" For the night she is stopping with the Countess
Rallowitz. A force of men, but not those whom you
met at the gates, has just been dispatched at her com-
mand to search for you in the lower pass. You took
the most dangerous road, Miss Calhoun, and I am
amazed that you came through in safety."

" The Russians chose the lower pass, I know not
why. Of course, I was quite ignorant. However, we
met neither brigands nor soldiers, Axphain or Grau-
stark. I encountered nothing more alarming than a
mountain lion. And that. Baron Dangloss, recalls
me to the sense of a duty I have been neglecting. A
poor wanderer in the hills defended me against the
beast and was badly wounded. He must be taken to
a hospital at once, sir, where he may have the proper
care."

Whereupon, at his request, she hurriedly related the
story of that trying journey through the mountains,
not forgetting to paint the courage of Baldos in mosl
glowing colors. The chief was deeply interested in



98 BEVERLY OF GRAUSTARK

the story of the goat-hunter and his party. There
was an odd gleam of satisfaction in his eyes, but she
did not observe it.
" You will see that he has immediate attention,
won't you ? " she implored in the end.
" He shall have our deepest consideration," prom-
ised he.
