wonder reigned; vexation, uneasiness and perplexity existed
everywhere.

Standing there with her head on her aunt's shoulder, her face
grave and troubled, the Princess asked:

"Why should they seek to abduct me? Was it to imprison or to
kill me? Oh, Aunt Yvonne, have I not been good to my people?
God knows I have done all that I can. I could have done no more.
Is it a conspiracy to force me from the throne? Who can be so
cruel?"

And no one could answer. They could simply offer words of
comfort and promises of protection. Later in the day gruff
Dangloss marched in and apologized to the Americans for his
suspicions concerning them, imploring their assistance in running
down the chief villain. And as the hours went by Count Halfont
font came in and, sitting beside Grenfall, begged his pardon and
asked him to forget the deception that had been practiced in the
United States. He explained the necessity for traveling
incognito at that time. After which the Count entered a plea for
Her Royal Highness, who had expressed contrition and wished to be
absolved.




XI

LOVE IN A CASTLE