est
food, these are enough for me. It leaves the brain clear to handle the
tremendous affairs of state that engross our attention. Where is King
William?" the other went on.

"Oh, he'll be along after awhile. Perhaps, prince, after you have
partaken of our simple fare and rested by our friendly fire a little
time, the king may join you."

Frank managed to keep a sober face while speaking in this lofty way, but
Bluff and Jerry, unable to stand it any longer, turned their backs on
the couple.

Evidently the lunatic was very hungry, in spite of his possession of an
"iron will." He kept turning a wistful eye toward the fire where the
frightened black cook was hustling coffee and ham and eggs for his
benefit. And indeed, there was such an appetizing odor in the air that
several times Mr. Smithson raised his head and looked longingly over the
bushes as though he wished things would move faster, so he could come
into camp and get his share.

When the food was placed before him the man ate ravenously. The boys
afterwards learned that he had not tasted a bite for two days, and they
wondered at his having shown even as much patience as he did.

Just as Mr. Smithson had said, the escaped lunatic became drowsy as soon
as he finished eating.

"Let me fix a nice cot for you here, prince. When the king arrives you
shall be awakened, all right," said Frank, soothingly.

The man looked trustingly at him, so that Frank felt a little qualm of
conscience over the fact that he had to deceive him.

"You are very kind, young sir. Indeed, I believe I am weary, and
perhaps a nap would refresh me. If Napoleon sends out a flag of truce
notify me at once," and he settled down on the warm blankets with a
sigh of pleasure.

"Depend on it, such shall be done," replied Frank, turning away; for he
had by this time reached the limit of his endurance, and if compelled to
keep this thing up much longer must have betrayed himself by laughter.

In ten minutes he flew a handkerchief as a signal that the warden
could come in.

Mr. Smithson grinned as he joined them.

"It was well done, my boy. You would sure make an actor, all right. And
now, for fear lest he slip me, I'll have to nab him," he said.

"Do you want any help, sir?" queried Frank.

"Oh! I reckon not. When he sees that I've got him he'll be as meek as a
lamb. He looks on me as a jealous German general desirous of keeping him
out of touch with the king. Watch now."

He bent over