Ughtred recognized Hassen with a frown, and his companion with a sudden thrill of interest. They were coming slowly down from the restaurant, talking earnestly together, and by the side of the tall, distinguished-looking man, who was listening to him with so inscrutable a countenance, Hassen appeared almost insignificant. Nicholas of Reist, who had moved from his chair to fetch an evening paper, met them face to face. He would have passed on with a contemptuous glance at Hassen, but that the older man turned and accosted him with grave yet pleasant courtesy.
“The Duke of Reist is far from home! This is indeed a surprising meeting.”
Reist started as he recognized the speaker. He cast a single lightning-like glance at Hassen, who lingered by.
“It is as welcome as surprising,” Reist answered, quietly. “I had promised myself the pleasure of paying my respects at the Embassy to-morrow.”
“You will not, I trust, let anything interfere with so amiable an intention,” was the suave reply. “You and I should have much to say to each other, Reist. You have a vacant chair here, I see. Will you allow me to take my coffee with you?”
“I shall be much honoured,” Reist answered, quietly. “As you say, there is much which we might discuss. Will you permit me to introduce you to my friends?”
The faintest indication of surprise was followed by a murmur of delighted assent. Hassen, perplexed and white with anger, moved away. The two men threaded the little maze of chairs and palm trees and women’s skirts, and reached the corner where Sara and Ughtred sat. Reist gravely performed the introduction.
“Miss Van Decht, will you allow me to present to you the Prince Alexis of Ollendirk, Miss Van Decht—Mr. Van Decht. Ughtred, I am sure you two should know one another. Prince Alexis of Ollendirk, Ughtred of Tyrnaus.”
The Prince, who had bowed low and gracefully to Sara, held out his hand frankly to Ughtred.
“To number Tyrnaus amongst one’s acquaintances,” he said, “has been an honour for centuries. I knew your father, Prince Ughtred. His Majesty was always very good to me. The Gold Star of Theos is amongst the most treasured of my possessions.”