At this many of the lords present began to chew their beards thoughtfully. Teleki noticed the movement and said pertinently:
"As I observe that nobody here has the courage to give his signature first, I have a man all ready who alone is in a position so far as power is concerned to oppose Banfy and when once this man has signed all the rest will follow."
"Who is that?" asked Apafi.
"Paul Beldi," was the answer.
The Prince shook his head.
"He will not do it. He is far too honorable a man." These words spoken in the bravery of his intoxication threw Teleki completely out of his composure.
"Are we then planning a dishonorable action?" he demanded of the Prince, vehemently.
"What I meant to say was that he would not voluntarily begin action against anybody, for he is a peace-loving man."
"But I know his weak spot which you have only to touch with your little finger to rouse him to blows and make a lion out of a lamb. I will bring him to the point."
At this moment the door opened and to the astonishment of all the Princess entered. This time her appearance was no chance. It was easy to see by the excitement in her face that she knew well what had happened. The lords grew confused and Apafi himself was so dismayed, in spite of the irascibility incident to his drunkenness, that he whispered to Teleki,