“That my companion, Professor Dean, be permitted to remain.”
“A most natural desire,” exclaimed the King. “Our Master of the Household will issue such orders as will insure every facility to you and every comfort to you both. You will attend the Court ball to-night; it will afford you opportunities of observation.”
His Majesty signified that the audience was at an end and Mr. Kearns withdrew.
“Professor,” said Kearns, after they had been conducted to the quarters assigned them in the palace, “didn’t I predict that there were special reasons why we should be welcomed here? With our services in demand and with the freedom of the Imperial Palace, we don’t seem to be doing so badly for wayfarers in a strange land.”
“That’s true,” said the Professor. “There is some danger, then, threatening the King?”
“Yes.”
“Serious?”
“From what I can judge of the case thus far,” said Mr. Kearns thoughtfully, “I should say yes! Serious—quite serious!”
CHAPTER X
THE GREAT COURT BALL
“I will point out some of the notables,” said General Mainwarren to the Professor and Kearns; “they will no doubt interest you, especially such as are descendants of those known to you in your time.”