"Ah, my dear cousin, you know how long the ride before I connect with the railroad to Madrid."
The girl wrung her hands, nervous at last, and her appealing eyes would have softened a gentler heart than that of the steely Carlos.
"But, Carlos, my brother—your princely cousin—may be dying, he may be dead. Here am I alone with no kinsman at my side if you leave."
The Duke protested, dramatically.
"Maria, I must obey my King!"
"To leave me, after all your protestations! You have not the time nor courage to stay and help me in this hour."
Carlos laughed bitterly, pointing toward the distant room of Warren's.
"What need of me, my dear? You have this marvel of Sir Galahads, the Ghost Breaker!"
She dropped her head and answered slowly, "So, that is your excuse?"
He caught eagerly at what he deemed his opportunity. He snatched her hand, although it was as promptly pulled away.