It was a long story, but Frederick's interest never dulled.
At the end, I handed him the copy of the marriage certificate and the
cablegram to Courtney. He read them very carefully; then smoked
awhile, in silence.
"I suppose you have your own notion as to this woman's motive?" he said.
"Yes," I answered.
"Do you care to give it to me?"
I let him see my hesitation.
"Well, I think it is not entirely revenge," I said.
"It might even be that she is only playing the cards someone else has
dealt her," he said significantly.
I smiled and made no answer.
"They are mighty strong cards, Armand," he said.
"And a mighty strong player holds them," I added. "More's the pity."
He nodded. "I saw the lady this afternoon in the Park. I rather fancy
almost any man would be quite willing to have her claim him as her
husband."
"And, therefore, her story will be very generally accepted," I said.
"Doubtless--it's far easier to accept it than to disbelieve it."
"Consequently, if it please you, Sire, let my betrothal to Her Royal
Highness remain secret until this woman's claim has been thoroughly
disproved."
Frederick thought a moment. "You are entirely right," he said; "and,
particularly, since, under old Henry's Decree, she would be your legal
wife--assuming, that is, that you had married her.
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