“Her independence!” Brand smiled. “Her independence will be rather a tattered garment.”
Domiloff shrugged his shoulders.
“Prince,” he said, “you scarcely yet know the nature of your inheritance. Theos is a small, weak State, hemmed in with powerful nations. One of the Powers must needs to be her protector. Russia, ever generous, offers herself. Without her aid you could not hold your kingdom for an hour.”
Brand sighed.
“Well,” he said, slowly, “supposing I agree—will you tell me this? How can I sign a treaty before I am King?”
Domiloff touched the paper with his forefinger.
“That has been provided for,” he said. “What you will sign is a promise to ratify the treaty on your accession to the throne.”
Brand shook his head.
“As a private individual,” he said, “my signature is worth nothing. Further, I decline to sign a paper which might at any future time be brought up against me, and cost me the respect and allegiance of my people.”
Domiloff looked anxious. A moment ago the affair had seemed settled.