"It is all right, Monsieur Carewe," said the corporal; "I ought
to recognize the horse a mile away. You will arrive just in time."
"Just in time for what?"
"Ah, true. Her Highness gives a grand ball at the chateau to-
night. The court has arrived from Brunnstadt. Some will reside
at the chateau, some at General Duckwitz's, others at the
Countess Herzberg's."
"Has the duchess arrived at last, then?" was the cynical inquiry.
"She will arrive this evening," answered the corporal, grinning.
"A pleasant journey to you."
Maurice proceeded. "And that blockhead of an Englishman has not
tumbled yet! The court here? A grand ball? What else can it mean
but that Madame is celebrating a victory to come? If the
archbishop has those consols, she will wage war; and this is the
prelude." He jogged along. He had accomplished a third of the
remaining distance, when he was challenged. The sentry came
forward and scrutinized the rider.
"O, it is Monsieur Carewe !" he cried in delighted tones. He
touched his cap and fell back into the shadows.
A mile farther, and the great chateau, scintillating with lights,
loomed up against the yellow sky.
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