But all were eclipsed--even the thousand years of royal lineage of the Western King, Rupert's natural dower of stature, and the other Queen's bearing of royal dignity and sweetness--by the elemental simplicity of Teuta's Shroud.

Not one of all that mighty throng but knew something of her wonderful story; and not one but felt glad and proud that such a noble woman had won an empire through her own bravery, even in the jaws of the grave.
The armoured yacht, with the remainder of the signatories to the Balkan Federation, drew close, and the rulers stepped on board to greet the Western King, the Arbitrator, Rupert leaving his task as personal host and joining them.

He took his part modestly in the rear of the group, and made a fresh obeisance in his new capacity.
Presently another warship, _The Balka_, drew close.

It contained the ambassadors of Foreign Powers, and the Chancellors and high officials of the Balkan nations.

It was followed by a fleet of warships, each one representing a Balkan Power.