"We would have stood on no ceremony," he said. "The queen's honor
was at stake, and the fellow himself an assassin."
Bernenstein rose and went out. He was gone about half an hour,
being employed in despatching the telegrams to Strelsau. Rudolf
and Sapt used the interval to explain to Rischenheim what they
proposed to do with him. They asked no pledge, and he offered
none. He heard what they said with a dulled uninterested air.
When asked if he would go without resistance, he laughed a bitter
laugh. "How can I resist?" he asked. "I should have a bullet
through my head."
"Why, without doubt," said Colonel Sapt. "My lord, you are very
sensible."
"Let me advise you, my lord," said Rudolf, looking down on him
kindly enough, "if you come safe through this affair, to add
honor to your prudence, and chivalry to your honor. There is
still time for you to become a gentleman."
He turned away, followed by a glance of anger from the count and
a grating chuckle from old Sapt.
A few moments later Bernenstein returned. His errand was done,
and horses for himself and Rischenheim were at the gate of the
castle. After a few final words and clasp of the hand from
Rudolf, the lieutenant motioned to his prisoner to accompany him,
and they two walked out together, being to all appearance willing
companions and in perfect friendliness with one another.
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