CHAPTER IX: - A SECRET INTERVIEWI wondered if they would not detect the odor of my cigar, and thus discover that they were not alone in the garden, but the draft carried the smoke away from them; and then I became absorbed in what they were saying.
"I can give you only a few moments, Ivan," murmured the princess. "My guests will miss me. You should have come to me later."
"I know; but it was impossible. There is a meeting to-night, and our good friends are very anxious to hear something from you. When can you be present to tell them in your own words what you accomplished during your journey?"
The tone of the question was masterful, and unconsciously I resented it.
What right had any other man to address my princess in that manner? for already I found myself regarding her as my princes
