“I understood,” said Seraphina, taking him up, “that you did not purpose to be present.”
Their eyes met for a second, and Seraphina’s fell; but her anger only burned the brighter for that private shame.
“And now, gentlemen,” said Otto, taking his chair, “I pray you to be seated. I have been absent; there are doubtless some arrears; but ere we proceed to business, Herr Grafinski, you will direct four thousand crowns to be sent to me at once. Make a note, if you please,” he added, as the treasurer still stared in wonder.
“Four thousand crowns?” asked Seraphina. “Pray for what?”
“Madam,” returned Otto, smiling, “for my own purposes.”
Gondremark spurred up Grafinski underneath the table.
“If your Highness will indicate the destination ...” began the puppet.
“You are not here, sir, to interrogate your Prince,” said Otto.
Grafinski looked for help to his commander; and Gondrermark came to his aid, in suave and measured tones.