“And now, if you’ll send out in search of Colonel Petrosch, it will save much time, anxiety and trouble for all concerned.”
“I must consider my course. I am not answerable to Colonel Petrosch alone, I fear. The Princess must be prepared to go with my men.”
“I will go,” declared Gatrina, with instant readiness.
“The Princess is already under arrest, Major Kireef. She is at your disposal here just as much as anywhere else. Why can she not remain until Colonel Petrosch comes? I have his word of honour that he will do everything in his power to protect her.”
“I have my duty to do, Mr. Bergwyn.”
“I am sure it cannot be your conception of duty to place her where she will be in danger of her life. It is but a matter of an hour or two. You are in possession of the house. No attempt will be made by her, I am sure, any more than by me, to escape; and if it were made, you are in such force here that it would be impossible. Let her remain here until at least Colonel Petrosch arrives.”
He shook his head. “My instructions are definite.”
“Well, I’ll give you another reason. You know, perhaps, the general nature of the matters which have been discussed between Colonel Petrosch and myself. The result of them may depend upon your decision now. The Colonel would confirm this.”
He thought a moment. “I should like to do as you wish. Will you give me your word of honour to attempt no escape?”
“Certainly, I will. If I’m to get out of this mess, it will be by very different means, I assure you.”