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 Liublian?" I asked Markov, riding up to him as we neared that place. "We shall never reach the frontier in this thing; an open cart would be better. Try if you can't get something. Steal it if you can't hire or buy it."

"The horses are nearly done already, your Honour," said Markov; "although we've only come some seven miles. I'll try."

"You must be quick," I said, as I fell back behind again.

Despite the very urgent need for haste, we entered the place driving very leisurely, and drew up at the inn, when Markov and I entered to make inquiries. We were in luck. The man had a comparatively light open cart for sale and a couple of strong young horses. A few minutes found the bargain struck, and while my men were refreshing themselves the horses were put in, and Christina and her companion left the great ugly, cumbersome carriage to take their places in the cart.

"Could we get peasants' clothes?" suggested Mademoiselle Broumoff. "Any kind of disguise might help us." It was a happy thought, and the ever resourceful Markov acted on the hint directly, and procured cloaks and headgear.

"Better put them on when we are clear of the place," I decided, as Markov put the bundle into the cart.

"I am afraid you will find the road to safety very rough, Princess," I said as I helped her into the cart. I had not spoken to her since leaving the General's house.

"I am causing you all sore trouble," she answered, smiling sadly. "How shall I ever thank you enough?"

"We shall have our reward when we see you safe in Servia."

"Ah, I ought to have done what you advised