So it was arranged, and, with Stella between them, the two Russians sat in the commodious back seat, and this time Count Roumovski allowed himself to encircle his beloved with his arm—­ and very often surreptitiously kissed her little ear and that delicious little curl of hair in her neck.  She had taken off her hat, that its brim might not hit the princess, and had only the soft veil wound round her head, which loosened itself conveniently.  This drive back to Rome was a time of pure enchantment to them both.  And when the first streaks of dawn were coloring the sky they arrived at the door of the Excelsior Hotel, where Ivan had supper ordered and awaiting them.

The princess proved to be a handsome woman when they got into the light, with the same short face and wide eyes as her brother.  Stella and she made immediate friends, and before they parted to try and sleep the princess said: 

“Stella, that my brother loves you proves that you must be a very dear girl, that is what made me come from Paris at his instantaneous bidding.  He is the most splendid character in the world, only don’t cross his wishes.  You will find it is no use, for one thing,” and she laughed her deep laugh.  “He always knows best.”

“I am sure he does,” said Stella shyly.  “I felt that at once, and so I did not hesitate.”

Next morning, when the three were seated at a merry early breakfast in the sitting-room discussing what should be said in Stella’s letter to her Aunt Caroline, a loud knock came to the door, and, without waiting for a response, Canon Ebley and Stella’s cousin, Mr. Deanwood, entered the room.

The princess rose with dignity, draping her silk morning wrapper round her like a statue, and Stella stepped forward with outstretched hand.

“Oh, Uncle Erasmus,” she said gaily, before any of the party could speak, “I am so glad to see you.  I was just going to write to Aunt Caroline to tell her where I am, quite safe, in case she was worried about me.  Let me introduce you to my future sister-in-law, Princess Urazov, with whom I am staying.  My fiance, Count Roumovski, you have met before.”

Afterwards she often wondered how this emancipated spirit of daring had ever come to her.  But she felt so joyous, so full of love and happiness, that it seemed that she could not be afraid or annoyed with anyone in the world.

“Stella, you are a shameless girl,” Canon Ebley retorted in a horrified voice.  “I refuse to admit that you are engaged to this gentleman.  Your whole conduct has been a scandalous series of deceptions and you must be ready to return at once with your aunt and your affianced husband.  They are following us here now.”

Then Stella used a weapon that she had more than once found effectual with her uncle.  She flung herself into his arms and clasped him round the neck.  He was a short, portly man, and from this position she began to cajole him—­while Count Roumovski looked on with amused calm, and his sister, following his lead, remained unmoved also.