 This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Paul Hansen. Thoroughly Ruxton by Philip Viral-Migels. Chapter 45. A Drove of Lions. The elements essential to a logical climax of the innocent royal diversion that Alice van Kirk had permitted, with Thoroughly as the central figure, were swiftly gathering, when on Friday afternoon two widely opposed individuals made their appearance at the Fifth Avenue mansion. One of the visitors was Robby Stivernd. The other was Peleven. Each had purposely chosen a moment of Thoroughly's absence from the palace, the better to further his ends. Peleven came in the guise of a servant seeking employment as footman. He made his application in the region below stairs where such an incident, though decidedly unusual, excited no particular interest and certainly no disquietude. His desires were immediately communicated to the mistress of the house, who promptly but in a spirit of kindness replied that her retinue afforded no vacancies, wherefore she regretted her inability to accommodate another servant. Peleven, as a matter of fact, had expected some such reply. During the few close-packed minutes of his stay, however, he had managed to acquire a number of important facts concerning the plan of the house, the number of its servants, their duties, and a little of the ways of life of those who resided above. When he presently departed, he was singularly undepressed, for one who, desires for employment, had met with so little encouragement. Even the servants to whom he had spoken were a trifle suspicious of his manner, and his visit was soon forgotten. Stiverand, bent on a mission as vital to himself as that which brought Peleven, seemed to Alice a trifle constrained when he entered the room where she was sitting. It was her own retreat, the room in which she had always received him before, an apartment where the very atmosphere was charged with discussions of thoroughly. It was destined to be charged anew today. Probably, said Alice, once more restored to her lighter, more jovial mood, you appear as chipper and gay as a clam, as someone died and left you another fortune. Stiverand attempted to smile, but its failure verged on the tragic. I'm all right, he asserted, but without convincing emphasis. I just dropped in to ask if by any chance you and Miss Thurley may have received a letter addressed to me and it for me would be more accurate and perhaps directed wrongly by mistake. Why, yes, said Alice, Thurley brought me some epistle this morning and we sent it once to your address at least it was posted by noon. Why, was it anything unduly important? I must ask you what comprised its text? Oh, it was just a sort of business announcement, I should say. Something about some bonds, a special concession from the Paris boars. If I remember correctly, it merely directed your attention to the fact that investments were now made possible in some sort of continental bonds. Did it come from the office of Acton Gaylord, his gravity impressed her inescapably? Why, yes, we rather wondered, of course, I felt convinced that some blunder of mixing envelopes perhaps you received some other note or letter addressed to Thurley. I did, said Stiverand, his face peculiarly drawn. I had brought it with me thinking it might be of value. He drew an envelope from his pocket, removed a folded sheet of writing paper and placed it in Alice's hand. Look at it with a sense of ominous impending. It was the briefest bit of scroll. Dear Thurley, just a formal receipt acknowledging the loan of your $30,000, you must let me come Friday night as per my earlier request with love, Acton. Alice read it at a glance and the color mounted swiftly to her face. A provoking accident she could scarcely imagine occurring at this particular time. She looked up presently and met a somewhat stern and chilling gaze from Robly's blue-gray eyes. There seemed to be nothing adequate to say and nothing to do. She tried to smile. Well, it's true, he said. She has made him this loan. Alice arched her brows. Robly, isn't that rather a matter of her concern alone? He rose and rammed his hands in his pockets. Obviously, you realize, of course, Alice, that I made this discovery through no fault or prying of my own. Is it necessary to state that, Robly? His manner altered instantly. I'm hardly responsible for what I may say or do. This thing has jarred me, that's all. She looked out of the window. Well, it jarred me. You knew about it before? She told me she had lent him the money. What do you make of it, if I may ask? I made a rye face over it, said Alice, but what is the use? Then it doesn't make you happy? Very few of the world's occurrences seem designed for my particular joy. He crossed to another window and stood there, staring out at the park. I admit I've been a fool enough to dream dreams, he confessed, after a moment of silence. I could, I believe, have accepted, philosophically, anything that the needs of a nation at the hands of this young grand duke, anything that political necessity, hadn't you seen any signs of this relationship with Gaylord? Oh, perhaps, but I thought she did not finish but shrugged her shoulders instead. Had he met her before? Oh, so I hear. You weren't consulted first about this loan? Alice smiled as before, without mirth or special meaning. My dear Robly, we must neither of us forget that Thurley is of age and the mistress of her own affairs. Oh, but this Gaylord, he exclaimed impatiently. I suppose he's coming here tonight? I believe he is. He turned and looked at her squarely, his fine face rechiseled in its lines. I couldn't have believed it, Alice, if I hadn't had this accidental notice. Accidental, she echoed. You don't really think, Mr. Gaylord, the mixing of envelopes doesn't often occur in businessman's office without express intent, he answered incisely still. I may, of course, be mistaken. He couldn't be such a cad, said Alice, although I might have expected. Oh, Robly, let's not attempt to judge, to settle, to do anything about this unfortunate matter here this afternoon. Come and see Thurley for yourself. Tonight? Good heavens, no. I don't know how we're going to manage. Come tomorrow or Sunday. Come when you're calmer, anyway. It's so easy to make mistakes. Alice, you really wish to encourage me to hope? To hope for what? You know how I