han reason held him in Edelweiss. He ventured several times
to the castle wall, but turned back resolutely. There was hope in his
breast that she might send for him; there was, at least, the possibility
of seeing her should she ride through the streets. Anguish, on the other
hand, visited the castle daily. He spent hours with the pretty Countess,
undismayed by the noble moths that fluttered about her flame, and he was
ever persistent, light-hearted and gay. He brought to Lorry's ears all
that he could learn of the Princess. Several times he had seen her
and had spoken with her. She inquired casually after the health of his
friend, but nothing more. From the Countess he ascertained that Her
Highness was sleeping soundly, eating heartily and apparently enjoying
the best of spirits--information decidedly irritating to the one who
received it second-hand.

They had been at the hotel for over a week when one afternoon Anguish
rushed into the room, out of breath and scarcely able to control his
excitement.

"What's up?" cried Lorry. "Has the Countess sacked you?"

"Not on your coin! But something is up, and I am its discoverer. You
remember what you said about suspecting Prince Gabriel of being the
chief rascal in the abduction job? Well, my boy, I am now willing to
stake my life that he is the man." The news-bearer sat down on the edge
of the bed and drew the first long breath he had had in a long time.

"Why do you think so?" demanded the other, all interest.

"Heard him talking just now. I didn't know who the fellow was at first,
but he was talking to some strange-looking soldiers as I passed. As soon
as I heard his voice I knew he was Michael. There isn't any question
about it, Lorry. I am positive. He did not observe me, but I suppose
by this time he has learned that his little job was frustrated by two
Americans who heard the plot near the castle gates. He has nerve to come
here, hasn't he?"

"If he is guilty, yes. Still, he may feel secure because he is a
powerful prince and able to resent any accusation with a show of force.
Where is he now?"

"I left him there. Come on! We'll go down and you can see for yourself."

They hurried to the corridor, which was swarming with men in strange
uniforms. There were a few Graustark officers, but the majority of the
buzzing conversationalists were dressed in a rich gray uniform.

"Who are these strangers?" asked Lorry.

"Oh, I forgot to tell you. Prince Lorenz is also h