 CHAPTER 24 OF GROWTHSTARK The Tableau lasted by the moment. Gabrielle advanced a few steps, his eyes gleaming with jealousy and triumph. Before him stood, the petrified lovers caught red-handed. Through her day's brain struggled with the conviction that he could never escape. Through his, ran the miserable realisation that he had ruined her forever. Gabrielle of all men. I arrived inopportunely, he said harshly, the veins standing out on his neck and temples. Do I intrude? I was not aware that you expected too, your Highness. There was no mistaking his meaning. He viciously sought to convey the impression that he was there by appointment. Gabrielle Klandon Stein, visitor in her apartments at midnight. What do you mean by coming to my apartment at this hour? She stammered, trying to rescue dignity from the chaos of emotions. Laurie was standing slightly to the right and several feet behind her. He understood the prince and quickly sought to interpose with the hope that he might shield her from the sting. She did not expect me, sir, he said, and a menacing bling came to his eyes. His pistol was in his hand. Gabrielle saw it, but the staring princess did not. She could not take her eyes from the face of the intruder. Now, may I ask why you are here? Gabrielle's wit saved him from death. He saw that he could not pursue the course he had begun, for there was murder in the American Zion. Like a fox he swerved, and with a civil promise of submission in his glance, said, I thought you were here, my fine fellow, and I came to satisfy myself. Now, sir, may I ask why you are here? His fingers twitched and his eyes were glassy with the malevolence he was subduing. I am here as a prisoner, said Laurie Bulgley. Gabrielle laughed derisively. And how often have you come here in this manner as a prisoner? Midnight and alone in the apartments of the princess, the guard dismissed. A prisoner, eh? Ha! What a prison! Stop! cried Laurie, white to the lips. The princess was beginning to understand. Her eyes grew wide with horror. Her figure straightened imperiously, and the white in her cheeks gave way to the red of insulted virtue. I see it all. You have not been outside this castle since you left the prison. A pretty scheme. You could not marry him, could you, eh? He is not a prince. But you could bring him here and hide him where no one would dare to think of looking for him in your apartments. With a snail of rage, Laurie sprung upon him, cutting short the sentence that would have gone through her like the king's knife blade. Liar! Dog! I will kill you for that! he cried. But before he could cut the princess's throat, yet he had frantically seized his arm. Not that, she shrieked. Do not kill him. There must be no murder here. He reluctantly hurled Gabrielle from him, the prince tottering to his knees, in the effort to keep from falling. She had saved her malignant life, but courage deserted her with the act. Helplessly she looked into the blazing eyes of her lover and faltered. I do not know what to say or do. My brain is bursting. Courage! Courage! He whispered gently. You shall pay for this, shrieked Gabrielle. If you are not a prisoner, you shall be. There will be scandal enough in Grawstar tomorrow to start a volcano of wrath from the royal tombs where lie her fathers. I'll say that you are a prisoner. He started for the door, but Laurie's pistol was leveled at his head. If you move, I'll kill you. The world will understand how and why I fell by your hand and in this room. Shoot! He cried triumphantly. Laurie's hand trembled and his eyes filled with the tears of impotent rage. The prince held the higher card. A face suddenly appeared at the door, which had been stealthily opened from without. Captain Quinnix glided into the room behind the prince and gently closed the door, unnoticed by the gloater. A prisoner sneered Gabrielle. Where is your captor? Pray. Here answered a voice at his back. The prince wheeled and found himself looking at the stalwart form of the captain of the guard. I am surely privileged to speak now, your highness. He went on, addressing the princess significantly. How came you here? Gasp to Gabrielle. I brought my prisoner here. Where should I be if not here to guard him? When? When did you enter this room? An hour ago. You were not here when I came. I had been standing on this spot for an hour. You had been very much excited. I'll agree, but it is strange you did not see me, Lord Quinnix. Gabrielle looked about helplessly, non-plussed. You were here when I came in, he asked, wonderingly. Ask your royal highness, commanded the captain, smiling. Captain Quinnix brought the prisoner to me an hour ago, she said mechanically. It is a lie, cried Gabrielle. He was not here when I entered. The captain of the guard laid a heavy hand on the shoulder of the prince and said, threateningly. I was here and I am here. Have a care how you speak. Where I to do right, I should shoot you like a dog. You came like a thief. You insult the ruler of my land. I have borne it all because you are a prince, but have a care, have a care. I have made to get myself and tear out your black heart with these hands. One word from her royal highness will be your death warrant. He looked inquiringly at the princess, as if anxious to put the dangerous witness where he could tell no tales. She shook her head, but did not speak. Laurie realised that the time had come for him to assert himself. Assuming a distressed air, he bowed his head and said dejectedly. My pleading has been in vain, then, your highness. I have sworn to you that I am innocent of this murder, and you have said I shall have a fair trial. That is all you can offer. That is all, she said frilly, her mind gradually grasping his menu. You will not punish the poor people who secreted me in their house for weeks, for they are convinced of my innocence. Your captain here, who found me in their house tonight, can also speak well of them. I have only this request to make, in return for what little service I may have given you. Forgive the old people who befriended me. I am ready to go to the tower at once, captain. Gabrielle heard this speech with a sceptical smile on his face. I am no fool, he said simply. Captain, shrewdly turning to Quinex. If he is your prisoner, why do you permit him to retain his revolver? The conspirators were taken by surprise, but Laurie had found his wits. It is folly, your highness, to allow this gentleman and conquering prince to cross examin' you. I am a prisoner, and that is the end of it. What odds is it to the prince of Dorsvergan, how and where I was caught, or why your officer brought me to you? You were ordered from my house once today, yet you come again like a conqueror. I should not spare you. You deserve to lose your life for the actions of tonight. Captain Quinex, were you killing if I ask you to end his wretched life? Yet his eyes were blazing with wrath, beneath which gleamed a hope that he could be frightened into silence. Willingly, willingly cried Quinex. Now, your highness, to a better in the hall. For God's sake, do not murder me, let me go, cringe the prince. I do not mean that you should kill him now, Quinex, that I instruct you to do so. If he puts foot inside these walls again, do you understand? Yes, your highness. Then you will place this prisoner in the castle dungeon until tomorrow morning, when he is to be taken to the tower. Prince Gabriel may accompany you to the dungeon cell if he likes, after which you will escort him to the gates. If he enters them again, you are to kill him. Take them both away. Your highness, I must ask you to write a pardon for the good people in whose house the prisoner was found, suggested Quinex, shrewdly seeing a chance for communication unsuspected by the prince. A moment, your highness, said the prince, who had recovered himself cleverly. I appreciate your position. I have made a serious charge, and I now have a fair proposition to suggest to you. If this man is not produced tomorrow morning, I take it for granted that I am at liberty to tell all that has happened in this room tonight. If he is produced, I shall kneel and beg your pardon. The princess turned paler than ever, and knew not how she kept from falling to the floor. There was a long silence following Gabriel's unexpected but fair suggestion. That is fair, your highness, said Laurie. There is no reason why I should not be a prisoner tomorrow. I don't see how I can hope to escape