they retired with soft but hasty steps, like mice escaping from the
presence of the dreaded lion.

"And now, my dear count, as we have finished our breakfast, let us
return to my cabinet, for I believe we have to settle some
additional matters."




CHAPTER IV.

THE TWO MINISTERS.


Baron Thugut took the count's arm and led him back to his cabinet.

"I read a question in your eyes," he said, smiling; "may I know what
it is?"

"Why, yes, your excellency," replied Count Saurau.

"Let me ask you, then, what all this means? Why did you excuse the
chief of police, who evidently had not done his duty and been guilty
of a lack of vigilance? And why did you let these rascals go,
instead of having them whipped to death?"

"You were away from Vienna, count? You were absent from the capital
because you accompanied their majesties on their trip to Presburg,
and have returned only an hour ago. Am I right?"