Not so, however, with some of the elderly Valerian dignitaries and
army officers; they were very evidently surprised and curious,--and,
very shortly, it was plain I was the object of their discussion and
careful observation.
"How do you enjoy it?" Courtney inquired.
"You forget that this is not my first visit to Dornlitz," I answered.
"Some day I'd like to know of those other visits."
"There's nothing to know; they were like any other tourist's."
"Really, Major, you throw your opportunities away," he said, and I saw
he did not believe me.
"What opportunities?" I asked.
He smiled. "Well, not those for prevarication, certainly."
"Isn't that a necessary qualification of a diplomatic attache?" I said.
"Quite the most important,--and I don't doubt you will find it useful
before you leave Valeria."
Then the band blared out into a waltz and the crowd drew away from the
centre of the floor. I expected the real Heir Presumptive to lead out
the Princess. I admit I was curious to see him. Report made him a
very able young fellow, and his pictures showed a goodly figure.
Instead, however, someone in a Colonel's uniform was her partner to
open the dance. I turned to Courtney interrogatingly.
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