"Isn't that a necessary qualification of a diplomatic attaché?" I said.
"Quite the most important,--and I don't doubt you will find it useful
before you leave Valeria."
Then the band blared out into a waltz and the crowd drew away from the
centre of the floor. I expected the real Heir Presumptive to lead out
the Princess. I admit I was curious to see him. Report made him a
very able young fellow, and his pictures showed a goodly figure.
Instead, however, someone in a Colonel's uniform was her partner to
open the dance. I turned to Courtney interrogatingly.
"It is Prince Charles, Lotzen's brother," he explained.
"And the Duke?" I asked.
"Still with the Army, I suppose."
Then the Princess swung by and, catching my eye, gave me a quick smile.
"Sort of a relief, isn't it?" Courtney remarked.