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“We seem to be getting deeper into the maze. What I have told you this morning is the truth, mademoiselle.”

“I will put a test to you. Will you hear my story?”

“Yes, if you will pass me your word that you believe what I have said this morning. I could not hear you last night, because I could not accept your confidence in my false character of Emperor.”

“You agree and then put an impossible condition. You have an intimate knowledge of the ways of the Russian Court and diplomacy. I ask again then, what do you propose to do?”

“My intention was to go to the Emperor and gain for you the audience you wish. I think I could do that.”

“And meanwhile the papers?”

“I hoped you would hold your hand at least until I had tried.”

“If the Emperor would not hear me in this house, what chance would there be of his doing so elsewhere?”

“But I am not the Emperor, mademoiselle.”

“To me you are, monsieur, and will continue to be; so that if you leave here, I shall assuredly do what I said.”

“Here we are at the impasse again, then.”