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 "Much farther advanced than you think. We have been working all the time this Russian scheme has been in progress, so that we should be ready when that reaches its climax. But matters will move faster now, and in a few weeks all should be prepared. It is a strong point that the very craft of General Kolfort itself has helped us. We have, as it were, a free hand for making our preparations. He is as anxious as we are that those Bulgarians who are opposed to the Prince, and would help me, but fear Russia, should be secured to us; and this has given us just the cover for our work that we needed. We shall triumph, Count, for the cause of truth is ours, and Bulgaria shall be free;" and her voice rang with earnestness.

I sat silent in thought for some moments.

"You have thought of the dangers to yourself?"

"I can but die, and where could one find a nobler end?" Her face shone with the light of willing martyrdom.

"You think the General has no suspicion?"

"He cannot have as yet. There will come a moment when his eyes will be opened, no doubt, and then the danger may be real enough. But I am prepared to face anything for the cause."

I thought of that moment, and my heart feared for her; but I knew of the other danger from that wild woman, the Countess Bokara; and I must put her on her guard.

"It is not of the dangers we must think, Count, but of the great end to be achieved," she added. "To dwell on nothing but risks may make cowards of the bravest."

"True; but we must at all events give enough heed to the dangers to be able to guard against them. Have