“Well,” said the King, “we assume that your case is completed at last and that it must be both interesting and important to be forced upon our attention at the present time!” “The case is fully completed, Sire,” answered Kearns, “and in importance will not, I think, disappoint your expectations. I am prepared to report now.” “Not now,” interrupted the King. “We would prefer to learn the details at the palace--upon our return.” “But the matters I have to impart, Sire, are most pressing--most urgent!” “So are matters here,” exclaimed the King, with a peculiar smile. “Certain rumors--as wicked as they are unfounded--have, it has reached our ears, been set afloat and have deeply shocked us. It has become necessary by our presence here, and that of Her Majesty, to discountenance these scandalous gossipings.” Mr. Kearns could accommodate his intelligence to that which was required of him as well as the next man. He accordingly contrived to inject into his countenance the necessary quantum of astonishment and indignation and having done this, he promptly returned to the charge. “It becomes my duty to report to you, Sire,” he said, “that danger threatens and that an armed attack is projected.” It was the King’s turn to look startled and astonished. “When?” he asked. “Possibly within three days.” “Are you sure of this?” “Positive!” “And can you confirm your facts?” “Absolutely.” “How?” “Through Captain Stanley Mortimer and another.” “You are sure of this?” “Entirely so.” “Ah!” The King remained for a moment in deep thought. “Three days,” he murmured. “That will give all the time required for any concentration of our forces which may be necessary. Two hours cannot make much difference in these preparations. We will remain here for that time and then return to the palace.” “In view of the character of my information,” persisted Kearns, “I urge you, Sire, to the utmost expedition. I beg you to release Captain Mortimer at once and to send for him and hear his story.” “No,” answered the King, “to leave here thus suddenly would create much undesirable speculation and gossip. This you shall do. We will sign the order for Captain Mortimer’s release, which you shall bear to him at once. Direct him to repair to the palace and hold himself in readiness for an immediate audience. When you have done this, you will hasten back here and report. By that time we shall be prepared to return to our palace and listen to the full details of this news. You may now go and carry out these instructions.” “You have not yet given me, Sire, the order for Captain Mortimer’s release.” The King crossed to a writing-table, hastily wrote the requisite order and handed it to Kearns.