On the homeward journey Tony again trudged behind while the officers held their post at Constance's side.

But Tony's spirits were still singing from the little encounter on the castle platform, and in spite of the animated Italian which floated back, he was determined to look at the sunny side of the adventure.

It was Mr.Wilder who unconsciously supplied him with a second opportunity for conversation.

He and the Englishman, being deep in a discussion involving statistics of the Italian army budget, called on the two officers to set them straight.

Tony, at their order, took his place beside the saddle; Constance was not to be abandoned again to Fidilini's caprice.