Can it be
arranged, do you think?"
Bernheim's face brightened. "It can, sir. If it's the room I think it
is, there will be no difficulty; and we can depend on the manager--he
has been well trained by the Secret Police. You will come?"
"Yes, I'll come; but they come, too," and I nodded toward the table.
"Better bring only Courtney, sir," he urged.
"No," said I; "several witnesses will be needed. And, besides, I want
them out of satisfaction to myself."
"It may wreck the whole business," he persisted.
"I'll risk it," said I.
Bernheim was wise. He always seemed to know when to quit.
"Very good, sir," he said. "How soon do we start?"
I put my hand on his shoulder.
"You are a perfect treasure, Bernheim," I said. "Come, we will start
at once. Is your horse good for a fast ride back?"
"Entirely, sir."
"Then you can give me the story on the way," I said. "Meanwhile, get
some refreshment."
I went back to the table--and it was amusing how suddenly the
conversation ceased and everyone looked at me. I smiled reassuringly
at Dehra, for there was concern in her eyes.
"Four of you," said I--"you, Princess; and you, Lady Helen; and you,
Courtney; and you, Moore, were present at--and you, Mademoiselle
d'Essolde, have heard of--a certain supper party on the Hanging Garden,
some weeks back, whereat a certain woman proclaimed herself my wife.
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