Pagina 23 de 657

"Because she has said that she would send it on the day when the

betrothal was publicly proclaimed. That will be next Monday."

"Oh, then we have three days yet," said Holmes with a yawn. "That

is very fortunate, as I have one or two matters of importance to

look into just at present. Your Majesty will, of course, stay in

London for the present?"

"Certainly. You will find me at the Langham under the name of the

Count Von Kramm."

"Then I shall drop you a line to let you know how we progress."

"Pray do so. I shall be all anxiety."

"Then, as to money?"

"You have carte blanche."

"Absolutely?"

"I tell you that I would give one of the provinces of my kingdom

to have that photograph."

"And for present expenses?"

The King took a heavy chamois leather bag from under his cloak

and laid it on the table.

"There are three hundred pounds in gold and seven hundred in

notes," he said.

Holmes scribbled a receipt upon a sheet of his note-book and

handed it to him.

"And Mademoiselle's address?" he asked.