The American's face was clouded for a second; then, to please the boy, a warm smile succeeded the frown.
"Why, Bobby, you dear little beggar, he could thresh me with one hand."
"What?" almost shrieked Prince Bobby, utterly dismayed.
"He's a better swordsman than I, don't you see. Gentlemen over here fight with swords. I know nothing about duelling. He'd get at me in two thrusts."
"I—I think you'd better take some lessons from Colonel Quinnox. It won't do to be caught napping."
"I daresay you're right."
"Say, Uncle Jack, when are you going to take me to the witch's hovel?" The new thought abruptly banished all else from his eager little brain.
"Some day, soon," said Tullis. "You see, I'm not sure that she's receiving visitors these days. A witch is a very arbitrary person. Even princes have to send up their cards."
"Let's telegraph her," in an inspired tone.
"I'll arrange to go up with you very soon, Bobby. It's a hard ride through the pass and—and there may be a lot of goblins up there where the old woman keeps herself."