8.

 

 

 

THE ROYAL FAMILY OF BLALOC TOOK A LAST BREAKFAST at Haidion in company with King Casmir and Queen Sollace. It was a somber occasion. The two queens made polite conversation, but the two kings had little to say, and Prince Brezante sat moodily silent. Princess Madouc had not appeared for breakfast but no one troubled to inquire in regard to her absence.

After breakfast, with the sun now halfway up the sky, King Milo, Queen Caudabil and Prince Brezante exchanged final compliments with King Casmir and Queen Sollace and took their leave. King Casmir and Queen Sollace stepped out upon the terrace to watch the column depart.

Lady Vosse came from the castle and approached King Casmir. “Your Highness, I noticed the absence of Princess Madouc at the leave-taking and went to inquire the reason for her lassitude. In her chamber I found there this missive, which, as you see, is addressed to you.”

King Casmir, frowning in automatic displeasure, broke the seal and unfolded the parchment. He read:

 

‘Your Royal Highness, my best respects!

In accordance with your commands I have set out to discover the name and condition of my father, and also the details of my pedigree. Your instructions were definite; I have commanded for myself the services of an escort. As soon as my goals have been achieved, I will return. I informed Queen Sollace of my intention to obey Your Majesty’s orders in this matter. I depart immediately.

Madouc’

 

King Casmir looked blankly at Queen Sollace. “Madouc has gone.”

“ ‘Gone’? Where?”

“Somewhere—to seek her pedigree, so she says.” Casmir slowly read the note aloud.

“So that is what the little vixen meant!” cried Sollace. “And now—what is to be done?”

“I must consider. Perhaps nothing.”