Page:Anthony Hope - Rupert of Hentzau.djvu/392

374 "A man has shot the King," said I in bald stupid explanation.

All at once I found James, Mr. Rassendyll's servant, by me.

"I have sent for doctors, my lord," he said. "Come, let us carry him in."

He, Sapt, and I, lifted Rudolf and bore him across the gravel terrace and into the little saloon. We passed the Queen. She was leaning on Rischenheim's arm and held my wife's hand. We laid Rudolf down on a couch. Outside I heard Bernenstein say, "Pick up that fellow and carry him somewhere out of sight." Then he also came in, followed by a crowd. He sent them all to the door, and we were left alone, waiting for the surgeon. The Queen came up, Rischenheim still supporting her.

"Rudolf, Rudolf!" she whispered very softly.

He opened his eyes, and his lips bent in a smile. She flung herself on her knees and kissed his hand passionately.

"The surgeon will be here directly," said I.

Rudolf's eyes had been on the Queen. As I spoke he looked up at me, smiled again, and shook his head. I turned away.

When the surgeon came Sapt and I assisted him in his examination. The Queen had been led away, and we were alone. The examination was very short. Then we carried Rudolf to a bed; the nearest chanced to be