"Let your men see that this lady does not leave the room, and I will explain the matter to you as we go over the house."
Nothing could have suited me better. The two left the room, and I threw myself on the couch. I did not care thirty cents what story he concocted.
They were absent a few minutes, and the official returned alone, bringing my hat and cloak.
"I shall have to ask you to accompany us, madam," he said, with some touch of pity in his tone. "I have no doubt all can be explained. But you have a letter I must ask you to give me."
"I shall not give it you. And I shall not go with you."
"You will only make my duty more painful by refusing."
"I can't help that."
He signed to his men, and as they came and stood by the couch I heard another carriage drive up to the door.
"On second thoughts, I will go with you," I said, and got up.
"I am obliged to you," was the reply, with a grave bow. He waited while I put on my hat. I was really listening for General von Erlanger's voice. I heard it at length.