The Duke of Mizrox came into the city hours after the time set for his
arrival. It was quite dark when the escort sent by Colonel Quinnox drew
up at the castle gates with the visitor. The duke and his party had been
robbed by brigands in the broad daylight and at a point not more than
five miles from Edelweiss! And thus the mystery of the signal fires was
explained. Count Marlanx did not soon forget the triumphant look he
received from Beverly Calhoun when the duke's misfortunes were
announced. Shameless as it may seem, she rejoiced exceedingly over the
acts of the robbers.
Mizrox announced to the princess and her friends that he was not an
emissary from the Axphainian government. Instead, he was but little less
than a fugitive from the wrath of Volga and the crown adherents.
Earlier in the week he had been summoned before Volga and informed that
his absence for a few months, at least, from the principality was
desirable. The privilege was allowed him of selecting the country which
he desired to visit during that period, and he coolly chose
Graustark. He was known to have friendly feelings for that state; but no
objections were raised. This friendship also gave him a welcome in
Edelweiss. Mizrox plainly stated his position to Yetive and the prime
minister. He asked for protection, but declined to reveal any of the
plans then maturing in his home country. This reluctance to become a
traitor, even though he was not in sympathy with his sovereign, was
respected by the princess. He announced his willingness to take up arms
against Dawsbergen, but would in no way antagonize Axphain from an
enemy's camp.
The duke admitted that the feeling in Axphain's upper circles was
extremely bitter toward Graustark. The old-time war spirit had not died
down. Axphain despised her progressive neighbor.
"I may as well inform your highness that the regent holds another and a
deeper grudge against Graustark," he said, in the audience chamber where
were assembled many of the nobles of the state, late on the night of his
arrival. "She insists that you are harboring and even shielding the
pretender to our throne, Prince Frederic. It is known that he is in
Graustark and, moreover, it is asserted that he is in direct touch with
your government."
Yetive and her companions looked at one another with glances of
Comprehension. He spoke in English now for the benefit of Beverly
Calhoun, an interested spectator, who felt her heart leap suddenly and
swiftly into violent insurrection.
"Nothing could be more ridiculous," said Yetive after a pause. "We do
not know Frederic, and we are not harboring him."
"I am only saying what is believed to be true by Axphain, your
highness. It is reported that he joined you in the mountains in June and
since has held a position of trust in your army."