In due time, he returned:  The King would receive me at the hour named.  The Princess, however, sent her reply by a footman.  It was a note; and, except that I was expected for sure at six thirty, it is quite unnecessary to give its contents.  They were not intended for general circulation.  I might say, however, that the note was eminently satisfactory to me, and that I read it more than once.  And it was in the inside pocket of my coat when I rode across to Headquarters to assume my new authority.

The ceremony was very brief.  The retiring Governor, Marshal Perdez, with an Aide, met me at the causeway and escorted me to the large audience chamber, where His Majesty’s formal order was read.  Perdez then presented his staff, and the doors were thrown open and I received the officers of the Army and Navy on duty at the Capital.  It was all over in an hour, and I was alone in my office with Bernheim.

I walked over to a window and stood there, in wondering reflection.

Less than three months ago, I was simply a Major in the American Army, with small hope of ever getting beyond a Colonel’s eagles.  The “Star” was so utterly unlikely that I never even considered the possibility.  It was only a rainbow or a mirage; and I was not given to chasing either.

And, to-day, I looked down on the crowded Alta Avenue of Dornlitz—­then, up at the portrait of my Sovereign—­then, down at my uniform, with a Marshal’s Insignia on the sleeve and the Princess Royal’s note in the pocket.

What mirage could have pictured such realities!  What rainbow could have appeared more dazzlingly evanescent!

Then I saw a Victoria approaching.  And in it was the Spencer woman—­brilliantly beautiful—­haughtily indifferent.  The passers-by stared at her; men stopped and gazed after; even women threw glances over their shoulders.  And small wonder—­for, the Devil knows, she was good to look upon.

As she came opposite me she looked up and our eyes met.  I gave no greeting, you may be sure; but she leaned forward sharply and smiled and waved her hand.  I gritted my teeth, and would have stepped back, but the crowd, following her direction, caught sight of me and a faint cheer went up.  The men took off their hats and the women fluttered their kerchiefs.  I bowed to them and saluted with my hand.

“Damn her!” I said, not knowing I spoke audibly.  Then I remembered Bernheim; he was standing at another window.

“Colonel,” said I, “did you see that woman in the Victoria?”

His heels came together with a click.  “Yes, Your Highness.

“Have you heard of the occurrence in the Hanging Garden, last night?”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

“Well, that’s the lady,” said I.  “What do you think of her?”

He hesitated.

“Speak out,” I said.

“I think it is absolutely incomprehensible how such a woman would lend herself to Lotzen’s plot,” he answered, instantly.