"Yes, and lodged in the palace under safe keeping, and then—then,
Ward?"
"She must bear the consequences of her folly," Ward answered. "Has
England any part to play in whatever treatment she may receive?"
"No, I think not. One may pity the woman, but even a woman must pay the penalty of her actions. Still the death or banishment of the Princess may do little to relieve the situation; indeed, may only intensify it. There have been other influences at work, and we are as ignorant of them as ever we were."
"I see you have some scheme maturing, my lord," Ward said with a smile.
"It might mature at once did I know what had become of Captain Ellerey. Would he seize the opportunity and escape out of Wallaria, think you?" "Not if he thought anyone who had a right to his help needed it. He is the kind of man who would return, no matter what the danger might be," answered Ward.
"I believe some friendship of the sort does bind him to Sturatzberg," said Lord Cloverton, "and I should be happier if he were in Princess Maritza's company. I should know how to act then."
The door opened and a servant brought in a card.
"Ah, now we may hear news," said the Ambassador. "De Froilette, the timber merchant. Show him in. You need not go, Ward."
De Froilette came in quickly and was cordially greeted by the Minister.
"My secretary, Captain Ward; you may safely speak before him, monsieur."