“On the contrary, I think I know more of the trouble than you yourself. I know the motive of the Queen in regard to your marriage with Prince Albrevics.”
She started with sudden agitation. “You, a stranger to Servia, have heard that. Tell me.”
“The Prince is impossible as a ruler for the country; not a hundred men in the country would bear with him on the throne; and in that case your own claim would be sacrificed. She would have you make the marriage for that reason—that her own plans in regard to her brother’s succession may be helped.”
“Yes, that is what they have told me. It has come like a terrible and sudden blow. How did you hear it?”
“Not from one source only, but several. It is the common knowledge of those who understand these things.”
“I cannot believe it; I cannot. She is goodness itself to me, and has always been my friend. To me more than a sister; and I love her and trust her as one. I cannot believe it!” Her distress and pain as she spoke were intense. “They tell me that even now she and the King are prepared with the proclamation in favour of her brother, and only wait for my marriage to issue it. But it cannot be true.”
“I only tell you what I am assured is true.”
“What am I to do? Whom can I trust if not the best friend I have ever had?” She spoke almost wildly in her agitation.
“If as you think we are being observed, Princess, may I counsel you to shew less feeling and excitement? Let me speak while you collect yourself. You must face the position calmly, for there is yet another danger that threatens you. There is a scheme to marry you to the Duke Barinski——”
“You know of that, too!” she interposed. “How do you learn all these secrets?”