Duke Gustave of Maäsau was in a condition of mental exhilaration, and experiencing to the full the false sensation of strength thus created when Sagan was announced. Selpdorf, who had been listening for some minutes to his master's self-gratulations on the newly ratified British contract rose as if to take his departure.
'Wait, Selpdorf!' the Duke said.
'My lord has asked for a private interview, your Highness,' Selpdorf reminded him.
'Yes, but I have no private affairs to discuss with my cousin. Anything that need be said between us is better said before a witness,' replied the Duke. 'How do you suppose he will take the news of our agreement with England?'
Selpdorf's answer was slow in coming, and before he spoke Count Sagan strode into the room. He carried a sheaf of papers; his imperious temper was wont to rush every business through to which he put his hand.
'I begged for a few moments in private with your Highness,' he said, with a glance at the Minister.
'Our good Selpdorf is too discreet to be considered a third,' answered the Duke blandly. 'He knows our secrets without being told them. Pray proceed, my lord; is there anything I can do for you?'
'Yes, sire; I wish to lay before you the matter I was forced to postpone at the Castle. I also made use of the opportunity to bring one or two papers relating to the Guard for signature.'
The Duke took the papers. He was seated at a writing-table, and he glanced carelessly over them as Sagan went on.
'Under your approval those papers include Lieutenant Unziar's appointment as captain, vice Colendorp——'