"
"Possibly the king has his reasons for not wishing to be
disturbed," suggested Bernenstein.
"It's very possible," retorted Rischenheim significantly.
"Meanwhile, my dear count, I shall take it as a personal favor if
you'll move out of the doorway."
"Do I incommode you by standing here?" answered the count.
"Infinitely, my lord," answered Bernenstein stiffly.
"Hallo, Bernenstein, what's the matter?" cried Anton, seeing that
their tones and glances had grown angry. The crowd also had
noticed the raised voices and hostile manner of the disputants,
and began to gather round in a more compact group.
Suddenly a voice came from inside the hall: it was distinct and
loud, yet not without a touch of huskiness. The sound of it
hushed the rising quarrel and silenced the crowd into expectant
stillness. Bernenstein looked aghast, Rischenheim nervous yet
triumphant, Anton amused and gratified.
"The king!" he cried, and burst into a laugh. "You've drawn him,
Rischenheim!"
The crowd heard his boyish exclamation and raised a cheer.
Helsing turned, as though to rebuke them. Had not the king
himself desired secrecy? Yes, but he who spoke as the king chose
any risk sooner than let Rischenheim go back and warn Rupert of
his presence.
Pages:
229
230
231
232
233
234
235
236
237
238
239
240
241
242
243
244
245
246
247
248
249
250
251
252
253