"'And your husband's crest?' I asked. 'Is he also a Pole?'
"'Yes; I married a Pole,' with a slight trace of haughtiness, even resentment, at the inquiry.
"'And his name, madame? Chance has given you mine—a fair exchange is never a robbery.'
"She drew herself up, and said quickly, and with a certain bearing I had not noticed before:—
"'Not now; it makes no difference.'
"Then, as if uncertain of the effect of her refusal, and with a willingness to be gracious, she added:—
"In a few minutes—at ten o'clock—we reach Trieste. The train stops twenty minutes. You were so kind about my luncheon; I am stronger now. Will you dine with me?'
"I thanked her, and on arriving at Trieste followed her to the door. As we alighted from the carriage I noticed the same dark man standing by the steps, his fingers on his hat. During the meal my companion seemed brighter and less weary, more gracious and friendly, until I called the waiter and counted out the florins on his tray. Then she laid her hand quietly but firmly upon my arm.
"'Please do not—you distress me; my servant Polaff has paid for everything.'
"I looked up. The dark man was standing behind her chair, his hat in his hand.