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“An American citizen can give orders to the police in Russia then, m’sieur,” she put in.

“Under certain circumstances an American citizen can be master of the situation,” I replied equivocally and with more truth than she could have any idea of. “Will you answer my question?”

“About ten miles, if all goes well—if your orders have been obeyed, that is. We shall soon know.”

“You shall have any proof I can give you of my good faith in this respect. How shall we know?”

She appeared to think for a few moments, then turned and looked at me through her veil.

“If you mean that, there will be no difficulty.”

“I give you my word of honour. Let me put my second question. Do you pledge yourself, you mademoiselle, personally, for my safety?”

“Unconditionally, and so will M. Boreski.”

“I don’t care about him. It is to you I trust.”

I felt her start and her voice was unsteady as she replied—

“On my honour, your Majesty shall not regret that confidence.”

“Then I will do anything and everything you ask. I put myself absolutely in your hands.”