In truth, I heard something of the way the news was received in the castle; for, after an interval of three days, the man Johann, greedy for more money, though fearful for his life, again found means to visit us. He had been waiting on the duke when the tidings came. Black Michael's face had grown blacker still, and he had sworn savagely; nor was he better pleased when young Rupert took oath that I meant to do as I said, and turning to Mme. de Mauban, wished her joy on a rival gone. Michael's hand stole toward his sword (said Johann), but not a bit did Rupert care; for he rallied the duke on my having made a better king than had reigned for years past in Ruritania. "And," said he, with a meaning bow to his exasperated master, "the devil sends the princess a finer man than Heaven had marked out for her; by my soul, he does!" Then Michael harshly bade him hold his tongue and leave them; but Rupert must needs first kiss madame's hand, which he did as though he loved her, while Michael glared at him.
This was the lighter side of the fellow's news; but more serious came behind, and it was plain that,
