"You left us!" at length exclaimed the old general, politely
speaking in his best English, since these others were thus bound to
hear. "Where you had gone we did not know. It was as though the
heavens had opened. See then, Sir,"--he addressed the naval
officer who stood near at hand--"the Countess St. Auban was one of
the most important members of our little company--she was to come
in advance of us, who also are in advance of a greater number. For
a time we heard from her, then all was silent! She had
disappeared!--But now, at last, my dear Countess, you are here! We
shall succeed, it is certain; henceforth you will be of our party.
Is it not true?"
Political, social and journalistic Washington then and there begged
a sudden though silent pardon of the Countess St. Auban. A few
journalists left the room quickly. An attache of the Austrian
legation also hurriedly took his leave.
"But where have you been, my dear?" again demanded General
Zewlinski, his hand again affectionately grasping that of Josephine
St.
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