 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 Hanson. Thoroughly Ruxton by Philip Viral-Migales. Chapter 16. Booths to Tremblin. Stiverin felt rather than you, that Thoroughly had been uncommonly perturbed. He had only seen the count half falling from her side, as he clutched at the fern for support. Why had he done such a thing, as intrude, where Faishi had guided the princess, was more than he felt he could explain. He had merely obeyed an impulse, since neither envy nor jealousy, had they been his portion, could have forced such action upon him. The ensuing dance was his and Thoroughly's to be chatted out. He had told her, making an eloquent gesture with his injured arm, by way of denoting his uselessness in a waltz. Now as they moved across the floor, he had a subtle comprehension of her disturbed condition. He attributed everything to Faishi, whom he hated, Thoroughly. He hoped the count had betrayed himself so completely, as to be an eliminated factor in Thoroughly's existence. He could not ask her what had occurred, and he could not know that the sight of Acton Gaylord, more than the abomination of Faishi, had wrought upon the girl at his side to humble her splendid equipoise. Thoroughly, for her part, was excited to a new intensity of agitation. What it might signify thus to have Gaylord drift once more across her orbit, was more than she dared conjecture. They could not help but meet, while dreams of denying her former identity flashed for a moment on her thought, only to be dismissed as at once as utterly preposterous. Gaylord was not the sort of man to be tricked or deceived for half a minute by any device so childish. What he would do when everyone about him in the social world was diligently advertising her as Princess Thervinia, was the inquiry haunting her reflections. Should he take the pains to declare the truth and reveal her humble origin, the disaster to herself and Alice would be appalling. What would or could Alice do in such an eventuality? Could she still continue her friendship, her support, her exploiting care and expenditures? Or would she not in self-defense be obliged to repudiate the whole affair and charge that she herself had been defrauded? Siverent was talking, trying to start a conversation, trying to lead her away to a quiet retreat of the palm room beyond. She could not listen, as she heard as one in a dream. The wondrous butterfly existence on which she was barely launched seemed about to fade away. It was only a bit of Cinderella magic after all, and she loved it so. It had been so absolutely joyous, its promise had been so golden and so sweet. In that bewildering moment she was fearfully tempted. She could meet Acton Gaylord here soon within the hour and throw herself upon his mercy, tell him all, beg him to aid her in her harmless little pretense. After all, she was not pretending much. She was merely permitting a foolish world to make her a runaway princess. What could it possibly advantage him to reveal her as his castaway, a college widow, left on the strand to continue the humblest of teaching? He might exact some sort of price for the silence she desired. Perhaps she might meet it were it not too high, and not even Alice be made aware of the bargain. The possibility was tremendously exciting. He had once been more than merely a friend, if by any chance he might be excited to love her anew, if her present position and all the rest might dazzle, infatuate. Her senses whirled with chaotic possibilities in the blinding glare of temptation. How deep and cogent her temptation was, she could scarcely have measured herself. It was terrible, so great was her wish to continue as she was. So abhorrent was the thought of being utterly dethroned, stripped of her finery, and momentary power, and cast down headlong from this gorgeous elevation to be spurned as the nearest imposter. She clung to Stiverin unconsciously, with the helpless weakness of a child. He thrilled as one receiving a sacred trust. He understood sufficient of her mental dilemma and oblivion to facts to realize that she was not precisely herself, that her dependence on his arm was that of one distraught. Her trust and helplessness was not to be seized and made his own, and yet they filled his being with a pulsing joy that was worth the price of a kingdom. She was still in the whirl and days of a Cinderella facing the Midnight's fatal stroke when they came to an isolated bench, sequestered in the palms and halted. This much Stiverin had been wholly unable to resist. Shall we sit here where the air is fresher, he said? May I get you an ice or something to drink? No, oh, no, thank you, she answered at last, smilelessly, looking at him with her great brown eyes as full of eager query as a child. Have I been acting very queer? She sat on the bench. Oh, a bit faint, I should say, he answered taking the seat at her side. Perhaps you were hurt, stepped upon, I never thought of that. He had suddenly remembered his own overpowering faintness when his wrist was broken in the park. She too must have harked to that incident and thereby roused from the days to her mind that the sight of Gaylord had developed. I was a little hurt, she answered faintly, smiling in his eyes. Isn't it odd that you should have been the one to come? Some way it seemed as if pretence had fallen away if only for a moment, and evasions and froths of conversation seemed singularly inappropriate. If she must be exposed as a mere usurper of social eminence, she wished with sudden intensity to be as little guilty as possible in the eyes of this one man. The declaration in his eyes was startling in its candor. It was a privilege, a compensation, perhaps, for all I seemed doomed to surrender. If I could only feel I had been of the smallest service, it would make me immeasurably glad. But merely to force you to walk and talk is absurd as an aid to anything. Can't you let me do something more, get you something? Show my willingness, I know. If you knew how good it is just to sit down with a friend, she said, you would not insist on serving beyond my wishes. He smiled. Do you think I may have forgotten the heavenly relief of sinking to a seat and giving up the wheel to Abrahans? Do you think I shall ever forget a single instant of that experience? It gave her joy to reflect in this hour that on that day he had seemed to care a little for a strange, impulsive girl who was guilty of no pretense, a girl whose only appeal, if she made one at all, was that of one's soul to another. It was likewise sweet in the doubts and fright of her heart to confess to herself that she had wished from the first to be honest and sincere and different in every encounter and relationship with Robby Stiverand. She knew she could not be otherwise and strictly honest with him now. Might it not be better, she said with a little pang at her heart, to forget that afternoon? But why, he demanded suddenly a pray to vague alarms, in fears of her hopeless remoteness from himself. Why forget when the fates themselves arranged the meeting, invoked their powers so unexpectedly, through me at fortune's feet? Well, it might be better, she repeated, if we could. She had not intended to add those final words, but some way her heart cried out in protest as she half perceived her fairy world retreating from her vision. Stiverand felt some mighty enginery lifting at his heart and a floodgate burst by pent-emotions till the warm tide engulfed his inner being. If we could, he murmured, leaning a little nearer and barely resisting the impulse to lift her hand to his lips. Perhaps it might be better also for the fragrance to desert the rose, for hope to withdraw from life. You have no real wish for these disasters. Why, no, I—but what have these to do with anything? Might there not have been something more lovely than the scent of the rose and the help and sympathy you offered an unknown fellow being in the park? It was nothing, the least that anyone could do. She was warmly glowing as she met his gaze and the thrill in his pulses increased. It was such a beautiful, spontaneous action as one may not forget, he answered, his breath coming fast, his eyes aglow with ardor. Not an accent fail or hardly a drop of rain that I do not remember. She suddenly realized that she must check their wanderings, that she had permitted him to stray and draw her with him to the primrose edge where the foothold was perilously insecure. Ah, how is your wrist? she asked him earnestly. It will not be permanently injured? He leaned back and met her questioning gaze with a baffling spark in his eyes. It was not my wrist that received the serious blow. She was suddenly crimson. It was far too alluring, far too soporific to her senses of alertness, duty and late alarm, this honeyed fragrance of a lesion fields where there are two selves and the green and the sky were alone in all the world. It had made her forget even Galard for a moment, not to mention Alice, the dance and herself. Not your wrist, she echoed, refusing to understand. You were hurt internally? Have you seen a doctor? You shouldn't have come here tonight. He felt her drifting swiftly back to a more conventional mood. Coming to-night was the only thing that could do me the least bit of good, he declared. And it has, as you may see. Oh, I'm glad, she replied. It's the change of air and scene. It is what I have seen, he answered dryly, even triumphantly, referring to the tender, honest mood. She had been betrayed into revealing. I shall always be far better after tonight. She half understood him only. The temptation to linger on the verge was overwhelming. What is it you have seen? Again he leaned a little closer, that the fragrance will not desert the rose. It baffled, answered and confused her all at once. She felt the tides of crimson once more surging to her cheeks. Gladness, new courage and heart happiness possessed her like essences of strength and comfort. Even as some faint premonition of impending trial and calm, climax shadowed her swiftly moving thoughts. Her candid nature urged her toward a sudden absolute confession of it all. All that she was and all that she felt of trust and fears, but she thought of Alice remembering her promise and determined she must wait. Ah, doesn't the music and everything make everyone poetic? She answered smilingly. Oh, that reminds me. Will you take me to Alice now? Certainly, he answered without moving. But they are still dancing. It is still my number. Do you very much wish to go? She laughed. Do you much wish me to stay? Just a little more than anything else in the world. A little of her roguishness returned. She rose from the bench. Then by all means remain, and I will go alone, and both our wishes will be granted. He could not have repressed his smile despite his disappointment. If witches had not been abolished by law, he said, some of us would tremble in our boots. She was facing her Cinderella hour in the moment she started for the larger room where Gailard would doubtlessly be encountered. Think of the luck of having boots to tremble in, she answered. Or even a pair of slippers. He took her back to Alice as the music died away and the chatter of voices arose. She had barely been seated at Fairy Godmother's side when Gailard appeared with a common friend to be formally presented. End of chapter 16. 