His hostess appeared rather disconcerted by this reply. "You are a miracle of chivalry, my dear Mr. Ware," she said dryly. "But is it not rather a large heart you have to love two women at the same time?"
"I understand what you mean," answered Ware quietly, "but my engagement to Miss Kent was purely a family arrangement. I loved Anne—I still love her. All the same, I would have married Miss Kent had she not been murdered."
"You are very obedient, Mr. Ware."
"And you very satirical, Princess. I could explain, but there is no need for me to do so. I want to find Anne. Can you help me?"
"Not at present, but I may be able to do so. Of course, you don't believe that she killed your fiancée?"
"Certainly not. I think the crime was committed by the man with whom she fled."
"A tall man with a red beard and hair and black eyes?"
"Yes, yes. Do you know him? Who is he?"
"I have had him described to me," responded the Princess calmly, "but I know nothing about him."