The valet packed it with trembling rapidity. The Emperor turned again to the groom of the chambers.
"Through that glass I shall be able to command a considerable portion of the grounds," he exclaimed. "If I see anything going on there of which I disapprove, I shall summon you by the telephone, Mr. Harrison. You will hold yourself in readiness to fly to me at any moment of the day or night."
Mr. Harrison found himself feebly wondering which known bird he should be likely most nearly to resemble when he winged his way, as described by the Emperor, from the palace to the fishing-cottage.
"I shall do so, sir," he said.
"Each morning," continued the Emperor, with blazing eyes and gathering excitement, "you will be round by eight o'clock with the report which you will have drawn up overnight, as arranged by me."
"By eight, sir?" cried Mr. Harrison, his voice vibrating with a music that was almost piercing.
"Well, seven, if you prefer it. I shall be up—I shall be ready."
"Oh, eight will suit me, sir, very well; I shall be round by eight."
"Be careful to omit nothing from that report. Make it ample; for I shall have damages out of these people—heavy damages—if they dare to exceed in any way, or to behave in any unseemly manner. You have your own ideas of what is unseemly, Mr. Harrison?"
"Oh, decidedly so, sir."