I'll look after the baron." Reluctantly and ruefully the fat fellow stepped out into the storm.
Rudolf drew back and let him pass, then he entered quickly, to find himself alone with Helga in the hall.

With a finger on her lips, she led him swiftly into a small sitting-room on the ground floor, which I used as a sort of office or place of business.

It looked out on the street, and the rain could be heard driving against the broad panes of the window.

Rudolf turned to her with a smile, and, bowing, kissed her hand.
"The baron what, my dear countess ?" he inquired.
"He won't ask," said she with a shrug.

"Do tell me what brings you here, and what has happened." He told her very briefly all he knew.