Telegrams to the four ends of the world have brought no news of
his present residence. The archbishop instituted the latter
inquiries, because it was urgent and necessary he should know."
Fitzgerald became enveloped in gloom.
"And your credentials, Monsieur?" said the duchess. "You have
them, I presume?"
"I came as a private gentleman; a telegram to my minister in
Vienna will bring indorsement."
"Ah! Then you shall be locked up. I can not accord you
recognition; without the essential representations, I see
nothing in you but an impertinent meddler. To-morrow evening you
shall be conveyed to Brunnstadt, where you will reside for some
time, I can assure you. Perhaps on your head will rest the blood
of many gallant gentlemen; for within another twenty-four hours
I shall declare war against Leopold. This will be the
consequence of your disloyalty to your word." And she moved
toward the door, the others imitating her. Fitzgerald, more than
any one else, desired to get away.
And one by one they vanished. Once the countess turned and threw
Maurice a glance which mystifled him; it was half curtained with
tears.
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