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 Miguels. Chapter 17. Lost ground to be regained. The dance was an extra, interpolated in a program already sufficiently protracted. Gailard had assumed it as a natural right with a boldness and directness that left thoroughly, practically helpless. The somewhat dazed and wondering condition of her mind had returned, but a certain strength and resolution had been fortified in her being by her heartening little chat with Stiverand. She found herself hanging on Gailard's arm and walking at his side before she could possibly have formulated a plan either of attack or of defense. He had lost not a whit of his self-assurance or his arrogance of spirit. He was tanned, but otherwise bore that same marked air of perfected immaculateness. He was faultlessly dressed and presented as ever that distinguished manner of superiority that with his handsome face had once made ready prey of Thoroughly's heart. Well, Thoroughly, he said, in his evenly modulated murmur adjusted so readily to carry to her ears alone, we meet again. She could only nod her head, already the wisdom of abandoning all thought of deception was apparent to her mind. How marvelously well you look, he continued. You fit your niche and fill your role to perfection. You don't know how glad I am to see you again and to see you here. She felt the significance of those final words as if they had been written in fire. Seeing her here was so different from seeing her a tutor in New Haven. Her heart was beating in a wild little flutter, half of fear, half of anger to think he must thus return to cross her path. She attempted a smile. You are very kind. He pressed her arm tightly with his own. Do you know, little girl, after all, there is nobody like you in the world? Thoroughly resented his attitude. She instantly foresaw by intuition that Galard would presume upon their past relationship and her old resolve to met him out his punishment flashed to rebirth in her breast. She realized, however, the utter futility of her threat in the present situation. She was helplessly delivered to his power unless she could choose to abandon all her golden world for the luxury of one great outburst of scorn. She was hedged about with danger. She knew she must move discreetly and with skill. She required time to think and feel her way. Her best defense was perciflage and unobtrusive fencing. Nobody like me at all, she asked him lightly, is that rather fortunate or otherwise? Look here, he said, you may as well know, Thoroughly, that I never got over my genuine feeling after all. I hurt myself worse than I ever injured you. The truth of the matter was that her beauty had overwhelmed him, made captive his self-centered being while the things he had heard of the Princess and the obvious madness of her suitors paying court had aroused his peak, his jealousy, his overwhelming love of dominance and set him mad to possess his old-time mastery again. All this was apparent to Thoroughly. She drew senses over-acute in this crisis of affairs. She was rapidly losing her sense of alarm and gaining courage and repose. His power might be great, but his weakness gave her hope. She was stubbornly determined, moreover, that he should not triumph absolutely no matter what course he pursued. You injured me, she said. I'm sorry if I look injured or anything like that. You don't, he admitted, aware he had blundered and determined to strike another course. You never looked more absolutely glorious in your life. Tell me, Thoroughly, how did this happen? What does it mean, this delightful and amazing little masquerade, this princess claim of yours in Alice van Kirk's? It had come a little sooner than she expected, yet, after all, it was Gaylord's brute way to reveal his claws at once. She arched her brows and query in surprise. Have you heard that either Mrs. van Kirk or I have advanced any claims to anything at all? Why, everybody's talking of it. Everybody's convinced it's true. That's the joke, of course. I don't say who started the claim, but you and Alice van Kirk are perfectly aware of what's going on. And you find it something to resent? She asked it with a smile that stung and captivated, accused and inflamed him together. Not at all. I fairly. Do you know me so little as that? I was enormously amused and pleased. It's something to be the only one who knows the truth. I want you to keep it up. The character of her smile slightly altered at this added disclosure of his power. It is like you wish me to keep it up, she answered inscrutably. I could be very happy gratifying such a friend. How much of her speech carried the acid of satire he could not immediately determine. He only knew he held a species of scepter and that new infatuation with this radiant girl was flaming his blood with desire again to usurp the place of a monarch at her side. Are you just a little angry with me thoroughly? He inquired. You would punish me now for the fault committed in a moment of folly? She looked more astonished than before. Do I appear so like some horrid little tyrant? She asked. What have I done by way of punishment? Punishing anyone? The music arose. He took her in the curve of his arm and they began to dance. Come now, little girl, he murmured caressfully. Let's be candid and make no pretenses with each other. We were more than friends last winter and spring. My roses and chocolates were more than welcome and the drives we took in the rest. I confess my error in passing it up and so I say let's get back to it all and forget the little lapse of time. What a hot little flame of resentment burned up in her nature at his words, his assumption, his demeanor. They had been more than friends indeed. How readily he remembered now the things once so easy to forget. She could still recall his words of dismissal at least in effect. This sort of thing can't go on forever. You knew all along I'd someday leave and follow my career. Now let's forget it. You've always been a thoroughbred and I thought of course you'd be one to the end. A score of answers rose to her lips, stinging angry speeches that his conduct had deserved. She dispelled them with a smile. She had no intention of revealing old-time scars or permitting the loss of her own invaluable self-control. If war she must, the method must be subtle. The little lapse of time, she repeated with barely audible laugh, isn't so very long, is it? And yet so many things have changed. But not for you and me, little sweetheart, he said in the deepest caress of his voice. Can't you close your eyes and see it all? Just as it was in our wonderful days last spring, she could have struck him for daring to employ such a term of endearment. She loathed that quality within him and that made it possible for a man to take advantage of the situation thus shamelessly. Yet the glance she cast him was artfully modified. My eyes are so persistently wide open, she said, and even if I close them, the present would impinge upon my vision. The flush of something other than pleasure passed across his face with a flash shot through his eyes. Do you mean you refused to think kindly of the past? She felt the underlying challenge in his tone. Oh, the past is very dear to me indeed. I think of it kindly very often, parts of the past at least. But of me, thoroughly, are you going to forgive me? Let me come to see you soon. Let me try to make amends for my folly and all that sort of thing. Everybody calls it Mrs. Van Kirk, she told him evasively. I don't see why you shouldn't. You know what I mean, he insisted, half resentfully. Isn't it something that I confess the mistakes and foolishness I committed at a commencement? She assumed her grave little way. Why, yes. It's very interesting to learn you made mistakes. He was baffled for a moment and felt his impatience increase. You were dodging the issue, little girl. He said, attempting a lighter demeanor. I can understand you are flattered by a dozen or so of these johnnies dancing at tendons on a pretty girl. They have heard and believe as a runaway princess. But you and I know each other well enough to be able to laugh at them all and enjoy a little private joke of our own. I am going to call and see you. There were sacred things between you and me that demand consideration. Much of his old-time demeanor of ownership, once completely fascinating, made vibrant the murmur of his voice. Much of the former light of his triumph strength was in his eyes. He held her closer as if to make her feel helpless. And she understood his attitude of mine, which was not devoid of threat. She did not then and there determine on a method for his subsequent humiliation. For alarms and uncertainties and desire for counsel with Alice were too much on her mind. She only knew that her plan for keeping Alice uninformed would be a grave mistake. And indeed her one desire was to get her away to their private home and unburden her mind of it all. She conjured a smile as before. You will have to make your treaty first with Mrs. Van Kirk, she told him noncommittally. She is naturally in command. I will, he said. The music stopped. The men gathered about her. He presently surrendered her arm and bowed himself away. The end of chapter 17. 