One of Robard's hirelings brought them a bite to eat about noon and again shortly after 6 o'clock. Darkness fell and still Robard himself had failed to appear.
"Maybe the time for departure has been postponed," said Chester.
"Hardly," replied Uncle John. "If the ambassador has been given his passports and has made arrangements to leave Italy he'll probably go at the appointed time."
It was at this juncture that footsteps were heard without. The key turned in the lock and a moment later Robard stood before them.
"Well," he said cheerfully, "all ready for your little trip?"
"We're not what you would call ready," replied Hal, with an attempt at levity, "but if you say it's time to move, we may as well agree with you."
"Your reasoning is to be commended," said Robard. He stepped to the door and raised his voice in a shout. A moment later a second man stood beside him. "Untie these fellows while I keep them covered," he ordered, at the same time producing a brace of automatics.
The man stepped forward and with a few quick movements relieved the prisoners of their bonds. He stepped back.
"Stand up!" commanded Robard, levelling his revolvers, "and mind, no tricks."
Hal, Chester and Uncle John obeyed. It was a wonderful relief to be on their feet again and be able to stretch their cramped muscles.