feel toward your protégé, but I don't know how she feels toward you, and if I did, my dear boy, I've about made up my mind that the fates will have their way, no matter who it pinches, that's all. Now do say goodbye and go. He had barely gone when one of the servants brought her a letter delivered, he said, by special messenger awaiting to take reply. The letter was a directed to Alice. It came from Baron von Hochhaus on affairs of the young Grand Duke. Alice read it with amusement of a kind. It was not, however, a humorous epistle. It was practically a warning that the ardent and somewhat unmanageable young Carl Wilhelm, the Grand Duke of Sachs Hertzenheimer, desired to honor himself by calling that evening unless his visit should be inconvenient or untimely. In the midst of the letter's perusal, thoroughly returned fresh from a gallop in the park with her groom and a special guardian on whose attendance Alice had insisted. Alice called her at once to hear the note, particularly the post-script, which read as follows. I am practically powerless to avert this adventure on the part of his excellency Carl Wilhelm, and I therefore take this means and occasion to state that Princess Servinia, recently discovered and found to be quite ill, is by the grace of God so miraculously improved that her immediate return to Europe is contemplated. You will readily understand, I am certain, and perhaps even pardon me, if I refer to a former conversation with yourself in which I suggested, as a service possible, to hurt Sigasa in a complete discouragement of the Grand Duke by one of the noblest young women it has ever been my pleasure to encounter. May I beg a little further indulgence in behalf of my worried and disordered country. Thoroughly already acquainted with the outcome of the Baron's former visit during the time of her own despair and anguish was now amazed to learn of the finding of the actual Princess. She was perhaps also a little startled concerning possible results. She entirely overlooked the point that appealed to Alice. Does it mean that we, that discovery, does it mean very much to us? She inquired gravely, looking at Alice in her girlish, wistful way. You can take it as part of the joke? Oh, it isn't that, my dears, that Alice, lightly enough. I was thinking how utterly absurd it is for Acton Gaylord to count, and now the Duke to assist as I have on coming here all in one evening. All together, or one blend the other perhaps, for I hardly suppose you'd enter the cage with all your three lions in a drove. Oh, he does want to come to night, of course, and thoroughly, still distinctly serious. I had completely forgotten. But Count Faizies to come by eight had begun in fifteen minutes. Mr. Gaylord arrives at half past eight, and her eyes flashed, fun and warmth. Why not let the Duke be last at nine o'clock? I think I'd like it, three within the hour. I thought so, or thought perhaps it might be entertaining, answered Alice, aware of the general reception plan for the Count, but puzzled still by Thurley's attitude with Gaylord. Shall I answer nine tonight? You may as well, said Thurley. I've heard there's a charm in threes. How easy it was to remember the things that Robby had declared. How eagerly, gladly, and naturally her thoughts went forth to find him day and night. How she treasured the flowers that came from his hand, among the household constantly arriving, and how often she wished she could tell him things, share with him all the long days' happenings in the way that comrades should. Charms and threes, repeated Alice, as you'd hope there might be some few charms distributed among this oddly assorted trio, but I greatly rejoice that the Counts have all been discovered. The Count, as a matter of fact, had been more than discovered recently. He had been a bit exposed, likewise a bit defeated, and was blissfully unaware, either pertinent occurrence. Not only had Gaylord rounded on him brilliantly, recouping lost ground with the second burst of skill inspired by Thurley's unexpected help and attitude, but the all-important intelligence imported by Lady Honor Calfrub at this tea was of such a nature that Alice was radiant with joy. The hour had come to met out punishments for things endured under the laws of the social world, and Alice was a woman. Thurley had drifted far away on a thought of the young Duke, Carl. Some of his ways are very charming, she said. I felt that you thought so too. Alice, who had spoken to the Count, betrayed new surprise. She felt she should never, in the least, know Thurley after all. Why, yes, she agreed, but there are charms and charms, and fortunately no man has them all. Poor little Zora Norton married a very charming creature three years ago. The last time I saw her, she looked at me like a dresden China shepherdess and sweetly lisped. Doesn't a woman have to love her husband an awful lot not to hate him utterly? I've thought it often since. But, said Thurley, aren't you glad you're married? Alice smiled. My dear, I like the changes of climate. I'm hardy enough to endure them, and they make me hardier for more. Now I think you better rest awhile for your three in tandem tonight. Thurley felt a great excitement instantly assert itself, so much did the meeting's presage. I'll rest if I can, she answered, and went to the care of her maids. End of Chapter 45 This is a Librebox recording. All Librebox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Librebox.org Recording by Paul Hansen Thurley Ruxton by Philip Viral-Migels Chapter 46 Answering the Count Thurley did not rest, her brain was too alive and the fever too active in her pulses. Mysterious arrivals, plus an air of hurry and excitement, pervaded all the house. She suffered herself to be dressed for dinner in a dainty gown, that, with its softness and its frailty, completely belied the strength, the courage, and the resolution with which she was amply endowed. Major Phipps appeared in time for dinner. He was, if possible, more tanned, more explosive, and more hearty than ever before. His admiration for Thurley was likewise more pronounced. He bragged of her discovery quite immodestly, taking such mountains of credit to himself that Alice was thoroughly shadowed. Did one truly noteworth and credible achievement of my career by George, he asserted? Re-establishes my