Prince Kaunitz moved uneasily, and slowly turned his head.
"Who gave you the right to criticise my behavior?" asked he, in a freezing tone of displeasure. "Does it become such as you to measure or comprehend the sufferings of a great mind? If it pleases you to parade your troubles go out and ask sympathy of the contemptible world, but leave to me the freedom of sorrowing alone: My grief is self-sustaining. It needs no prop and no consolation. Attend to your affairs of state, and go hence. I wish no spies upon my actions."
"Ah!" said Binder, tenderly, "'tis not my eyes that have acted the spies, but my heart, and—"
"Baron Binder," interrupted Kaunitz, "you are not under this roof to dissect my sentiments, or to confide to me your own; you are here to assist me as a statesman. Go, therefore, and confine your efforts to the business of your office."
Binder heaved a sigh, and obeyed. It was useless to offer sympathy when it provoked such stinging resentment.
The state referendarius had scarcely reached his study, before the folding-doors of Prince Kaunitz's entrance-rooms were flung wide open, and the valet in attendance announced—
"His majesty the emperor."
A shudder was perceptible through the frame of the prince, and he clutched at the arms of the chair in an attempt to rise.
"Do not rise," said Joseph, coming forward; "I have intruded myself upon you without ceremony, and you must receive me in like manner."
Kaunitz sank back, and inclined his head. He had not the power to make a reply. Joseph then motioned to the valet to withdraw, and drew a chair to the prince's side.