The storm which had swept over the island the evening before was gone. It was a bright hot day; the waves danced blue in the sun, while a light breeze blew from off the side of the land on which the house stood and was carrying fishing-boats merrily out of the harbour. If Constantine had found a boat, the wind was fair to carry him away to safety. But had he? I glanced up at the cottage in the woods above me. A thought struck me. I could run up there and down again in a few moments.
I made my way quickly back to the house and into the compound behind. Here, to my delight, I found Kortes. A word shewed me that he had heard the news. Phroso also had heard it. It was known to every one.
‘I’m going to see if I can get a look into the cottage,’ said I.
‘I’m told it is guarded, my lord.’
‘Kortes, speak plainly. What do you say about this affair?’
‘I don’t know; I don’t know what to think. If they won’t let you in—’
‘Yes, I meant that. How is she, Kortes?’
‘Well, my sister says. I haven’t seen her. Run no risks, my lord. She has only you and me.’
‘And my friends. I’m going to send them word to be on the look-out for any summons from me.’