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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8a9cd0f --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #51717 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/51717) diff --git a/old/51717-8.txt b/old/51717-8.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c4d8fd0..0000000 --- a/old/51717-8.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,15879 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Tekla, by Robert Barr - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with -almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or -re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included -with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license - - -Title: Tekla - A Romance of Love and War - -Author: Robert Barr - -Release Date: April 10, 2016 [EBook #51717] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK TEKLA *** - - - - -Produced by Martin Pettit and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images generously made available by The -Internet Archive) - - - - - - -+-------------------------------------------------+ -|Transcriber's note: | -| | -|Obvious typographic errors have been corrected. | -| | -+-------------------------------------------------+ - - - - -TEKLA - -A ROMANCE OF LOVE AND WAR - -BY - -ROBERT BARR - -Author of "A CHICAGO PRINCESS," "THE MUTABLE MANY," Etc. - -[Illustration: Decoration] - -GROSSET & DUNLAP - -PUBLISHERS :: :: NEW YORK - - -COPYRIGHT, 1898 -BY ROBERT BARR - - -TO -THE COUNTESS LAURA - - - - -CONTENTS. - -CHAPTER PAGE - I. THE EMPEROR ENTERS TREVES 1 - - II. THE ARCHER INTRODUCES HIMSELF 13 - - III. LISTENERS HEAR LITTLE GOOD OF THEMSELVES 28 - - IV. THE EMPEROR DISAPPEARS 42 - - V. LOVE LEADS THE WAY 55 - - VI. AN UNWISHED-FOR MARRIAGE DAY 62 - - VII. THE FLIGHT OF THE COUNTESS 69 - - VIII. THE RAPIER AND THE BROADSWORD 80 - - IX. A PALATIAL PRISON 92 - - X. THE INTERCEPTED FUGITIVES 99 - - XI. IN QUEST OF A WIFE WITH A TROOP OF HORSE 112 - - XII. CUPID'S BOW GIVES PLACE TO THE ARCHER'S 123 - - XIII. THE BLACK COUNT IS PERSUADED NOT TO HANG HIS EMPEROR 134 - - XIV. A RELUCTANT WELCOME 148 - - XV. CASTLE THURON MAKES A FULL MEAL 158 - - XVI. THE COUNTESS TRIES TO TAME THE BEAR 174 - - XVII. THE ENVOY'S DISASTROUS RETURN 184 - - XVIII. A TWO-HANDED SWORD TEACHES DEPORTMENT 198 - - XIX. A MAN AND A WOMAN MEET BY TORCHLIGHT 209 - - XX. A BREAKFAST ON THE TOP OF THE SOUTH TOWER 217 - - XXI. AN EXPERIMENT IN DIPLOMACY 228 - - XXII. THE FIRST ATTACK ON CASTLE THURON 234 - - XXIII. THE TWO ARCHBISHOPS FALL OUT 245 - - XXIV. COUNT BERTRICH EXPLAINS HIS FAILURE 256 - - XXV. THE SECOND ASSAULT ON THE CASTLE 260 - - XXVI. AN ILLUMINATED NIGHT ATTACK ON THURON 269 - - XXVII. THE TWO YEARS' SIEGE BEGINS 277 - - XXVIII. THE SECOND ARCHER ANNOUNCES HIMSELF 284 - - XXIX. CONRAD VENTURES HIS LIFE FOR HIS LOVE 294 - - XXX. THE STRUGGLE IN THE DARK 304 - - XXXI. BRAVE NEWS OF THE EMPEROR 313 - - XXXII. "FOR YOUR LOVE I WOULD DEFY FATE." 327 - - XXXIII. A GRIM INTERRUPTION TO A LOVERS' MEETING 336 - - XXXIV. THE BLACK COUNT'S DEFIANCE 351 - - XXXV. THE NIGHT ESCAPE OF THE EMPEROR 363 - - XXXVI. THE FIVE BILLETLESS ARROWS 371 - - XXXVII. THE TRAITOR AND HIS PRICE 378 - -XXXVIII. THE INCOGNITO FALLS 385 - - XXXIX. THE EMPEROR AT THE HEAD OF HIS ARMY 396 - - XL. THE ARCHBISHOPS ENVIRONED WITH A RING OF IRON 403 - - XLI. "WHY HAVE YOU DARED TO LEVY WAR?" 413 - - XLII. TEKLA REPLENISHES HER WARDROBE 423 - - XLIII. THE COUNTESS AND THE EMPEROR 429 - - - - -TEKLA. - - - - -CHAPTER I. - -THE EMPEROR ENTERS TREVES. - - -The Romans had long since departed, but their handiwork remained--a thin -line laid like a whiplash across the broad country--a road. It extended -northwestward from Frankfort and passed, as straight as might be, -through the almost trackless forest that lay to the south of Moselle; -for the great highway-builders had little patience with time-consuming -curves; thus the road ranged over hill and down dale without shirking -whatever came before it. Nearing the western terminus, it passed along -high lands, through a level unbroken forest. A wayfarer, after -travelling many monotonous leagues, came suddenly to an opening in the -timber, and found himself on the brow of a hill, confronted with a scene -amazing in extent, well calculated to arrest his progress and cause him -to regard with admiration, the wide spread landscape beneath and