At last Ladislas called that the sleigh was waiting. “The driver has his orders,” he whispered, “and will bring you to us afterwards.”
“Come,” I said to Bremenhof, as I rose.
“You are wronging me, Mr. Anstruther,” he stammered, as he got up unsteadily.
“I can apologize afterwards,” said I drily.
As we were leaving the house Volna stood waiting for us, and would have spoken to me; but I would not leave Bremenhof’s side.
I was wearing a long cloak, and as Bremenhof and I crossed the pavement to the sleigh, I pressed close to him and let him feel my weapon against his body.
He started and caught his breath in fear. The strain had told on him. He staggered in his walk, and his face wore the grey look of one on the verge of death.
So long as I could keep him in that mood I was safe enough.
We got into the sleigh in silence, and had barely turned out of the street when a body of troops came in sight riding in our direction.
“This will test your sincerity,” I said. “As well now as later. Remember my oath.”