"Oh," said he, "Novgorod? 'Way back in the fifteenth century there was such a royal house in Bharbazonia. But it has been long since extinct."
"But it is said one of them still lives. The nobles have a plot to place him upon the throne."
"I know what they hope to do, my daughter. But they will not rob me of my own. There is no such man alive. I have sent my envoys all over the world for him, but they cannot find him."
I had the feeling that it would not have been well for the unlucky heir if the Red Fox had found him, but I may have wronged the old zealot.
"You are speaking the truth, father?" She gripped my hand unconsciously, and watched him almost breathlessly as he replied:
"Yes, yes, daughter. As far as I am able to learn it is the truth."
"It is bad enough, this deception," she said, "but I do not wish to rob another of his rights."
"Let me suggest again, Solonika," he replied, "that you leave matters of state entirely in my hands. You are too soft-hearted. When the House of Dhalmatia rules in Bharbazonia you will find yourself surrounded by more serious complications. Always remember you have a father who loves you and stands ready to lend his aid."
"I must be going now, before my friends return to find me out," I said, feeling my desire for sleep overcoming me.
As he realized that I must carry his secret back into the presence of General Palmora, the Duke renewed his suspicions.