New-York tribune., 1909-11-28


1t was indeed, easy 10 concede that Alexis III.
was man apart from his people. Swarthy old
StampOH Prince Michael belgrade. the pink and
white Julius MarulItCh even the olive skinned oval
faced Beliani might have mingled with the thrOng
the platform and found each his racial kith and
kin; not Alec. His stature his carriage his fair
complexion, tanned brown with an open air life.
picked HIM out among these Balkan folk almost
distinctly a Polar bear would show among the
denizens Of an Indian jungle. Moreover, every man
of Importance wore some sort of uniform, whereas
Alec was quietly dressed in tweeds.
Thus, he drew many eyes, and evoked many
whispered comment; but never a woman IN
that crowded terminus harbOred the renOtest notion
that he belgrade. There were guesSes IN
plenty, wherein he ranged from English newspaper
correspondent TO Greek Prince, the latter Wild
theory originating IN the discovery OF his name on
the passport. StampOt ignored, and all went
well till Boslo, laden with pOrtmanteaus, led the way
TO the exit.
rled under his the sword of Ferdinand VII The
customs officials the barrier allowed the party
pass; but a shrewd visaged officer standing lust
side eyed Aecs package.
What have YOU there" he asked probably more
anxious 10 exchange word with this distinguished
looking stranger than really inquisitive.
n sword, said Alec.
And why are YOU carrying sword;' said the
other who seemed hardly 10 expect this prompt re-
ply in the vernaCuar
IL is a CURIOSITY a veritable antiaue'
Hal | must see it..
Come with me to Monsieur NeSImIrS house and
| will show 1t TO YOU.
The suspicious one became apologize since Mon
seur Nesimir was President of the National Assem-
bly,.
Il pray Your pardon" he said. Any friend of
the President passes unchallenged. But these are
trOublOus times IN koSnovia; So YOU understand -''
Exactly. Brains are far more useful than swords
in Delgratz to-day, and this, at the best IS but
gllded toy
CTAMPOFF already inside a closed carriage
and BoskO was holding the door open for Alec
who gave the driver clear instructions before he en-
tered The vehicle ratified of, and Stampoh swore
bluntly.
Gods | thought there would be a row he
grOwled. That fellow is Captain DrakovitCh. | re
member him well; he is all nose
Il shall appoint him sanitary Inspector" said
Alec, shifting
Stampoff laughed. NIw that they were fairly COM
mltted to Alec scheme he IN excellent spirits
BY the patr arch, you certainly believe in yourself
and am beginning 10 believe in youl" he vowed
But his faith was rudey shaken when Alec insisted
on sending his own card To NeSimir. That is a mad
thing he protested He will refuse to receive YOU
and hand you over 10 the guard
On the contrary, he will has en- 10 meet me-
Curiosity IS the most potent OF human attributes
Even Presidents yield 10 II. At this moment in all
likelihood, he IS struggling INTO frock coat"
A Lee was right a portly person. wearing. indeed
a trock coat, sash, and peg top trousers. aI,-
Peared IN the doorway OF the presidential mansion.
lie also wore an expression of deep amazement He
glanced from the tall smiling youth 10 the dirninu-
tive General on whom his eyes dwelt searchinplv
Yes, SAID Stampott abruptly speaking IN
French, Il am Paul Stampotf. shorn of his fleece
This IS the King, and he nodded 10 Alec.