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-Migels. Chapter 18. Delayed Decisions. The remainder of the evening was, for Thurley, more of a trial than a comfort. Her triumph continued, but she felt its hollowness, felt that mockery dodged her footsteps in that dark abyss loomed ahead. She could not escape her besiegers, the eager swains who continued in varying manner to convey their state of heart and mind. Count Faishy was not in the least rebuffed, at least to outward appearances. Both he and Gaylord took advantage of every possible moment to push to her side and renew their more or less invulnerable wooing. Even the midnight supper, where at thirty daintily decorated little tables the guests were assembled for refreshment, failed to re-inspire the ingenuous delight with which the princes had entered upon the evening. It was late and Thurley was weary and a little depressed when at length she and Alice retreated from the scene to be driven to their home. Both would undoubtedly have been thoroughly alarmed had they known that in the street outside a man had waited all the evenings spying upon their movements. It was the same individual who, on the night of the horse show, had exchanged a glance with the ashy-eyed woman before he followed them through the avenue in a hired taxi cab. He tagged them to-night like a shadow and in front of Alice's mansion was relieved by another of his ilk who had helped to keep an unbroken record of every movement Thurley made and the visitor who soon came to the place. There was no immediate retiring when Alice and her protégé were finally alone. To Faishi had been granted the privilege of riding with them to the door. Thurley had managed to avoid actual contact with the nobleman, but something in her conduct and silence while in the carriage had addressed itself to Alice van Kerk's intuitions and aroused her curiosity. She followed Thurley to the girl's boudoir for a confidential chat. Well, dearie, she said in genuine affection as she seated herself at ease after having temporarily dismissed the maids. Another joy and trial over. You made me very proud and happy. You enjoyed it, I hope. It was easily all your evening. Thurley was pulling off her gloves. She sank in a chair and looked at Alice just a little wistfully, her dark brows slightly raised and youthful query. Must I say I did to please you? For I would, I'd say anything to give you pleasure, she replied. I did enjoy it at first more than any experience in my life. And then she did not finish and Alice waited, her intuitions receiving prompt confirmation. And then, dearie, what? She inquired softly. You know, I felt that something had marred it just a little. Two things said Thurley candidly. I'd been dying for the last two or three hours to get you away and tell you all about it. Alice settled further in the chair. The color mounted to Thurley's cheeks as she found herself thus committed and the task of confessing harder to face than she had previously expected. Something disagreeable? Alice encouraged. You needn't mind telling me you know? We're good friends, no matter what may happen. Sudden alarm possessed her. It isn't that some hot-headed man has already proposed and you've, oh, lordy, no, Thurley interrupted instantly placed at her ease. It wasn't so decent as that on the part of Count, though I don't pretend to know his final intentions. Alice sat up more rigidly. Oh, the Count has Thurley suddenly rose and dash a tear of anger from her eyes. He kissed me. He dared to do that out in the fernary. I could have killed him. Her indignation required no protestation. It was advertised in all her attitude as she turned from her protector to hide the crimson of her face. Alice could make no immediate reply. She was angered, exasperated, and Thurley undecided as to what she ought to do. It was bad enough, Thurley continued, to have him talk nothing but his nonsense and to dare to face me afterward and even come home with us, too, the horrid beast. In the fernary, said Alice, What did you do? I hardly know, said Thurley, and related her somewhat confused remembrance of the incidents as they happened. I must have struck him or something. For he nearly fell, then I begged Robbly Stiverand to take me away. She halted there with a new flush of colour, creeping to her cheeks at the memory of ceiling, gailered at the door. Alice tapped the floor with a small, impatient slipper. This is really too bad, she answered presently. I need the count so badly just at this time. Mind you, Derry, I shouldn't care how severely you punish him or humiliate him later if only we could manage to keep him on for a time in spite of what he has done. Thurley stared at her in honest amazement. You wish me to see him? Endure him after this? I know exactly how you feel, my dear, and I admire you for it, Alice answered. But our position is peculiar. It may last a brief time only this triumph. For many reasons I did very much desire to treat the count rather well, as well as the others at least, and now I'm annoyed more than I can tell. The miserable—I knew it. I felt he was quite that sort. Thurley, isn't it finer art, more gratification in the end, to let him return for his need of deliberate retribution? Couldn't you skewer him far more satisfactorily by calm intent than by mere impulsive resentment? Oh, I thought of that, Thurley confessed in her usual candor, calming her seat a little wearily. I've thought of so many things tonight. You see, he isn't all. In her agitation Alice said momentarily, forgotten Thurley's statement, that two events had marred the pleasure of the evening. Oh, she said, yes, there's something more. Not so bad as this, I trust. I'm not sure it may be worse. You remember meeting Mr. Gaylord? Alice nodded, and she continued. He knew me in New Haven. He was even my—at least I thought he intended to. He threw me over in plain English, and now—now he wants to make love to me again. Alice stared, all but speechless. Thurley—and you like him still? Thurley rose again, superbly active. I hate him to think he'd come like this now and dare oh. It does seem as if I've got a right to make him suffer. Alice rose too. This is certainly grave. He mentioned your present position, asked questions, I presume. He isn't positively the cat to take advantage of this knowledge. I don't know, said Thurley, once more relapsing into her chair. He hinted at things and, of course, asked questions and made insinuations. He insisted on coming to see me, going back to our old relationship, and said he'd make his treaty with you. And you, said Alice? You were careful, of course, noncommittal. You didn't leave him offended or vengeful. Thurley's eyes flashed warringly. No. I almost determined to do everything in my power to lead him on, and then later even up the score. But he made me so angry. I don't know whether I could really do it or not. I'd probably despise myself. I'd rather not try. I don't know what to do. Alice smiled in sheer relief. She was suddenly sure of the future. Don't try to decide anything tonight, my dear. And don't be uneasy or angered or anything but amused, at least for the present. It's time, re-retired. Don't forget, dear Princess, that you are certain to be the target for all of Cupid's arrows, the better with the sweet. It is sometimes possible to fight fire only with fire, and some kinds of love with art. She kissed the tired girl affectionately and smiled reassuringly. But, said Thurley, when he comes to see you, what will you do? Nothing you will refuse to ratify. Nothing the situation does not justify, either with him or Faishi. But, I hope, dear child, we're the equal of two selfish men. Will you leave it to me? My fairy godmother said, Thurley, smilingly, what else could I possibly do? End of chapter 18. Gaelard called the following afternoon and met such a radiant welcome on the part of Alice van Kirk, as not even his largest assurance would have ventured to predict. Thurley, he did not see. At Alice's council, the princess had accepted an invitation to drive with Willie Stetson and his mother in the park. Willie was expected almost momentarily. Gaelard looked well. He was well and confident and determined having happened upon added information since the ball concerning the favour and Faishi's regard in which Princess Thurley was held, especially by eager male admirers. Quite as well satisfied to interview Alice alone as a sort of preliminary maneuver in his game, the visitor readily followed her. Lavender Nookery and agreed to drink a cup of tea. I told you last night I hoped to call, he said. You see, I have not delayed in proving my friendly intentions. I am so glad, said Alice graciously. I can scarcely understand how it happened we never met before. She knew his antecedents and the wealth and pedigree they had boasted for three generations. Oh, I have been in New York but little, he confessed, especially during the last few years. Of course I have heard your name a great many times recently coupled with that of your beautiful protégé. Alice mentally acknowledged the promptness with which he swung about to the subject, uppermost in his thoughts. Oh, one hears so many things in these days of wireless, she laughed. It ought to be called the wireless age or perhaps the regardless age would be more accurate. Eilard nodded in a quick curt way which thoroughly would have recognized as a sign of impatience to achieve some objects sought with the greatest possible expedition. I was very agreeably surprised, he stated, to encounter thoroughly again last night at the dance. Alice, hardly less than thoroughly herself resented his tone of familiarity. She arched her brows thoroughly. Miss Ruckston, he corrected, slightly fleshing. She may not have told you, we are well old acquaintances. Alice had decided to reveal as little as circumstances might permit. Oh, she was very tired last night when we returned. Gaylord narrowed his eyes. The matter in hand was one of business with him and he meant to be sufficiently plain. I knew her very well, more than ordinarily well in New Haven. Oh, Alice portrayed not the slightest emotion and not a very pronounced interest. You can imagine my surprise and delight, my amusement, I might say, he resumed, to learn of the extraordinary misidentification of thoroughly that all New York seems so agreed upon. Rich, isn't it? You mean the outcome of her remarkable resemblance, too? The Princess Thervinia business, certainly he supplied. It's a wonderful joke. A stupendous joke that the swell set