Page:Anthony Hope - Rupert of Hentzau.djvu/103

Rh "Then let me say that you have treated me very badly in obtaining an audience of me for any such purpose," said the King. "You knew my decision, and your cousin knows it."

Thus speaking the King rose; Sapt's revolver slid into his pocket; but Lieutenant von Bernenstein drew his sword and stood at the salute; he also coughed.

"My dear Rischenheim," pursued the King more kindly, "I can allow for your natural affection. But, believe me, in this case it misleads you. Do me the favour not to open this subject again to me."

Rischenheim, humiliated and angry, could do nothing but bow in acknowledgment of the King's rebuke.

"Colonel Sapt, see that the Count is well entertained. My horse should be at the door by now. Farewell, Count. Bernenstein, give me your arm."

Bernenstein shot a rapid glance at the Constable. Sapt nodded reassuringly. Bernenstein sheathed his sword and gave his arm to the King. They passed through the door, and Bernenstein closed it with a backward push of his hand. But at this moment Rischenheim, goaded to fury and desperate at the trick played on him—seeing, moreover, that he had now only one man to deal with—made a sudden rush at the door. He reached it, and his hand was on the door-