The great Western fleet lay at their moorings, but with the exception of manning their yards, took no immediate part in the proceedings.
On the deck of the new-comer the Balkan monarchs took their places, the officials of each State grading themselves behind their monarch.

The Ambassadors formed a foremost group by themselves.
Last came the Western King, quite alone (save for the two Queens), bearing in his hand the vellum scroll, the record of his arbitration.
This he proceeded to read, a polyglot copy of it having been already supplied to every Monarch, Ambassador, and official present.

It was a long statement, but the occasion was so stupendous--so intense--that the time flew by quickly.

The cheering had ceased the moment the Arbitrator opened the scroll, and a veritable silence of the grave abounded.
When the reading was concluded Rupert raised his hand, and on the instant came a terrific salvo of cannon-shots from not only the ships in the port, but seemingly all up and over the hillsides away to the very summit.
When the cheering which followed the salute had somewhat toned down, those on board talked together, and presentations were made.

Then the barges took the whole company to the armour-clad fort in the entrance-way to the Blue Mouth.