He leant back in dire perplexity.
“You would disclose no plans, merely give proofs that the feeling of the army is solid; and what you said would be received under a pledge of confidence.”
“What is your object?”
“My sole purpose in coming to Belgrade is to secure her safety, Colonel; and you can therefore judge how far I am prepared to go.”
“The Princess is one of our grave embarrassments, Mr. Bergwyn. If anything I could say would enable you to influence her to leave Belgrade for a time, it would be different.”
“I have little influence, I fear.”
He threw up his hands and shook his head, and was silent.
During the pause Buller brought me a card. It was Gatrina’s. She had come after all.
“The Princess is here, Colonel, and with your leave I will go to her. I’ll send my man in ten minutes, and you can say just yes or no.”
“You will secure the pledge of secrecy?”