A Silver Brand — page 275: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

A SILVER BRAND. | hice 267 Schubert, in the tone of one hardly aware his thoughts had found words. “The men are trusty. They have learned by this time itis risky business trifling with his highness’ commands, or with mine either, for that matter. Let them have the brandy, though; but take care they can’t find a way to get a second draught. That would be the ruin of all.” “Well, I suppose so. I was only pitying the poor } knaves; I am so fagged out myself. On second thoughts I will retire since you are sure itis safe. And perhaps it is as well to say nothing about the brandy.” : And between the sentences Von Schubert yawned fright- ully.. | Hernberg laughed. “Indeed, I think it an excellent idea, and I would re- commend you to take a little yourself, Herr von Schubert.” Von Schubert returned a faint smile, and walked away | slowly The butler was waiting at the rear door. “ Herr Hernberg recommends a glass of brandy served all round, Seippel,” said the speaker loud enough to reach Hernberg’s ears. “Take it to the mennow. There’s a case in the lower sideboard that you may use. And tell them to be watchful, and trusty.” : He turned on his heels, and then returned. “Oh, by the way,-the prince said something about a car- riage to be sent down to the bridge in case he wanted it there. I suppose the sentinel ought to be told not to chal- lenge or drive it away if it makes its appearance, though I don’t anticipate its coming.” “Very well. Ill give the order about it.” “Then I’ll go to my bed. I confess Iam ready enough | for it. Good-night.” | ‘‘Good-night, Herr von Schubert. May the morning find you refreshed.” CHAPTER XXVIL STRUCK BY APOPLEXY. a Eleven o’clock rang out in clear and vibrant peals through the great halls of Schwarzenberg, and the echoes among the groined arches took up the notes and flung them to and fro. Then as the last musical ring died away the solemn stillness dropped again into a hush like that of the tomb. Not afold of the faded old banners stirred, (ECA MICE! KOOKS (Ee)