"You never married
that woman. Either she is a blackmailer or she is doing this in pure
revenge. What's your notion, Courtney?"
"The marriage story is, of course, a pure lie," said Courtney, "but,
there, I quit. I never try to guess a woman's purpose--and a pretty
woman's least of all."
"God bless me, man!" Radnor exclaimed; "for a bachelor you are wondrous
wise."
"Maybe that's why he is a bachelor," said Lady Helen.
"But even the wise get foolish at times," I said--and smiled at her.
And she made a face at me behind her fan.
Then the Princess arose and, taking Lord Radnor's arm, she led the way
down the garden. I came last with Lady Radnor. When we reached the
exit Dehra insisted upon waiting until the Radnors and Courtney had
gone. She was, she said, helping me do the honors. Then, when her own
carriage was at the door, she turned to the Countess Giska.
"His Highness will drive with me," she said. "Major Moore, will you
escort the Countess?"
"But, Dehra----" I protested.
She was in the brougham, now.
"You will not permit me to drive alone to the Palace," she said.
"But, Dehra----" I began again.
She reached over and took my hand.
Still I hesitated.
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