'Hsh!' cried Sulkowski.
Vogler embraced him and made him sit down on a chair, then he went to the ante-room and gave some orders to the boy.
The Count leaned thoughtfully on the table.
'I see,' said the Jesuit, coming back, 'that you know all, although nobody here knows yet. Has anybody seen you?'
'I came here straight from my journey,' answered the Count. 'In Pirma I learned about the plot, and by your manner I see that it is true. Is it true? Then they dread--'
Vogler shrugged his shoulders.
'Yes, your good friends await you with this surprise,' he said slowly, 'they will not admit you to the King.'
'It is I who will prepare a surprise for them and see the King notwithstanding them all,' cried Sulkowski. 'They are mistaken; the King under pressure would give in in my absence, but if I get half an hour's conversation with him, I shall regain my influence and then--Then,' cried Sulkowski rising and clenching his fist, 'it will not be I that will be sent away, but those who dared to intrigue against me.'
He became silent.
Vogler wrung his hands.