"It is not the first time that I have gone through the passage, sir,"
said Baldos, amused by the looks of consternation. "I'd advise you to
close it. Its secret is known to more than one person. It is known, by
the way, to Prince Gabriel of Dawsbergen. It is known to every member of
the band with which Miss Calhoun found me when she was a princess.
Count Marlanx is quite right when he says that I have gone in and out of
the castle grounds from time to time. He is right when he says that I
have communicated with men inside and outside of these grounds. But he
is wrong when he accuses Miss Calhoun of being responsible for or even
aware of my reprehensible conduct. She knew nothing of all this, as you
may judge by taking a look at her face at this instant."
Beverly's face was a study in emotions. She was looking at him with
dilated eyes. Pain and disappointment were concentrated in their
expressive gray depths; indignation was struggling to master the love
and pity that had lurked in her face all along. It required but a single
glance to convince the most skeptical that she was ignorant of these
astounding movements on the part of her protege. Again every eye was
turned upon the bold, smiling guardsman.
"I have been bitterly deceived in you," said Lorry, genuine pain in his
voice. "We trusted you implicitly. I didn't think it of you,
Baldos.
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