“Remember this promise,” she said, raising her forefinger with a pretty air. “You do not know how soon you may be put to the test.”
And so in happy talk they sat, drawing bright pictures of the future, till the coming-on of twilight reminded them of the passing of time.
“Shall we return to the castle?” said Wilfrid. “I am eager to present Countess Courtenay to Pauline.”
Marie rose and took Wilfrid’s arm. As she quitted the dell she cast a backward lingering look at the spot, now rendered sacred in her eyes by reason of Wilfrid’s love-vows there.
They emerged from the wood to the open space surrounding the castle, from whose windows twinkled numerous lights, more numerous than usual, Wilfrid thought.
Upon entering the castle they soon learned the cause. A very distinguished visitor was beneath its roof. The Czar had paid the Baroness Runö the high honour of an unpremeditated visit, and was now holding converse with her in an apartment that, from the colour of its upholstery, was known as the Blue Chamber, while in the entrance hall his equerries Princes Ouvaroff and Volkonski were discussing some excellent wines with Dr. Beauvais.
Wilfrid was one of the very few men who are not dazzled by titles, a sentiment arising, perhaps, from a magnificent faith in his own lineage.
“The Czar!” he whispered to Marie. “The very gentleman I am wanting to see, since he can explain who you are. You do not fear to face him?”
“Not if you are with me.”
As it would be contrary to Court etiquette to enter the Czar’s presence unbidden, or to send a message into the Blue Chamber while he was conversing with the Baroness, Wilfrid’s plan was to wait till that interview was over, and then, when the Czar should return along the grand corridor to the castle entrance, step forward and ask for the favour of a few words.