It was the same throughout the whole palace. Everything that had any value had been removed, even the embroidered satin bedspreads.
They descended to the cellar and went towards the little room where the Duchess declared had stood the steel treasure chest. The door of the little room stood open and to tell the truth they expected to find the place empty, but what was their surprise to see the chest standing there perfectly solid looking.
"Of course it is empty," said the Duchess with a sniff, as she stooped and fitted the little key into the lock.
Daimur and Redmond lifted the lid, and behold! IT WAS FULL OF GOLD TO THE VERY BRIM!
It was all packed carefully in glass boxes bound with steel and each box was labeled with the owner's name.
The largest box bore Queen Amy's name, and the royal coat of arms.
They were so astonished that they did not say a word but stood staring at the gold as if fascinated.
Suddenly they were startled by a slight noise behind them, and both Daimur and Prince Redmond involuntarily drew their swords as they turned quickly around.
What they beheld was a frightened looking little creature who gazed at them from behind a large empty packing case in a corner.
"Come here," said Daimur rather sternly. "Who are you and what are you doing here? Are there any other people about?"