that you are not the princess as to say that you are, so what matters,
after all? We reserve the right, however, to do homage to the queen who
rules over these wise old hills. I offer you the humble services of
myself and my companions. We are yours to command."

"I am very grateful to find that you are not brigands, believe me," said
Beverly. "Pray tell me who you are, then, and you shall be sufficiently
rewarded for your good intentions."

"I? Oh, your highness, I am Baldos, the goat-hunter, a poor subject for
reward at your hands. I may as well admit that I am a poacher, and have
no legal right to the prosperity of your hills. The only reward I can
ask is forgiveness for trespassing upon the property of others."

"You shall receive pardon for all transgressions. But you must get me to
some place of safety," said Beverly, eagerly.

"And quickly, too, you might well have added," he said, lightly. "The
horses have rested, I think, so with your permission we may proceed. I
know of a place where you may spend the night comfortably and be
refreshed for the rough journey to-morrow."

"To-morrow? How can I go on? I am alone," she cried, despairingly.

"Permit me to remind you that you are no longer alone. You have a ragged
following, your highness, but it shall be a loyal one. Will you re-enter
the coach? It is not far to the place I speak of, and I myself will
drive you there. Come, it is getting late, and your retinue, at least,
is hungry."