And without waiting for the man's assistance he began to look for the jewel himself. He knew perfectly well that he had laid the star in the case, which he had left open; nevertheless, he lifted every book and paper, and searched every drawer, but to no purpose the thing was not to be found.
"It is not here," the servant said at last, in a low tone. "If it was lying here in the open case, there is but one explanation."
Steinrück made no reply. He himself doubted no longer. "A thief, then! A common thief!" The measure of his contempt and aversion was filled to the brim.
There was silence for a few minutes; the servant stood waiting for orders, startled by the expression on his master's face.
"Is Wolfram still in the castle?" the Count asked at last.
"I think he is. He wanted to see the major-domo."
"Then send his son to me! But not a word of what has happened!--not even to the forester; send the boy here."
The man left the room, and for a moment Steinrück covered his eyes with his hand. This was terrible! And yet was it unnatural in the son of such a father? The lad's whole appearance showed that he had inherited not a drop of his mother's blood, and that other that filled his veins, did it not proclaim itself what it was, and was it not a duty to disclaim it and thrust it forth? Away with it!
The Count stood erect, resolute as ever, when Michael entered, unwillingly to be sure, but with no idea of what this new summons betokened.
"Close the door," said Steinrück, "and come here!"