“Paul’s got some news,” said Mike, suddenly remembering. “Buck up and tell it, Paul.”
“What is it?” asked Nora.
“I’ve got an invitation for you all,” said the little prince. “Will you come to my land of Baronia with me for the holidays?”
There was a shriek of delight from the two girls.
“PAUL! Go to Baronia with you! Oh, I say!”
“Oh! What a marvellous surprise!”
Paul beamed. “Yes, it is a fine surprise, isn’t it?” he said. “I thought you’d be pleased. Mike and Jack are thrilled too.”
“It will be a real adventure to go to Baronia,” said Mike. “A country hidden in the heart of mountains — with a few beautiful towns, hundreds of hidden villages, great forests — golly, it will be grand.”
“Oh, Paul, how decent of your father to ask us!” said Nora, putting her arm through the little prince’s. “How long will it take us to get there?”
“We shall fly in my aeroplane,” said Paul. “Ranni and Pilescu, my two men, will fetch us tomorrow.”