seated. I have been absent: there are doubtless some arrears; but

ere we proceed to business, Herr Grafinski, you will direct four

thousand crowns to be sent to me at once. Make a note, if you

please,' he added, as the treasurer still stared in wonder.

'Four thousand crowns?' asked Seraphina. 'Pray, for what?'

'Madam,' returned Otto, smiling, 'for my own purposes.'

Gondremark spurred up Grafinski underneath the table.

'If your Highness will indicate the destination . . . ' began the

puppet.

'You are not here, sir, to interrogate your Prince,' said Otto.

Grafinski looked for help to his commander; and Gondremark came to

his aid, in suave and measured tones.

'Your Highness may reasonably be surprised,' he said; 'and Herr

Grafinski, although I am convinced he is clear of the intention of

offending, would have perhaps done better to begin with an

explanation. The resources of the state are at the present moment

entirely swallowed up, or, as we hope to prove, wisely invested. In

a month from now, I do not question we shall be able to meet any

command your Highness may lay upon us; but at this hour I fear that,

even in so small a matter, he must prepare himself for

disappointment. Our zeal is no less, although our power may be

inadequate.'

'How much, Herr Grafinski, have we in the treasury?' asked Otto.

'Your Highness,' protested the treasurer, 'we have immediate need of

every crown.'

'I think, sir, you evade me,' flashed the Prince; and then turning

to the side-table, 'Mr. Secretary,' he added, 'bring me, if you

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