the inevitable. Your dungeon is strong, and I have given my word of honour to the captain that I shall make no further effort to evade the law. I agree, murmured the princess, ready to faint under the strain. I must see him delivered to Prince Belaris, added Gabriel mercilessly. To Belaris, she repeated, Your highness, the pardon for the poor old people, reminded Quinox. She glided to the desk, stunned bewildered. It seemed as though death were upon her. Quinox followed and bent near her ear. Do not be alarmed, he whispered. No one knows if Mr Laurie's presence here saved the prince. And if he dares to accuse you before Belaris, our people will tear him to pieces. No one will believe him. You can save him then, she gasped joyously. If he will permit me to do so, write to him that you will, your highness, and he shall have the message. Be brave and all will go well. Write quickly, this is supposed to be the pardon. She wrote feverishly a thousand thoughts arising for everyone that she was able to transfer to the paper. When she had finished, the hope-inspired scrawl she arose, then, with a gracious smile, handed to the waiting captain, the pardon for those who had secreted the fugitive. I grant forgiveness to them gladly, she said. I thank you, said Laurie, bowing low. Mr Laurie, I regret the difficulty in which you find yourself. It was on my account too, I am told. Be you guilty or innocent, you are my friend, my protector. May God be good to you. She gave him her hand calmly, steadily, as if she were bestowing favor upon a subject. He kissed the hand gravely. Forgive me for trespassing on your good nature tonight, your highness. The five thousand gabbos shall be yours tomorrow, Captain Quinox. She said graciously, you have done your duty well. The faithful captain bowed deep and low, and a weight was lifted from his conscience. Gentlemen, the door, he said, and without a word the trio left the room. She closed the door and stood like a statue until their footsteps died away in the distance. As one in the days she sat at the desk till the dawn, Grenfell Laurie's revolver lying before her. Through the halls, down the stairs, and into the clammy dungeon, strode the silent trio. But before Laurie stepped inside the cell, Gabriel asked a question that had been troubling him for many minutes. I am afraid I have misjudged her, muttered Gabriel, now convinced that he had committed himself irretrievably. You will find she has not misjudged you, said the prisoner, grimly. Can't I have a candle in here, Captain? You may keep this lantern, said Quinox, stepping inside the narrow cell. As he placed the lantern on the floor, he whispered, I will return in an hour, read this. Laurie's hand closed over the bit of perfume paper. The prince was now inside the cell, peering about furiously, even tomorrously. By the way, Your Highness, how would you enjoy living in a hole like this all your life? Horrible, said Gabriel, shuddering like a leaf. Then take my advice, don't commit any murders, hire someone else. The two men eyed each other steadily for a moment or two. Then the prince looked out at the cell, a mad desire to fly from some dreadful, unseen horror coming over him. Quinox locked the door and, striking a match, bade his highness proceed him up the stone steps. In the cell, the prisoner read and reread the incoherent message from Yeti. It is the only way Quinox will assist you to escape tonight. Go, I implore you, as you love me, go. Your life is more than all to me. Gabriel's story will not be entertained, and he can have no proof. He will be torn to pieces, Quinox says. I do not know how I can live until I am certain you are safe. This will be the longest night a woman ever spent. If I could only be sure that you will do as I ask, I beg and implore. Do not think of me, but save yourself. I would lose everything to save you. He smiled sadly as he burned the pardon. The concluding sentences swept away the last thought he might have had of leaving her to bear the consequences. Do not think of me, but save yourself. I would lose everything to save you. He leaned against the stone wall and shook his head slowly. The smile still on his lips. End of chapter 24. Chapter 25 of Grail Stark by George Barr McCutcheon. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Grail Stark by George Barr McCutcheon. Chapter 25. Because I love him. The next morning, Edelweiss was a stir early. Great throngs of people flocked the streets long before the hour set aside for the signing of the decree that was to divide the north from the south. There were men and women from the mountains, from the southern valleys, from the plains to the north and east. Sullen were the mutterings, threatening the faces, resentful the hearts of those who crowded the shops, the public places and the streets. Before nine o'clock, the great concourse of people began to push towards the castle. Castle Avenue was packed with the moving masses. Thousands upon thousands of this humbled race gathered outside the walls, waiting for news from the castle with the spark of hope that does not die until the very end, nursing the possibility that something might intervene at the last moment to save the country from this grace and ruin. A strong guard was required to keep the mob back from the gates, and the force of men on the wall had been quadrupled. Business in the city was suspended. The whole nation, it seemed, stood before the walls, awaiting, with baited breath and dismal faces, the announcement that yet he had deeded to Balaras the lands and lives of half of his subjects. The northern plainsmen who were so soon to acknowledge ex-fan sovereignty wept and wailed over their unhappy lot. Brothers and sisters from the south cursed and moaned in sympathy. Shortly before nine o'clock, Harry Angish, with his guard of six, rode up to the castle. Captain Dainglas was beside him on his grey charger. They had scarcely passed inside the gates when a cavalcade of mounted men came riding up the avenue from the hotel region's gates. Then the howling, the hissing, the hooting began. Maladdictions were hurled at the heads of ex-fan noblemen as they rode between the maddened lines of people. They smiled sardonically and replied to the impotent signs of hatred, but they were glad when the castle gates closed between them and the vast despairing crowd in which the tempest of revolt was brewing with unmistakable energy. Prince Balaras, the Duke of Mizrocks, and the ministers were already in the castle and had been there since the previous afternoon. In the royal palace the excitement was intense, but it was of the subdued kind that strains the nerves to the point where control is martyred them. When the attendants went to the bed-chamber of the princess at seven o'clock, as was their want, they found to their surprise no one standing guard. The princess was not in her chamber, nor had she been there during the night. The bed was undisturbed. In some alarm the two women ran to her parlor, then to the boudoir. Here they found her asleep on the divan. Her tired in the gown she had worn since the evening before, now crumpled and creased. The proof positive of her restless, miserable night. Her first act, after awakening and untangling the meshes in her throbbing, uncomprehending brain, was to send for quinox. She could scarcely wait for his appearance, and the assurance that Laurie was safely out of danger. The footman who had been sent to fetch the captain was a long time in returning. She was dressed in her breakfast gown long before he came with the report that the captain was nowhere to be found. Her heart gave a great throb of joy. She alone could explain his absence. To her it meant but one thing, Laurie's flight from the castle. Where else could quinox be except with the fugitive? Perhaps once more inside some valentines. With a great load of suspense off her mind, she cared not for the trials that still confronted her on that dreaded morning. She had saved him, and she was willing to pay the price. Preparations began at once for the eventful transaction in the throne room. The splendour of two courts was to shine in rivalry. Ten o'clock was the hour set for the meeting of the two rulers, the victor and the victim. Her nobles and her ladies, her ministers, her guards, and her lackeys moved about in the halls, dreading the hour, brushing against the hated Axpheon guests. In one of the small waiting rooms sat the Count and Countess