"
Courtney was studying the point of a paper-cutter. "Very wonderful,
indeed," he commented.
"What; the paper-cutter?" I asked, a trifle impatiently.
"No; the series of accidents."
"They are only preliminary."
"Preliminaries are often most important."
"Not here," said I. "What I want to consult you about is this: The
King has asked me to accept the titles of old Hugo, and to take my
place at Court."
Courtney laid the paper-cutter carefully on the blotter, and drawing
out his cigarette case, he selected one and slowly lit it. I knew his
way and waited patiently.
"And Lotzen--and the Crown?" he said presently.
"Do you care for the whole story?" I asked.
"Yes, let me have it all," and, settling back in his chair, he closed
his eyes and prepared to listen.
Then I told him everything of the meeting with the King in his library,
repeating, as well as I could remember, Frederick's exact language,
describing his attitude toward me and his evident desire in the matter.
"That is the situation and the problem," I ended, "and the answer is
due to-morrow, I am to dine at the Summer Palace."
Courtney sat up and began to polish his eye-glasses. "I assume you
have made no decision?" he asked presently.
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