rmy, for all I care," he declared. "There is not the least
occasion for me to treat the worthy old gentleman as a prisoner."

On the same day Heideck had a serious conversation with Edith about her
immediate future. He inquired what her wishes and plans were, but she
clung to him tenderly and whispered, "My only wish is to stay with you,
my only plan is to make you happy."

Kissing her tender lips, which could utter such entrancing words, he
said, deeply moved: "Well, then, I propose that we travel together to
Karachi. I am resolved to quit the Russian service and endeavour to
return to Germany. But could you induce yourself to follow me to my
country, the land of your present enemies?"

"My home is with you. Suppose that we were to make a home here in Simla,
I should be ready, and only too glad to live here for the rest of my
life. Take me to Germany or Siberia, and I will follow you--it is all
the same to me, if only I am not obliged to leave you."

For a moment Heideck was pained to think that she had no word of
attachment for her country; but he had already learnt not to measure
her by the standard of the other women whom he had hitherto met on his
life's journey, and it ill became him to reproach her for this want of
patriotism.

"Mr. Kennedy has assured me that he is ready to take you under his
protection during the journey," said he. "I will speak to the Prince
again to-day, and, as he has no right to detain me, it will be possible
for me, as I confidently hope, to start with you for Karachi."

"But I shall only accept the Kennedys' offer if you go with us,"
declared Edith in a tone of decision, which left no doubt as to her
unshakable resolution.

As a matter of fact, Prince Tchajawadse put no difficulties in his way.

"I sincerely regret to lose you again so soon," he declared, "but it
is for you alone to decide whether you go or stay. It was arranged
beforehand that you could leave the Russian service as soon as it became
worth your while. Women are, after all, the controlling spirits of our
lives."

Of course the Prince had long since been aware that the Kennedys'
visitor was Edith Irwin, but this was the first time he had alluded to
his German friend's love affair.

As if he felt bound to defend himself against a humiliating reproach,
Heideck hastened to reply.

"You misunderstand my motives. It is my duty as a soldier which summons
me first of all. Hitherto I have had no prospect of getting a p