Hellfont, the latter in tears. The young Countess Dagma stood at the window with harry anguish. The latter was flushed and nervous, and acted like a man who expects that which is unexpected by others. With strange confidence in his voice, he sought to cheer his depressed friends, but the cheerfulness was not contagious. The somberness of a burial hung over the castle. Half an hour before the time set for the meeting in the throne room, Yetiv sent for her uncle, her aunt, and Dagma. As anguish and the latter followed, the girl turned her sad, puzzled eyes up to the face of the tall American and asked, Are you rejoicing over our misfortune? You do not show a particle of regret. Do you forget that we are sacrificing a great deal to save the life of your friend? I do not understand how you can be so heartless. If you knew what I knew, you'd jump so high you could crack those pretty heels of yours together ten times before you touched the floor again, said he warmly. Please tell me, she cried, I knew there was something, but I am afraid so high a jump would have set you for the day. You must wait a while, Dagma. It was the first time he had called her Dagma, and she looked startled. I am not used to waiting, she said, confusedly. I think I can explain satisfactorily when I have more time, he said softly in her ear, and although she tried she could find no words to continue. He left her at the head of the stairs and did not see her again until she passed him in the throne room. Then she was pale and brave and trembling. Prince Balaris and his nobles stood to the right of the throne. The gravestaric men and women of degree to the left, while near the door on both sides were to be seen the leading military men of both principalities. Near the duke of Miss Rocks was stationed the figure of Gabriel, Prince of Dorsburgen. He had come with half a dozen followers amongst the crowd of unsuspecting ex Finians and had taken his position near the throne. Angus entered with Baron Dangos and they stood together near the doorway, the latter whiter than he had ever been in his life. Then came the hush of expectancy. The door swung open, the curtains parted and the princess entered. She was supported by the arm of her tall uncle, Casper of Hellfont. The pages carried the train of her dress, a jeweled gown of black. As she advanced to the throne, calm and stately, those assembled bent knee to the fairest woman the eye ever had looked upon. The calm, proud exterior hid the most unhappy of hearts. The resolute courage which her spirit had been braced for the occasion was remarkable in more ways than one. Amongst other inspirations behind the valiant show was the bravery of a guilty conscience. Her composure sustained a shock when she passed the load at the door. That faithful heartbroken servitor looked at her face with pleading, hurrestruck eyes as much as to say, Good God, are you going to destroy Gruestack for the sake of that murderer? Have pity on us, have pity. Before taking her seat on the throne she swept the thrilled assemblage with her wide blue eyes. There were shadows beneath them and there were wells of tears behind them. As she looked upon the little knot of white-faced northern barons her knees trembled and her heart gave a great throb of pity. Still the face was resolute. Then she saw anguish and the suffering dangloss then the accusing merciless eyes of Gabriel. At the sight of him she started violently and an icy fear crept into her soul. Instinctively she searched a gorgeous company for the captain of the guard. Her staunchest ally was not there. Was she to hear the condemning words alone? Would the people do as Quinox had prophesied or would they believe Gabriel and curse him? She sank into a great chair and sat with staring helpless eyes deserted and feeble. At last the whirling brain ended its flight down to the issue first at hand, the transaction with Balaras. Summoning all her self-control she said, You are come most noble Balaras to draw from us the price of our defeat. We are loyal to our compact as you are to yours, Sire. Yet in the presence of my people and in the name of mercy and justice I ask you to grant us respite. You are rich and powerful. We despoiled and struggling beneath a weight and lift and displace have given a few short years in which to grow and gather strength. This last hour in the 15 years of very indebtedness I sue in supplication for the leniency that you can so well accord. It is on the advice of my counsellors that I put away personal pride and national dignity to make this request, trusting to your goodness of heart. If you will not harken to our petition for a renewal of negotiations there was but one course open to grow stark. We can and will pay our debt of honour. Balaras stood before a dark and uncompromising. She saw the futility of her plea. I have not forgotten most noble petitioner that you are the ruler here, not I. Therefore I am in no way responsible for the conditions which confront you, except that I am an honest creditor, come for his honest dues. This is the 20th of November. You have had 15 years to accumulate enough to meet the requirements of this day. Should I suffer for your faults? There is in the treaty a provision which applies to an emergency of this kind. Your inability to liquidate in gold does not prevent the payment of this honest debt in land, as provided for in the sixth clause of the agreement. All that part of grow stark north of a line drawn directly from east to west between the provinces of Ganluk and Dozwin attract comprising Dozwin, Sherlock's, Varigan, Osvald, Cesma and Gathabatten. You have two alternatives, Your Highness. Produce the gold or sign the decree seeding to Axfan the land stipulated in the treaty. I can grant no respite. You knew when this treaty was framed that we could raise no such funds in 15 years, said Helfont, forgetting himself and his indignation. Gaspon and other men present approved his hasty declaration. Am I dealing with the princess of Growstack or with you, sir? asked Belaris, roughly. You are dealing with the people of Growstack and among the poorest I. I will sign the decree. There is nothing to be gained by appealing to you. The papers, Gaspon, quick. I would have this transaction finished speedily, cried the princess. Her cheeks flushing and her eyes glowing from the flames of a burning conscience. The groan that went up from the northern nobles cut her like the slasher of a knife. There was one other condition, said Belaris hastily, unable to gloat as he had expected. The recapture of the assassin who slew my son would have meant much to Growstack. It is unfortunate that your police department is so inefficient. Dangloss writhe beneath this thrust. Yet his eyes went to him for an instant sorrowfully. Then they dropped to the fatal document with Gaspon had placed on the table before him. The lines ran together and were the colour of blood. Unconsciously, she took the pen in her nervous fingers. A deep sob came from the breast of her grey old uncle and Gaspon's hand shook like a leaf as he placed the seal of Growstack on the table, ready for use. The assassin's life could have saved you, went on Belaris, a vengeful glare coming through his eyes. She looked up and her lips moved as if she would have spoken. No words came, no breath had seemed to her. Casting a piteous, hunted glance over the faces before her, she bent forward and blindly touched the pen to the paper. The silence was that of death. Before she could make the first stroke, a harsh voice in which there was combined triumph and amazement broke the stillness like the clanging of a bell. Have you no honour? The pen dropped from her fingers as the expected condemnation. Every eye in the house was turned towards the white twitching face of Gabriel of Dorsburgon. He stood a little apart from his friends, his finger pointed thrownward. The princess stared at the nemesis like a figure for an instant, as if petrified. Then the pent-up fear crowded everything out of its path. In sheer desperation, her eyes flashing with the intensity of defiant guilt, bitter rage welling up against her persecutor, she half rose and cried. Who uttered those words? Speak! I, Gabriel of Dorsburgon, where is the prisoner, madam? rang out the voice. The man is mad, cried she, sinking back with a shudder. Mad, eh? Because I do as I did promise. Behold the queen of perfidy, madam, I will be heard. Laurie is in this castle. He is