Publisher's Synopsis
"Had we not better know a little more before we start on our journey? I shall get by semaphore what details are known. Do you all proceed in silence and as swiftly as possible. The Vladika and I will wait here till we have received the news and have sent some instructions, when we shall follow, and, if we can, overtake you. One thing: be absolutely silent on what has been. Be secret of every detail-even as to the rescue of the Voivodin-except what I send." Without a word-thus showing immeasurable trust-the whole body-not a very large one, it is true-moved on, and the Gospodar began signalling. As I was myself expert in the code, I did not require any explanation, but followed question and answer on either side. The first words the Gospodar Rupert signalled were: "Silence, absolute and profound, as to everything which has been." Then he asked for details of the capture of the Voivode. The answer ran: "He was followed from Flushing, and his enemies advised by the spies all along the route. At Ragusa quite a number of strangers-travellers seemingly-went on board the packet. When he got out, the strangers debarked too, and evidently followed him, though, as yet, we have no details. He disappeared at Ilsin from the Hotel Reo, whither he had gone. All possible steps are being taken to trace his movements, and strictest silence and secrecy are observed."
