Perhaps the form of aristocracy most worthy of admiration is that time-honoured institution of pre-eminent families, the Scottish clan, the Hebrew tribe--" Claudius overheard and opened his eyes.

It seemed to him that Barker was talking nonsense.

Margaret smiled, for she knew her companion well, and understood in a moment that the American had discovered her hobby, and was either seeking to win her good graces, or endeavouring to amuse himself by inducing her to air her views.

But Claudius returned to the charge.
"What is it to be, Countess ?" he asked.

"Am I to take up arms and sail out and conquer the universe, and bring it bound to your feet to do you homage; or shall I go back to my turret chamber in Heidelberg ?" "Your simile seems to me to be appropriate," said Margaret.