The Countess Moszynski trembled and by her furtive looks seemed to beseech her mother to be silent.
Perchance Cosel understood that look, for she rose and said:
'I am going to rest, I shall not interrupt your councils any more. Cosel's daughter ought to rule over Saxony--I understand--'
Having said this she moved majestically towards the same door by which Brühl had entered, and through which she disappeared.
By the other door the servant appeared with a dish.
'I am going,' whispered Brühl, taking his hat. 'It is an unlucky day, but I am glad that that malicious Watzdorf did not see me here.'
'He had a medal,' said the Countess, 'he was delighted with it: I see that he is your bitter foe. What have you done to him?'
'Nothing, except that I was too polite to him.'
'He is a poisonous snake, I know him,' said the Countess.
'He is a buffoon like his father,' Brühl said contemptuously, 'but if he gets in my way--'