"All right," he replied, "I will go alone, provided I may borrow your car, Nick."
"Gladly," said Nick, relieved at being let off so easily.
Teju Okio brought the big machine under the porte-cochère, and we were preparing to see the General off when a lone horseman cantered up the driveway among the trees, his long Spanish cloak waving in the breeze and his sword jangling at his side. He was a good looking black haired youth, and he rode his charger with the ease of a cavalryman. It took all his horsemanship to get his restive animal to face the running engines, but by dint of a liberal use of spurs and much coaxing he finally came within hailing distance.
The General seemed to recognize him and returned his salute graciously. Upon the rider's breast, under his wind-tossed cloak, was the same kind of a Greek cross, two parallel bars and one at an angle, which I had seen both the General and Nicholas wearing upon the yacht. Whatever his business was, it was speedily transacted. He shouted a question at the General, received a reply, waved a parting salute, and was off like the wind, his struggling steed showing a fine pair of heels to the demon in the porte-cochère.
"The Grand Duke Marbosa seems much concerned for my safe arrival," said Nick. "His messenger is here early."
"I suppose Marchaud, the innkeeper, has spread the news of our return," said the General.
"What have I to do with Marbosa?" said Nick.
"I'll tell you about that when I see you to-night," replied the General, waving his hand to Teju Okio. The Jap boy threw in his clutch, the General's head went back, and they were off for Nischon.
"There is some mystery here," said Nick, watching the car thoughtfully until it was gone from sight.
"Who is Marbosa?" I asked.