hunt when the light failed
until the following morning, and the interlude would direct their
attention to their unfortunate prisoners. If they found the treasure by
that time, it might be too late for us, but if they went on till
dark--I thought I saw light at last in these reflections. We must wait,
and act as soon as darkness fell.

One thing that gave me hope was that our guards showed no special
vigilance. I suppose this was partly because we were considered to be
safely disposed of, and partly because they were interested in the
progress of the search. Now and then one of them opened the door and
glanced in, shutting it again abruptly, to resume conversation with his
companion. We had been deprived of our weapons, and the outward windows
towards the deck were so small as to forbid the possibility of escape
that way, even had the intermittent visitations of our sentries been
wanting. Another thing encouraged me, which was, that we were free to
talk unheeded. What could the communion of helpless, unarmed prisoners
matter? I glanced at Legrand, who sat back, his eyes staring at the
ceiling, his arms folded, a deep frown bitten in his forehead.

"Legrand," I whispered. His eyes dropped to my level. "They will be
busy till dark. What about dusk?"

He stirred, and shifted towards me. "Odd. I've been thinking the same,"
he answered in a low tone. "We may have one more chance if we make it."

"We must make it," said I.

"I'll tell you what it is, Phillimore," said he. "There's something we
can't do without, in our circumstances, and I think I know where to
find it." He rose, and opened a cupboard in the wall, from which he
brought out a bottle of brandy, some glasses and some tinned foods.
"There's always been some kept here," he added. "And, as I live, a
knife, if only a jack-knife. Well, she'll do, man--first to open the
tins, and then----" He left his meaning in the air.

When the tins were opened, I endeavoured to persuade the Princess to
eat. She refused at first from lips of marble, but I used my authority
as a doctor.

"Come," I said with asperity, "you're under orders here, Princess. You
must do as you're told."

Her lips quivered. "I will try," she said in a strangled voice.

Mademoiselle had sat up some time ago and dried her tears. I think she
had worn herself out with that passion of weeping, and her nimble wits
began to flow again.

"You are right, doctor," she said. "It is well to eat, otherwise w