"Assuredly, sir," replied the officer, "since I have been commanded to obtain your paroles not to go beyond one league of the city gates."
"We give no parole," replied Reeves stiffly. "Tell your master that."
"Then I regret, sir, that my orders are to keep you within the limits of the Mound of Pharamond," replied Gare. "I am sorry, but 'tis my duty," and with a salute he withdrew.
CHAPTER XVII
The Flight from Croixilia
"Now, what's to be done?" asked Gerald. "We are prisoners to all intents and purposes."
"There are more ways than one of killing a cat," replied Reeves, tearing the letter into little bits and throwing them into the wide, open hearth. "We must take French leave, that's all. To-morrow I'll see Sir John and have it out with him."
But Sir John would not see the man his word to whom he had broken. He merely replied that the strangers must remain within the limits he had named until they gave the required promise. Reeves said something under his breath, and went to call upon Garth, whose quarters were in the same building.
The wounded Croixilian was visibly annoyed when he heard of the action taken by the acting ruler of the State.
"Sorry I am to have to bid you farewell," he exclaimed, "but 'tis for your wellbeing. Set by a store of such things as you can easily carry. Meanwhile I will speak with Captain Raoul Gare, whom I know intimately, and we will see what is to be done. Bring your two young comrades to see me before you make the attempt; and remember, if you get clear of the city, take heed of the plain of quicksands. Go rather by the wild country to the south. 'Twill take longer, but the time will be well spent."