beyond. -The scene was the more startling that it burst unexpectedly on the view, -after miles of trees that seemed innumerable, hemming in, with their -unvarying cloak of green, the outlook of the traveller. - -At the brow of the hill there had paused two men, excellently mounted, -who now, with slackened rein, allowed their evidently exhausted horses -to stand, while they gazed upon this prospect. The younger man was -slightly in advance of his comrade, and sat easily on his horse, with -hand on hip; while the other, an arm extended, was pointing to the city -lying far below. The age of the former might have been anything between -twenty-five and thirty-five: he was, in truth, twenty-eight years old at -the time he first came within sight of this western city. He wore the -dress of a young gallant of that period, with a light rapier by his -side, but was otherwise unarmed. His costume indicated no special -distinction, and would not have prepared a listener for the manner in -which his fellow-traveller addressed him. - -"That, your Majesty," he said, "is the ancient town of Treves." - -The young Emperor turned his eyes from the city to his companion. - -"It may be well to remember, Siegfried," he said, speaking slowly, "that -his Majesty is now far from here on his way to the Holy Land, and that -he who has, for the first time, looked upon Treves, is plain Rodolph the -traveller, abroad to see something of the land the Emperor is supposed -to rule, and which his loyal subjects, the Archbishops of Treves and -Cologne, intend to rule for him." - -Siegfried bowed low and said, "I will remember," checking himself barely -in time from repeating again the title of his listener. - -"A trifle less deference, I beg of you, Siegfried. An erect head and a -tongue not too civil may make my way easier in the fair city of Treves. -Where flows the Moselle?" - -"Between that cliff and the city. You may see it yonder to the right, -below the town, and again along the plain in the distance above it." - -"Is that the Archbishop's palace in the wall?" - -"No, it is the Black Gate of the Romans. The palace of the Archbishop -lies to the south by the Roman Basilica yonder. The cathedral whose -spire you see, stands midway between the Porta Nigra and the palace." - -"Think you we may be questioned narrowly when we enter?" - -"Oh, no. Many come because of the Archbishop's Court, which is said to -outshine the Emperor's at Frankfort." - -"Ah, that is better, Siegfried. Now is the Emperor indeed well on his -way to meet the infidel Saracen when we talk freely of him in his -absence. Shall we then pass unchallenged through the gate?" - -"Without doubt. There is also much traffic of trade between Frankfort -and Treves, and interchange of visitors." - -"We met but few on the road, Siegfried." - -"True. The traffic is mainly by the river. Merchants frequent the boats -going down, but many traverse the road from Frankfort. Had we been -journeying eastward we should have met more travellers." - -"That sounds like a riddle, Siegfried. There must be a glut of Frankfort -horses in Treves, if all their riders return by boat." - -"The horses go by boat as well to Coblentz, then are ridden along the -Rhine to Frankfort." - -"Ah, that is the solution, is it? Well, let us get on to Treves, and try -our fortune at cozening the guards if we are questioned." - -Downward rode the two, toward the ancient city, the horses refreshed by -the halt at the top of the hill. The great cliff by the side of the -unseen Moselle seemed to rise higher and higher into the sky as they -descended, until it stood like a huge rampart over the walled town. -Reaching level ground again, the riders took a westerly direction, -bending their course so that they might enter the city by the northern -gate. As they approached, it became evident that a throng was gathered -on each side of the port, the way in the centre being kept clear by -mounted soldiery. - -"You are versed in the manners of Treves," said the Emperor, "knowing -all of note within its walls--what think you then is going forward at -the gate? Is it well for us to attempt entrance now, or are we more -likely to pass unnoticed in the press?" - -"It is probable that the Archbishop and his train are about to pass -outward to his villa or water palace, as some call it. He travels in -state, and there are always many onlookers." - -"Where is his water palace?" - -"On the