It was on the occasion of the Baron's first visit to the Prince, late in the day, that Truxton saw the girl he worshipped.
Prince Robin had sent for him to appear in the devastated state chamber. Publicly, in the presence of the Court and Ministry, the little ruler proclaimed him a baron and presented to him a great seal ring from among the ancient crown jewels.
"Say, Mr. King," said Bobby, after he had called the American quite close to him by means of a stealthy crooking of his finger, "would you mind giving me my lucky stone? I don't think you'll need it any longer. I will, I'm sure. You see a prince has such a lot of things to trouble him. Wars and murders and everything."
"Thank you, Prince Robin," said King, placing the stone in the little hand. "I couldn't have got on without it. May it always serve you as well."
"Noblesse oblige, Baron," said Prince Robin gravely.
"Hello!" in an excited whisper. "Here's Baron Dangloss. He's been in his own gaol!"
Truxton withdrew. Near the door he met Loraine. She had just entered the room. There was a bright look of relief in her eyes.
"Count Vos Engo has asked for you, Truxton," she said in a low voice. A delicate flush crept into her cheeks; a sudden shyness leaped into her eyes, and she looked away.
"Loraine, have you told him?"
"Yes. I am so sorry for him. He is one of the bravest men I have ever known, Truxton dear. And, as it is with all men of his race, love knew no reason, no compromise. But I have made him see that I—that I cannot be his wife. He knows that I love you."