“You are very unjust and very hard. Last night after I had seen you I had a conversation with the——”
“I am quite aware of that,” she broke in, smiling angrily.
“For God’s sake don’t misunderstand me,” I cried, earnestly. “You must let me speak of it. It means——”
Impressed by my vehemence, I think, she was going to listen when the door of the room was thrust open with some violence, and Prince Albrevics entered, followed by Elma herself. The Prince was furiously angry; his face more crimson than usual even, and his manner truculent and threatening.
“So it’s true and you are here, Gatrina. What is the meaning of it? I have come to fetch you away.”
His hectoring tone and the insolent ignoring of me made me hot.
“The Princess Gatrina is here by Her Majesty’s desire, sir,” I said, as calmly as I could.
“I have nothing to say to you—yet,” he answered, first giving me a vicious look and then ostentatiously turning his back upon me.
Elma laughed, audibly enough for us all to hear.
“I have no need of your escort, Prince,” said Gatrina. “The Countess Vashti is with me.”