Page:Bailey - Call Mr Fortune (Dutton, 1921).djvu/31

20 was escaping in a wild disorder from under her hat. "They will not let me see him," she cried. "Leopold"

"It is by my instructions, madame," Sir Lawson said. "I am responsible for the Archduke's safety."

She bit her lip. "Is he so hurt?" she said unsteadily.

"He lies in very grave danger, madame. I permit no one in his room."

She stared at him, her throat quivering, her great eyes bold and bright. Then with a little shrug she turned away and, plucking at the gold things which jingled from her waist, took out a cigarette and lit it. Reggie saw one of those foreign matches with the violet heads.

Sir Lawson made his bow, and Reggie went with him to his car. "Why did you tell them that the Archduke was in grave danger?" he said.

"He'll be safer if they believe he is going to die," said Sir Lawson.

"Oh, do you think so?" said Reggie, as the car shot away.

Then he made an excellent supper and slept sound.

He found his patient peaceful in the morning. No sign of consciousness yet, but more colour in the cheeks, a deeper breathing and a stronger pulse, more warmth. "The Archduchess has come twice