I have therefore given orders that one of the Swedish vessels we captured on the lake should be got in readiness, and its crew placed on board again.

You shall embark in an hour, and it shall carry you to any port in Sweden you may choose.

The wind is from the east, and you have every chance of a quick run thither." Charlie expressed his warm thanks to the czar for his thoughtful kindness.
"I have much to do now," the czar said, "and must hand you over to the care of one of my officers.

He will accompany you, in my carriage, to the spot where the vessel is lying, near the mouth of the river, and will there see you on board.

Should the fortune of war again throw you into our hands, do not lose an hour in sending a message to Peter Michaeloff." So saying, the czar shook hands with Charlie, beckoned an officer to him and gave him instructions, and then moved away among the workmen, while Charlie, with his conductor, took their places in the vehicle and drove rapidly off.
An hour later, he was on board the Swedish vessel, whose master and crew were delighted at their sudden and unlooked for release.