If he meant to go on he would go on now, on to the end, without a backward look or a falter of his foot; if he had chosen the other way, he would depart without a murmur or a hesitation.
The queen's quick breathing had ceased, she seemed like a statue; but Rischenheim moved impatiently, as though he could no longer endure the waiting.
Sapt's voice came harsh and grating.
"Well ?" he cried.

"Which is it to be--backward or forward ?" Rudolf pressed his hands and looked into his eyes.

The answer asked but a word from him.

The queen caught my arm; her rigid limbs seemed to give way, and she would have fallen if I had not supported her.

At the same instant a man sprang out of the dark line of tall trees, directly behind Mr.Rassendyll.Bernenstein uttered a loud startled cry and rushed forward, pushing the queen herself violently out of his path.