"If she would but smile," thought Emma von der Tann, "she would

detract less from the otherwise pleasant surroundings, but I suppose

she serves her purpose in some way, whatever it may be."

There were papers, magazines and books upon the center table and

more books upon a low tier of shelves on either side of the

fireplace. The girl tried to amuse herself by reading, but she found

her thoughts continually reverting to the unhappy situation of the

king, and her eyes momentarily wandered to the cold and repellent

face of the Blentz princess.

Finally she wheeled a great armchair near the fireplace, and with

her back toward the portrait made a final attempt to submerge her

unhappy thoughts in a current periodical.

When Barney and his escort reached the apartments that had been

occupied by the king of Lutha before his escape, Butzow and the

soldiers left him in company with Dr. Stein and an old servant,

whom the doctor introduced as his new personal attendant.

"Your majesty will find him a very attentive and faithful servant,"

said Stein. "He will remain with you and administer your medicine at

proper intervals."

"Medicine?" ejaculated Barney. "What in the world do I need of

medicine? There is nothing the matter with me."

Stein smiled indulgently.

"Ah, your majesty," he said, "if you could but realize the sad

affliction that clouds your life! You may never sit upon your throne

until the last trace of this sinister mental disorder is eradicated,

so take your medicine voluntarily, or otherwise Joseph will be

compelled to administer it by force. Remember, sire, that only

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