is playing on itself. Not that Therly doesn't look the part in all that sort of thing. She's a wonderful little girl. No one knows it better than I. But what would happen, I wonder, if the truth should happen to Leek? He laughed and she thought his mirth distinctly disagreeable. You are aware, I hope, she answered, that neither Miss Ruxton nor myself has ever contributed anything to what you term this stupendous joke. That's the beauty of it, the art, he stated boldly. I recognize that at once. But wouldn't it jar all upper crustum to wake up some morning to the facts? He laughed again, adding, not that it's likely they will. His dwelling upon this possibility jarred upon Alice sufficiently to rouse all her sense of distrust and dislike. It sounded too much in the nature of a menace. A father to his thought, if not a pronouncement of his power, she wished to sound him Therly. Would it necessarily disturb our friends to lose one princess and discover another? They might even rejoice to find she was not of the foreign nobility. Oh, that part of it, of course, he admitted bluntly. But they might discover she was once just a pretty girl in New Haven, tutoring and living a very humble life. Oh, not that anything of the sort would make the slightest difference. Do anyone like myself? He hastened to add. But to others, would the joke be quite as palatable? Of course, they may never find out. Mentally, Alice branded him a cad whom not even youth could excuse. Outwardly, she was still all smiles and entertainment. Of what possible advantage could it be, I wonder, she said, for anyone who chants to know all this to advertise the facts. Oh, none whatever! He assured her with alacrity. It's just odd that I should be the only one to know. It heightens my interest in the game, doesn't it? I feel toward Therly as none of those Johnny's could. And she feels the same toward you? He had the grace to flush a trifle and momentary confusion. But, yes, she did. She may I not be permitted a little modesty. As much as you like, she answered heartily, glad to know he had at least a speaking acquaintance with the word. Pardon my question. It was probably unfair, but prompted by my interest in you both. We shall be good friends, he answered confidently. I naturally expect to see rather a lot of the little girl. A clatter of hoofs as a cavalcade introduced itself through the window followed almost at once by silence. Then a footman appeared at the door and engaged the attention of his mistress. She crossed him at once. Mr. Stetson, madam, if you please, announced the servant quietly, shall I speak to Miss Thurley, madam? At once, James. She smiled back at Gaylord. You will excuse me just a moment. And she hastened to the reception room where Stetson was waiting as blushing and self-conscious as a girl. Oh, here you are, Alice, he said attempting to laugh away his nervousness. You see, I didn't know, of course, what carriage Miss Thurley might prefer, so I brought them all. Brought them all, echoed Alice, moving at once to the window and sweeping aside the flimsy traceries of lace. In heaven's name will he Stetson, did you come to take the whole asylum for a drive? It appeared very much as if he had. There was a very cavalcade of vehicles out by the curb, each with a man in attendance, every known and unknown contrivance on wheels was represented. Carts, drags, hacks, cabs, Landau's victorious, Theatons and automobile, everything save a baby perambulator and a wheelbarrow. Well, she might as well have her choice, might and she, inquired the embarrassed willy. Mother, you see, has no preference, really. She'd ride in anything I suggested, do clever little mother. Mother was seated in the far most rig at the moment. She was a harmless, mindless little person immovably persuaded that the universe pivoted somewhere in Willys' system. I see, said Alice, your plan is at least unique. Thurley, having seen the arrival of Willys' procession was already coming down when James was halfway to the floor above. What is it, she said, as she entered the room? Oh, Mr. Stetson, how do you do? Nicely thank you, said Willys, once more blushing profusely. Actually, jolly to see you again. I was just telling Alice I brought everything around to give you something of a choice. She says my plan is unique. I was hoping it might seem different, not too beastly commonplace. Thurley came to the window and cast a glance up and down the imposing line. I don't believe I quite understand, she confessed. We couldn't ride in them all. Why not, asked Willys, if we like, you like. I mean, I thought we'd start in the one you prefer and the others could follow behind in case you'd like to change, you know, or anything like that. Oh, my, please send them away, all but the one your mother's in, said Thurley. That is your mother, I suppose? That's the later all right, but send them away? Are you sure that's the one you prefer? I mean, if you'd like any of the other horses put to the carriage, Willys, go take your drive like a rational being, Alice interrupted. I'd never heard of anything like it in my life. All right, said Willys cheerfully. Really, it doesn't make the slightest bit of difference to mother or me. He went out and, like the dismemberment of a circus, the vehicle started away round the corner and down the avenue with the most diverting variety of paces. Then Willys, mother, and Thurley disappeared, the princess gaily but discreetly waving to Alice still standing by the window. Dear girl, she murmured to herself and returned to the nookery and galered. He had risen upon her retreat from the room and beheld from the window the departure of Thurley with her friends, peaked by a realization that others besides himself were in daily attendance here at the Royal Palace. He was thoroughly determined to pursue his advantage to the utmost, regardless of Alice Van Kirk. Of where were we? Alice asked him as she gave him one of her bright disarming smiles. Had we just about exhausted the subject? He could think of nothing new to say as a matter of fact that would not be either mere repetition or something too much in the nature of a threat to be judicious. Our subject was Thurley, he answered, attempting a smile of his own. Such a subject could scarcely be exhausted in an afternoon. Ah, yes, and your past relationship of something of that sort, uh, was that not finished either? Gaelard was not entirely persuaded as to the full significance of her question. He concluded to be on the safer side. He drew back the corners of his mouth peculiarly. It was not a very pleasant expression. Ah, the relation has never been finished, he answered incisively. It has really just begun. It was a bold speech, almost defiantly delivered. Alice accepted its challenge mentally with a certain zest that heightened her color. Oh, well, of course, that, after all, is a matter for you and Thurley alone, she answered. It was not your intention to enlist my services in your behalf, naturally. It was rather a blunt question, one calculated to uncover his batteries, so to speak. He recognized its nature. Why, no, not precisely, but standing as you do, somewhat as Thurley's sponsor, promoter, friend, you can see that the least I could do was to make the matter plain to you as soon as possible. Let you know everything about it. The Joker lay in his emphasis on the word everything. As Alice readily divine, what he meant to convey was simply that he wished her to know without delay that his power was great and he meant to employ it to any required extent, that he would not be blocked by herself, her plans, or even by Thurley herself. I'm very glad you came for this revealing chat, she told him, smiling as she rose from her chair. It clears things wonderfully, always, to be perfectly frank. He too rose aware the interview was ended. Her baffling inscrutability, which he felt in a little comprehended, annoyed him excessively. Her apparent candor and acquiescence veiled so much and left him so little with which to contend or struggle. He had come prepared for open war, if need be. He found his heavy artillery useless, but one thing more he did intend that Alice should know he meant to see Thurley often, take her out publicly, and exhibit to the world his particular favor in her sight. Now that I'm back with considerable leisure, he said, I shall arrange quite a program for the little girl. I've seen her so little for the last few months that there's a good deal of time to make up. I may come around, in fact, I shall come around tomorrow with my car, unless, of course, you and Thurley have some particular engagement. His assumption of mastership in the situation all but took Alice's breath. It was almost admirable. It aroused her ire and amusement together. She thought she foresaw the means of his own undoing by its own weight and persistence. Why, yes, by all means come tomorrow, she said. It will be a great pleasure for us all. He thanked her, shook her proffered hand, and was presently gone, still wondering just what her manner signified and how far she would aid or oppose him. End of chapter 19 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 Hanson. Thurley-Ruckston by Philip Viral-Migels. Chapter 20 An Imperial Visitor The following noon, Gailard received a note that Alice had hastily scrawled. Yesterday I quite forgot this was my afternoon at home. Forgive me and come. We shall expect you. Do not disappoint us. This was signed cordially yours. There was nothing to do but go. Gailard went and found himself obliged to share the princess with more than the usual number of men among them was the Count. Acton was not at all pleased to find Faishi present and obviously pursuing his one great game in his periodically eruptive manner. Gailard and the Count were continental acquaintances. They were, in a manner, friends. Their relationship was more in some ways and less in others than one of mere friendliness since in a deal concerned with foreign securities they were intimately bound together. The matter involved tremendous sums of money. It was planned to involve much more which should presently materialize as velvet in which they would share alike. It was all necessary a secret enterprise the negotiations for which were being conducted daily at the various phases of a huge flotation developed. Up to the present moment these two men varying