"Say I am coming at once," she said. "Her majesty is in the hall, I suppose?"
CHAPTER XXXI
A SURPRISE FOR JESSIE
Her majesty was in the hall as Jessie had anticipated. She was chatting quite gaily with Lady Merehaven as the girl came up. She flashed Jessie a significant glance.
"Your aunt has been pleased to accede to my whim," she said. "And so you are coming with me, Vera. I understand your maid is sending everything to our hotel. Good-night, Lady Merehaven, and please do not allow those people to play cards too long. My dear child, come along."
"It is a very great honour for the child," Lady Merehaven murmured. "Good-night, madame, good-night."
The queen swept Jessie into the brougham before her. There was a tiny electric lamp behind the queen's head so that it shone full on Jessie's face. Jessie felt the latter's eyes going all over her.
"Now tell me your story," she said. "Tell me freely and don't be afraid. I shall be your good friend."