Page 49 of 657

When I cried out that it was a false alarm, she replaced it,

glanced at the rocket, rushed from the room, and I have not seen

her since. I rose, and, making my excuses, escaped from the

house. I hesitated whether to attempt to secure the photograph at

once; but the coachman had come in, and as he was watching me

narrowly, it seemed safer to wait. A little over-precipitance may

ruin all."

"And now?" I asked.

"Our quest is practically finished. I shall call with the King

to-morrow, and with you, if you care to come with us. We will be

shown into the sitting-room to wait for the lady, but it is

probable that when she comes she may find neither us nor the

photograph. It might be a satisfaction to his Majesty to regain

it with his own hands."

"And when will you call?"

"At eight in the morning. She will not be up, so that we shall

have a clear field. Besides, we must be prompt, for this marriage

may mean a complete change in her life and habits. I must wire to

the King without delay."