Page:Anthony Hope - Rupert of Hentzau.djvu/263

Rh our good King. The Chancellor here doesn't know where he is, or at least he won't answer my questions."

"Possibly the King has his reasons for not wishing to be disturbed," suggested Bernenstein.

"It's very possible," retorted Rischenheim significantly.

"Meanwhile, my dear Count, I shall take it as a personal favour if you'll move out of the doorway."

"Do I incommode you by standing here?" asked the Count.

"Infinitely, my lord," answered Bernenstein stiffly.

"Hullo, Bernenstein, what's the matter?" cried Anton, seeing that their tones and glances had grown angry. The crowd also had noticed the raised voices and hostile manner of the disputants, and began to gather round in a more compact group.

Suddenly a voice came from inside the hall; it was distinct and loud, yet not without a touch of huskiness. The sound of it hushed the rising quarrel and silenced the crowd into expectant stillness. Bernenstein looked aghast, Rischenheim nervous yet triumphant, Anton amused and gratified.

"The King!" he cried, and burst into a laugh. "You've drawn him, Rischenheim!"

The crowd heard his boyish exclamation and raised a cheer. Helsing turned as