Page:The Tsar's Window.djvu/257

 send a "modern antique" dealer into ecstasies. The cradle and toys of the young Romanoff have been preserved, as well as the book out of which he learned to read.

"I wonder why this door was made so low," said Judith, as we were obliged to bend our backs nearly double in passing from one room to another.

"The great man had a deal of trouble with his boyars," replied George. "They refused to make obeisance to him, therefore he had this door, by which they entered his presence, cut so low that they were obliged to stoop in passing through it."

"What an ingenious idea!"

The afternoon had worn away while we were thus engaged, and we now found it time to return to the hotel for dinner. In place of changing my dress, I have been writing my experiences.

I confess frankly that I am as much puzzled with myself as I am with George. Instead of being consumed with grief at the sorrow I am causing others, I find it quite pleasant to have two men in love with me. I am quite aware that my feelings are selfish to the last degree. How heartless I must be! When I am with George I prefer him; and when I am with Mr. Thurber I wonder how I could ever have liked George better.

There is one thing about the latter which is rather absurd: I could not marry him if I would, for he has never asked me! He takes it so for granted that I have no idea of caring for him that I am sure it would be awkward if I did care, for I should be obliged to tell