"Is it she who sings that song about the lotus-lily?" asked
Gervase, suddenly.

The Princess smiled strangely.

"Yes,--it is she."

Dr. Dean chose a cigar from a silver box on the table; Gervase did
the same.

"Won't you smoke, Denzil?" he asked carelessly.

"No, thanks!" Denzil spoke hurriedly and hoarsely. "I think--if
the Princess will permit me--I will stay and talk with her in the
drawing-room while you two have your smoke together."

The Princess gave a charming bow of assent to this proposition.
Gervase took the Doctor somewhat roughly by the arm and led him
out through the open French window into the grounds beyond,
remarking as he went:

"You will excuse us, Princess? We leave you in good company!"

She smiled.

"I will excuse you, certainly! But do not be long!"

And she passed from the dining-room into the small saloon beyond,
followed closely by Denzil.