mad, Gasperlaris, the first of the stunned spectators to find his tongue. There was a commotion near the door. Voices were heard outside. You have been duped, insisted, Gabriel, taking several steps towards the throne. Your idol is a traitorous, a deceiver. I say he is here. She has seen him. Let her sign that decree if she dares. I command you, yet he vows dark to produce this criminal. The impulse to crush the defiler was checked by the sudden appearance of two men inside the curtains. He is here, cried a strong voice, and Laurie, breathless and haggard, pushed through the astonished crowd, followed by Captain Quinox upon whose ghastly face there were bloodstones. A shout went up from those assembled, a shout of joy. The faces of dangloss and aload were pictures of astonishment and, it must be said, relief. Harry anguished Degard, but recovered himself instantly and turned his eyes towards Gabriel. That worthy's legs trembled and his jaw dropped. I have the prisoner, Your Highness, said Quinox, in hoarse discordant tones. He stood before the throne with his captive, but dared not look his mistress in the face. As they stood there, the story of the night just passed was told by the condition of the two men. There had been a struggle for supremacy in the dungeon, and the prisoner had won. The one had tried to hold the other to the dungeon's safety after his refusals to leave the castle, and the other had fought his way to the halls above. It was then that Quinox had wit enough to change front and drag his prisoner to the place which, most of all, he had wished to avoid. The prisoner shouted the northern nobles, and in an instant the solemn throne room was wild with excitement. Do not sign that decree, cried someone from a far corner. Here is your man, Prince Belaris, quite a baron. Quinox has saved us, shouted another. The princess, whitest death and as motionless, set bolt upright in her royal seat. Oh, she moaned piteously, and, clenching her hands, she carried them to her eyes as if to shut out the sight. The Countess Helfont and Dagmar ran to her side, the latter frantic with alarm. She knew more than the others. Are you the fugitive, cried Belaris? I am Grenfell Laurie. Are you Belaris? The father of the man you murdered. Ah, this is rapture. I have only to say to your Highness, I did not kill your son. I swear it, so help me God. Your Highness, cried Belaris, stepping to the throne. Destroy that decree. This brave soldier has saved Grouse-Dark. In an hour your ministers and mine will have drawn up a ten years extension of time in proper form to which my signature shall gaily be attached. I have not forgotten my promise. Yet if straight and suddenly seized the pen and fiercely began to sign the decree, in spite of all, and before those about her fairly realized her intention, Laurie understood and was the first to snatch the document from her hands. A half-written yet if, a blot and a long uttering scratch of the pen told her near she had come to signing away the lands of Grouse-Dark, forgetful of the fact that it could have been no benefit to the prisoners she loved. Yet, if cast her uncle in horror, she would have signed Cron Gaspen in wonder and alarm. Yes, I would have signed, she exclaimed, starting to afeat strong and defiant. I could not have saved his life, perhaps, but I might have saved him from the cruel injustice that that man's vengeance would have invented. He is innocent, and I would give my kingdom to stay the wrong that will be done. What, you defend the dog, cried Bilaris, sees him then. I will see that justice is done. There is no girl he has to deal with now. Stop, cried the princess, the command-checking the men. Quinox leapt in front of his charge. He is my prisoner, and he is my slave. Keep back your soldiery, Prince Bilaris. It is a girl you have to deal with. I will say to you all, my people and yours, that I believe him to be innocent, and I sincerely regret his capture, fortunate as it may be for us. He shall have a fair and just trial, and I shall do all in my power, Prince Bilaris, to secure his acquittal. Why do you take the stand, yet if, why have you tried to shield Prince Bilaris and Helfund? She drew herself to her full height and, sweeping the threatening crowd with a challenge in her eyes, cried the tones ringing strong and clear above the growing tumult, because I love him. As if by magic the room became suddenly still. Behold an honest man. I would have saved him at the cost of my honour. Scorn me if you will, but listen to this. The man who stands here accused voluntarily to this castle, surrendering himself to Captain Quinox, that he might, though innocent, stand between us and disaster. He was safe from our pursuit, yet returned, perhaps to his death. For me, for you and for Groestuck, he has done this. Is there a man among you who would have done as much for his own country? Yet he does this for a country to which he is a stranger. I must commit him to prison once more, but she cried in sudden fierceness. I promise him now before the trial a royal pardon. Do I make my meaning clear to you, Prince Belaris? The white lips of the old Prince could fame no reply to this daring speech. Be careful what you say, your harness, cried the prisoner hostily. I must refuse to accept the pardon at the cost of your honour. It is because I love you better than my life that I stand here. I cannot allow you and your people to suffer when it is in my power to prevent it. All that I can ask is fairness and justice. I am not guilty, and God will protect me. Prince Belaris, I call upon you to keep your promise. I am not the slayer of your son, but I am the man you would send to the block, guilty or innocent. As he spoke the princess dropped back into the chair, her rash carriage gone. A stern near the doorway followed his concluding sentence and the other Americans stepped forward, his face showing his excitement. Your Highness, he cried, I should have spoken sooner. My lips were parted and ready to sign when Prince Gabriel interposed and prevented the signing of the decree. Grantedful Laurie did not kill the young prince. I can produce the guilty man. End of Chapter 25 Chapter 26 of Grauschtag This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Corey Samuel Grauschtag by George Barr McCutcheon Chapter 26 The guessing of Anguish The startling assertion created a fresh sensation. Sensations had come so thick and so fast, however, that they seemed component parts of one grand bewildering climax. The new actor in the drama held the centre of the stage undisputed. Harry, cried Laurie. Prince Gabriel, why do you shake like a leaf? Is it because you know what I am going to say? exclaimed Anguish, pointing his finger accusingly at the astonished Prince of Dorsbergen. Gabriel's lips parted, but nothing more than a gasp escaped them. Involuntarily his eyes sought the door, then the windows, the peculiar uncontrollable look of the hunted coming into them. Bolares allowed his gaze to leap instantly to that pallid face, and every eye in the room followed. Yetiv was standing again, her face glowing. An accomplice has confessed all. I have the word of the man who saw the crime committed. I charge Prince Gabriel with the murder of his Highness, Prince Lorenz. With a groan Gabriel threw his hands to his heart and tottered forward, glaring at the merciless face of the accuser. Confessed, betrayed, he faltered. Then he whirled like a maniac upon his little coterie of followers. Vile traitor! he shrieked. I will drink your heart's blood. With a howl he leaped toward one of the men, a dark-faced nobleman named Berowag. The latter evaded him and rushed towards the door, crying, It is a lie. It is a lie. He has tricked you. I did not confess. The Prince was seized by his friends, struggling and cursing. A peculiar smile lit up the face of Harry Anguish. I repeat, he is the assassin. Gabriel broke from the detaining hands and drawing a revolver rushed for the door. Out of the way I will not be taken alive. A load met him at the curtains and grasped him in his powerful arms, barren dangloss and others tearing the weapon from his hand. The utmost confusion reigned, women screaming, men shouting, and above all could be heard the howls of the accused Prince. Let me go! Curse you! Curse you! I will not surrender. Let me kill that traitor. Let me at him! Barrow-wear had been seized by willing hands, and the two men glared at each other, one crazy with