Baldos was not surprised, scarcely more than interested, when a day or
two later, he was summoned to appear before the board of strategy. If
anyone had told him, however, that on a recent night a pair of dreamy
gray eyes had tried to find his window in the great black shadow, he
might have jumped in amazement and--delight. For at that very hour he
was looking off toward the castle, and his thoughts were of the girl who
drew back into the shadow of the pillar.
The Graustark ministry had received news from the southern
frontier. Messengers came in with the alarming and significant report
that Dawsbergen was strengthening her fortifications in the passes and
moving war supplies northward. It meant that Gabriel and his people
expected a fight and were preparing for it. Count Halfont hastily called
the ministers together, and Lorry and the princess took part in their
deliberations. General Marlanx represented the army; and it was he who
finally asked to have Baldos brought before the council. The Iron Count
plainly intimated that the new guard was in a position to transmit
valuable information to the enemy. Colonel Quinnox sent for him, and
Baldos was soon standing in the presence of Yetive and her advisers. He
looked about him with a singular smile. The one whom he was supposed to
regard as the princess was not in the council chamber.
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