"But why should we deny her a privilege that we are enjoying, all three of us? Are we not in the same boat?"
"Literally and figuratively. That explains nothing, however."
"Have you a theory?"
"There are many that we could advance, but, of course, only one of them could be the right one, even if we were acute enough to include it in our list of guesses. She may have an imperative reason for not disclosing her identity. For instance, she may be running away to get married."
"That's possible," agreed Robin.
"But not probable. She may be a popular music-hall favourite, or one of those peculiarly clever creatures known as the American newspaper woman, against whom we have been warned. Don't you regard it as rather significant that of all the people on this ship she should be one to attach herself to the unrecognised Prince of Graustark? Put two and two together, sir, and—"
"I find it singularly difficult to put one and one together, Dank," said the Prince ruefully. "No; you are wrong in both of your guesses. I've encountered music-hall favourites and I can assure you she isn't one of them. And as for your statement that she attached herself to me, you were never so mistaken in your life. I give you my word, she doesn't care a hang whether I'm on the ship or clinging to a life preserver out there in the middle of the Atlantic. I have reason to know, Dank."
"So be it," said Dank, but with doubt in his eyes. "You ought to know. I've never spoken to her, so—"
"She thinks you are a dreadfully attractive chap, Dank," said Robin mischievously. "She said so only yesterday."
Dank gave his prince a disgusted look, and smoked on in silence. His dignity was ruffled.