CHAPTER XI
THE RESCUE
The Baron was having a chill. Yet he could not remain indoors when everyone else was out searching for Greta. So he stepped timidly into the garden. He sniffed the fragrant air and glanced nervously about. The night was warm, but the Herr Baron was completely wrapped up in his great coat.
How unpleasant of Greta to disappear like this! And just when everything was all planned for the wedding and everyone was so happy! Greta must be found.
He took a step forward, and as he did so, a figure suddenly appeared out of the bushes. Herr Baron uttered a sound like a steam whistle with the croup and began to tremble.
"Good evening, sir," said a clear, young voice.
It was Erik. He had come over to the big house purposely to tell the Baron the story which he now began.
"Greta was left out on an island," he whispered dramatically. "Out in the middle of the lake."
The Baron attempted a laugh. It was a sad attempt. He shook his finger at Erik.
"You naughty b-boy!" he stuttered. "Once b-before you tried to f-frighten me. I d-do not believe you! R-run away!"