The Degradation of Marlanx

"Aunt Fanny, what is that white thing sticking under the window?"
demanded Beverly late the next morning. She was sitting with her face to
the windows while the old negress dressed her hair.

"Looks lak a love letteh. Miss Bev'ly," was the answer, as Aunt Fanny
gingerly placed an envelope in her mistress's hand. Beverly looked at it
in amazement. It was unmistakably a letter, addressed to her, which had
been left at her window some time in the night. Her heart gave a thump
and she went red with anticipated pleasure. With eager fingers she tore
open the envelope. The first glance at the contents brought
disappointment to her face. The missive was from Count Marlanx; but it
was a relief to find that he was very much alive and kicking. As she
read on, there came a look of perplexity which was succeeded by burning
indignation. The man in the cloak was preparing to strike.

"Your secret is mine. I know all that happened in the chapel and
underground passage. You have betrayed Graustark in aiding this man to
escape. The plot was cleverly executed, but you counted without the
jealous eye of love. You can save yourself and your honor, and perhaps
your princess, but the conditions are mine. This time there can be no
trifling. I want you to treat me fairly. God help you if you
refuse. Give me the answer I want and your secret is safe, I will shield
you with my life. At eleven o'clock I shall come to see you. I have in
my possession a document that will influence you. You will do well to
keep a close mouth until you have seen this paper."