"I am surprised that you do not recognise the general," he remarked. "This is his Highness the Prince Savanoff, who has just returned from special service in the Caucasus. He is at present occupying an appointment at the Imperial Court." "That's all right," murmured Petroff. The jeweller was almost overcome with confusion at the slip he had made. Not to be familiar with the name of Prince Savanoff--the illustrious soldier whom all Russia was honouring just then on account of his distinguished services in the Caucasus--indicated a quite abysmal ignorance. "Of course, I recognise his Excellency's name," he protested, humbly. "I had not, however, seen a photograph of the Prince." Major Romanoff bent his brows. "The Prince is as modest as he is brave. On this account he has never permitted his portrait to appear in the papers." "Ten thousand apologies," exclaimed the contrite Mr. Gorshine. "And now, sir, is there anything else I can have the honour of showing you?" "I will inquire," said the other, as he shook Petroff by the shoulder. "Is your Highness satisfied with what you have already chosen? If so, perhaps I had better take the jewels to the palace and let her Highness, your wife, decide which she will retain. Then, when I return, you can pay Mr. Gorshine for what she wishes to keep." "All right," muttered Petroff. The adjutant turned to the smiling jeweller. "Very well, then. As time presses, I will start at once. His Excellency and Captain Marckovitch will remain here to await my return. The carriage is outside, and I can get to the palace and back in less than half an hour. Please pack everything up very carefully." "Certainly, sir. If her Highness would like me to change any of these ornaments for others I shall be only too pleased to do so. Might I also beg, sir, that you will use your influence with the Prince to secure me an appointment as jeweller to the Court? Perhaps his Excellency would sign my application now?" The major shrugged his shoulders and glanced at the somnolent Petroff. "I'm really afraid," he answered, in a low tone, "that his Highness is scarcely in a condition to sign anything at this moment. Still, I will remember the matter. I should prefer, however, to speak to the Princess about it first. After all, these jewels are for her, you know." "Quite so," was the prompt reply. "I will not detain you any longer." As he spoke the manager picked up the velvet-lined cases and followed the adjutant to the carriage. When it disappeared from sight he went back into the shop, full of delight at the excellent stroke of business he had accomplished. "A charming afternoon, your Excellency," he remarked. Petroff gave vent to a long-drawn-out snore and dropped his head on the counter.