"Request Herr Bertram to come to me immediately," I said to the servant who appeared in answer to it. Then, when the door had been closed behind the man, I read the message again. Was it a hoax? or was it an attempt to draw us into a trap? Whichever it might be, I was determined to see the matter through. A few minutes later, for he had not had time to retire to rest, Bertram put in an appearance. His quick eye saw that something unusual had happened.
"What is it, your Majesty?" he inquired. "I can see that you have had some news."
"Read that," I said, handing him the letter.
He took it, and did as I commanded.
"Thank God!" I heard him mutter when he had carefully perused the contents of the note.
"What do you think of it?" I inquired. "Can it be true?"
"Let us hope so," he replied. "At any rate, it would be as well for me to go to the house and make certain."
"Yes," I answered; "and I will accompany you. We will start at once."
"Is it wise for your Majesty to come?" Bertram asked anxiously. "If you will entrust the errand to me——"
"It is useless for you to argue," I answered sharply. "My mind is made up, and go with you I must, and will. Prepare yourself, and return here."