widely and many attributes had met with complete accord so far as matters of a purely business nature were concerned. Beyond that point and more chiefly concerning affairs of a sentimental nature they were quite at variance neither one admiring or desiring to adapt the methods of the other. To find Faishi here and obviously not a new recruit at Thurley's court but even somewhat in apparent favor at least with Alice van Kirk was distinctly a distasteful to the college man who had once made college widows. He meant to brook no interference by such a being as the Count no matter what expedience might be found necessary for his elimination from the drama. The Count for his part frankly despised Gaylord's methods with women certainly sneering also at some of his business tactics concerned himself but little with a rival whom he felt to be essentially weak and fervor poetry and the glamour of the game. On the other side of the complex situation were ranged two dimpled women with never an armament bristling in view they had come to understanding an agreement with the utmost ease thoroughly from having half decided that Faishi and Gaylord should both be punished through their own devices had readily succumbed to Alice's added resentment and consented to her plan. It was simply to permit these men to feel as much encouraged as they pleased and let them await the hour for their own reward to overtake them to fight with either would be folly and of the most destructive sort and inartistic Alice was thoroughly aesthetic in her adherence to and devotion to art as a feminine technician more ever she was unexcelled. The battle of unforeseen forces began that afternoon not only did Alice and thoroughly assume new tactical positions but Gaylord and Faishi cleared their decks for action one against the other while Stiver and Stetson, Algae Dearborn, Kelsey Woods, Bobremmer, Captain Fowler and nearly a dozen lesser luminaries took careful account of the enemy's strength and position and plan for or groped towards some more or less definite campaign. At the present moment the tuneful Algae was at the fore of the firing line and was gleefully discharging the weapons he felt convinced were most certain to achieve victory over all who might engage. You know it's wonderful really, he announced it thoroughly, the effect you have on my creative ability stirring up the muse, your oats and barley and all that sort of thing you know to my Pegasus. Real jolly of you too. I told you a new one was working up another of my poems, I fancy it's a bit original shall I give it to you? I should be sorry to miss anything in creation thoroughly answered genuinely amused by Algae's manifestation of genius. Is it very long? That's the deuce of it Algae confessed I can't seem to keep up the white heat sure you know for very long at a time all my poems are short so far though some have a sort of epic swing I rather fancy this one goes oh if I can remember it straight oh yes it starts off I say it's really all in quotation marks you might keep that in mind it goes like this I say said the hair to the tortoise how comes it that person's importus to run in a race if they mean to a face and in soup and in ragouts to thwart us hey the humorous vein you see neat isn't it and contain such a lot I like the line and in soup and ragouts and so forth after all there's philosophy in it I'm glad it amuses you really it did almost as much as he himself thoroughly enjoyed both limerick and Algae thoroughly there was such a relief from some of the men in affairs too insistently serious I hope your genius will flourish she told him honestly thank you so much for letting me be oats and barley to Pegasus dear old Pegasus the many gated what endurance some creatures have really I never ride him over time said Algae gravely you know a merciful man and the rest of it better keep him fresh I say if one doesn't wait to become a cropper Alice broke his spell relentlessly as he chose the necessity of rotating the crops as it were thoroughly was presently listening to an even smiling at the utterance utterances of Count Feishi as if nothing in the world had ever happened later it was Gaylord in a somewhat sullen holy selfish and exacting mood that she calmed and soothed with a softened word and smile with something inherently skillful as well as naive she can try to impress upon each and every one of her envious and wash watchful suitors the conviction that he above all others have been favored and ducted into a little private corner of her real regard and pedestal all by himself indeed that afternoon became typical of the days and maneuvers to follow the game developed all manner of mild excitement's and vast necessity for skill a droidness intact to adjust her hours moods and movements to the needs of the game avoiding collisions of the pieces on the board and keeping them all an active play yet never overplayed to the essential neglect of others demanded all the judgment good nature and finesse clearly and Alice were capable a chase could have been no more exciting merely to allay the suspicions constantly praying upon both Gaylord and Faishi required breathless fencing quite absorbing in itself but the more they exacted the more grew the zest with which thoroughly entered the conflict the engagements increased in intensity day by day as if the men's patience and new demands were multiplied yet even while they aggregated powers and assurance to themselves more strong grew Thurley's resentment of their attitude and greater was her desire to see them leveled during all this season of uncertainty evasions backfiring on dangerous love as Alice termed the game there were two persistent elements that gnaw just a bit at Thurley's heart one was a certain increasing anxiety and dubiety attacking Robby Stiver and as he watched her movements and seemingly heartless democracy with all these admiring men the other was a series of pangs and anger excited in the breast of little Mildred Gray there was nothing emphatic to be done at such a juncture lay the emotions of either Robby grown so singularly isolated from the others not only by his behavior and sincerity but as well by her own increasing regard and desire for his honest comradeship Thurley could not approach with tenderness because of her promises to Alice and the delicate situation hedging them both about she beheld his suspicions and his ardors alternate and was helpless she felt herself drawn to him day after day yet could treat him no more warmly than the man she'd grown to fear and despise it hurt her to feel she must perforce be constantly misunderstood there was never a moment when she did not wish his confidence his trust and perhaps something more for which she began at last to ache before she even understood the yearning of her soul as one across a yawning chasm she sent him thoughts he could not read and she herself had not interpreted to the full extent of their meaning she knew she thrilled when he came to her side she knew she lived over the first afternoon together repeatedly always in a golden haze that lifted them both above the earth but she did not realize even then how mighty was the bond of love between them concerning Mildred her regrets were neither so poignant nor incurable she had early resolved to put this worried little beings fears at rest at the earliest possible moment so far as she was able nevertheless she was sensitive to anyone's dislike and more than the men she courted her own sexes favor this was a state of affairs at Alice's palace for nearly a week and then as if the complications were not already sufficient an astonishing new element was added to the little drama that centered on thoroughly said it came in the person of two extraordinary German individuals on a Friday evening just at the dinners conclusion only one sent it is card which was duly presented to Alice on it was printed hair auto wank beneath this was written desiring to see mrs. van kirk and the young lady styled miss thoroughly o.w. for her to go to Alice read it to herself and bewilderment then read it allowed to thoroughly I don't understand it in the least she said what could it possibly mean her it's a got that repeated thoroughly suddenly a trifle pale Alice it's someone from her country looking for princess thervinia which we do Alice had risen galvanically good heavens well I suppose it had to come and she shrugged her shoulders we may as well see her wank end of chapter 20 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 21 wank for her to go to thoroughly heard him as one in a dream as he bent very low above her hand and touched it with his lips he spoke in German permit me your highness to present my humble self the special agent of your highness's imperial government at her segotha it seemed incredible this fiery haired fiery whiskered being representing the land of a runaway princess accepting herself for that erratic young personage with a confidence and demeanor that left no doubt of his absolute conviction that the princess stood before him she thought of one faltering test but mine hair she answered in his native tongue I regret to say I have never seen you before ah that is my misfortune he told her readily never have I been at your court but once then by great favor of the fates I beheld your highness from afar this was this then was the explanation the resemblance she doubtless bore to the princess known to be somewhere concealed in America was sufficient to convince him of her royal identity she knew not what to do or what to answer she took half a moment in which to glance at her visitors companion he was one of those intensely black tootons with a military brush of bristles on the top of his head and an equally bristling shoe-dobber prickling at his nose his expression was most severe as a matter of fact he was thoroughly mild and at the present moment too thoroughly odd to breathe in his normal manner it seemed to thoroughly that the joke was proceeding just a trifle too far that to go on permitting these serious representatives of a serious worried government to continue in their error was not precisely justifiable she wished more than anything in the world for fifteen minutes alone with Alice she was mentally staggering like a dizzy dervish to grasp at something to say when Alice came adroitly to the rescue her wank she said my German