A few moments later he returned, accompanied by a man of most striking personality. He was tall beyond the usual height, broad shouldered and massive, with a large, strong face, every line and contour of which was indicative of resolution and power. The new-comer greeted Beatrice with cheery courtesy and the Colonel presented General Mainwarren to his guests. “I need not disguise from you, gentlemen,” said the General, “that I know of the experiences through which you’ve passed. The wildest rumors on the subject are current in Pemberton and the newspapers are full of them. However, I trust you won’t allow this to distress you. May I ask how you like the new condition of things?” The General turned a keen and searching glance upon them as he put the question. “Well,” laughed the Professor, “it used to be the custom with the reporters of our day, when foreigners landed upon our shores, to inquire how they liked the country. As the visitor’s actual experience consisted of a five minutes’ sojourn on the dock, the question was naturally difficult to answer. It seems to me we are much in the same position.” “So you are,” answered the General, smiling. “I may say to you, however, that you will find things much changed--much improved in some respects, you will, perhaps, decide.” “How do you happen to be traveling this way?” asked Beatrice, with a woman’s curiosity. “Ah,” said the General, with a light laugh, “there’s a story connected with that. I’ve been favored with a special summons to attend at Court--to be received in special audience by His Majesty and the Chancellor.” The Colonel looked up sharply and turned a quick, inquiring glance upon the speaker. “There--is--no--new--trouble?” he faltered. “I don’t know,” said the General lightly. “It is usually a sign of favor for a subject to be summoned to attend the Court of the King. In my case perhaps----” He stopped abruptly and glanced toward Beatrice. The young lady rose quickly from the table. “I know you want to discuss business and politics and horrid things of that kind,” she exclaimed petulantly, “so I’ll disappear. But you and I,” she continued, turning to the General, “will have a little _tête-à-tête_ before you leave, won’t we? If you are going to Court, you can take a message to Dorothy.” “Certainly,” smilingly answered the General, and Beatrice tripped from the room. “I think we might take a turn in the garden,” remarked the Professor to Kearns. “No, no; please don’t go,” exclaimed the General. “I’ll be indebted if you will remain. I would like to have your opinion on certain matters.” “You are sure?” said the Professor hesitatingly. “Quite, quite sure,” declared the General. “Pray be seated.” The Professor sank back into his seat. “There’s some trouble, I feel convinced,” said the Colonel with an air of concern.