“It’s too bad we have to go,” remarked Dorothy as they made their way through the grounds. “I understand there is going to be a splendid entertainment given later in the afternoon under the supervision of Sir Richard Hollowboy, the famous Director of Plastics.” “Yes, it is indeed too bad!” assented Beatrice. “Well,” continued Dorothy, “I did my best to get out of it.” “You certainly did,” acquiesced Beatrice, “but there’s no escape. Well, don’t let’s mind! What can’t be cured must be endured, I suppose!” They reached the highway, stepped into their victoriamobile and were off. And thus it happened that the two ladies were following Mr. Kearns on the highway leading back to the palace. As for Mr. Kearns he traveled back at a rate of speed which, unused as he was to such celerity in an open vehicle of this description, suggested to him ideas that should any sudden breakdown, or other mishap occur there would be little left of him or the vehicle from which to pick out the tale. He experienced, however, a sense of buoyancy and exhilaration from this rapid flashing through the air. He was glad, though, of the wise provision which divided the Northbound and Southbound roads, thus obviating at least any possibility of collision. Without accident or further adventure he reached the Palace Park and springing out of the phaeromobile, he ordered the man in charge to hold himself in readiness for the return journey to Fairoaks. Striding rapidly toward the military quarters, he was within a few steps of the main entrance when, to his unbounded astonishment, he saw advancing toward him Captain Stanley Mortimer. “How is it you are here?” exclaimed Mr. Kearns in amazement. “I’ve just been favored with an order of release,” said Mortimer, smiling. “How did you manage it?” asked Kearns. “I don’t quite know, except that the order was from the King,” answered Mortimer. “But come this way; I’ve something to show you.” He passed his arm through that of Kearns and led him a short distance away from the military quarters and out into the park. “This whole affair has happened in a most curious way,” he said. “A few minutes ago I was notified of the arrival of the order of release and at the same time this note was given me. It’s really quite curious! Read for yourself!” Kearns took the paper handed to him and read: “When these lines reach you, they will be accompanied by an order for your release. This order has been secured by a true and devoted friend, who desires to see you at once for the purpose of conveying to you information which it is of the highest importance you should learn at once. The moment you are released proceed to the summer-house on Antler Hill, where you will find this friend anxiously awaiting you. You ought to reach there by sixteen o’clock or a little earlier.” Twice Mr. Kearns read the note over carefully and then paused thoughtfully for some moments. “Well!” he said at last.