Rudolf said nothing and did not move.
The man's eyes studied his face intently.

Then he sat bolt upright and saluted, his face dyed to a deep red in his sudden confusion.
"And why do you salute me now ?" asked Rudolf in a mocking tone.

"First you hunt me, then you salute me.

By Heaven, I don't know why you put yourself out at all about me!" "I--I--" the fellow stuttered.

Then trying a fresh start, he stammered, "Your Majesty, I didn't know--I didn't suppose--" Rudolf stepped towards him with a quick, decisive tread.
"And why do you call me 'Your Majesty' ?" he asked, still mockingly.
"It--it--isn't it your Majesty ?" Rudolf was close by him now, his hand on the horse's neck.
He looked up into the sergeant's face with steady eyes, saying: "You make a mistake, my friend.