mental acumen, it does, sir. I've said so repeatedly. But by the gods of battle that satisfaction is nothing compared with the fatherly affection engendered in my breast, fatherly and brotherly and unclish and angelic Alice supplied dryly. It's very beautiful and touching, but will you kindly indicate whether or not you will have some peas, thereby providing a moment for Thurley's blushes to subside? Thurley's color, however, was destined for the briefest subsistence. The Major kept it flaming pleasurably for an hour, both during and after dinner, and eight o'clock romped in upon them all. It seemed quite prematurely to ignite it again. Alice herself was nervously perturbed in a trifle feverish when one of the servants came to announce the arrival of Count Faishi. The Major excused himself in haste and promptly disappeared. Alice and one of her motherly moods came swiftly to her princess and placed both hands on her shoulders. Because he happened to demand that he see you alone is no reason why Faishi should be gratified unless you wish it, she said. I feel as if perhaps it might be much easier to be with you as chaperone all the time he is here. If the horrid creature should attempt what he did before, Thurley halted, vividly remembering the kiss that Faishi had dared to misappropriate, of course he wouldn't if you were there, and yet if he is here to demand, perhaps the way we have planned it is the best after all. You're sure that she, that, uh, that everything is ready? Leave it to me, said Alice a little pale, but smiling, I'll go with you now and excuse myself at once. They went together to the golden room where the Count was impatiently waiting. He was flushed with a sense of victory over Galard and his own irresistible prowess with the woman. He had sent great masses of roses earlier and was certain now that the single American beauty worn on Thurley's bosom was selected from his offering. He could never have dreamed it was Siverin's rose, worn as a token of their comradeship and also as a talisman to guard her heart from evil. To do him credit for mere physical appearance the Count had never been handsomer in his life. His glossy black hair, his damaskin, and his long lashed eyes which burned like molten garnets dashed with liquid whirls of brown and ebony were practically physical perfection. Only his mouth over-red and sensuous supplied a hint of the animal crouched behind his mask. He wasted no energy in passing the time of day. Ah, the banishment of a all the little fidgeting world! He exclaimed in immediate rapture as Thurley and Alice advanced to give him formal greeting. By division of yourself I am a transported. Yes, as on the wings of ecstasy that for the highest exaltation cell exist and he took Thurley's hand to raise it toward his lips almost ignoring Alice to whom he should have first addressed himself. Thurley smiled conventionally withdrawing her hand with a firm slow gesture at once reserved and vigorous. How interesting if visions took the place of airplane, she answered lightly. It is said the transportation business is very profitable. Ah, said Faishi. Madam Van Kirk, I am charmed likewise at this encounter. Yes, only charm said Alice arching her brows not one little flight when you see me. Perhaps you wish to surprise me later. Thurley felt her heart give a knock at the hidden suggestion. Ah, said the count, it is not a fault to be blind. It is one of affliction. Shall I not be blind when I thus behold Miss Thurley? To give him due credit once again Thurley was matchless, brilliantly bewilderingly beautiful, the animation of suppressed excitement plus the fire of resentment outblazing jewel marvels in her eyes, her color and her pulses vibrant with life reduced to sheer loveliness and magnetism, never had prettier partitioned grace enthroned itself in her carriage. The golden hair was such a coronet as regal simplicity might choose for its dainty queen. Her arms and her shoulders were superb. Aerial, Titania, Diana, the exquisite beings and goddesses of all the ages might have bequeathed her a tie the peace of their own loveliness to make her the princess she was. Blind, said Alice, I have often wondered if love is so blind that a married man cannot see another pretty woman. If the count changed color for a second, he instantly laughed it away. Ah-ha-ha, this American wit, he said he. The rapier is not more quick, more certain. He was ill at ease with Alice in the room but concealed his impatience with some degree of art. Well, said Alice, shrugging her shoulders, since I am not seen, perhaps I may be excused for a moment by your leave. For I, she made little concealment of his pleasure, thus to be left alone with thoroughly. No sooner was Alice gone than he strode hot-paste to where the princess had taken a seat. She rose at once, not to be taken at the slightest disadvantage. For this a moment I have lived and could have died, he breathed, with suddenly liberated fervor, once more catching up her hand and attempting to press his lips upon it. If it were only that some word were sufficiently beautiful to name you in, some word more fragrant, more passionate, more enraptured than divinity, ah, how my soul would leap to its birth. Do lay it at your feet, my idol, like will you not be seated, thoroughly interrupted, her breath coming quickly, her anger rising as she felt the insult of his words and glances while his eyes sought to rivet her own. You mention in your note some special reason for an interview? Ah, and you have not guessed? You have not been aware of my soul's desire, my famishing of the spirit, my heart's consuming thirst? I did not suppose even walls, the horrible tumult of the city, anything could upon it avail to close it out. But I have waited its accomplishment. How God alone knows this waiting, but I wish to come with my hands, my arms brimming with fortune. It is done. I have come tonight to tell me you have made a fortune. May I offer my congratulations. Thoroughly was a little fearful of his ardor, fearful of some spring of the animals she felt behind his smile and eyes. She could only hope for a moment to dash his heats with the coldly common place. As well might she have attempted to dash of a Suvian eruption. The fortune of Ba, said Faishi more warmly than before, his hands fairly rung and perspiring with