"Oh!" said I, realizing suddenly my mistake, "I didn't appreciate I was
dining with an Ambassador."
"It's not yet announced. However, I'm glad it does not change me," he
laughed.
"I can tell that better after we reach Valeria--and you have danced
with the Princess."
He sipped his coffee meditatively. "Yes, there may be changes in
Valeria in us both," he said presently.
"Don't do the heavy reproof if I chance to forget the difference in our
rank," I answered. "But you must manage one turn for me with Her Royal
Highness, if you're to eat my dinner, you know."
"How many times have you been to Valeria?" he asked suddenly.
"Some half dozen," I replied, surprised.
"Ever been in the private apartments of the Palace of Dornlitz?"
"No--I think not."
"I mean, particularly, the corridor where hang the portraits of the
Kings?"
"I don't recall them."
He laughed shortly. "Believe me, you would recall them well," he said.
"What the devil are you driving at?" I asked.
"I'll show you the night you dance with the Princess."
"A poor army officer doesn't usually have such honors."
"No--not if he be only a poor army officer. But, if he chance to
be----"
"Well," I said, "be what?"
"I'll tell you in the picture gallery," he answered.
And not another word would he say in the matter.