air and a
description of the man have been brought to me by the esteemed
Popova--this gentleman here, who is court interpreter and instructor in
languages to the royal family."

Popova nodded and Mr. Pike saw the scattered spires of Bessemer,
Pennsylvania, whirling away into a cloud of disappearance.

"If you have a description of the man, no doubt you will be able to find
him," he said, knowing that this kind of speech would strengthen his
plea of innocence when brought out at the trial.

The chief of the secret service turned and looked wonderingly at the
bland stranger and resumed: "After some reflection I have decided to
make inquiries at all the hotels, to learn if any foreigner answering
this description has lately arrived in the city."

"You may be sure that any information I possess will be put at your
disposal immediately," said the manager, with a smile and a professional
bow.

The only Koldo, breathing deeply, brought from his pocket a sheet of
paper, while Mr. Pike propped himself deliberately against the door and
tried to mold his features into that expression of guileless innocence
which he had observed on the face of a cherub in the Vatican.

"He is very rugged and powerful," said the detective, referring to his
notes. "Large, quite large--black hair, dark eyes with a glance that
seems to pierce through anything--long mustache, also black--wears much
jewelry--speaks with a marked German accent--wears a suit of Scotch
plaid--heavy military boots."

Mr. Pike removed his hat and allowed the electric light to twinkle on
his ruddy hair.

"How--ah--where did you get this description?" he asked gently.

"From the Princess herself," replied Popova. "She saw him at close
range."

"Believe me, I am sorry, but no one answering the description has been
at my hotel," said the manager.

"Then I shall go to the Hotel Bristol and the Hotel Victoria," announced
Koldo, with something of fierce determination in his tone.

"An excellent plan," assented the manager.

"Would you mind if I butted in with a suggestion?" said Mr. Pike, laying
a friendly hand on the arm of the redoubtable Koldo. "Don't you think
it would be better if you went alone to these hotels? This distinguished
gentleman," indicating Popova, "is well known on account of being a high
guy up at the palace. Sure as you live, if he trails around with you,
you will be spotted. You don't want to hunt this fellow with a brass
band. Besides, you don