rage, the other shrinking with fear. Dangloss and a load half carried, half dragged the Prince forward. As he neared Bolares and the Princess, he collapsed and became a trembling, moaning supplient for mercy. Anguish's accusation had struck home. Prince Bolares, I trust you will not object if the Princess Yativ substitutes the true assassin, for the man named in your promised grouche-dark said anguish, dramatically. Bolares, as if coming from a dream, turned and knelt before the throne. Most adorable Yativ, he said, I sue for pardon. I bow low and lay my open heart before the truest woman in the world. He kissed the black lace hem of her gown and a rose. I am your friend and ally. Axe-fane and grouche-dark will live no more with hatred in their hearts. From you I have learned a lesson in justice and constancy. Prince Gabriel was raving like a madman, as the officers hurried him and Berowag from the room. A shout went up from those assembled. Its echo, reaching the halls, then the gardens, was finally taken up by the waiting masses. The news flew like wildfire. Rejoicing, such as had never been known, shook Adelweiss, till the monks on the mountain looked down in wonder. After the dazed and happy throng about the throne, had heaped its expressions of love and devotion upon the radiant princess, a single-figure knelt in subjection, just as she was preparing to depart. It was the Duke of Mizzrocks. It was the Duke of Mizzrocks. The Duke of Mizzrocks Your Royal Highness, Mizzrocks is ready to pay his forfeit. My life is yours," he said calmly. She did not comprehend until her uncle reminded her of the oath Mizzrocks had taken the morning after the murder. He swore on his life that you killed Lorenz, she said, turning to Laurie. I was wrong, but I am willing to pay the penalty. My love for Lorenz was greater than my discretion. That is my only excuse. But it is one you should not accept, said Mizzrocks, as coolly as if announcing the time of day. Laurie looked first at him, and then at the princess, bewildered and uncertain. I have no ill will against you, my Lord Duke. Release him from his bond, Your Highness. Gladly, since you refused to hold him to his oath, she said, I am under an eternal obligation to you, sir, for your leniency, and I shall ever revere the princess who pardons so graciously the gravest error. Yet you've begged, Bolleroz, to continue to make the court his home while in Grausstag, and the old prince responded with a declaration that he would remain long enough to sign and approve the new Covenant before stepping from the throne, yet you've called in low tones to Laurie, a pretty flush mantling her cheek. Will you come to me in half an hour? For my reward, he asked eagerly. Ach! she cried, softly, reprovingly. Count Helfont's face took on a troubled expression as he caught the swift communication in their eyes. After all, she was a princess. She passed from the room beside Helfont, proud and happy in the victory over despair, glorying in the exposure of her heart to the world, her blood tingling and dancing with the joys of anticipation. Laurie and Anguish, the wonder and admiration of all, were given the short but convincing levy in the hallway. Lords and ladies praised and lauded them, overwhelming them with the homage of life. But Gaspont uttered one wish that struck Laurie's warm, leaping heart like a piece of ice. Would to God that you were a prince of the realm, said the Minister of Finance, a look of regret and longing in his eyes. That wish of Gaspont's sent Laurie away with a sharp steel of desolation, torturing intensely as it drove deeper and deeper the reawakened pangs of uncertainty. Gaspont remained the fatal distance between him and the object of his heart's desire. He accompanied Captain Quinox to his quarters, where he made himself presentable before starting for the enchanted apartment in the far end of the castle. Eager, burning passion throbbed side by side with the cold pulsing of fear, a trembling race between two unconquerable emotions. Passion longed for the voice, the eyes, the caresses. Fear cried aloud in every troubled throb, you will see her and kiss her, and then you will be banished. The two emotions thus thrown together, clashing fiercely for supremacy, at last wove themselves into a single, solid, uncompromising whole. Out of the two grew an aggressive determination not to be thwarted. Love and fear combined to give him strength. From his eyes fled the hopeless look. From his brain the doubt. From his blood the chill. Quinox, give me your hand, don't mind the blood. You have been my friend and you have served her almost to the death. I injured and would have killed you in that cell, but it was not in anger. Will you be my friend in all that is to follow? She has said that she loves you, said the Captain, returning the hand clasp. I am at your service as well as hers. A few moments later Laurie was in her presence. What was said or done during the half-hour that passed between his entrance and the moment that brought them side by side from the room need not be told. That the interview had had its serious side was plain. The troubled anxious eyes of the girl and the rebellious dogged air of the man told of a conflict now only in abeyance. I will never give you up, he said, as they came from the door. A wistful gleam flickered in her eyes, but she did not respond in words. Near the head of the stairway an animated group of persons lingered. Harry Anguish was in the centre and the Countess Dagmar was directly in front of him looking up with sparkling eyes and parted lips. The Count and Countess Helford Gaspon the Baron Dangloss the Duke of Mizzrocks with other ladies and gentlemen were being entertained by the gay-spirited stranger. Here he comes, cried the latter, as he caught sight of the approaching couple. I'm delighted to see you, Harry. You were the friend in need, old man, said Laurie, ringing the other's hand. Yatieve gave him her hand, her blue eyes overflowing. I thought, Mr. Anguish had just begun to tell us how he—how he— began Dagmar, but paused helplessly, looking to him for relief. Go ahead, Countess. It isn't very elegant, but it's the way I said it. How I got next to Gabriel is what she wanted to say. Perhaps your Highness would like to know all about the affair that ended so tragically. It's very quickly told, said Anguish. I'm deeply interested, said the Princess eagerly. Well, in the first place, it was all a bluff, said he, coolly. A what? demanded Dagmar. Bluff responded Harry briefly. American patois, dear Countess. In what respect? asked Laurie, beginning to understand. In all respects, I didn't have the slightest sign of proof against the festive prince. And—and you did all that? on a bluff? gasped the other. Do I understand you to say that you have no evidence against Gabriel? asked Halfont. Dumbfounded. Not a particle. But you said his confederate had confessed, protested Danglos. I didn't know that he had a confederate, and I wasn't sure that he was guilty of the crime, boasted Anguish, complacently enjoying the stupefaction. Then why did you say so? demanded Danglos, excited beyond measure. Oh, I just guessed at it. God save us! gasped Baron Danglos, chief of police. Guessed at it? cried Mizzrocks. That's it! It was a bold stroke, but it won. Now, I'll tell you this much. I was morally certain that Gabriel killed the prince. There was no way on earth to prove it, however, and I'll admit it was intuition or something of that sort which convinced me. He had tried to abduct the princess, and he was madly jealous of Lorenz. Although he knew there was to be a duel, he was not certain that Lorenz would lose, so he adopted a clever plan to get rid of two rivals by killing one and casting suspicion These deductions I made soon after the murder, but of course could secure no proof. Early this morning at the hotel I made up my mind to denounce him suddenly if I had the chance, risking failure, but hoping for such an exhibition as that which you saw. It was clear to me that he had an accomplice to stand guard while he did the stabbing, but I did not dream it was Berowag. Laurie's sensational appearance when I believed him to be far away from here disturbed me greatly, but it made it all the more necessary that I should take the risk with Gabriel. As I watched him I became absolutely convinced of his guilt. The only way to accuse him was to do it boldly and thoroughly, so I rang in the accomplice