She told him something of the old political life of Vienna, continually agitated by some "Balkan Question"; of the general dislike of the "Heir," whose violent death at Sarajevo had been the death knell of European peace; apprehensions of the day when he should ascend the throne, for he was intensely clerical and reactionary. If he had survived until the old Emperor's death, and there had been no war, it was doubtful if there would not have been a "palace revolution" within six months of his succession. It was also possible that the people would have had their revolution, for they were becoming enlightened and discontented, and powerful men in the highest offices of the Government were in sympathy with them. "I suppose you mean this Prince Hohenhauer for one," said Clavering. "Hohenhauer believed that every throne in Europe would be overturned before the middle of the twentieth century, and that it was the part of wise leaders to prepare not only themselves but the people for a republican form of government. He had the greatest admiration for the principles on which this Republic was founded, and said that Europe was to be congratulated that we had made the mistakes for her to avoid. Much as the rest of the world congratulates itself that Bolshevism was tried out in Russia and made a ghastly mess of improving the condition of the underdog before the masses in other countries had time to lose their heads. I've no doubt that he will be the next Chancellor of Austria, and that when he gets the reins of power in his hands, he'll keep a firm hold on them, which is more than any one else has done----" "What do you suppose has brought him to this country?" "I fancy he has come to obtain the moral support of the American Government in whatever plan he may have made for putting Austria on her feet again." "Have you any idea of what that plan may be?" Clavering was watching her intently, his ear attuned to every inflection of her voice. But her tones were as impersonal as if reciting a page out of ancient history, and her gaze was frank and direct. "I can only guess. Personally I should think his present plan would be an alliance with Bavaria and other South German States--a South German Confederacy. That would make a powerful combination, and as Bavaria has always hated Prussia, she would be the last to lend herself to any schemes of vengeance the north may cherish--particularly if she remains a republic. And, of course, she would assume her share of the Allied debt. . . . It would be a wonderful thing if it could be brought off. Vienna"--her eyes sparkled--"Vienna, of course, would be the capital--and again one of the great capitals of Europe. Perhaps the greatest." "Were you ever closely associated with Hohenhauer in any of his schemes?"