“Yes, one for you; two for the Ambassador,” said Jennie, with a laugh. “I should like further to flatter myself that your double generosity to the Ambassador arises solely from the dignity of his office, and is not in any way personal.” “I am very fond of ambassadors; they are courteous gentlemen who seem to have less distrust than is exhibited by some not so exalted.” “Distrust! You surely cannot mean that I have distrusted you, Princess?” “Oh, I was speaking generally,” replied Jennie airily. “You seem to seek a personal application in what I say.” “I admit, Princess, that several times this evening I have been completely at sea.” “And what is worse, Lord Donal, you have shown it, which is the one unforgivable fault in diplomacy.” “You are quite right. If I had you to teach me, I would be an ambassador within the next five years, or at least a minister.” The girl looked at him over the top of her fan, covert merriment lurking in her eyes. “When you visit Schloss Steinheimer you might ask the Prince if he objects to my giving you lessons.” Here there was another interruption, and the announcement was made that the United States Ambassador desired to renew his acquaintance with the Princess von Steinheimer. Lord Donal made use of an impatient exclamation more emphatic than he intended to give utterance to, but on looking at his companion in alarm, he saw in her glance a quick flash of gratitude as unmistakable as if she had spoken her thanks. It was quite evident that the girl had no desire to meet his Excellency, which is not to be wondered at, as she had already encountered him three times in her capacity of journalist. He not only knew the Princess von Steinheimer, but he knew Jennie Baxter as well. She leaned back in her chair and said wearily,-- “I seem to be having rather an abundance of diplomatic society this evening. Are you acquainted with the American Ambassador also, Lord Donal?” “Yes,” cried the young man, eagerly springing to his feet. “He was a prominent politician in Washington while I was there. He is an excellent man, and I shall have no difficulty in making your excuses to him if you don’t wish to meet him.” “Thank you so much. You have now an opportunity of retrieving your diplomatic reputation, if you can postpone the interview without offending him.” Lord Donal departed with alacrity, and the moment he was gone all appearance of languor vanished from Miss Jennie Baxter. “Now is my chance,” she whispered to herself. “I must be in my carriage before he returns.”