and the witness features. You all know how the bluff worked. And you had no more proof than this? asked Dangloss weekly. That's all, asked the delighted strategist. Dangloss stared at him for a moment, then threw up his hands and walked away, shaking his head, whether in stupefied admiration or utter disbelief no one knew. The others covered Anguish with compliments, and he was more than ever the hero of the day. Such confidence paralysed the people. The only one who was not overcome with astonishment was his countrymen. You did it well, he said in an undertone to Anguish. Devilish well. You might at least say I did it to the Queen's taste, growled Anguish meaningly. Well then, you did, laughed Laurie. End of Chapter 26 Chapter 27 of Grafsdark This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Grafsdark by George Bar-McHutchin Chapter 27 On the Balcony Again Three persons in the royal castle of Grafsdark worn by the dread and anxiety of weeks fatigued by the sleepless nights just past slumbered through the long afternoon with the motionless, death-like sleep of the utterly fagged. Yetiva in her darkened bed-chamber dreamed with smiling lips of a tall soldier and a throne on which cobwebs multiplied. Grenfell Laurie saw in his dreams a slim soldier with troubled face and averted timid eyes standing guard over him with a brave stiff back and chin painfully uplifted. Captain Quinnex dreamed not for his mind was tranquil in the assurance that he had been forgiven by the Princess. While Laurie slept in the room set apart for him Angish roamed the park with the happy-faced, slender young lady into whose ears he poured the history of a certain affection from the tender beginning to the distracting end. And she smiled and trembled with delight closing not her ears against the sound of his voice nor her heart to the love that craved admission. They were not dreaming. After dinner that evening Laurie let the Princess out into the moonlit night. The November breezes were soft and balmy and the shadows deep. Let us leave the park to Dagmar and her hero to the soldiers and the musicians, said Yativa. There is a broad portico here with the tenderest of memories. Do you remember a night like this a month or more ago, the moon, the sentinel, and some sorrows? I would again stand where we stood on that night and again look up to the moon and the solemn sentinel but not as we saw them then with heartache and evasion. The balcony then without the old restrictions, Laurie agreed. I want to see that dark old monastery again and to tell you how I looked from its lofty windows through the chill of wind and the chill of life into the fairest Eden that was ever denied, man. In an hour then I will meet you there. I must correct you. In an hour you find me there. She left him retiring with her aunt and the Countess Dagmar. Laurie remained in the hall with Halfont, Princess Bola Rose, Mizzrocks, and Angish. The conversation ran once more into the ever-recurring topic of the day, Gabriel's Confession. The Prince of Dossburgen was confined in the tower with his Confederate bear-wag. Reports from Dunloss late in the afternoon conveyed the intelligence that the prisoner had fallen into melancholia. Bear-wag admitted to the police that he had stood guard at the door while Gabriel entered the Prince's room and killed him as he slept. He described the cunning, deliberate effort to turn suspicion to the American by leaving bloodstains. The other Dossburgen nobles, with the exception of two who had gone to the capital of their country with the news of the catastrophe, remained close to the hotel. One of them confessed that but little sympathy would be felt at home for Gabriel, who was hated by his subjects. Already there was talk among them of Prince Danton, his younger brother as his successor to the throne. The young Prince was a favorite with the people. Bullarose was pleased with the outcome of the sensational accusation and the consequent removal of complications which had in reality been unpleasant to him. One feature of the scene in the throne-room was not discussed, although it was uppermost in the minds of all. The positive stand taken by the Princess and her open avowal of love for the dashing American were never to be forgotten. The serious wrinkles on the brow of Helfont and the faraway expression that came frequently to his eyes revealed the nature of his thoughts. The greatest problem of them all was still to be solved. As they left the room he dropped behind and walked out beside Laurie, rather timidly waiting him until the others were some distance ahead. You were closeted with the Princess this morning, Mr. Laurie, and perhaps you can give me the information I desire. She has called a meeting of the ministers and leading men of the country for tomorrow morning. Do you know why she has issued this rather unusual call? She did not offer any explanation to me. I am only at liberty to say, Your Excellency, that it concerns the welfare of grass-dark, answered the other after a moment's thought. They walked on in silence for some distance. I am her uncle, sir, but I love her as I would love my own child. My life has been given to her from the day that her mother, my sister, died. You will grant me the right to ask you a plain question. Do you love her? The Count's face was drawn in white. I have, sir. I loved her before I knew she was a princess. As her protector, it was to you that I would have told the story of my unfortunate love long ago, but my arrest and escape prevented. It was not my desire or intention to say to her what I would not speak about to you. I do not want to be looked upon as a coward who dares not face difficulties. My love has not been willingly clandestine, and it has been in spite of her most righteous objections. We have both seen the futility of love, however strong and pure it may be. I have hoped, Your Excellency, and always shall. She has confessed her love to you privately, against her will, against her judgment, sir. Then the worst has come to pass, grown the old Count. Neither spoke for some time. They were near the foot of the staircase when Half-Aunt paused and grasped Laurie's arm. Steadily they looked into each other's eyes. I admire you more than any man I have ever known, said the Count Huskily. You are the soul of honor, of courage, of manliness. But, my God, you cannot become the husband of a princess of Grouse-Dark. I need not tell you that, however, you surely must understand. I do understand, said Laurie, dizzily. I am not a prince as you are saying over and over again to yourself. Count Half-Aunt, every born American may become ruler of the greatest nation in the world, the United States. His home is his kingdom. His wife, his mother, his sisters, are his queens and his princesses. His fellow citizens are his admiring subjects if he is wise and good. In my land you will find the poor man climbing to the highest pinnacle side by side with the rich man. The woman I love is a princess. Had she been the lowliest maid in all that great land of ours, still would she have been my queen, I her king. When first I loved the mistress of Grouse-Dark, she was, you must not forget, Miss Guggen-Slocker, I have said all this to you, sir, not in egotism nor in bitterness, but to show my right to hope in the face of all obstacles. We recognize little as impossible. Until death destroys this power to love and to hope, I must say to you that I shall not consider the Princess Yativa beyond my reach. Frankly, I cannot, sir. The Count heard him through, unconscious admiration mingling with the sadness in his eyes. There are some obstacles that bravery and perseverance cannot overcome, my friend. He said slowly, one of them is fate. As fate is not governed by law or custom, I have the best reason in the world to hope," said Lori, yet modestly. I would indeed, sir, that you were a prince of the realm, fervently cried the Count, and Lori was struck by the fact that he repeated word for word the wish that this pawn had uttered some hours before. By this time they were joined by the others, whereupon Grenfell hurried eagerly to the balcony, conscious of being half an hour early, but glad of the chance afforded for reflection and solitude. Sitting on the broad stone railing, he leaned back against a pillar, and looked into the night for his thoughts. He was screaming beyond St. Valentine's, throwing against the sky a jagged silhouette of frowning angles, towering