jesty," Mr. Sabin said earnestly, "a chance disclosure, and all
might come to light. I myself could blazon the story through Europe.
Those who are responsible for the third degree of the Order of
the Yellow Crayon, and for your Majesty's ignorance concerning its
existence, have trifled with the destiny of the greatest sovereign of
modern times."

"The Prince of Saxe Leinitzer," the Emperor said, "is the acting head of
the Order."

"The Prince of Saxe Leinitzer," Mr. Sabin said firmly, "is responsible
for the existence of the third degree. It is he who has connected the
society with a system of corrupt police or desperate criminals in every
great city. It is the Prince of Saxe Leinitzer, your Majesty, and
his horde of murderers from whom I have come to seek your Majesty's
protection. I have yet another charge to make against him. He has made,
and is making still, use of the society to further his own private
intrigues. In the name of the Order he brought my wife from America.
She faithfully carried out the instructions of the Council. She brought
about the ruin of Reginald Brott. By the rules of the society she was
free then to return to her home. The Prince, who had been her suitor,
declined to let her go. My life was attempted. The story of the Prince's
treason is here, with the necessary proofs. I know that orders have been
given to the hired murderers of the society for my assassination. My
life even here is probably an uncertain thing. But I have told your
Majesty the truth, and the papers which I have brought with me contain
proof of my words."

The Emperor struck a bell and gave a few orders to the young officer who
immediately answered it. Then he turned again to Mr. Sabin.

"I have summoned Saxe Leinitzer to Berlin," he said. "These matters
shall be gone into most thoroughly. In the meantime what can I do for
you?"

"We will await the coming of the Prince," Mr. Sabin answered grimly.

* * * * *

Lady Carey passed from her bath-room into a luxurious little
dressing-room. Her letters and coffee were on a small table near the
fire, an easy-chair was drawn up to the hearthrug. She fastened the
girdle of her dressing-gown, and dismissed her maid.

"I will ring for you in half an hour, Annette," she said. "See that I am
not disturbed."

On her way to the fireplace she paused for a moment in front of a tall
looking-glass, and looked steadily at her own reflection.