is sadly at fault but I beg to suggest that this young lady making no claims to the honors you have named at least well sojourning here with me would be infinitely more pleased to have you address her as Miss Thurley and to treat her only with the courtesy attaching to the station of an American gentle woman thoroughly could have hugged her with gratitude it placed them both on a footing of making no pretense made her Americanism a factor to be expected and gave her a cue as well they had still however to reckon with her wank charged with important business it is frequently painful said he bowing profoundly to have the duty that one must discharge it shall be my obligation since your highness desires it to address you henceforth as miss thoroughly but to deliver my message I came and I crave your imperial your American pardon if I feel that to persist is necessary thoroughly sat down largely for need of support Alice followed her example the men remain standing as rigidly as soldiers you have a message thoroughly inquired and she felt how weak was the question I should be sorry indeed to interfere in the discharge of your duties it was a skillful speech claiming nothing consenting to as much as the agent of her cigar that chose to believe beneath her breath Alice said Bravo little girl you're a wonder her wink appeared enormously relieved your graciousness is overwhelming he told her gravely having feared for the failure of his mission I bears a message that's the imperial government of her to gossip is exceedingly distressed at the unexampled disappearance and absence of her highness of the princess their vineyard from the kingdom and to beg her and all humility to return at the earliest possible moment thoroughly could have smiled had the situation not presented the gravest of phases from the viewpoint of the special agent from a Germanic principality she could see no open course but that of continuing a species of candor that if it slightly but harmlessly misled these visitors would at least not jeopardize Alice and make her ridiculous I fear I may not promise at this time to leave New York or America she said I trust my declaration will in no way compass your discredit with your superiors but said the eager wank over importing it in his worry if you could but realize of calamity its proportions the uneasiness the fears think of the many disasters that may result should your absence be longer continued already your fiance the grand duke of sex herzenheimer has likewise disappeared perhaps to cross the oceans that he may find you and induce your return I knew he disappeared I knew I read said thoroughly checking a speech she felt might contribute too much to the agents uneasiness but I do not expect to see am I assure you I mean I'm exceedingly sorry you have been occasioned so much anxiety and I wish I might relieve it but I cannot think of going to her to go out there but not to see him if he shall arrive said the desperately concerned hair wank horrified anew with the increasing disasters in the recalcitrance of the princess whose conduct was immeasurably distressing is not his royal regard the gravity of the alliance if he shall not induce your return but hope has her to gossip both Alice and thoroughly were amply aware of his mental and patriotic agony their sympathy could scarcely have been withheld so fearfully earnest was his pain but he may not come said thoroughly really I I know nothing of his movements at all nothing save what the papers here have printed they have the reason to believe he is soon to arrive here when conformed her decisively if it is only your promise I may takes that you will grant him audience should he present himself I shall a little feel encouraged and much experience gratification thoroughly glanced at Alice who having at first view feared the danger of such a contra tent and almost as swiftly concluded that the Duke should he come would be the last to divulge the facts which of course he must instantly discover her nod was the slightest possible gesture of the head the eyes of hair wank and his companion were fixed be seeking Leon thoroughly she faced them again a lovely flush of color creeping round her throat to inundate her cheeks if he wishes to come and see me here perhaps he may she answered tremulously tingling an alarm to the prospect but you may be disappointed by the results but your love of the fatherland said wink passionately his eyes and voice abruptly fuddled with tears your ever son nobility of character your loyalty to all that is good and beautiful Z's you cannot abandon some exalted purpose you are doubtless serving but the call of the homeland so whispers of ancestors long silent and honorable graves the voice of her to Gauss's traditions the love of your people Z's Z's you cannot help but hear and your heart must answer turn again and your longing take you home he broke down and Thurley and Alice were profoundly affected his evident anxiety and country love were singularly poignant his comrades still stared straight ahead his face galvanically twitching there was silence for a minute which seemed tremendously protracted forgive me if I have aired begged the man controlling his emotions by an effort it was my heart that spoke not my office this your promise to see your noble fiance should he appear I'm content he advanced and kneeling by the chair where Thurley had suddenly risen took her hand in both of his and once more raised it to his lips and when they were gone leaving visions of the profoundest bows and a backing out of the door Alice and Thurley stood still and motionless groping for wits a trifle scattered who then a characteristic Alice's and snap the tension who she said the soup thickens Alice said Thurley what on earth are we going to do Alice smiled and shrugged her shoulders wait till we come to the bridge before we cross it but if this grand duke of something or other would know in a minute there is nothing royal in my blood I am not at all convinced of that said Alice Sajely but whatever he discovers mark my word he will keep to himself Thurley was silent for a moment poor hair wank she finally observed it seems too bad to let him deceive himself so utterly but what in the world could I do where do you suppose the real Princess Thurvinia is hiding how long was she keep it up is the question that bothers me said Alice honestly as it is at present we are having all the fun yes said Thurley and her philosophic wisdom and we may have to pay all the price her speech was amazingly prophetic end of chapter 21 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 22 lady bountiful Saturday morning brought Thurley a second letter from her cousin it was short and weakly scrolled but yet suffice to arouse a deep and insistent sense of shame in the breast of the generous girl her cousin was ill and in want she had been for a week almost abandoned too exhausted and afflicted to write and hopeless with loneliness and the barren prospect of the future she mentioned the fact that she had written before but feared the letter had failed to reach its destination should this one share a similar fate she knew not what to do a burning little accusation seared its way to Thurley's heart she had first neglected then forgotten that first appeal absolutely engrossed with the joys and ecstasies of her own altered circumstances she had carelessly permitted the lodgement of a heartless disregard of everyone else in the world she told herself severely for which she was heartily ashamed she resolved to go to Edith at once with material as well as personal comfort and then she realized the danger of overdoing the role of Lady Bountiful should she dare appear in any capacity save that of another fellow toiler with at most the savings of her hire the wise thing to do was to take the case to Alice this she did and that wide-hearted friend of the race was immediately ready with assistance you have never thrown away that suit you were well working for the major she said just put that on and James can drive you to the major's office all ask him to take you to the house where your cousin lives leaving you of course at the door and returning in half an hour at most to escort you away again but why not let me run over to Madison Avenue cars and go down there by myself said Thurley as long as I'm just a plain American girl why take all that needless trouble well very well said Alice take as much money as you like my dear so long as it doesn't appear unreasonable and try to induce your cousin to leave New York go to Lakewood or Atlantic City for an absolute change in rest tell her a friend of yours of a philanthropic turn of mine has heard her story and agreed to help you bear the expense a strange little feeling of impending fates attacked Thurley's heart as she put away her dainty morning costume roped herself like a drab Cinderella returning to her ashes and left the gorgeous palace for an excursion to a part of town long since abandoned to the needs of those to whom bear existence is a problem she bore two parcels in her arms one of fruit and one of flowers some way she felt as if something might occur whereby she would never more regain the splendid realm where chance and Alice had placed her how much she loved this newer life could scarcely have been reckoned to surrender it now would be almost more than her eager heart could support and yet she did not hesitate to continue on her way with her customary courage she did not know that barely behind her loitered a man whose business it was to keep her in view and report her every action to the woman of the ice cold eyes seen and dreaded at the horse show when she boarded the car the man had already swung to the step exciting no suspicion in her mind he sat half the car length away apparently reading a paper but never for a second failing to keep her in the focus of his vision when at last she rose to a light at one of the overcrowded streets between 14th and 23rd the shadow departed by the exit at the front of the car and managed to let her overtake and pass him before he moved when he crossed the street and appeared to be studying the numbers of the houses as he quietly followed when she rang it and entered the door at one of the old-fashioned brownstone houses in a room of which her cousin was slowly convalescing from nervous complications and fever the man