it.
As it was kept for state use, and might be serviceable in time of war, it
was closed with massive iron doors, which were kept locked except upon
certain occasions. The keys were at the seat of government at Plazac.
If, therefore, it had been possible to the Turkish marauders to gain
entrance and exit, it might be a difficult as well as a dangerous task to
try to cut the Voivode out. His presence with them was a dangerous
menace to any force attacking them, for they would hold his life as a
threat.

I consulted with the Vladika at once as to what was best to be done. And
we decided that, though we should put a cordon of guards around it at a
safe distance to prevent them receiving warning, we should at present
make no attack.

We made further inquiry as to whether there had been any vessel seen in
the neighbourhood during the past few days, and were informed that once
or twice a warship had been seen on the near side of the southern
horizon. This was evidently the ship which Rooke had seen on his rush
down the coast after the abduction of the Voivodin, and which he had
identified as a Turkish vessel. The glimpses of her which had been had
were all in full daylight--there was no proof that she had not stolen up
during the night-time without lights. But the Vladika and I were
satisfied that the Turkish vessel was watching--was in league with both
parties of marauders--and was intended to take off any of the strangers,
or their prey, who might reach Ilsin undetected. It was evidently with
this view that the kidnappers of Teuta had, in the first instance, made
with all speed for the south. It was only when disappointed there that
they headed up north, seeking in desperation for some chance of crossing
the border. That ring of steel had so far well served its purpose.

I sent for Rooke, and put the matter before him. He had thought it out
for himself to the same end as we had. His deduction was:

"Let us keep the cordon, and watch for any signal from the Silent Tower.
The Turks will tire before we shall. I undertake to watch the Turkish
warship. During the night I shall run down south, without lights, and
have a look at her, even if I have to wait till the grey of the dawn to
do so. She may see us; but if she does I shall crawl away at such pace
that she shall not get any idea of our speed. She will certainly come
nearer before a day is over, for be sure the bureau of spies is kept
advised, and they kno