It was risky enough in all conscience, but success had made
Rudolf bold, and he had learnt how slow suspicion is if a
deception be bold enough. It is only likely frauds that are
detected.
"Well, what do you say?" asked Mr. Rassendyll. I observed that he
said nothing to Sapt of what the queen and he had determined to
do afterwards.
Sapt wrinkled his forehead. I saw him glance at James, and the
slightest, briefest smile showed on James's face.
"It's dangerous, of course," pursued Rudolf. "But I believe that
when they see the king's body--"
"That's the point," interrupted Sapt. "They can't see the king's
body."
Rudolf looked at him with some surprise. Then speaking in a low
voice, lest the queen should hear and be distressed, he went on:
"You must prepare it, you know. Bring it here in a shell; only a
few officials need see the face."
Sapt rose to his feet and stood facing Mr. Rassendyll.
"The plan's a pretty one, but it breaks down at one point," said
he in a strange voice, even harsher than his was wont to be. I
was on fire with excitement, for I would have staked my life now
that he had some strange tidings for us. "There is no body," said
he.
Even Mr.
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