impatience to clasp her hotly by the arms and to strain her lips to his. It is a bobble only to drop at your feet and forget, but the love I lavish, the adoration, listen, said Thoroughly, interrupting desperately. I thought I heard the bell. I must ask your pardon if I presently have to excuse myself. I am expecting another caller who is likewise coming on business. Business, I called Faishi, business. Thoroughly's strength came surging to her aid. What else could it be you particularly wish to say? The count was increasingly agitated. It is not a business. The mighty demand of the soul, he cried to her fervently, yet I have tried to ask before and I ask again a definite answer from your heart, your lips. You are now already my soul's one choice, my all, but you will be my wife. Thoroughly paled when it came, prepared as she was to hear his declaration and request. Anger and scorn flared quickly in her eyes despite her efforts at control. Your answer to that, she asked lightly, clasping her hands and trembling with surcharge, dynamics of the moment. Your answer, Count Faishi, is here. A door behind him had opened at the signal. He turned like a cat as her glance sped past his shoulder. Countess Faishi, who had come here once to threaten and if need be to fight for her rights, came haltingly into the room in front of Alice. She was white as paper. She put out her hand herself from falling, weakly groping for a chair nearby as her eyes remained fixed on the count. Volga me Dios, breathed the suddenly wilted Faishi. Por amor de Dios y todos los santos. It is my right to come, cried the trembling wife, by way of meeting the blazing anger, shame and accusation, flaring in his gaze. Believe me, Jose, it is my love. I could not bear to let you go. She went down abruptly on her knees at his feet and clasped him wildly by the legs. God help me if I love you so, she added, for I was sure I had my love from God. Oh, thoroughly said Alice quietly, may I see you for a moment? Thoroughly turned to the count who remained there livid and helplessly staring at his wife. You will excuse me, I'm sure, if I say good evening. But the count had been stricken deaf and dumb as well as pallid and blind. He made no reply as thoroughly and Alice quitted the room and left him fully answered. Later they heard the closing of the door that led to the outside world. A servant came to announce in accordance with directions that the count and Countess of evening had fairly begun. Chapter 47 A Thoroughbred Gaylord had rarely in his life felt more assured, more confident, restored her at his ease. The man was amazingly transformed. There is no such tonic as victory with a dash of self-approval. He had entered on his flight against Faishi with a vigor so reinforced and dominant that the Count could scarcely have recognized the man he had encountered. He had smashed his way to supremacy in the situation with a power that astonished himself. Tonight he was firmly on his feet again and looked the part. His skin was clear and ruddy. His eyes were steadied and apparently hardened to a new blued, steel species of temper. With composure regained and consistency reasserted in his step and carriage, he felt himself once more master of his destiny and able to cope with the world. Thoroughly was honestly glad to behold a change so complete and unexpected. She had once felt untold admiration for the qualities crystallized in Gaylord's composition. A slight reoccurrence of her old-time appreciation of his better self she knew he had beaten Faishi and for that she rejoiced as a friend. You see I couldn't wait and my wish to tell it all in person he explained holding her hands as she faced him there alone. I wanted to come and acknowledge frankly that you saved the situation. I wanted to know that you are glad as I see in your eyes you are. It gratifies me very much she told him sincerely if I helped a little I rejoice. She withdrew her hands and asked him to find himself a seat. He drew a chair close to hers and leaned familiarly forward reaching to take her hand again where she leaned on a golden stand. With emotion apparently slow and unintentional she placed the hand in her lap. Thoroughly he said in the modulated tone she had once responded to with thrills you're a noble little girl the finest little woman I have known in all the world. Thank you she answered lightly we are both still rather young. He was not to be diverted from his purpose he seemed almost not to have heard her reply you know I told you once upon a time there was no one like you thoroughly I told you that you were a thoroughbred remember? Thoroughly grew more self-possessed I recall some could it have been in connection with anything in particular? Oh come little girl you remember he said I'll face it take my medicine everything I deserve I thought at one time I was doomed for the axe but thank God your spirit's too big for petty revenge you are a thoroughbred I knew it all along but heaven's little captain of the tigress what a wonderful relief what an unthinkable happiness to get back to our good old chumming again and forget all that's gone between this time he caught her hand so swiftly and with a grip so sure that she had neither time nor strength to escape you're hurting my fingers she told him unmoved by his speech please sit back in your chair Mr. Gaylord and Mr. Gaylord he echoed abruptly she smiled and arched her brows what else should I say do you mean to keep this up he said come now thoroughly be yourself you've punished me enough punished you for what? you know what I mean what does a college graduate know of what he wants or says or does at a time like that you've punished me thoroughly and you know it isn't it just the usual college sort of thing she forced a smile which his egotism misinterpreted you little rogue he answered doing his best to outmatch her mirth and laugh her mood away we cared for each other as you cannot deny and that sort of caring lasts if not then why your friendship now when you saw me down and out I agree to friendship heartily she said I honestly wish oh it's more than that little girl he interrupted leaning closer as before now tell me candidly like the candid little girl I've always known why did you fly to my assistance with thirty thousand dollars her face was grave even pale she faced him