"How?"
"By being ready to open to me when I come at eleven and knock as
Bauer knocked."
"Yes, I'll be there."
"And by telling nobody that I've been here to-night. Will you
promise me that?"
"Not my mother?"
"No."
"Nor the Count of Luzau-Rischenheim?"
"Him least of all. You must tell nobody. My business is very
private, and Rischenheim doesn't know it."
"I'll do all you tell me. But--but Bauer knows."
"True," said Rudolf. "Bauer knows. Well, we'll see about Bauer."
As he spoke he turned towards the door. Suddenly the girl bent,
snatched at his hand and kissed it.
"I would die for you," she murmured.
"Poor child!" said he gently. I believe he was loath to make
profit, even in the queen's service, of her poor foolish love. He
laid his hand on the door, but paused a moment to say:
"If Bauer comes, you have told me nothing. Mind, nothing! I
threatened you, but you told me nothing."
"He'll tell them you have been here."
"That can't be helped; at least they won't know when I shall
arrive again. Good-night."
Rudolf opened the door and slipped through, closing it hastily
behind him. If Bauer got back to the house, his visit must be
known; but if he could intercept Bauer, the girl's silence was
assured.
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