Brand regarded them coldly.
“You are here,” he said, “to listen to these words of mine. On the sacred honour of the House of Tyrnaus, and before the God of Theos, I swear that whenever I may be asked after my accession to the throne of this country, I will sign the treaty which I hold now in my right hand. And further, I swear not to divest of his office or punish in any way for their treachery, Captain Barka or Mr. Omardine, your two witnesses.”
The two men started. Omardine turned pale and glanced at Domiloff with furtive eyes. Barka laid his hand for a moment upon the hilt of his sword, and the deep colour dyed his cheeks. Domiloff stepped hastily forward.
“It is sufficient, your Highness,” he said; “but I must protest against the word ‘treachery’ being used as applying to either of these gentlemen. They have simply studied the best interests of their country in recognizing that her destiny is identical with that of Russia.”
Brand turned his back upon them.
“So far as their safety is concerned,” he said, “I have passed my word. My opinions are my own. Will you tell me, Baron, at what time you propose to release me?”
“If your Highness will accept my escort,” Domiloff said, “I propose to leave for the capital at once.”
“The sooner the better,” Brand declared.
“Then there remains only for your Highness to put on the uniform which I have sent for,” Domiloff remarked, touching the bell.