steadily in the first place I very much wished you to beat that man Count Faishi yes I felt that of course I understood all that but the real reason thoroughly that's the one I'm after he was sure of the corner to which she was forced sure she would not evade sure she would melt as in the early days and tell him what he wished to know if only with her eyes she did not evade and her eyes were eloquent of truth I have been long anxious to repay you for all the flowers and chocolates the attentions, kindnesses and college friendship she answered in a clear low voice that surprised herself so violent was the beating of her heart I have wished to even up the favors and to show you that sort of friendship I learned was all I should ever have expected there at home I wish to preserve the friendly feeling you have always entertained I hope I have and I hope you understand he could not fail to understand with a glaring vividness that left him stunned and dazed he was placed under lifelong obligations and cast to the outer regions where a formal half-cold friendship was all he could ever expect the dominant power once his and neglected had melted into air and gone forever the sense of it all crept through and over him over him with a tangible effect of a tide chilling his being through and through he was silent for a moment staring at her fixedly when he spoke his voice had changed you mean that thoroughly? that's your final word she met his gaze unflinchingly you asked me to be candid I have taken you at your word she marveled at the ease with which she answered a reactionary passion rose for a final beating against the barriers within him the old self yet to be outgrown once more took possession of his mood he rose in his heat by heaven he said if I'd known of this I'd never have taken your help your money anything you haven't the right you'd better be careful thoroughly how you play with a man like this your position here this masquerade don't threaten again to divulge it please for your own sake she interrupted it would be so useless after what I have planned for myself it would rob me so utterly of all I have remaining of the Acton Gaylord I'm sure I used to know you've tricked me he said less succulently you are living a trick your head has been turned you seem to think oh thoroughly I don't mean all this madness I'm not an absolute cad but this thing hits me when I was sure when I thought you'd forgiven forget what I've said tell me you didn't mean it I want to be friends be all I ever was and more I want a chance to prove I'm a better friend than you think I've confessed my blunder made at college let's be friends again and begin all over where we were thoroughly two-head risen she had never felt more distant from him more asterized by all that he said or did nor yet more sorry or helpless she looked him a little wistfully poignantly affected by it all I want your friendship believe me she said I want it very much and to give you mine the most that I can offer something occurred deep down in his nature to alter his view of himself his face was twitching with the struggle of his better entity to force itself to the top all you can offer he said peculiarly as much to himself as to thoroughly and he nodded his head with a grim if belated comprehension of what it implied I've made a fool of myself a ghastly sort of smile played for a moment of his features will you shake hands thoroughly for goodbye well that will you let me tell you again in a different way you are a thorough brat she gave him her hand which he gripped as he might have clasped the man's you're more than that he added huskily you're a princess if ever one lived he sounded the light in her frank brown eyes finding there nothing but the truth ah goodbye he murmured God keep you as you are and thoroughly sat down when the door had closed wondering at it all she was there when Alice entered excited by new events the Duke has been here for nearly 15 minutes she said and now here's the Baron and Wank I know said the Princess smiling faintly I wrote Nass them to come good Lord said Alice talk about the Sphinx I just saw number two go out acting of course and looking more as if he'd found himself than I think I somehow expected oh I'm glad said thoroughly honestly that makes me very happy Alice looked her disconcerted puzzlement after all her hope she was nearly convinced that Gaylord still possessed the girl's real heart in spite of all that had happened the Duke is wearing out his shoes his pocket and his intellect she stated in her customary spirit will you have him in with his tamer or alone thoroughly smiled a little weirdly he probably prefers to come alone like all the others you poor dear child said Alice and kissed her in sympathy and love end of chapter 47 this is a Libra box recording all Libra box recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit Libra box dot org recording by Paul Hansen thoroughly ruckston by Philip Viral Miguel's chapter 48 a climax the something boyishly honest in the Duke a charming quality that thoroughly had previously enjoyed be set her now as she forced him candidly resolved to win him to the plan that she felt would make for the happiness of all he was dressed as Colonel of the Baron's regiment von Sidlitz and was splendid and good to see she found the matter difficult in the light of his repeated protest stations that he would not return to her to go to without her and that kingdoms were hateful in his sight you see you haven't been fair she said smiling to take away the sting when you knew I was not the princess but the Marist no one in America you treated me quite as if you had never met your fiancee and were ready to let me think you thought you thought me she you admit to me now that you knew it all from the but from the first he nodded and that I was your slave also from the first she laughed at his gravity but nobody wants a little cheat it is true yet everybody wants a little princess but I'm not but you are oh you're wasting such a lot of time she declared I just know you're ashamed of the way you're treating Princess Thirvinia I know that deep in your heart of hearts your sense of duty to your country cries out as love could never cry that you know you must go and you wish to go and take the princess with you as your bride I shouldn't like you in the