"Since I am to live in Dornlitz the rest of my days, where is it your
gracious purpose that I reside--in the Epsau Palace or where?"
"Except to assure you it will not be in the Epsau, it is no concern of
mine where you live," I answered.
"Then, it will be the Hotel Metzen--and, of course, the bill will be
sent to you."
"Oh, no, it won't," I answered.
"Surely!" she exclaimed, "you can't intend to hold me prisoner, and,
then, oblige me to provide my own subsistence."
"Your subsistence, Mrs. Spencer, is not my affair," I said, "since the
length of your enforced detention in Dornlitz is optional with
yourself."
"You mean?"
"I mean, that when you admit I am not and never was your husband, and
that the marriage certificate is false, that instant you are free to
depart."
She shook her head.
"I am willing to permit you to obtain a divorce," she said, "but I may
not deny the truth of the certificate."
"Very good," said I. "I trust you will enjoy your stay in Dornlitz."
She swung around toward Courtney.
"You are the American Ambassador, are you not, monsieur?" she said.
Courtney answered by a bow.
"Then, I ask if you will suffer an American citizen to be kept prisoner
by the Valerian authorities without trial or legal judgment?"
"Not for a moment, madame," said Courtney, instantly, and with a quick
smile at the King.
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