“But you were banished,” she exclaimed.
He smiled inscrutably.
“Yes,” he answered. “I was banished—by Ughtred of Tyrnaus. Still, as you see, I remain. To tell you the truth, Countess, it did not seem worth my while to go—for so short a time.”
“You must be a master in the art of corruption,” she remarked.
“Indeed no,” he assured her. “There are a few of my country people in the city. There are also Thetians who understand that the Tyrnaus dynasty is only a passing thing.”
“I am not so sure,” she answered, “that I agree with you. They say that he is a skilful and gallant soldier, and we of Theos love brave men. An hour ago he rode back to the palace, his uniform stained with dust and blood, and the people cheered him like mad things. They say that he has driven the Turks back at all points.”
Domiloff smiled.
“Dear lady,” he said, “the successes of to-day or to-morrow are of no account. The Turks are mounting great guns in positions which must command every point where the Thetians are covering the passes. The end of it is as certain as a mathematical problem. Before a month has passed Theos must sue for peace or admit the Turks to the city.”
“You are very certain.”