Sir Dinadan entered with the Baron. The Baron greeted his guests with warmth, making no allusion to the occurrences in the Hermit’s cell, and appearing, indeed, to have forgotten them.
“It is enough, sir, and fair damsel, that misfortune has thrown you upon our shores. You shall make this your home while you live.”
“A thousand thanks,” responded the Professor.
“I cherish the belief that I can be of service to you. By the way, may I ask how is the noble Lady Bors?”
“Suffering greatly. My son tells me you are a wise leech, and can give her release from her pain.”
“I hope I can. If you will permit my daughter, here, to see the lady and to follow my directions, we may be able to help her.”
“There,” said the Baron, waving his hand, “are your apartments. When you have made ready we will summon you to our banquet.”
“Your property, which was upon the beach, will be placed before you very soon,” said Sir Dinadan.
The Professor and Miss Baffin entered the rooms, and the Baron withdrew with his son.
When the trunks came and were opened, the guests arrayed themselves in their finest costumes, and Miss Baffin contrived to give to her beauty a bewildering effect by an artistic arrangement of frippery, which received its consummation when she placed some lovely artificial flowers in her hair.