Each seemed to be
trying to read the other through.
"I believe," Mr. Sabin said, "that I have that privilege. I see,
however, that I am interrupting your game. Let me beg you to
continue. With your permission, Duchess, I will remain a spectator.
There are many things which my wife and I have to say to one
another."
The Prince of Saxe Leinitzer laid his cards softly upon the table.
He smiled upon Mr. Sabin--a slow, unpleasant smile.
"I think," he said slowly, "that our game must be postponed. It
is a pity, but I think it had better be so."
"It must be entirely as you wish," Mr. Sabin answered. "I am at
your service now or later."
The Prince rose to his feet.
"Monsieur le Due de Souspennier," he said, "what are we to
conclude from your presence here this evening?"
"It is obvious," Mr. Sabin answered. "I claim my place amongst you."
"You claim to be one of us?"
"I do!"
"Ten years ago," the Prince continued, "you were granted immunity
from all the penalties and obligations which a co-membership with
us might involve. This privilege was extended to you on account
of certain great operations in which you were then engaged, and
the object of which was not foreign to our own aims. You are aware
that the period of that immunity is long since past."
Mr. Sabin leaned with both hands upon his stick, and his face was
like the face of a sphinx.
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