Osiecki laughed ironically. "It may be a long time first."
"Perhaps not so long as you think. At any rate, you will have to leave this house to-morrow."
A somewhat significant movement was noticeable among the men as he repeated his order in most decided tones, and the forester's passion blazed up fiercely.
"Herr Nordeck!" he exclaimed.
"Well?"
"I declared yesterday ..."
"I hope you have taken counsel since then, and that to-day you are ready to declare it was through a misunderstanding your messenger brought me such an incredible answer. Take care what you are about, Osiecki. I should think you must know me sufficiently by this time."
"Yes, indeed, you have taken good care that all Wilicza should know you," muttered the ranger between his set teeth.
"Then you know, too, that I brook no disobedience, and that I never take back an order once given. The forester's house at Wilicza is empty at present. You will either move into it before noon tomorrow with all your staff, or you may consider yourself dismissed from my service."
A threatening murmur rose among the men. They crowded more closely together, their looks and attitude showing plainly that it was only by an effort they still restrained themselves from any overt act of violence. Osiecki stepped up to his employer, and stood close before him.