Page:Anthony Hope - Rupert of Hentzau.djvu/367

Rh 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 before 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. Rassendyll's composure gave way. He sprang forward, catching Sapt by the arm.

"No body? What do you mean?" he exclaimed.

Sapt cast another glance at James, and then began in an even mechanical voice, as though he were reciting a lesson he had