It was a time at which he had a good chance of finding him at home. He did not need to ask to be admitted, for before the almighty Sulkowski all doors were thrown open.
Brühl was at home.
Sulkowski rushed upstairs and did not notice that a page preceded him through another door to tell his master about the visitor.
Brühl was with Henniche whom he dismissed, and before Sulkowski, who was obliged to pass through several drawing-rooms, reached his study, he fell on his knees before a crucifix and began to pray.
The easy manner in which he assumed that position proved that it was not for the first time that he found it advisable that a visitor should come upon him unexpectedly praying.
The contemporary writers assure us that Brühl was very often found praying.
Sulkowski entered the room without knocking at the door and stood there in surprise; it was the first time he had seen Brühl praying and he could hardly believe his own eyes; he stood motionless, while Brühl with his back turned, as though he had not heard the door open, knelt, sighing. At length he beat upon his breast, bending his head as low as a beggar in front of a church asking for alms.
Sulkowski could not have suspected that all this was a comedy, for he entered unannounced and in the dusk the porte-chaise could not have been noticed.
The farce lasted quite a long time, and every time Brühl lifted his hand Sulkowski could see a rosary-round his wrist. At length the Count coughed slightly.
Brühl started as if frightened, and having perceived Sulkowski covered his eyes: