Page:Anthony Hope - Rupert of Hentzau.djvu/102

92 do little harm concerning the letter, he would doubtless tell the King that Rudolf Rassendyll was in the Castle. He leant now over the King's shoulder, and said with a sneer:

"Messages from Rupert of Hentzau are too exalted matters for my poor ears, it seems."

The King flushed red.

"Is that your business, my lord?" he asked Rischenheim sternly.

"Your Majesty does not know what my cousin"

"It is the old plea?" interrupted the King. "He wants to come back? Is that all, or is there anything else?"

A moment's silence followed the King's words. Sapt looked full at Rischenheim, and smiled as he slightly raised his right hand and showed the revolver. Bernenstein coughed twice. Rischenheim sat twisting his fingers. He understood that, cost what it might, they would not let him declare his errand to the King or betray Mr. Rassendyll's presence. He cleared his throat and opened his mouth as if to speak; but still he remained silent.

"Well, my lord, is it the old story or something new?" asked the King impatiently. Again Rischenheim sat silent.

"Are you dumb, my lord?" cried the King most impatiently.

"It—it is—only what you call the old story, sire."