"With your education and training, Nick, why do you not take a leading part in helping your own country? You love your fellows, I know."
"Oh, if I had the power; if I were only king in Bharbazonia; what would I not do? I would ask nothing better for my life work, but, as it is, I am doing the next best thing, not alone for my country but also for the entire Balkans, in furthering the work of the Order of the Cross against the power of the Crescent."
The noise of the engine along the driveway announced the return of the General in the car. He came bounding into the room like a boy, full of his trip to the capital and the magnificent preparations for the coronation.
"I met a certain young woman who was much disappointed because you had not come, Nicholas," said he.
"Who was she?" asked Nick.
"The Princess Teskla."
"I trust you gave her my best regards."
"I did. And further, I promised not to return to the Palace until I brought you."
From the General's manner I judged that Nicholas and the king's daughter were very good friends, and that the General was more than pleased. He became so enthusiastic in recounting the charms of the young lady that I began to suspect him of being a matchmaker. Nick had spent much of his time at the palace after his father died four years ago, but had not seen the Princess since. He corresponded with her in his desultory fashion, and I smiled as I recalled how letter writing languished with him. The General, in his rôle of Cupid, let fly dart after dart from his quiver.
"Do you know, my son," he insinuated, "I think Teskla is in love with you?"