“The Czarina’s brother-in-law!” said Wilfrid.
“I refer to Prince Ouvaroff,” explained Pauline, “who is now beneath my roof.”
“Ouvaroff will be more likely to intercept than to assist her flight.”
“Because he misjudges her. But I will undeceive him. Escort the Empress to the Silver Strand and wait there for me.”
Wilfrid, taking the Empress under his care, stepped through the French window and set off for the appointed place, while Pauline made her way to the entrance hall.
Here the Czar’s equerries, Princes Ouvaroff and Volkonski, were whiling away the time over a game of chess.
Upon her entering the two arose and bowed.
“The Czar——?” began Volkonski.
“Is taking a short sleep,” answered Pauline. “Prince Ouvaroff, may I have a word with you?”