"Is that the Count of Luzau-Rischenheim?" called Rudolf from
within. "If so, let him enter and then shut the door."
There was something in his tone that alarmed Rischenheim. He
started back on the step. But Bernenstein caught him by the arm.
"Since you wish to come in, come in," he said with a grim smile.
Rischenheim looked round, as though he meditated flight. The next
moment Bernenstein was thrust aside. For one short instant a tall
figure appeared in the doorway; the crowd had but a glimpse, yet
they cheered again. Rischenheim's hand was clasped in a firm
grip; he passed unwillingly but helplessly through the door.
Bernenstein followed; the door was shut. Anton faced round on
Helsing, a scornful twist on his lips.
"There was a deuced lot of mystery about nothing," said he. "Why
couldn't you say he was there?" And without waiting for an answer
from the outraged and bewildered chancellor he swung down the
steps and climbed into his phaeton.
The people round were chatting noisily, delighted to have caught
a glimpse of the king, speculating what brought him and the queen
to my house, and hoping that they would soon come out and get
into the royal carriage that still stood waiting.
Pages:
230
231
232
233
234
235
236
237
238
239
240
241
242
243
244
245
246
247
248
249
250
251
252
253
254