They were ready to start in a very short time. Selim carried a quantity of food and a small supply of brandy. Each was heavily armed and prepared for a stiff battle with the abductors. They were to go by way of the upper gate, taking chances on leaving the park without discovery by the sentinels.
"We seem constantly to be saying good-bye to each other." Thus spoke the Princess to Chase as he stood at the top of the steps waiting for Selim. The darkness hid the wan, despairing smile that gave the lie to her sprightly words.
"And I'm always doing the unexpected thing—coming back. This time I may vary the monotony by failing to return."
"I should think you could vary it more pleasantly by not going away," she said. "You will be careful?"
"The danger is here, not out there," he said meaningly.
"You mean—me? But, like all danger, I soon shall pass. In a few days, I shall say good-bye forever and sail away."
"How much better it would be for you if this were the last good-bye—and I should not come back."
"For me?"
"Yes. You could marry the Prince without having me on your conscience forevermore."
"Mr. Chase!"