"I see no reason why we should hesitate," said the princess. "By his own statement, he is not a desperate criminal. You did quite right in promising him protection, dear, and I shall sustain you. Do you want to play the princess to Baldos a little longer?"
"I should love it," cried Beverly, her eyes sparkling.
"Then I shall write the order to Dangloss at once. Oh, dear, I have forgotten, I have no official seal here."
"Couldn't you seal it with your ring?" suggested Beverly. "Oh, I have it! Send for Baron Dangloss and have him witness your signature. He can't get away from that, you see, and after we reach Edelweiss, you can fix up a regular edict, seal and all," cried the resourceful American girl.
Ink and paper were sent for and the two conspirators lent their wisdom to the task of preparing an order for the salvation of Baldos, the fugitive. The order read:
To BARON JASTO DANGLOSS, COMMANDING THE CIVIC AND MILITARY POLICE OF
GRAUSTARK:
"You are hereby informed that Baldos, the man who entered the city
with Miss Calhoun, is not to be regarded as a prisoner now or
hereafter. He is to be given capable medical and surgical attention
until fully recovered, when he is to be allowed to go his way in peace
unquestioned.
"Also, he is to be provided with suitable wearing apparel and made
comfortable in every way.
"Also, the members of his party, now in the hills (whose names are
unknown to me), are to be accorded every protection. Franz, the
driver, is to have his freedom if he desires it.
"And from this edict there is no recourse until its abatement by royal
decree.
"YETIVE."
"There," said the princess, affixing her signature "I think that will be sufficient." Then she rang for a servant. "Send to Baron Dangloss and ask him to come here at once."
Fifteen minutes later the chief of police stood in the presence of the eager young interpreters of justice.
"I want you to witness my signature, Baron Dangloss," said the princess after the greetings.
"Gladly," said the officer.