“Perhaps the rare thing grows here,” the chamois hunter went on, looking about the green plateau with a new interest.
“I think not,” Virginia answered, shaking her head. “It would thrive better nearer the mountain top, in a more hidden place than this. It does not love tourists.”
“Nor do I, in truth,” smiled the chamois hunter.
“You took me for one.”
“Pardon, gna’ Fräulein. Not the kind of tourist we both mean.”
“Thank you.”
“But you have not said if I might help you in your search. This is a wild region for a young lady to be exploring in, alone.”
“I feel sure,” responded the Princess, graciously, “that if you really would, you could help me as well as any one in Rhaetia.”
“You are kind indeed to say so, though I don’t know how I have deserved the compliment.”