" Never fear, my man," he said easily, " it won't



222 BEVERLY OF GRAUSTARK

be as bad as that. I can well afford to overlook your
indiscretion of to-night. There will be no execution,
as you call it. This was an affair between men, not
between man and the state. Our gracious referee is
to be our judge. It is for her to pardon and to con-
demn. It was very pretty while it lasted and you
are too good a swordsman to be shot. Go your way,
Baldos, and remember me as Marlanx the man, not
Marlanx the general. As your superior officer, I con-
gratulate and commend you upon the manner in which
you serve the princess."

" You will always find me ready to fight and to
die for her," said Baldos gravely. " Do you think
you can remember that. Count Marlanx? "

" I have an excellent memory," said the count
steadily. With a graceful salute to Beverly, Baldos
turned and walked away in the darkness.
" A perfect gentleman. Miss Calhoun, but a
wretched soldier," said Marlanx grimly.
