THE HAND OF FATE Like a panther Nathaniel crouched and watched the man on the steps.

His muscles jerked, his hands were clenched; each instant he seemed about to spring.

But he held himself back until Strang had passed through the door.

Then he slipped along the log wall of the castle, hugging the shadows, fearing that the king might reappear and see him in time to close the door.

What an opportunity fate had made for him! His fingers itched to get at Strang's thick bull-like throat.