Page:In the name of a woman (1900).djvu/189

 CHAPTER XVI

"IF I WERE A WOMAN"

We had been together about half an hour, discussing eagerly the news which Spernow had brought, when Zoiloff arrived. His face showed that he too had passed anxious hours since we parted. I received him with a laugh and rallied him upon his looks, and then told him the news.

He had not the same intense personal interest in it that I had, and he received it very differently; though his friendship made him understand my feelings.

"It is her first step," he said, gravely. "We must act warily."

"A necessity for others besides ourselves," I retorted.

"It is not certain what form his hostility will take. He may not care to quarrel openly with you, Count; although, if he does, you know he is not a swordsman to be taken lightly."

"He would serve me no ill turn were he to send his sword through my heart," I answered, and meant every word I said.

"That would be an ill enough turn for us, though."

"Let us go to the gallery and see. I have scarcely closed my eyes all night, and when Spernow came he found me hipped and down. It will be a good test for my nerves. If I can hold my own against you