Lucille shall go
to Dorset House, but I warn you that I hold my life a slight thing
where her welfare is concerned. Your hand is upon the lever of a
great organization, I am only a unit in the world. Yet I would have
you remember that more than once, Prince, when you and I have met
with the odds in your favour the victory has been mine. Play the
game fairly, and you have nothing to fear from me but the open
opposition I have promised you. Bring but the shadow of evil upon
her, misuse your power but ever so slightly against her, and I warn
you that I shall count the few years of life left to me a trifle
--of less than no account--until you and I cry quits."
The Prince smiled, a fat, good-natured smile, behind which the
malice was indeed well hidden.
"Come, come, my dear Souspennier," he declared. "This is unworthy
of you. It is positively melodramatic. It reminds me of the plays
of my Fatherland, and of your own Adelphi Theatre. We should be men
of the world, you and I. You must take your defeats with your
victories. I can assure you that the welfare of the Countess Lucille
shall be my special care."
Lucille for the first time spoke. She rose from her chair and rested
her hands affectionately upon her husband's shoulder.
"Dear Victor," she said, "remember that we are in London, and, need
I add, have confidence in me.
Pages:
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174