Page:Anthony Hope - Rupert of Hentzau.djvu/78

70 opened. So with drawn sword he stood on guard.

It was eleven o'clock when the Queen came, and midnight had struck from the great clock of the Castle before the door opened again and Sapt came out. His sword was not drawn, but he had his revolver in his hand. He shut the door silently after him and began at once to talk 5n low, earnest, quick tones to Bernenstein. Bernenstein listened intently and without interrupting. Sapt's story ran on for eight or nine minutes. Then he paused, before asking:

"You understand now?"

"Yes, it is wonderful," said the young man, drawing in his breath.

"Pooh!" said Sapt. "Nothing is wonderful: some things are unusual."

Bernenstein was not convinced, and shrugged his shoulders in protest.

"Well?" said the Constable, with a quick glance at him.

"I would die for the Queen, sir," he answered, clicking his heels together as though on parade.

"Good," said Sapt. "Then listen," and he began again to talk. Bernenstein nodded from time to time. "You'll meet him at the gate," said the Constable, "and bring him straight here. He 's not to go anywhere else, you understand me?"