ort. He will
attempt to starve us into submission first; but he will not destroy
property if he can help it. I have been as brief as possible. Lieutenant
Haddan has told us quite lately of a remark you made which he happened
to overhear. If I quote him correctly, you said to the Englishman Hobbs
that you could get away with it, meaning, as I take it, that you could
succeed in reaching John Tullis. The remark interested me, coming as it
did from one so resourceful. May I not implore you to tell us how you
would go about it?"

Truxton had turned a brick red. Shame and mortification surged within
him. He was cruelly conscious of an undercurrent of irony in the
Premier's courteous request. For an instant he was sorely crushed. A low
laugh from the opposite side of the room sent a shaft to his soul. He
looked up. Vos Engo was still smiling. In an instant the American's
blood boiled; his manner changed like a flash; blind, unreasoning
bravado succeeded embarrassment.

He faced Count Halfont coolly, almost impudently.

"I think I was unfortunate enough to add that your men were going about
it--well, like amateurs," he said, with a frank smile. "I meant no
offense." Then he arose suddenly, adjusted his necktie with the utmost
_sang froid_, and announced:

"I did say I could get to John Tullis. If you like, I'll start
to-night."

His words created a profound impression, they came so abruptly. The men
stared at him, then at each other. It was as if he had read their
thoughts and had jumped at once to the conclusion that they were baiting
him. Every one began talking at once. Soon some one began to shake his
hand. Then there were cheers and a dozen handshakings. Truxton grimly
realised that he had done just what they had expected him to do. He
tried to look unconcerned.

"You will require a guide," said Colonel Quinnox, who had been studying
the _degage_ American in the most earnest manner.

"Send for Mr. Hobbs, please," said Truxton.

A messenger was sent post haste to the barracks. The news already was
spreading throughout the Castle. The chamber door was wide open and men
were coming and going. Eager women were peering through the doorway for
a glimpse of the American.

"There should be three of us," said King, addressing the men about him.
"One of us is sure to get away."

"There is not a man here--or in the service--who will not gladly
accompany you, Mr. King," cried General Braze quickly.

"Count Vos Engo is t