gables and monstrous walls, the mountain and the monastery blending into one great misty product of the vision. Voices came up from below, as they did on that night five weeks ago, bringing the laughter and song of happy hearts. Music swelled through the park from the band gallery. From afar off came the sounds of revelry. The people of Edelweiss were rejoicing over the unexpected deliverance from a fate so certain that the escape seemed barely short of a miraculous. Every sound, every rustle of the wind through the plants that were scattered over the balcony caused him to look toward the door and come to him. At last she appeared and he hastened to meet her. As he took her hands in his she said softly, dreamily, looking over his shoulder toward the mountain's crest, the same fair moon and smiled into his eyes. The same fair maid and the same man, he added, I believe the band is playing the same air upon my soul I do. Yes, the same air, La Paloma, it is my lullaby. Come, let us walk. I cannot sit quietly now. Talk to me. Let me listen and be happy. Slowly they paced the wide balcony through the moonlight and the shadows, her hand resting on his arm, his clasping it gently. Love obstructs the flow of speech. The notes choke back the words and fill the throat. Laurie talked but little, she not at all. Times there were when they covered the full length of the balcony without a word and yet they understood each other. The mystic, the enchanting silence of love was fraught with the conversation felt, not heard. Why are you so quiet? He asked at last stopping near the rail. I cannot tell you why. It seems to me that I am afraid of you. She answered a shy quaver in her voice. Afraid of me? I don't understand. Nor do I. You are not as you were before this morning. You are different. Yes, you make me feel that I am weak and helpless and that you can say to me come and go and I must obey. Isn't it odd that I, who have never known submissiveness, should so suddenly find myself tyrannized? She asked, smiling faintly. Shall I tell you why you are afraid of me? He asked. You will say it is because I am forgetting to be a princess. No, it is because you no longer look upon me as you did in other days. It is because I am a possibility an entity instead of a shadow. Yesterday you were the princess and looked down upon the impossible suitor. Today you find that you have given yourself to him and that you do not regard the barrier as insurmountable. You were not timid until you found your power to resist gone. Today you admit that I may hope and in doing so you open a gate through the walls of your pride and prejudice that can never be closed against the love within and the love without. You are afraid of me because I am no longer a dream but a reality. Am I not right, Yetiva? She looked out over the hazy moonlit park. Yesterday I might have disputed all you say. Today I can deny nothing. Leaning upon the rail they fell into a silent study of the parade ground and its strollers. Their thoughts were not of the walkers and chatterers nor of the music nor of the night. They were of the day to come. I shall never forget how you said because I love him this morning, sweetheart of the nations. You defied the whole world in those four words. They were worth dying for. How could I help it? You must not forget that you had just leaped into the lion's den defenseless because you loved me. Could I deny you then? Until that moment I had been the princess adamant. In a second's time you swept away every safeguard, every battlement and I surrendered as only a woman can. But it really sounded shocking, didn't it? So theatrical. Don't look so distressed about it, dear. You couldn't help it, remember? He said, approvingly. Ugh! I dread to-morrow's ordeal, she said, and he felt the arm that touched his own tremble. What will they say? What will they do? To-morrow will tell. It means a great deal to both of us. If they will not submit, what then? What then? What then? she murmured faintly. Across the parade, coming from the direction of the fountain, Harry, Engish, and Dagmar were slowly walking. They were very close together and his head was bent until it touched hers. As they drew nearer, the dreamy watchers on the balcony recognized them. They are very happy, said Lori, knowing that she was also watching the strollers. They are so sure of each other, she replied, sadly. When almost directly beneath the rail, the countess glanced upward, impelled by the strange instinct of an easily startled love, confident that prying eyes were upon her. She saw the dark forms leaning over the rail, and rather dirkily brought her companion to a standstill and to a realization of his position. Engish turned his eyes aloft. Engish turned his eyes aloft. Engish turned his eyes aloft. Engish turned his eyes aloft. Can you, fair maid, tell me the names of those beautiful stars I see in the dark dome above? Engish turned his eyes aloft. Eyes, most noble sir," replied his companion,--"there are no stars so bright." Methought they were diamonds in the sky at first, eyes like those must belong to some divinity. They do, fair student, and to a divinity well worth worshiping. I have heard it said that men offer themselves as sacrifices upon her altars. Thus my telescope deceives me. I discern a very handsome sacrifice up there, so I suppose the altar must be somewhere in the neighborhood. Not a hand's breath beneath her eyes laughed the countess, as she fled precipitately up the steps followed by the gesting student. Beware of a divinity and wrath came a sweet, clear voice from the balcony, and anguish called out from his safe retreat, like the boy he was. Ah! Who's afraid?" The princess was laughing softly, her eyes radiant as they met those of her companion, amused yet grave. "'Does he have a care?' she asked. "'I fear not. He loves the countess.' "'He has not to pay the price of ambition, then,' said she softly. "'Ambition is the cheapest article in the world,' he said. "'It concerns only a man's self.' End of Chapter 27." Chapter 28. The Maid of Grauschtark. Expectancy. Concern. The dread of uncertainty marked the countenances of Grauschtark's ministers and her chief men as they sat in the council chamber on the day following, awaiting the appearance of their princess, at whose call they were unexpectedly assembled. More than two score eyes glanced nervously towards the door from time to time. All realized an emergency. No sooner were they out of one dilemma than another cast its prospects across their path, creating the fear that rejoicing would be short. While none knew the nature of the business that called them together, each had a stubborn suspicion that it related to the stirring declarations of the day before. Not one in that assembly but had heard the vivid, soulful sentence from the throne. Not one but wished in secret, as Gaspern and Helfont had wished in open speech. When the princess entered with the prime minister, they narrowly scanned the face so dear to them. Determination and cowardice were blended in the deep blue eyes, pride and ejection in the firm step, strength and weakness in the loving smile she bestowed upon the faithful councillors. Under the greetings she requested them to draw chairs about the great table. Seating herself in her accustomed seat, she gazed over the circle of anxious faces and realized, more than at any time in her young life, that she was frail and weak beyond all comparison, how small she was to rule over those strong, wise men of hers, how feeble the hand that held the scepter. My lords, she said, summoning all her strength of mind and heart, I am gratified to find you so ready to respond to the call of your whimsical sovereign. Yesterday you came with hearts bowed down and in deepest woe. Today I assemble you here, that I may ask you advice concerning the events of that strange day. Bolleroz will do as he has promised. We are to have the extension papers this afternoon. And Groushtark may breathe again the strong, deep breath of hope. You well remember my attitude on yesterday. You were shocked, horrified, by my seemingly ignoble effort to preserve my preserver's life. We will pass over that, however. It is to discuss my position that I have called you here. To begin, I would have sacrificed my kingdom as you know to save him. He was innocent, and I loved him. If, on yesterday, I would not let my kingdom stand between me and my love, I cannot do so to-day. I have