In answer to the remonstrance with which my intrusion was received, I explained that I was acting under orders.
‘Your travelling companion has been arrested, Monsieur le Comte, but perhaps I may be allowed to supply his place.’
‘Am I under arrest, too?’ Prince Victor demanded with some indignation.
‘Not at all,’ I answered, ‘but your movements are of some interest to the German Government, or rather the Emperor, who has honoured me with his personal instructions.’
‘What have my affairs to do with his Imperial Majesty?’ inquired the Prince anxiously.
‘Perhaps nothing, perhaps a great deal. You will, at least allow, Monsieur le Comte, that your passage through Germany appears to be attended with some mystery.’
‘In short——?’
‘In short, the Emperor will be glad to be honoured by your confidence, Monseigneur.’
The Prince started at this title, and began narrowly scrutinising my face, while he evidently considered in his own mind what account to give of himself.
‘It may assist you, perhaps,’ I went on to say, ‘if I tell you that I already know nearly all that you can tell me. I am M. V——.’