They must have their romance, these Russians." And so the ball was kept rolling.

There was never any lack of conversation when Steinmetz and De Chauxville were together, nor was the talk without sub-flavor of acidity.

At length the centre of attention himself diverted that attention.

He inaugurated an argument over the best cross-country route from Osterno to Thors, which sent Steinmetz out of the room for a map.

During the absence of the watchful German he admired the view from the window, and this strategetic movement enabled him to say to Etta aside: "I must see you before I leave the house; it is absolutely necessary." Not long after the return of Steinmetz and the final decision respecting the road to Thors, Etta left the room, and a few minutes later the servant announced that the baron's horse was at the door.
De Chauxville took his leave at once, with many assurances of lasting gratitude.
"Kindly," he added, "make my adieux to the princess; I will not trouble her." Quite by accident he met Etta at the head of the state staircase, and expressed such admiration for the castle that she opened the door of the large drawing-room and took him to see that apartment.
"What I arranged for Thursday is for the day after to-morrow--Tuesday," said De Chauxville, as soon as they were alone.