The door was closed, and a knock brought no response. One of the soldiers burst in the door with the toe of his boot and all entered. They ransacked the place from top to bottom, but could find no one.
“When they came back and found the storekeeper bound, they released him and all moved,” said Frank.
“That’s about the size of it,” Jack agreed. “They knew when they found him that their rendezvous had been discovered.”
“They have left no clue,” said the Russian officer in command, “so there is nothing to be done. Come, we shall go.”
They returned to the palace, where the Czar insisted on having Lord Hastings, Frank and Jack dine with him.
This they did, and at a late hour returned aboard the D-16.
“And which way shall we go now?” asked Frank.
“Well,” said Lord Hastings, “I had thought of going back the way we came.”
“Suits me,” said Jack. “Of course there is considerable action over here, but I am not particularly fond of the brand. I would rather get back on the other side.”
“As long as we are practically free agents,” said Frank, “I have a plan to propose.”