CHAPTER NINENow standing in the grounds outside the Palace of Montdeaves, Sir Andrew pulled loose his black bow tie and stared around, his face contorted with despair.
He had just searched The Palace stables from the hayloft to the tack room, wondering if the Princess could have concealed herself somewhere in there, although why she should have done such a thing was beyond him.
Now the great storm that had been threatening the town all day was gathering force.
The cold wind that the locals called the Groufflé whistled down from the highest mountain slopes, bringing with it sheets of icy rain.
Thunder still grumbled and occasionally a crackle of lightning pierced the sky.
Sir Andrew had also searched The Palace from top to bottom, but could find no trace of Princess Marianne anywhere.
