“If you deem it your duty to degrade Prince Kalkov’s friend by imprisoning him, do it, monsieur—if you dare.”
“It is an impossible position.”
“You have created it, and must find the way out. But every minute I am detained here will count against you with the Emperor;” and I pulled out my watch as if to mark them off. He was sorely perplexed.
“I will consider the matter. Withdraw your men, sergeant;” and they filed out again, the sergeant manifestly relieved. “I will send to His Highness.”
“You will do nothing of the sort, monsieur, now,” I said. I saw that he was now practically convinced of my good faith, and I meant to gain my end in my own way.
“You can enter the Palace, monsieur, but I must retain this,” and he held up my revolver.
“We Americans do not consent to be robbed even in an Emperor’s Palace,” I retorted, bent on winning with the honours of war.
“It will be returned to you, monsieur; but I cannot consent to allow you to pass with a weapon in your possession. I dare not take the responsibility.”
“There’s reason in that, perhaps,” I agreed after a pause. “You can keep it until I come to reclaim it.”
He opened the door for me then, and murmured an apology.