"Leave me alone!"
"But you must rest," explained the Countess, soothingly.
"Nonsense.... I was never better in my life." They exchanged glances; the poor old man was out of his mind; never, in all the years he had been at Ruvno, had he spoken to her like that. Before they had recovered from their astonishment he got up and walked across the room, tottering a little, but more sure of his step every minute. They watched him in silence and Ian, at least, stood spellbound. This little old man, with his creased alpaca soutane, muddy shoes and unshaven chin, dominated the room.
He reached the door, which was a long way off, just as one of the servants came in with coffee.
"Give me that! And go away!" he ordered, taking the tray from its astounded bearer.
"Do as the Father says," said Ian, hurrying to take the heavy tray.
"Be off with you, quick!" repeated Father Constantine. The man obeyed, filled with curiosity. He locked the door, and turned to Vanda, whispering angrily:
"I tell you, Joseph Skarbek is in the chapel."
"Yes, yes," she agreed soothingly. Her tone only irritated him the more. He stamped his foot.
"Not yes, yes--but give me something to eat for him. He's starving."