The Prince of Dawsbergen

Both Yetive and Beverly experienced an amazing sense of relief. They did
not stop to consider why or how he had returned to the castle
grounds. It was sufficient that he was actually there, sound, well, and
apparently satisfied.

"I dare say Count Marlanx will withdraw his infamous charge against our
guest," said Lorry, with deadly directness. Marlanx was mopping his damp
forehead. His eyes were fastened upon the figure of the guard, and there
was something like awe in their steely depths. It seemed to him that the
supernatural had been enlisted against him.

"He left the castle last night," he muttered, half to himself.

"There seems to be no doubt of that," agreed Gaspon, the grand
treasurer. "Colonel Quinnox reports his strange disappearance." Clearly
the case was a puzzling one. Men looked at one another in wonder and
uneasiness.

"I think I understand the situation," exclaimed Marlanx, suddenly
triumphant. "It bears out all that I have said. Baldos left the castle
last night, as I have sworn, but not for the purpose of escaping. He
went forth to carry Information to our enemies. Can anyone doubt that he
is a spy? Has he not returned to carry out his work? And now, gentlemen,
I ask you--would he return unless he felt secure of protection here?"

It was a facer, Yetive and Beverly felt as though a steel trap suddenly
had been closed down upon them. Lorry and Anguish were undeniably
disconcerted. There was a restless, undecided movement among the
ministers.

"Colonel Quinnox, will you fetch Baldos to the verandah at once?" asked
Lorry, his quick American perception telling him that immediate action
was necessary. "It is cooler out there." He gave Beverly a look of
inquiry. She flushed painfully, guiltily, and he was troubled in
consequence.