
cocktails were at once ordered.

"I have done your errand," Seaman announced. "Since my visit I am bound
to admit that I realise a little more fully your anxiety."

"You probably had not met the Princess before?"

"I had not. I must confess that I found her a lady of somewhat
overpowering temperament. I fancy, my young friend," Seaman continued,