"I know no more of that than you," he said.
"But I was assured that your decision would be made at once. My plans depend upon your answer. This is Sunday. On Tuesday we reach New York."
"I know nothing," repeated the Prince. "I have not spoken with the Admiral to-day—indeed, I have scarcely spoken to him for three days. On Friday and Saturday and again to-day, he has spent every moment in an examination of the passengers."
"Why does he do that?" asked Vard quickly.
"I do not know."
Vard glanced at the Prince, and his face softened a little.
"So you have been left to amuse yourself," he said, "and, not succeeding very well, have come to me? Is that it?"
"Yes," said the Prince; "I must talk to some one, and I find that I cannot talk with people who do not know who I am. The men offend me, the women I offend."
This time there was genuine friendliness in Vard's face.
"Poor fellow!" he laughed. "Well, I have never acted as court jester, but I am willing to try. Come with me."