"And whatever you hear, don't look round."

Bernenstein's bewilderment grew greater; but Sapt was constable,
and on Sapt's shoulders lay the responsibility for the safety of
Zenda and all in it.

"Very well, sir," he said, with a submissive shrug, and he drew
his sword and stood by the door; he could obey, although he could
not understand.

Sapt ran on. Opening the gate that led to the bridge, he sped
across. Then, stepping on one side and turning his face to the
wall, he descended the steps that gave foothold down to the ledge
running six or eight inches above the water. He also was now in
the triangle of deep darkness, yet he knew that a man was there,
who stood straight and tall, rising above his own height. And he
felt his hand caught in a sudden grip. Rudolf Rassendyll was
there, in his wet drawers and socks.

"Is it you?" he whispered.

"Yes," answered Rudolf; "I swam round from the other side and got
here. Then I threw in a bit of mortar, but I wasn't sure I'd
roused you, and I didn't dare shout, so I followed it myself. Lay
hold of me a minute while I get on my breeches: I didn't want to
get wet, so I carried my clothes in a bundle. Hold me tight, it's
slippery."

"In God's name what brings you here?" whispered Sapt, catching
Rudolf by the arm as he was directed.