"I do," Allard declared, taking a step toward Adrian and throwing back his head obstinately. "It is not fit for the Emperor to go on the streets to-night. Sire, I have talked with Captain Alisov of the guards and with Zaliski of the secret police, and it is a seething frenzy of excitement out there. This morning's attack has brought to the surface the most dangerous elements in the capital. To-morrow all may be under control, but to-night it is not fit." "Your affectionate solicitude overwhelms me, Allard," Adrian retorted. The irony and the allusion brought Allard's color, but he maintained his position. "Sire, I state a fact. There is real and serious danger in such a drive this evening. I beg you to consider seriously the event occurring at noon." "I am not Feodor; the attack was on him. Let him keep his house if the people make it necessary." This of the adored Regent, for whom the whole Empire mourned in bitter regret! It was too much. "Sire, the attack this morning was intended for you," Allard flung with exasperated bluntness. "When the assailant saw the Grand Duke, he shouted directions how to prevent the explosion. It was meant for you; all the court and city know it." Adrian stood quite still, looking from one to the other. Aghast at the introduction of rude truth, not venturing to deny what could be verified, Dalmorov found no words. "For me?" the Emperor repeated. "Yes, sire. And for that I am amazed at Baron Dalmorov's willingness that you should go out." "It is safe," cried Dalmorov furiously. "If you are afraid, Monsieur Allard, of your own tales, ask to be left here and let me attend his Imperial Majesty." If the statement regarding the morning had made any impression on Adrian, he shook it off as soon as received. "So; suppose I adopt that suggestion, Allard?" he remarked. "Sire, if you go out I shall have the honor of going also." "If I choose that you shall," the Emperor replied. His eyes afire, Allard touched the star upon his coat. "If this gives me any claim to your consideration, sire, you will not refuse me the privilege of accompanying you. I did not speak for myself, indeed I think you scarcely believe so; I spoke because the imperial carriage will attract every eye and recognition will be certain. There is no one in the Empire for whom the worst districts would be so dangerous as the brightest avenues will be for you, sire." "You invited me out into that, Baron?" was the incredulous question. "Because it is safe, sire. Because the Regent keeps the secret police on guard and I informed--" he checked himself abruptly. The comprehension that rushed to Adrian's expression was far from pleased. "Oh; I was to go out for a private tour of observation, surrounded by the secret police. All my compliments, Dalmorov. It would doubtless have been safe, if somewhat misleading." "No, sire--"