Sapt took no notice of his self-reproaches. But Rudolf went and laid a hand on his shoulder.
“It was an accident,” he said. “No blame to you.”
The queen rose and walked towards him; Bernenstein sprang to his feet.
“Sir,” said she, “it is not success but effort that should gain thanks,” and she held out her hand.
Well, he was young; I do not laugh at the sob that escaped his lips as he turned his head.
“Let me try something else!” he implored.
“Mr. Rassendyll,” said the queen, “you’ll do my pleasure by employing this gentleman in my further service. I am already deep in his debt, and would be deeper.” There was a moment’s silence.
“Well, but what’s to be done?” asked Colonel Sapt. “He’s gone to Strelsau.”
“He’ll stop Rupert,” mused Mr. Rassendyll. “He may or he mayn’t.”
“It’s odds that he will.”