"Pardon me, Miss Vard," he said, "but I must go. And do not think too seriously of my chatter. I am not admitted to councils of state; I know only what every one knows. We Germans, we have our dreams; but perhaps they are only that."
He arose, opened his lips to say something more, then changed his mind, bowed, and hurried away. Kasia stared after him. She had not seen that silent summons. But he did not look back.
An hour later, Pachmann, with a countenance distinctly troubled, sought out Ignace Vard, who was reading in his room.
"The Prince has been talking to your daughter," he said.
Vard looked at him in surprise.
"I sent them out together," he explained. "I thought perhaps Kasia would amuse him—and be amused."
"Has she told you nothing?"
Again Vard glanced at him.
"No. Has she reason for complaint?"