house; Rischenhcim buttonholed him resolutely.
"At Zenda? Well, now, I don't Excuse me, but what's your business?"
"Excuse me, my dear Chancellor: it's a secret."
"I have the King's confidence."
"Then you'll be indifferent to not enjoying mine," smiled Rischenheim.
"I perceive that your arm is hurt," observed the Chancellor, seeking a diversion.
"Between ourselves, that has something to do with my business. Well, I must go to the palace. Or—stay—would Her Majesty condescend to help me? I think I'll risk a request. She can but refuse," and so saying Rischenheim approached the door.
"Oh, my friend, I wouldn't do that," cried Helsing, darting after him. "The Queen is—well, very much engaged. She won't like to be troubled."
Rischenheim took no notice of him, but knocked loudly. The door was opened, and he told the butler to carry his name to the Queen and beg a moment's speech with her. Helsing stood in perplexity on the steps. The crowd was delighted with the coming of these great folk and showed no sign of dispersing. Anton von Strofzin did not reappear. Rischenheim edged himself inside the doorway and stood on the threshold of the hall. There he heard voices
