I was sure then that I was on the track of Bauer, and probably of more than Bauer.

But my first duty was to obey orders and get to Zenda.

Besides, I could not force my way in, there in open daylight, without a scandal that would have set all the long ears in Strelsau aprick.

I turned away reluctantly.

I did not even know for certain that Bauer was within, and thus had no information of value to carry with me.
"If your lordship would kindly recommend me--" said the old hag.
"Yes, I'll recommend you," said I."I'll recommend you to be careful whom you take for lodgers.