“Agreed, on one condition,” was the rejoinder.
“And that is———?” asked Lewis.
“That you immediately make a full confession and tell me all about it.”
“It is a compact,” was the reply.
“That is good,” rejoined the young lady. “Now move the portfolio, so that your back will be towards those people. That will do. Hold down your head as if you were examining the prints, and then answer my questions truly and concisely. First, you are an English gentleman?”
“Yes, I hope so.”
“Who is the prince?”
“My friend, Richard Frere.”
“And why have you both come here dressed like Persians?”
“To mystify our foolish hostess.”