"I am she," said La Signorina, stepping forth.
The carabinieri crossed quickly to her side.
"What do you wish?" she asked distinctly.
"You are under arrest for imposture. You are not the Principessa di Monte Bianca; you are known as La Signorina, a singer."
Hillard, wild with despair, made as though to intervene.
"Remain where you are!" he was warned.
As the carabinieri were about to lay hands upon La Signorina, a loud voice from the hall stopped them.
"One moment!" An officer in riding breeches and dusty boots entered and approached the dramatic group. Hillard and Merrihew recognized him instantly. It was the man with the scar. "What is the trouble?"
"This woman," explained one of the carabinieri, saluting respectfully, "is posing as your wife, Highness. We are here to arrest her."
"Do not touch her!" said the prince. "She has the most perfect right in the world to do what she has done. She is the Principessa di Monte Bianca, my wife!"