"Is that the way you saw it done?" she asked.
He seized her hand and held it for a moment; but, when he bent over it,
she whisked it quickly away.
"Now, for the frank talk," she laughed.
"By all means," he said--and settled back to listen.
She toyed with her cigarette; blowing the smoke at the shade and
watching it rush out at the top. It seemed to be a favorite trick of
hers.
"Of course, Your Highness is aware that, by order of the Governor of
Dornlitz, I am kept a prisoner within the walls of the inner city."
Lotzen bowed. "So, I have been informed."
"I have tried every possible means to escape: disguise, bribes,
flattery--and all of no avail. My every motion is watched. I am
dogged by half the Secret Police of the Capital. I'm not even sure of
the fidelity of my own maid."
"You poor child," said Lotzen.
"I am sick of this sort of life. It's worse than a prison cell. And
it's got to end--and that, promptly. I sought you, last night, at the
Masque to tell you that you must get me away and out of this miserable
Country. I have completed my bargain; it is now for you to complete
yours."
The Duke's face took on a look of perplexity.
"My dear girl," he said, "I haven't the remotest notion what you mean
by your bargain and mine; but, I'm very ready to aid you to escape.
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