And deeper, firmer, became his
belief and conviction that Grumbach's affair vitally concerned her
highness. What blunder had been made? He would soon know. He welcomed
the knock on his door. Grumbach came in, carrying under his arm a small
bundle. He was pale but serene, like a man who had put his worldly
affairs in order.
"Well, Captain, what did his Highness say?"
"Where are your companions?"
"They are waiting outside."
"The duke agrees. He will give us an audience at eight-thirty. I had a
time of it!"
"Did you mention my name
"No. I went roundabout. I also obtained his promise to say nothing to
Herbeck till the interview was over. Again he demurred, but his
curiosity saved the day. Now, Hans, the full story."
Grumbach spread out on the bed the contents of the bundle.
"Look at these and tell me what you see, Captain."
Carmichael inspected the little yellow shoes. He turned them over and
over in his hand. He shook out the folds of the little cloak, and the
locket fell on the bed.
"When did you get this?" he cried excitedly. "It is her highness'!"
"So it is, Captain; but I have carried it about me all these years."
"What?"
"Yes, Captain. Count von Herbeck is a great statesman, but he made a
terrible mistake this time.
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