We re-entered the Gallery. The majority of the Royal party were busy examining the miniatures. The Archduchess was talking earnestly to Lady Delahaye in a remote corner. My guide led me directly to her.
"Her Highness permits me to present you," he said to me. "This is Mr. Arnold Greatson, your Highness."
The Archduchess acknowledged my bow graciously.
"You are the Mr. Arnold Greatson who writes such charming stories," she said. "Yes, it is so, is it not?"
"Your Highness is very kind," I answered.
"I learn," she continued, "that you are also the guardian of the young lady who gave us all such a start. Pardon me, but you surely seem a little young for such a post."
"The circumstances, your Highness," I answered, "were a little exceptional."
She nodded thoughtfully.
"Yes, yes, so I have heard. Lady Delahaye has been telling me the story. I understand that you have never been able to discover the child's parentage. That is very strange!"
"There are other things in connection with my ward, your Highness," I said, "which seem to me equally inexplicable."