That won't be a long matter."
Sapt was still smiling in grim amusement when the messenger came
up and, leaning from his home, handed him a telegram.
"Special and urgent, sir," said he.
Sapt tore it open and read. It was the message that I sent in
obedience to Mr. Rassendyll's orders. He would not trust my
cipher, but, indeed, none was necessary. Sapt would understand
the message, although it said simply, "The king is in Strelsau.
Wait orders at the lodge. Business here in progress, but not
finished. Will wire again."
Sapt handed it to James, who took it with a respectful little
bow. James read it with attention, and returned it with another
bow.
"I'll attend to what it says, sir," he remarked.
"Yes," said Sapt. "Thanks, my man," he added to the messenger.
"Here's a crown for you. If any other message comes for me and
you bring it in good time, you shall have another."
"You shall have it quick as a horse can bring it from the
station, sir."
"The king's business won't bear delay, you know," nodded Sapt.
"You sha'n't have to wait, sir," and, with a parting salute, the
fellow turned his horse and trotted away.
"You see," remarked Sapt, "that your story is quite imaginary.
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