For the hour of the rendezvous was past.
If that image had been translated into reality, what must we do?
To kill Rupert would satisfy revenge, but of what other avail would it be when the king had read the letter?
I am ashamed to say that I found myself girding at Mr.Rassendyll for happening on a plan which the course of events had turned into a trap for ourselves and not for Rupert of Hentzau.
Suddenly Sapt, turning his head for the first time, pointed in front of him.

The lodge was before us; we saw it looming dimly a quarter of a mile off.

Sapt reined in his horse, and we followed his example.

All dismounted, we tied our horses to trees and went forward at a quick, silent walk.

Our idea was that Sapt should enter on pretext of having been sent by the queen to attend to her husband's comfort and arrange for his return without further fatigue next day.