I was recalled from the survey of my new domains--my satisfaction in
the thought that they were mine survived all the disturbing features
of the situation--by a call from Denny. In response to it I hurried
back to the hall, and found him at the window, with Constantine's
rifle rested on the sill.
"I could pick him off pat," said Denny, laughingly, and he pointed to
a figure which was approaching the house. It was a man riding a stout
pony. When he came within about two hundred yards of the house he
stopped, took a leisurely look, and then waved a white handkerchief.
"The laws of war must be observed," said I, smiling. "This is a
flag of truce." And I opened the door, stepped out, and waved my
handkerchief in return. The man, reassured, began to mop his brow with
the flag of truce, and put his pony to a trot. I now perceived him to
be the innkeeper Vlacho, and a moment later he reined up beside me,
giving an angry jerk at his pony's bridle.
"I have searched the island for you," he cried. "I am weary and hot.
How came you here?"
I explained to him briefly how I had chanced to take possession of my
house, and added, significantly:
"But has no message come to you from me?"
He smiled with equal meaning as he answered:
"No. An old woman came to speak to a gentleman who is in the village.
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