Page:Anthony Hope - Rupert of Hentzau.djvu/156

146 unexpected visitor was, but he was of middle height, dark, handsome, and "looked like a gentleman all over." He was dressed in a shooting - tunic, and a revolver was thrust through the belt of it. One hand rested on the belt, while the other held a small square box.

"Tell the King I am here. He expects me," said the stranger.

Herbert, alarmed at the suddenness and silence of the intruder's approach, and guiltily conscious of having left the door unbolted, drew back. He was unarmed, but, being a stout fellow, was prepared to defend his master as best he could. Rupert—beyond doubt it was Rupert—laughed lightly, saying again, "Man, he expects me. Go and tell him," and sat himself on the table, swinging his leg. Herbert, influenced by the visitor's air of command, began to retreat towards the bedroom, keeping his face towards Rupert. "If the King asks more, tell him I have the packet and the letter," said Rupert. The man bowed and passed into the bedroom. The King was asleep; when roused he seemed to know nothing of letter or packet, and to expect no visitor. Herbert's ready fears revived; he whispered that the stranger carried a revolver. Whatever the King's faults might be—and God forbid that I should speak hardly of him whom fate used so hardly!—he was no coward. He sprang