"I mean by finding the real von Fromberg and questioning him."
Despite his sneer I could see that the story impressed him; and he put a number of questions to test its consistency and truth.
"You don't attempt to deny, then, that you were willing to continue the impersonation of the late Prince and to accept the inheritance?"
"There were no gains in what you call the inheritance. The only inheritance was the castle of Gramberg itself, mortgaged for a great deal more than its value. Scarcely a valuable prize for such an adventurer as men appear to have described me to you. I have my own private fortune—a large one."
"There was something else at the castle besides a mortgage," he sneered.
"Indeed there was," I replied quickly, purposely misunderstanding him. "There was a mess of intrigue and treachery against the Countess Minna."
"And you were the cavalier to save her from it—and for yourself."
The gibe made my blood boil.
"That is the sneer of a coward," I cried hotly. "And if that is to be the tone in which you dare to address me, I decline to say another word or to remain in your presence. I am prepared to tell you the whole truth, and to lay bare every word, motive, and act of mine throughout; but I will not allow you or any man to insult me in that coarse and brutal fashion."
He laughed coldly.