"Let's sit down," said Robin, at once convinced that he had stumbled upon an unwelcome truth.
They repaired to the garden and were lucky enough to find a table somewhat removed from the crowd of tea-drinkers. Robin began fanning himself with his broad straw-hat. He felt uncomfortably warm. Quinnox gravely extracted two or three bits of paper from his pocket, and spread them out in order before his sovereign.
"Read this one first," said he grimly.
It was a cablegram from their financial agents in New York City, and it said: "Mr. B. making a hurried trip to Paris. Just learned Scoville preceded Miss B. to Europe by fast steamer and has been seen with her in Paris. B. fears an elopement. Make sure papers are signed at once as such contingency might cause B. to change mind and withdraw if possible."
Robin looked up. "I think this may account for the two man-hunters," said he. His companions stared. "You will hear all about them from Gourou. We were followed this afternoon."
"Followed?" gasped Quinnox.
"Beautifully," said the Prince, with his brightest smile. "Detectives, you know. It was ripping."
"My God!" groaned the Count.
"I fancy you'll now agree with me that she is Miss Blithers," said Dank forlornly.
"Cheer up, Boske," cried Robin, slapping him on the shoulder. "You'll meet another fate before you're a month older. The world is absolutely crowded with girls."