Less than three months ago, I was simply a Major in the American Army,
with small hope of ever getting beyond a Colonel's eagles. The "Star"
was so utterly unlikely that I never even considered the possibility. It
was only a rainbow or a mirage; and I was not given to chasing either.
And, to-day, I looked down on the crowded Alta Avenue of Dornlitz--then,
up at the portrait of my Sovereign--then, down at my uniform, with a
Marshal's Insignia on the sleeve and the Princess Royal's note in the
pocket.
What mirage could have pictured such realities! What rainbow could have
appeared more dazzlingly evanescent!
Then I saw a Victoria approaching. And in it was the Spencer
woman--brilliantly beautiful--haughtily indifferent. The passers-by
stared at her; men stopped and gazed after; even women threw glances over
their shoulders. And small wonder--for, the Devil knows, she was good to
look upon.
As she came opposite me she looked up and our eyes met. I gave no
greeting, you may be sure; but she leaned forward sharply and smiled and
waved her hand. I gritted my teeth, and would have stepped back, but the
crowd, following her direction, caught sight of me and a faint cheer went
up. The men took off their hats and the women fluttered their kerchiefs.
I bowed to them and saluted with my hand.
"Damn her!" I said, not knowing I spoke audibly. Then I remembered
Bernheim; he was standing at another window.
"Colonel," said I, "did you see that woman in the Victoria?"
His heels came together with a click. "Yes, Your Highness.
"Have you heard of the occurrence in the Hanging Garden, last night?"
"Yes, Your Highness."
"Well, that's the lady," said I. "What do you think of her?"
He hesitated.
"Speak out," I said.
"I think it is absolutely incomprehensible how such a woman would lend
herself to Lotzen's plot," he answered, instantly.