"If they knew who it was, they must die," said the King in evident concern and excitement.
Stenovics contented himself with a bow of obedience. The King rose and gave Sophy his hand.
"We shall hope to see you again soon," he said, very graciously. "Meanwhile, General Stenovics has something to say to you in my name which will, I trust, prove agreeable to you." His eyes dwelt on her face for a moment as she took her leave.
Stenovics made his communication later in the day, paying Sophy the high compliment of a personal call at the sign of the Silver Cock for that purpose. His manner was most cordial. Sophy was to receive an honorary appointment in the Royal Household at an annual salary of ten thousand paras, or some four hundred pounds.
"It isn't riches—we aren't very rich in Kravonia—but it will, I hope, make you comfortable and relieve you from the tiresome lessons which Markart tells me you're now burdened with."
Sophy was duly grateful, and asked what her appointment was.
"It's purely honorary," he smiled. "You are to be Keeper of the Tapestries."
"I know nothing about tapestries," said Sophy, "but I dare say I can learn; it'll be very interesting."
Stenovics leaned back in his chair with an amused smile.
"There aren't any tapestries," he said. "They were sold a good many years ago."