The Prisoner of Zenda

Book Excerpt: ...Oh no He's gone back to be present at the King's coronation; a ceremony which, I should say, he'll not enjoy much. But, Bert, old man, don't despair He won't marry the fair Antoinette--at least, not unless another plan comes to nothing. Still perhaps she--" He paused and added, with a laugh: "Royal attentions are hard to resist--you know that, don't you, Rudolf?""Confound you " said I; and rising, I left the hapless Bertram in George's hands and went home to bed.The next day George Featherly went with me to the station, where I took a ticket for Dresden."Going to see the pictures?" asked George, with a grin.George is an inveterate gossip, and had I told him that I was off to Ruritania, the news would have been in London in three days and in Park Lane in a week. I was, therefore, about to return an evasive answer, when he saved my conscience by leaving me suddenly and darting across the platform. Following him with my eyes, I saw him lift his hat and accost a graceful, fashion...