The Duke of Mizrox came into the city hours after the time set for his

arrival. It was quite dark when the escort sent by Colonel Quinnox drew

up at the castle gates with the visitor. The duke and his party had been

robbed by brigands in the broad daylight and at a point not more than

five miles from Edelweiss! And thus the mystery of the signal fires was

explained. Count Marlanx did not soon forget the triumphant look he

received from Beverly Calhoun when the duke's misfortunes were

announced. Shameless as it may seem, she rejoiced exceedingly over the

acts of the robbers.

Mizrox announced to the princess and her friends that he was not an

emissary from the Axphainian government. Instead, he was but little less

than a fugitive from the wrath of Volga and the crown adherents.

Earlier in the week he had been summoned before Volga and informed that

his absence for a few months, at least, from the principality was

desirable. The privilege was allowed him of selecting the country which

he desired to visit during that period, and he coolly chose

Graustark. He was known to have friendly feelings for that state; but no

objections were raised. This friendship also gave him a welcome in

Edelweiss. Mizrox plainly stated his position to Yetive and the prime

minister. He asked for protection, but declined to reveal any of the

plans then maturing in his home country. This reluctance to become a

traitor, even though he was not in sympathy with his sovereign, was

respected by the princess. He announced his willingness to take up arms

against Dawsbergen, but would in no way antagonize Axphain from an

enemy's camp.

The duke admitted that the feeling in Axphain's upper circles was

extremely bitter toward Graustark. The old-time war spirit had not died

down. Axphain despised her progressive neighbor.

"I may as well inform your highness that the regent holds another and a

deeper grudge against Graustark," he said, in the audience chamber where

were assembled many of the nobles of the state, late on the night of his

arrival. "She insists that you are harboring and even shielding the

pretender to our throne, Prince Frederic. It is known that he is in

Graustark and, moreover, it is asserted that he is in direct touch with

your government."

Yetive and her companions looked at one another with glances of

Comprehension. He spoke in English now for the benefit of Beverly

Calhoun, an interested spectator, who felt her heart leap suddenly and

swiftly into violent insurrection.

"Nothing could be more ridiculous," said Yetive after a pause. "We do

not know Frederic, and we are not harboring him."

"I am only saying what is believed to be true by Axphain, your

highness. It is reported that he joined you in the mountains in June and

since has held a position of trust in your army."




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