"And, yet, you ask me to spread my cards on the table?"
"Not exactly; I ask to see only the tricks that are turned," said I.
She shook her head. "It's all the same—we must play fair."
"Was it quite fair to write me that note unless you were sincere?" I asked.
She looked me straight. "Tell me," she demanded, "tell me, on your honor; had you not already made decision when my note reached you?"
I hesitated. "It clinched the matter," I said, lamely.
The Princess smiled.
"And, had the decision been otherwise, the note would have reversed it," I added.
The smile broadened. "But, since the note was in no way responsible, nor even persuasive, its sincerity does not matter," she said.
"But, if I were to change my mind?" I replied.