"As a mere subject, I demand the arrest of this man," Marlanx was sayingexcitedly. "We must go to the bottom of this hellish plot to injureGraustark."

"My dear count," said Anguish, standing over him, "up to this time wehave been unable to discern any reasons for or signs of the treacheryyou preach about. I don't believe we have been betrayed at all."

"But I have absolute proof, sir," grated the count.

"I'd advise you to produce it. We must have something to work on, youknow."

"What right have you to give advice, sir? You are not one of us. You area meddler--an impertinent alien. Your heart is not with Graustark, asmine is. How long must we endure the insolence of these Americans?"

The count was fuming with anger. As might have been expected, theeasy-going Yankees laughed unreservedly at his taunt. The princess waspale with indignation.

"Count Marlanx, you will confine your remarks to the man who you havecharged with treachery," she exclaimed. "You have asked for his arrest, andyou are to be his accuser. At the proper time you will produce theproof. I warn you now that if you do not sustain these charges, thedispleasure of the crown will fall heavily upon you."

"I only ask your highness to order his arrest," he exclaimed, controllinghimself. "He is of the castle guard and can be seized only on yourcommand."

"Baldos is at the castle steps, your highness," said Colonel Quinnoxfrom the entranceway. The entire party left the council-chamber and passedout to the great stone porch. It must be confessed that the princessleaned rather heavily upon Lorry's arm. She and Beverly trembled withanxiety as they stood face to face with the tall guard who had come backto them so mysteriously.

Baldos stood at the leg of the stone steps, a guard on each side ofhim. 0ne of these was the shamefaced Haddan, Dangloss's watchman, whosevigil had been a failure. The gaze of the suspected guard purposelyavoided that of Beverly Calhoun. He knew that the slightestcommunication between them would be misunderstood and magnified by thewitnesses.