"I gather, sir," said the General, "that the Prince has been preparing himself very thoroughly for the work of the coming Commission, making personal investigations, mixing daily with the people in the very poorest districts. Of course it was the duty of the detective service to know of it and to take what steps they could to insure his safety. I am told that what actually happened was that on one occasion his Royal Highness went to the aid of the police, hard pressed by a gang of rioters; and he was injured in the general melee. It all took place in a moment and of course no one had any idea that he would involve himself in it. When he was picked up by the detectives he gave a certain address." Here the Comptroller assumed an air of the utmost discretion. "To that address he was taken; and there I believe, sir, still remains." "Dear, dear," said the King, "very distressing, very unfortunate. I had hoped all that was over." "There is no reason, sir, to doubt that he has been properly looked after; certificated nurses have been in attendance, and at no time was there any danger." "And how much of this has got into the papers?" "Nothing, sir, as to the origin of the affair; but there have been some interrogations as to his Highness's present whereabouts, and an idea is abroad that he is not where the Court circular continues to say he is. Of course, when such rumors creep out there are also undesirable suggestions, which it would be well to put a stop to as soon as possible. I am glad to hear from your Majesty that the Prince intends coming back into residence. I have been in communication with his secretary, but I have not that gentleman's confidence and he has told me nothing." "Well," said the King, "at all events the cause of it all--however much the result of indiscretion--was quite reputable." "Oh, quite." "Commendable even." "I am told that his Highness showed great dash and determination." Yet whatever he had been told, there was embarrassment in the General's manner. "Very well, then," said the King, "if there is any more tittle-tattle--in the press, I mean--you might let the facts be known; surely they ought to strike the popular imagination; and I'm sure the police need all the support we can give them just now." The General hesitated. "Would not that tend somewhat to prejudice his Highness's position as an impartial head of the Commission? Talking to the workers themselves, before the sittings have yet begun, has a certain air of _parti pris_. Some of the Commission, I fear, would not like it." "To tell the truth," said the King, "I very much doubt whether the Prince will serve upon that Commission at all. He will probably be called elsewhere."