in the street all eagerness to inform his confederates of Thurley's whereabouts dared not for a moment leave the neighborhood lest she presently emerge from the building and be lost at once to view Thurley found mystic much reduced yet able to be up and about the house in a languid dispirited manner Edith was thoroughly astonished to see her thus appear having written as before to new Haven in the absence of definite knowledge as to where her cousin might be found why thoroughly she cried when the door opened admitting her rosy cheek visitor oh I never was so glad to see anybody in my life and breaking down at once she cried uncontrollably thoroughly meantime having quickly advanced to throw her arms supporting at Lee about her and draw her snugly against your sympathetic bosom there there she said coaxingly you poor dear girl I just got your letter this morning it came to the office so I asked permission to come just as soon as I could Edith was older than herself and only girlish now in her helplessness yet to neither girl did the situation seem the least incongruous Thurley was so entirely her cousin superior I didn't think I had a friend in the world said Edith continuing weak and shaken by the sobs of her sudden relaxation from the courage with which she had fought out her lonely battle I wrote you once before but the letter must have gone astray I saw someone a little like you and thought I'd give the world just to look at you again then I became ill I thought I should die and wished I might the world is so full of women that nobody needs but I won't be leguberous Thurley I really won't God bless you for coming so quickly a new tide of shame swept upward from Thurley's heart thus to be praised where she should be blamed but she sat her cousin down and kissed away her tears then started a lively fuselod of cheers and questions while tearing the paper from three giant chrysanthemums and plunging their stems into a vase of broken crockery that stood on a dingy mantel shelf it's a wonder we haven't met before she said I began to work in downtown office away back in the early part of the summer but a lot of the writing was the sort I could do at home and I was lonely too and trying to save my salary as much as possible so I didn't attempt to go out very much and New York is a great big place anyway and horrid some parts of it and you've got to promise me right this minute you'll go down to the Lakewood or Atlantic City for a lady I know insisted upon it the very first thing when I told her about you this morning and I brought you the money to pay all expenses for six or eight weeks or more Edith sat up and stared thoroughly ruckston she gasped what in the world are you talking about I'd like to know I go away like that certainly said thoroughly don't you want to Edith almost collapsed upon her breast and happiness and the sudden vanishment of struggle she cried again but softly now and in a manner to comfort her being you're taking your own precious money she said if you are you shat I'll never budge a step for I know how hard it is to earn I'm not said thoroughly who had never felt a sense of actual ownership in the fortune placed at her order in the bank if you don't accept this offer cheerfully and bravely recognizing one woman's right in helping another I shall be ashamed ever to ask the giver again and you don't know what you may spoil for other girls it seems too good to be true said Edith attempting a wistful smile what good would it do if I took your earnings thoroughly and then later on you should be in this condition yourself she waved her hand weekly to indicate the shabbiness of the apartment will not talk about that was thoroughly's answer I've been halfway promised that you shall have an easy position at a decent salary whenever you're well enough to come back to New York and accept it but the very first thing is to get you out of here and off where the change will be complete if you think you can go this afternoon the fairy godmother said she'd send round a carriage to drive you to the station I'll send you in a number of things she said you'd better have again Edith stared in one incredulity her hollow eyes big with astonishment why but think of think of the money all that mean she exclaimed how does it happen how did you find her think of the trust she must have in thoroughly she must love you I'm sure love you dearly as everyone does you've ever known perhaps you can't tell me much about her they so rarely wish to be known but oh I think it's beautiful to be loved as they all love you thoroughly remain for about two hours and departed then at Edith's reiterated wish the girl who had found the world so hard was over solicitous lest her cousin abuse the privilege granted by some generous employer who had released her for the morning recurrent waves of conscious guilt at her inability to be absolutely frank and honest a little marred Thurley's pleasure and nod rather deep especially at her cousin's appreciation of all she was attempting at last to do nevertheless the affection she bestowed was genuine as her sympathy was true and when she had gone she was happier by far than for any day since Edith's first letter had come with lavish hand and a purse of magic resourcefulness she ordered outfits to be sent to the house that had harbored care she was followed persistently wherever she traveled by the man who had hung upon her trail when at length she went home a tired gleeful little person with at least the heart of a happy princess in her bosom the man was tremendously relieved he hastened the way at once to report the unusual occurrences which supplied the first hope to a little clique of beings abnormally engrossed in the movements and doings of Alice van Kirk's protege Edith departed in the afternoon but not before a representative delegated by the clique in question had made an excuse to call offer further aid and friendship and thereby secure in Thurley's cousin a possible agent for future exploitation a woman wholly unknown to Miss Steck was then instructed to follow the girl to Lakewood whether she was going and remain there keeping her constantly in view and if possible gain her trust and friendship Edith had agreed to write to her cousin at major Fips address and thereby hangs a tale Alice having for some unknown reason undergone a certain worry in Thurley's absence was not only inordinately pleased to see a return in such excellent spirits but was likewise thoroughly glad that Edith Steck was to go well she must rest for at least two months she said at the end of Thurley's story New York and she are better far apart she might even secure a nice position down there in the pines I think perhaps she will she made a note of the possibility which there upon became a highly probable development when the moment should advise that Edith Steck had better be detained away from the kingdom of Princess Thirvinia End of Chapter 22 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 Ruxton by Philip Viral Miguel Chapter 23 The Soup Thickens More The next few days developed a number of factors excitements and skirmishes leading toward things climatic Thurley and Alice had never been so completely engrossed with social functions and versions. On two successive nights they attended the opera both occasions being notable for brilliance and increasing furor of the socially elect over the many appearances of the princess the persistence with which Alice Van Kirk evaded any and all illusions to her guest's identity and the unanimous infatuation of all the men permitted to come within her. Annoyances by the daily press sufficiently persistent from the first were rapidly multiplied as reporters, camera demons and ridiculous rumors hung upon Thurley's movements night and day. Despite it all she rode her horse three mornings fairly early accompanied by her groom on two excursions the hour she chose was one in which the park was practically occupied by the smarter set who frequently ride for display but the newspaper men were on hand and the second morning while on the third Kelsey Woods accidentally appeared in the saddle path galloped to her side and improved the opportunity for which she had longed with a cheer she could not have discouraged. The news of Woods clever duly to the ears of Thurley's other suitors and aroused a storm of jealousy and counter-scheming. Faishi was irritated. Gaylord was particularly incensed. The Count was no rider but feared and hated horses. While the college man felt that his special license granting him exclusive rights had been unwarrantably violated. The tax and diplomacy of both Alice and Thurley were taxed to the utmost to maintain an armistice and avert interscene strife. Almost like apportionments of pie the hours of Thurley's day and evening were sliced and awarded to their clamorous swains to keep them from ravening starvation. To Faishi fell a night with Thurley at the opera. Gaylord drove with the princess in her own Victoria six or eight times round the park. Stiverant came to dine at the royal palace and sat with Thurley alone for nearly an hour afterwards. The Count during the long and passionate love scene depicted in Tristan and Esold made a murmured declaration of his burning love and demanded Thurley's hand in marriage. Gaylord, oblivious to all the world of carriages and people about them, announced his disgust with all her other various suitors reminded Thurley of their past relationship and desired her consent forthwith to an announcement of their engagement. Stiverant alone of the three behaved himself like a rational being. How she had parried the thrust of the Count's Vesuvian flames or the jibes of Gaylord's resentful impatience Thurley scarcely could have told. She only knew that Faishi had become intolerable. The maker of college widows, impossible and that neither had received satisfaction though neither had been further incensed or even made wholly hopeless or unmolefied. In such a game as she was playing and engaged with such elements as Gaylord and his business partner presented such timid and gentlemanly curtears as Stetson, the Bow, the Captain, Dearborn, and even Kelsey Woods were hopelessly distanced. Had it not been for her constant intercessions in their behalf on the part of Alice these less aggressive suitors with half a dozen more of similar caliber must have suffered all