Brühl looked at him, smiled, went quietly to the door, and disappeared behind it. Then he ran straight to the King's ante-room.
A young, well-dressed boy, of lordly mien, also in page's costume, stopped him.
It was the Count Anthony Moszynski. He was distinguished among the other pages of the King, by his pale face, black hair, expressive although not beautiful features, eyes full of fire, but above all by his aristocratic bearing and stiff manners. He was with Sulkowski at the Prince's court, then he passed, to that of Augustus II, who, it was said, liked his liveliness and intelligence, and a brilliant career was prophesied for him.
'Brühl,' said he. 'Where have you been?'
The page hesitated to answer.
'In the marshals' room.'
'It is your hour now.'
'I know it, but I am not too late,' he answered, glancing at the clock.
'I thought,' said Moszynski laughing, 'that I should have to take your place.'
Something like anger flashed across Brühl's face, but it became serene again immediately.