least if you were any other way and you want me to like you a little oh god of love he answered as only a tragic youth may answer but surely you can like me a little for myself she was very much an earnest not a particle if you abandon your affianced princess your distracted kingdom or the nobler self I wish so much to admire but I love you he protested is that nothing no she laughed it's a nuisance to everyone but me but the love of a man who deserts his country and his honor oh his sense of shame only a little narcoticized by the brilliance and appeal of her beauty struggled in his heart but princess I am helpless he declared what can I do shake hands and say goodbye she answered readily promise she'll make your genuine princess happy and serve your land and let me call the Baron here and tell him how greatly I admire you the Baron he echoed he is not here of course said thoroughly I wrote him to come I'll ask him now her sentence was never completed a glare of blinding light that penetrated the window's thickest curtains flashed from without in the snowbound park a terrifying detonation shattering glass and rocking the house instantly followed with a jar and a shock as if some world disaster shrieks and screams from the avenue someone's cry within the building and a heterogeneous medley of alarms arose on the second of lull that followed the thud and impact of the explosion then the door was flung open and Alice was there wild eyed and gasping horrified by the dreadful things she had fully expected to discover in the room where thoroughly had been left dairy she cried thank God I thought Carl cried a voice of the Baron at his heels and he ran in after Alice a certain as she that here in this room a dynamite bomb had been fired what was it cried thoroughly abruptly possessed of a dread that seemed to cast her back to her recent frights and perils what has happened oh I thought I should die before I could reach the door said Alice pale and fearfully shaken it must have been out in the street the Baron had hastened it once to the window Wank had been instantly ordered outside to see what might be done ah in the park said hot house enormously relieved and the others have hastened to see a crowd gathered in the street below with promptness truly amazing a swarming excited mass of beings it was with men swiftly running from all directions and cabs automobiles and buses congregating in the dark congested throne it was all half-lighted only by the street lamps gleaming through the trees in the snow of the park the Congress had its center and escaping from the turgid Eddie of beings came hastening back to report Pellevin he said to his chief at once and thoroughly nearly sank where she stood some way the creature with a gas pipe engine of death and destruction in his hand had exploded his horrible implement prematurely there at the wall of the frozen park on his way to cross the avenue and enter Alice's basement the Duke was grey as ashes my God what I should bring on this house he said and thoroughly dimly hearing understood they were spared a detailed account of the mangled form across the crowded thoroughfare but of fright they could not be relieved the Baron the Duke and Wank at length departed Carl Wilhelm matured in his manhood and resolution suddenly by the shot to his nerves and his heart he took the time for one long look of gravity into Thurley's eyes while her fearless gaze met his own you have already taught me my duty believe me he said his face strangely hardened at that of a man I trust I shall always merit the little of your admiration Princess Thurley he raised his hand to his lips kissed it reverently and retreated backward from the room late that night when Thurley looked down on the avenue and part at last once more deserted only a great gapping orifice where snow and earth and rock had been marked the spot of Pelevin's last venture then Alice came in still white and quaking dressed for retiring but too disturbed for bed dear child dear child she said as she came and took her princess in her arms no more of my innocent game I release you from every single promise Thurley looked at her unwinkingly afraid it meant that the game being done she was due to be dismissed and returned hence she had come no more she said you you won't need me any longer for heaven's sakes theory what do you mean demanded Alice equally disturbed need you I never needed anyone so much in all my life I simply intended to release you from all the foolish agreements I exacted I realized the dangers I plunged you in I realized how selfish I should be after all you've undergone to deny you the slightest speck of happiness that's all if you wish to marry Acton Gaylord Alice cried thoroughly all but ready to laugh despite the tragic outcome of the evening Mary Acton Gaylord well you lent him your money and oh I'll get it all back and return it to you gladly interrupted thoroughly who had troubled her mind without respite over all the things she'd done I didn't realize it was not really mine to give I wanted him to beat the count and he did I acted impulsively of course I know but I'll surely restore every cent I used and thoroughly ruckston what are you talking about you silly little thing demanded Alice unable to let her continue further that money was just as much yours as the hair on your head you ought to be spanked to treat me so but with tears in her eyes she clasped the girl against her breast and strained her there with all her strength you know that I love you you know I approve of every single thing you've done at last if you wish to marry mr. Gaylord I know that some way he must be splendid but I don't objected thoroughly I don't see why you ever thought I could Alice pushed yourself away and looked her squarely in the eyes I'm a kitten under nine days old she said maybe you'd rather not marry anyone at all thoroughly suddenly crimson but the light in her eyes increased I admit it would have been awfully sweet to let Robby ask me writing that morning in the snow she said but I wanted to keep the promise made to you Alice's eyes were abruptly brimming you poor dear darling little girl she said attempting to laugh but achieving something nearer to a sob let me call him up on the phone end of chapter 48 this is a Libra box recording all Libra box recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit Libra box.org recording by Paul Hansen thoroughly ruckston by Philip Viral Miguel's chapter 49 a tristing place the telephone was not disturbed that night a mere metal wire has frequently warmed and tingled at the voice of cupid speeding down its length but thoroughly had plans that were all her own as well as a number of things to say that took no account of instruments that rendered distance between the principal's obligatory sometime late that Friday night Gotham weather changed a warm wind drifting a tropical temperature from Tampa to the bleakness of New England wrapped all the world of Manhattan in its voluptuous embrace and melted the snow from its bosom the morning broke with crystal clearness the sun all gold and a turquoise sky and the summery breeze now languidly puffing at eddying pools of melted snow till they withered and floated away the only mar and all the perfect morning was supplied by the city newspapers their accounts of the end of the miserable pellevan almost unanimously pronounced a black hand agent whose plot had judiciously miscarried served to reawaken fears already sufficiently sleepless but youth is retentive of joys and hopes where alarms find but temporary lodgement thoroughly was young and her heart was too full of her own excitement to permit large room for dreads she passed the morning in a constant succession of fevers and doubts concerned alone with Robby Stiver and but leaning on Alice for assistance was enormously sustaining for Alice certainly helped it was she who telephoned at last a stiver and when the psychological moment had arrived that was it too in the afternoon just called you up to relieve your mind and set a misconception straight she told him cheerly that loan you know of thirty thousand to a certain individual it was the prettiest two-edged stroke I've seen for an age yes it floored a certain count in paralyzed its recipient like a million volts coming from a hairpin no I'll tell you all about it later why I'm trying to inform you delicately as she did it because she wanted to swelch them both yes I thought perhaps you'd like to know where to find her no she isn't here I don't know exactly where she is myself now listen intently she said she was going over in the park to some wonderfully romantic spot where someone broke his wrist one day but for what earthly reason is more than a mortal could guess now wait don't hurry Rob Lee but there was silence on the wire thoroughly at a little past the hour of two was seated alone on that particular bench she had one day occupied when all the world though clothed in the splendors of its autumn golden crimson was a gray and desolate perspective so far as she could discern its wide expanse today the sun obliquely slanted on denuded trees and on grass down beaten in sodden from the recent snow as well as on roads that here in the sections of the park unfavored by the pomp and glory of wealth were practically deserted yet gleams of the world's most refulgent light seemed beckoning on all her far horizon and though she still had doubts and tremors interspersed with all her hopes the prospect seemed a verdant field of flowers and rills and song a plump gray squirrel bright-eyed cozy in his furs and confident of friendship from the whole human tribe came inquiringly up to halt at Thurley's feet and beg for alms to crack he talked first one than the other of his tiny paws in the muff of his little breasts gazing at her appealingly and flirting the banner of his tail hello said Thurley if I'd only thought to bring a bag of breasts her hungry little visitor leaped upon the bench came fearlessly up to walk across her lap poke his active little nose against the glove on her hand then leaped again to the earth and weather trampled sod where he took up a search for hidden treasures Thurley had turned to watch him when the faint distant purring of a motor car spun her about on the seat Stiverant came round the bend holding the wheel as best he might with a wrist still unequal to the task the color leaped to Thurley's cheeks like rose leaves tossed upward in his effort then the car was halted and Stiverant rose to leap out over his extra tires as he had done on the first occasion oh don't try that cried Thurley her old impulsive self immediately uppermost as she sprang to her feet and ran a little toward the car please don't break anything more he laughed despite the depth of emotions in his breast a lighting quite intact she stood in the road to meet him and gave him her hand as he came there doffing his cap you know I don't like threes exactly she added if it means three injuries or anything like that I wonder if you'll ever meet me here again he answered as they turned to go to her bench that's the sort of threes I hope for the threes with nothing but charms but they might not be that kind after all she fall to resuming the seat she had occupied it's so easy these days for folks to be deceived to deceive themselves and everything he sat beside her and leaned a little forward his face was inclined to paleness again his eyes were intensely serious I think I have deceived myself for the final time concerning some few things at least he said referring to his errors of judgment respecting Gaylord and her loan I hope today may render possible some final understandings his earnestness a little disconcerted the happiness of spirit she had instantly conceived at his coming she could only infer that he had come upon truths he found not altogether pleasant I've never wished to save you for a moment she said I made up my mind to tell you everything absolutely everything today it was Stiverance turned to be surprised and puzzled everything you mean about your duties to hurt Segatha wait please before you answer this may be perhaps our final little talk together our last Sun bright experience after the fates and seemed I only wish to say that on the morning when we drove together through the snow I spoke unguardedly the stress of the moment everything conspired to ring that declaration for my lips and yet her heart was sinking you didn't mean it she tried to smile as the sunlight seemed about to vanish I have come here to confess and sue for pardon together he told her holding her gaze to his own with ties grown sacred and irresistible I love you princess despite my utmost wish and sense of the hopeless plight into which I am plunged I shall love you always even though I have no right even although you bid it cease for its haunting echo in your after years I would give my life to serve you I would almost give it for this moment here ours all ours so long as it may last and if you find this quite beyond your pardon nevertheless my love shall live for none save God could make it die and yet I hope for your pardon she had closed her eyes and leaned a little back in the sweetness and marvelous ecstasy she had no power at the moment to deny her heart which had yearned and ached for his words after a moment of silence and the intensity he added I'm not to be forgiven oh don't say that she baked him suddenly it is I I who must beg forgiveness but I came to tell you all every little thing that I am not a princess that I am nothing in the world but just not a princess he interrupted suddenly catching at her hand which he held with the pressure that hurt and crushed it sent mad gladness to her heart not princess thervinia not oh no no no she cried but I never claimed I was Alice never claimed it we just let the rumor go I don't know why we did it we never realized what dreadful things might happen what serious consequences thoroughly thoroughly thank God he broke in wildly joyous unspeakably relieved I have a right to love you then to love you and love you and love you she suddenly sprang to her feet to avoid the madness of his wooing but wait she cried I've got to tell you all I am no one no one no one in the world I don't belong in your social sphere I'm only what Alice has made me now now you can take it all back if you like she had never been braver never more beautiful honest splendid in all her changeful career she faced him frankly her wonderful courage and candor shining in her eyes with a light of love she feared at that moment must be forever hopeless little heart he said his utterance singularly soft and charged with tenderness you are my little princess my glorious little queen you are what the gods have made you my thoroughly the noblest sweetest little woman in the world she sank on the bench weekly her eyes abruptly filled oh probably don't say it please she begged if you ever want to take it back again he sank on his knees despite all sense of time and place and kissed her hand comrade he said beloved he drove the car when it lasts they knew they must return to her avenue home they were alone at last in the room where so many emotions had run their course she came to him simply such a wealth of love overbrimming her eyes that robly senses lifted away from all the things of earth he held her passionately in his arms while her own arms stole about his neck then they took and gave that wondrous kiss of glory end of chapter 49 this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by Paul Hansen Thurley Ruckston by Philip Viral Miguel's chapter 50 Princess Thurley the social triumph of Alice Van Kirk was in no wise diminished when at length the truth concerning Princess Thurvinia was known throughout the length and breadth of Swelldom. Thurley had gained rather than lost admiring hosts and the natural interest excited was increased the dinner that Alice had long planned was the season's social masterpiece the holidays were spent away from town her robly and Thurley like two young striplings from the pantheon before the pagan gods and goddesses had lost their pristine charm found new delights and new relations with the earth and stars in the wonder of their love a brilliant procession of social events marched through the weeks as they sped the recent past with its doubts and fears its excitments intrigues and startling evolutions was gliding away on the placency of memory when one more echo rolled across from far hurts agatha where the young Grand Duke with a bride resembling Thurley Ruckston had succeeded to the throne it came in the name of their majesties but bore the signature of Baron von Hochhaus whose personal letter was attached in recognition of invaluable services to Princess Thurvinia to the kingdom of hurts agatha and to Carl Wilhelm Herman king by the grace of God and in the name and with the love and appreciative and perpetually grateful people was the reading of the part of the message which described a modest but glorious girl as defender of her Majesty the Queen and a princess by special appointment of heaven it was a triple recognition there was first the scroll a gold-laid massive impressive document denoting the extraordinary service rendered then in partial liquidation of the state's indebtedness a gift of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars and finally a metal and full decoration of the royal legion of courage but the last little contribution which succeeded in quite overwhelming the heart of the princess by appointment of heaven was the nearest unofficial scroll from the big proportion little Baron I trust the love of an old man found in his own poor personal capacity may likewise be accepted there was much that was golden and marvelously sweet to gaze back upon and wonder as thoroughly and robbery at the stern of a great Atlantic liner watched all America green with coming spring dip slowly down in the purple sea and disappear behind the earth's rotundity there was much that was splendid and dream fulfilling for them both the contemplate far out to the east where an older world would rise from the sea above the rounded bulk of ocean but most of all and greater than all was the world of limitless space and inexpressible splendor that the two beheld when they looked again in each other's eyes a honeymoon day from the trophy spiced with the fragrances of far off Yucatan was wafting lazily by thoroughly smiled as she gazed at the sun's splash in the water is it too soon yet she said to ask where I'm going to be taken to motor through Egypt first he answered happily then all about the continent and perhaps the herds of got there she clung to his arm and leaned upon his shoulder closing her eyes on the sheer delight she had no words to express like the prince in the tale he leaned in rapture and kissed her on the lips but to all the world of love and ecstasy the princess was already wide awake the end of thoroughly ruckston by Philip Viral Miguel's read by Paul Henson