“And therefore worthy of your endeavor. I have the greatest regard for your diplomatic skill. I leave the matter in your hands, princess.”
Etta shrugged her shoulders and looked past him out of the window. De Chauxville was considering her face carefully.
“Another point to be remembered,” he went on, “is your husband’s daily life at Osterno. The prince is not above suspicion; the authorities are watching him. He is suspected of propagating revolutionary ideas among the peasantry. I should like you to find out as much as you can. Perhaps you know already. Perhaps he has told you, princess. I know that beautiful face! He has told you! Good! Does he take an interest in the peasants?”
Etta did not answer.
“Kindly give me your attention, madame. Does the prince take an interest in the peasants?”
“Yes.”
“An active interest?”
“Yes.”
“Have you any details?”
“No,” answered Etta.