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His Excellency's eyes opened as he flashed a keen look at Ruth The name "Atheson" had suddenly commenced to bother him What was it he should have reaze disconcerted Ruth The Minister changed it to look down at his thru that scarcely perceptible pause

"--as to deceiveI can only repeat what I have already said: there are two courses open, and it is for you to determine which you prefer"

"You may be sure, then, Your Excellency," said Ruth, "that I shall not select the course that would put ht before all the world I am not the Grand Duchess Carlotta, and Iin deciding who is responsible for my abduction, and I can assure you that you will have explanations to make before your warship arrives"

The Minister arose prohtly on the desk

"I am tired, Your Excellency," she continued, "and--since you insist on overnment--I will ask to be conducted to hness will permit" He touched a bell The raw-boned woman was in the room so quickly that Ruth wondered if she had been all the tinal froloves His Excellency meanwhile, with a lo, had opened the door Ruth passed into the broad corridor and, accompanied by the Minister, proceeded to a handsome suite of roohness, but I have strict instructions in the event of your refusal to coestion, that you are to remain in strict seclusion I cannot permit you to see or speak to anyone outside, so I hope you will not e any such request" He pointed toward the s "You will notice, Highness, that there is a balcony in front of your apartments In the next roouard There will be a guard also at your door and another on the lawn below Your ill be under constant surveillance, though you will never see the guards unless you venture forth Your guards will be changed constantly, and it will be--" the nificant, the tone of his voice even ain their friendship They nificance of the voice He paused for a htly