where he saw perhaps half a dozen other figures standing about. These
proved to be more Austrians. Near the door Hal halted at a word of
command from Robard and the three prisoners soon were surrounded.
Their captors were all dressed in civilian attire, but from their
military bearings, Hal and Chester concluded that they were Austrian
army officers.

Robard turned to one who stood somewhat apart from the others.

"Everything ready?" he asked.

"All ready," was the reply. "The baggage has been sent on ahead of us and
the train to Venice will leave within the hour."

"Good! And the ambassador?"

"Will be here within half an hour," was the answer.

Hal's heart leaped. Here, he thought, would be a chance to demand his
freedom, and that of his companions. He was loath to believe that a man
in the capacity of an ambassador would countenance such proceedings. But
his hopes were doomed to disappointment.

Within the half hour mentioned, the door was flung suddenly open
and a small man hurried in. He gazed quickly about him and then
spoke to Robard.

"Everything ready?" he asked.

"Yes, sir," was Robard's answer.