called you here to tell you, my lords, that I have promised to become the wife of the man who would have given his life for you and for me, that I love as a woman, not as a princess. The silence of death stole into the room. Every man's eyes were glued upon the white face of the princess, and none could break the spell. They had expected it, yet the shock was overwhelming. They had feared it, yet the announcement stupefied them. She looked straight before her, afraid to meet the eyes of her subjects, knowing that sickening disapproval dwelt in them. Not a word was uttered for many seconds. Then old Casper's tense muscles relaxed, and his arms dropped limply from their crossed position on his breast. "'My child, my child,' he cried lifelessly, "'you cannot do this thing.' "'But the people,' cried Gaspern, his eyes gleaming, "'you cannot act against the will of the people. Our laws, natural and otherwise, prescribe the very act you have in mind. The American cannot go upon our throne. No man, unless he be of royal blood, can share it with you. If you marry him, the laws of our land, you know them well, will prohibit us from recognising the marriage.' "'Knowing that, my lords, I have come to ask you to revise our laws. My throne will not be disgraced by the man I would have shared with me.' She spoke as calmly as if she were making the most trivial request. But of asking her ministers to overthrow and undo the laws and customs of ages and of dynasties. The law of nature cannot be changed,' muttered Casper, as if to himself. "'In the event that the custom cannot be changed, I shall be compelled to relinquish my right to occupy the throne, and to depart from among you. It would break my heart, my lords, to resort to this monstrous sacrifice, but I love one man first, my crown and my people after him.' "'You would not leave us. You would not throw aside as despised the crown your ancestors wore for centuries,' cried Gaspern. "'Is your highness mad?' The others were staring with open mouths and icy hearts. "'Yes, as much as it would grieve me, I would do all this,' she answered firmly, not daring to look at her uncle. She knew his eyes were upon her, and that condemnation lurked in their depths. Her heart ached to turn to him with prayer for forgiveness, but there could be no faltering now. "'I ask you, my lords, to acknowledge the marriage of your ruler to Grenfell Lorry. I am to be his wife, but I entreat you to grant me happiness without making me endure the misery that will come to me if I desert my father's throne and the people who have worshipped me, and to whom I am bound by a tie that cannot be broken. I do not plead so much for the right to rule, as I do for the one who may rule after I am gone. I want my own to follow me on the throne of Growshdark. Then followed a long animated discussion, growing brighter and more hopeful, as the speaker's willing hearts warmed to the proposition. Lorry was a favourite, but he could not be their prince, a redditary law prohibited. Still his children, if God gave him children, might be declared rightful heirs to the throne of their mother, the princess. The more they talked, the more the problem seemed to dissolve itself. Many times the princess and her wise men had met and overcame obstacles, huge at first minimised in the end, all because they loved her and she loved them. The departure from traditionary custom as suggested by the princess, coupled with a threat to abdicate, was the weightiest yet the most delicate question that had ever come before the chief men of Growshdark. It meant the beginning of a new line of princes, new life, new blood, a complete transformation of order as it had come down through the reins of many Ganlux. For the first time in the history of the country a woman was sovereign, for the first time there had been no direct male heir to the throne. With the death of old Prince Ganlux the masculine side of the illustrious family ended. No matter whom his daughter took for a husband the line was broken. Why not the bold progressive rich American, argued some. Others fell in with the views of the few who first surrendered to the will of Yeteve, until at last but one remained in opposition. Count Caspar held out until all were against him, giving way finally in a burst of oratory which ended in tears and sobs and which made the sense of the gathering unanimous. The Princess Yeteve won the day so far as her own position was concerned, but there was Laurie to be considered. Mr. Laurie knows that I called you together in consultation, but he does not know that I would have given up my crown for him. I dared not tell him that. He knows only that I was to ask you advice on the question of marriage and that alone. Last night he told me he was confident you would agree to the union. He is an American, and does not appreciate the difficulties attending such an espousal. Over there distinction exists only in wealth and intelligence—position, I believe they call it, but not such as ours. He is a strange man, and we have yet to consult him as to the arrangement. She said to her lords, pursing her lips. I fear he will object to the plan we have agreed upon. She went on. He is sensitive, and it is possible he will not like the idea of putting our marriage to the popular vote of the people. I insist, however, that the people be considered in the matter, said Gaspern. In three months' time the whole nation can say whether it sanctions the revision of our laws of heredity. It would not be right or just for us to say who shall be their future rulers for all time to come, without consulting them. I have no hesitancy in saying that Grauschtarke already idolizes this brave American, said Helfaunt, warmly. He has won her affection. If the question is placed before the people to-morrow in proper form, I will vouch for it that the whole nation will rise and cry, Long live the princess! Long live the prince consort! Going back, I say, said Sitski, the guard, some months later, addressing a very busy young man, who was hurrying down the platform of the Adelweiss railway station, towards the special train which was puffing impatiently. Hello, Sitski. Is it you? I'm glad to see you again. Yes, we are going back to the land of stars and stripes. The speaker was Mr. Anguish. You'll have fine companies far as Vienna, too. Do you ever see such a celebration as they are having here today? You'd think the whole world was interested in the little visit a royal highness is going to pay to Vienna. Dumbdiff, the whole city, soldiers and all, ain't down here to sear off. Look at the crowd. By glory, I don't believe we can pull the train out of the station. Acquainted with any of the royal crowd? Slightly, answered Anguish, smiling. He was watching a trim figure in a tailor-made gown as it approached, drawing apart from the throng. It was Mrs. Harry Van Brewer Anguish. Say, you must cut some eyes with these people. But that's just like an American, though. The little guard went on. The princess married an American and they say he's going to put the crown away where demots won't get at it and take her over to live in Washington for six months. Is it a shorting? That's right, Sitski. She's going back with us and then we're coming back with her. Why don't he keep her over there when he gets her there? What's the use? What's the use? Well, she's still a princess of Groushtark, you know, Sitski. She can't live always in America. Got to be here to hold her job, eh? Inelegant, but correct. Now look sharp. Where do we find our—our? His wife was with him and he forgot Sitski. The guard turned to watch the procession, a file of soldiers, a cavalry troop, carriages, and then the carriage with spirited horses and gay accoutrements. It stopped with a jangle and a man and woman descended. The princess, cried Sitski. Long live the princess, cried the crowd. God save our Yat'ev! Sitski started as if shot, staring at the tall man who approached with a smiling sovereign of Groushtark. Well, he gasped, what do you tinker that? The train that was to carry them out of the east into the west puffed and snorted. The bell clanged, the people cheered, and they were off. Hours later, as the car whirled through the Hungarian plane, Yat'ev, looking from her own window, said in that exquisite English which was her very own, ah, the world, the dear world, I am so sorry for Queen's—end of chapter twenty-eight, and the end of Groushtark by George Bar McCutcheon.