The count lent forward towards the
king. Lieutenant von Bernenstein coughed. The count sank back
again.
"Perfectly, sire," said Colonel Sapt. "I understand all the count
wishes to convey to your Majesty."
"Well, I understand about half," said the king with a laugh. "But
perhaps that'll be enough."
"I think quite enough, sire," answered Sapt with a smile. The
important matter of the dogs being thus disposed of, the king
recollected that the count had asked for an audience on a matter
of business.
"Now, what did you wish to say to me?" he asked, with a weary
air. The dogs had been more interesting.
Rischenheim looked at Sapt. The revolver was in its place;
Bernenstein coughed again. Yet he saw a chance.
"Your pardon, sire," said he, "but we are not alone."
The king lifted his eyebrows.
"Is the business so private?" he asked.
"I should prefer to tell it to your Majesty alone," pleaded the
count.
Now Sapt was resolved not to leave Rischenheim alone with the
king, for, although the count, being robbed of his evidence could
do little harm concerning the letter, he would doubtless tell the
king that Rudolf Rassendyll was in the castle. He leant now over
the king's shoulder, and said with a sneer:
"Messages from Rupert of Hentzau are too exalted matters for my
poor ears, it seems.
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