The girl outside caught only a word here and there; but now suddenly the flash of steel gleamed on her eyes through the crevice of the hinge.

She gave a sudden gasp, and, pressing her face closer to the opening, listened and looked.

For Rupert of Hentzau had taken the swords from their case and put them on the table.

With a slight bow Rudolf took one, and the two assumed their positions.

Suddenly Rupert lowered his point.