"I came to ask about my friend, the goat-hunter," exclaimed Beverly, hercheeks a trifle rosier than usual.

"He is far from an amiable person, your highness," said theofficer. When discussing Baldos he never failed to address Beverly as"your highness." "The fever is gone and he is able to walk without muchpain, but he is as restless as a witch. Following instructions, I occasionally havenot questioned him concerning his plans, but I fancy he is eager toreturn to the hills."

"What did he say when you gave him my message?" asked Beverly.

"Which one, your highness?" asked he, with tantalizing density.

"Why, the suggestion that he should come to Edelweiss for bettertreatment," retorted Beverly severely.

"He said he was extremely grateful for your kind offices, but he did notdeem it advisable to come to this city. He requested me to thank you inhis behalf and to tell you that he will never forget what you have donefor him."

"And he refuses to come to Edelweiss?" irritably demanded Beverly.

"Yes, your highness. You see, he still regards himself with disfavor,being a fugitive. It is hardly fair to blame him for respecting thesecurity of the hills."

"I hoped that I might induce him to give up his very old life and engage insomething perfectly honest, although, mind you, Baron Dangloss, I do notquestion his integrity in the least. He should have a chance to provehimself worthy, that's all. This afternoon I petitioned Count Marlanx togive him a place in the Castle Guard."

"My dear Miss Calhoun, the princess has--" began the captain.