“To whom he listens,” Prince Alexis answered, “when it pleases him. It is said in this country, yes, and in others, that the Czar is a puppet. We who know only smile. For, my dear Reist, it is true that there has not reigned in Europe for many years a greater autocrat than he who sits on the throne of Russia to-day. But to return to the subject of Theos. Your danger seems to me to lie here. Supposing that the present state of disquiet continues, or any form of government be set up which does not seem to promise permanent stability. Then it is very likely that those stronger countries by whom Theos is surrounded may, in the general interests of peace, deem it their duty to interfere.”
“Theos,” Reist said, proudly, “is not yet a moribund State. She has an army, and at the first hint of invasion all political differences would cease.”
Prince Alexis smiled, and raised his tiny glass of liqueur.
“Floreat Theos!” he said, lightly. “Long may she continue to retain her independence—and to know her friends.”
They all raised their glasses. From Reist came a whisper, little more than a breath—
“Long live the King!”