but absolute annihilation. Stiverant, occupying a position unique among them all yet unaware of the sheer relief with which Thurley turned to him as often as the game would permit, continued to be sorely puzzled by it all while plunging more and more helplessly in love with the girl to whom he felt he had been guided by the fates. There were times when it seemed impossible to acquit her of utter heartlessness times when he felt convinced that she had come to America not to make an alliance but merely to practice arts grown weary in conquest at the court of Herzegotha and if it should prove that she was merely amusing herself with them all himself included to see how beauty, graciousness impulsive generosity or any other of her many bewitching qualities could sufficiently excuse her conduct. Nevertheless he confessed to himself that he had rather have known her even thus than never to have met her at all. Meantime, independently of Thurley's actions or wishes in the matter Faishi and Gaylord were arming for a bitter struggle that bore on events not yet even shadowed in the day each having recognized in the other an insistent and tenacious rival for Thurley's final favor had determined to exercise any possible advantage for his opponents overthrow. The difference between the Anglo-Saxon and the Latin temperament was herein nicely illustrated. They were business associates working together for a common end that should benefit them both. This to Gaylord was entirely apart from their sentimental battle and sacred to business ethics and honor. To Faishi it was one more element for a possible crushing of his enemy. Gaylord would have felt entire justification in attacking the count from a moral or physical viewpoint and leaving him with either a crippled body or a shattered reputation while still maintaining the strictest scruples in their deal which centered in the street. The Spanish Italian on the other hand was already deliberately planning his rival's financial ruin through treachery to their business agreement. He would gladly have stripped of name, honor, funds or physical prowess and to some such end he was bending all his forces fiercely determined as he was to win the object of his covetous passions. Wednesday of the eventful week was scheduled for developments disturbing and sensational. Thoroughly returned to the avenue home at four in the afternoon from a drive with Lady Honor Calthrupp and Kelsey Woods expecting to dress for afternoon tea and be driven to a rendezvous with Alice that they might proceed together to Mrs. Ashley Duane's. She found a note on her table addressed in the once familiar hand of Acton Gaylord. It was brief but charged with significance. You evaded my proposal and gave me no definite answer in the park. I wish to know once and for all without delay will you be my wife. My sort of love can endure no more of this suspense and torture with vivid memories of the things that have been ever indulgently and lovingly yours, Acton. The threat was there veiled but nonetheless apparent to her keen perceptive faculties and thoroughly was perturbed to the depths of a girlish timid heart. She had hoped to postpone this to definite issue, hold Gaylord away as she held the others according to her promise made to Alice. Her impulse from the first had been to tell him precisely what he was and dismiss him forever from her life. She realized her helplessness, however, and the power of his knowledge of the past. She was vexed and frightened together, loathing the man for attempting to take this advantage of the situation, yet afraid to answer to his curt demand with the scorn and indignation that he had always merited. She was wholly unstrung, especially in the absence of Alice in whom she had learned to lean for the wisdom and calm of her ripened worldliness. She still stood unmoving the letter in her hand while her maids Annette and Sophie were patiently awaiting her pleasure to be dressed when one of the servants knocked at the door and delivered a card which Sophie received and carried it once to her mistress. She finally felt a new sensation of wonder on the card was written in a woman's hand. Countess Visiano E. Faiishi she turned to her maid wholly unable to understand the meaning of the situation. You're sure this card was for me? Yes, mademoiselle. Await as something ominous occurring oppressively in the air. A sense as of disturbing revelations or even menace in this unexpected visit took possession of her mind who the Countess could be and what the purpose of her appearance thus were beyond her powers of conjecture. She reflected rapidly that a scene might be impending and a feverish wish for Alice increased her indecision. Flashes of intuition laid bare startling thoughts in swiftly moving progression whence unexpectedly came her courage and even a desire to behold this mysterious visitor she could not herself have determined. She merely knew abruptly that to see this Countess might even be a duty to them all. You may wait, she said to the expectant maids and proceeded lightly down the stairs. A moment later she entered the reception room, a small dark-eyed young woman flaming both inwardly and outwardly rose from a chair to confront her. End of Chapter 23 This is a Libre Box recording. All Libre Box recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibreVox.org Recording by Paul Hansen Thoroughly Ruxton by Philip V. Miguel Chapter 24 A Singular Alliance For a moment Thoroughly and her visitor stood face to face each taking as it were the measurement of the other. Thoroughly was first to speak. You wish to see me? The breath of the Countess was coming rapidly as the agitated rise and fall of her bosom sufficiently advertised. She spoke in French. You are Princess Thervinia known here in New York as Miss Thoroughly? I am known here in New York as Miss Thoroughly certainly. Do you not speak English? Thoroughly answered. Will you not be seated and state your errand with me as promptly as possible? The young woman made no response to either query. She stared at the Princess with blazing resentful eyes while her colour disappeared robbing her face of something suggestive of damask smoothness, bloom and texture. She was on the whole with a pecan detractiveness that was emphasized by a nose slightly retrosay and a vivid bit of coral mouth. You are very beautiful, she said, as if reluctantly admitting an inescapable fact or even making an accusation. What right have you to follow my husband to America? He is my husband and you shall not entice him away. Thoroughly elevated her brows. Who is he then? If you refer to Count Faishi you know I refer to Count Faishi interrupted the fiery little parcel of Galicism. Do you think Countess Faishi shall be his mother? Do I look like that? He shall be my husband all. He is not to be shared with any German princess. You will find I am not so small in my rights. Thoroughly was far from being odd. She might have been near to amusement had not the affair partaken of too much gravity. I have no wish to share your husband, she said. I was not aware he had a wife nor have I followed anyone here from Europe. Magnificent scorn was masked upon the pecan't little face. Ah! With all this land is talking of his madness for yourself? Perhaps you will deny you are Princess Thervinia whose golden haired spell was cast about him on the continent? I am sorry if you do not believe what I say said Thoroughly quietly. I am glad you came. Glad to know the Count is married. Glad to tell you I despise him. Dislike him exceedingly more than ever now since this reveals him in a new and unsuspected meanness of spirit. I will give you any comfort you desire so far as he is concerned. Her visitor gazed at her almost blankly so vast was her incredulity. Despise him? Any woman despise him? She said. With his soul, his fire, his sentiment then she suddenly broke down and wept as pent heaven sometimes weep when a storm has masked their tears. You are beautiful, she repeated, but I believe you. I want your help. I came for your assistance not to accuse to implore. I am not so beautiful as you, but yet I love him. Perhaps this is my casunos. I must love him nevertheless. I would die for his joy. He is more needful to me than my soul. More to be desired than salvation if you do not love him tell him so drive him away and he will come to me for the kisses he says are sweet. You will despise him princess, you will promise this? With all my heart said thoroughly honestly, what so ever may seem to be my attitude you may be sure I shall despise him and do all in my power to send him away as soon as possible. It shall be soon implored the thoroughly altered little being. I am his true and lawful wife though he wished to divorce me through a purchase dispensation. Thoroughly felt a woman's sympathy welling in her breast for this desperately tortured little countess, even as something akin to rage or indignation at Faiishi surged in her veins she continued upon the subject now for the gratification of both emotions. You were married broad? In Paris and three months later he saw you princess and I have hated you till now. You came with him here to New York? I came alone, declared the little being, dashing away her tears of resentment at the treatment of which her husband had been guilty. He shall not know that I am here till you sent him away and in his wounded heart for the soothing of my love. Perhaps you will help me let me know when you shall tell him to depart. Perhaps I may, said Thoroughly. Will you trust me a little? Give me time, believe me though I may find myself obliged to see him even frequently again. If you shall not learn to love him, said the countess smiling wistfully, I can wait nearly all my life. I can almost wait to have him at last in heaven, but Mary forgive me. This life is a little more sure. You will surely continue to hate him always as now. Perhaps even more was Thoroughly's answer. I'd like to be your friend. She offered her hand with another burst of uncontrollable tears. The little flame incarnate sank on her knees as she took it and pressed it against her cheek. I came to hate and I must love you, she said. To think I can be so glad to leave all my happiness, my hope, my life in your keeping. You will not forget. I know she staggered to her feet and went blindly groping the door. End of Chapter 24