d, even for a native. Definitely, the
studious type, decided Stern. He'd present no problem at all.

The regent almost allowed himself a smile. This was going to be easy!
He motioned the two forward.

"You have matters for our attention?" he inquired formally.

Waern stepped to the rail.

"I here claim to be the rightful heir to the throne of Oredan," he said
slowly. He took a book from under his arm and laid it on the table
beside Stern.

"I here present the book of my ancestors," he went on. "In it, at the
place marked, is the contract of the last lawful king of Oredan, and of
his queen. I was designated to be their son."

Stern nodded. "It is well," he said. "We shall consider this matter."

He opened the book and glanced at the script and the two signature
stamps. Then he jerked back dramatically, staring at the book in
simulated consternation. He bent forward again, for a closer look.

"This is most strange," he said in a low, wondering tone. He shook his
head.

"These looked authentic in reproduction," he murmured. "But now?" He
glanced at Pete and was forced to repress a smile.

The expression on the Waern boy's face was perfect. He had him! He
looked about the room, then gazed sternly at the claimant.

"I find it almost impossible to believe," he said coldly, "that there
is a person in this realm who would have the temerity to bring such a
document to my attention for serious consideration."

He stabbed a finger out to point at the book and fixed Pete with an
accusing stare.

"I find this a complete forgery," he said harshly. "Your claim is, of
course, denied and declared fraudulent." He stepped around the rail, to
tower over the boy.

"You will, therefore, acknowledge your crime in writing." He reached
out and took a pen from the table.

"You will now write the words, 'forgery, no genuine contract,' over
these pages. And you will sign your name." He paused, thrusting the pen
toward Pete.

"You will then----"

* * * * *

The warden stepped forward.

"Pete," he said sharply. "Listen to me!"

Stern looked up in annoyance. The Waern boy had started to take the
pen. Now, he stopped and jerked around.

"You will listen to nothing this man tells you," ordered the warden.
"You will do nothing he asks. Do you understand that?"

The boy nodded. "Thanks, Don," he said. "He almost got me that time."

Stern glared angrily at the warden.

"You will go ba