Moselle, near Zurlauben, a short half-hour's ride from the -gate." - -"This then gives us excellent opportunity of seeing Arnold von Isenberg, -Archbishop of Treves, ourselves unseen in the throng. Shall we wait his -coming outside or inside the gate?" - -"We were better outside, I think, for then we may enter unquestioned -with the press of people when the show is over." - -Thus the two horsemen ranged themselves by the side of the road with -others also on horseback, merchants, travellers, messengers and the -like, while the crowd on foot shifted here and there to find standing -room that commanded a view. Mounted men-at-arms rode hither and thither, -roughly keeping the way clear and the mob in check, buffeting with their -pike-handles those who were either reluctant or slow to move. The -clattering of horses' shod hoofs on the stone-paved narrow street within -the gate announced the coming of the cortège. - -"Off with your hat, fellow," cried one of the men-at-arms, raising his -pike. "His Lordship, the Archbishop, comes." - -Rodolph's quick hand sought his sword-hilt, but a touch on his arm from -his comrade recalled him to a sense of his position. He changed the -downward motion of his hand to an upward one, and speedily doffed his -cap, seeing now that every one else was uncovered, for the haughty -Archbishop allowed no disrespect abroad when he took an airing. - -First came a troop of landsknecht, numbering perhaps a score, then, with -an interval between, the Archbishop and his train, followed at a slight -distance by another score of horsemen. - -Arnold von Isenberg sat upright on his black charger, looking much more -the soldier than the churchman. On the further side of him rode a -middle-aged nobleman, with whom the Archbishop now and then exchanged a -word. Count Bertrich never could have been handsome, and the red scar -from a sabre cut over his nose had in no way added to his personal -attractions, but his fame throughout the land as a fighter of both skill -and courage, caused him to be reckoned a favourite with the electoral -prelate, who had usually more need of warriors round him than of the -numerous court gallants who followed in his train, and were now -conversing in low tones with the ladies who accompanied them. But -whether the softness of their words was caused by the tender import of -them, or whether they feared to intrude their voices on the conversation -or the meditations of the Archbishop, the onlooking but unnoticed -Emperor could not have guessed, had his curiosity been aroused to -inquire. Rumour had it that the Archbishop intended to bestow on Count -Bertrich the hand, and incidentally, the broad lands of his ward, who -rode at his right hand, and if this were true the girl showed little -pleasure over it, to judge by the small heed she gave either to the -crowd that lined the road on each side or to those who accompanied her -in the august procession. She seemed neither to see nor to hear aught -that went on around her, but with eyes looking straight forward, and a -slight frown on her fair brow, rode onward in silence, a marked contrast -to the prattling train which followed her. Meanwhile, von Isenberg spoke -with the Count, who bent his head deferentially to listen, and perhaps -while doing so, to glance across the charger's mane at the proud and -beautiful girl, who rode on the other side of the Archbishop, heedless -of glance or conversation. - -When the procession had passed, the young Emperor sat looking after it, -bonnet still in hand, with an absorbed expression on his face. And well -might he gaze long at the iron Archbishop, for he had come on a weary -journey to see that potentate, and judge for himself what manner of man -he might be who was reported to have remarked to his brother Archbishop -of Cologne, when he cast the vote which helped to make Rodolph an -emperor, that the young man was said to be a romantic fool, who would be -the more easily led by their Lordships of Treves and Cologne, than any -older and more seasoned noble. Therefore had it been given out that the -new Emperor was gone to smite the Saracen, whereas he had merely -journeyed from Frankfort to Treves in disguise, to look upon a man who -might prove more formidable to his peace than the fiercest Saracen -roaming the plains of the East. Siegfried, who, though so much older, -was Rodolph's confidential friend, seemed anxious to know the estimate -the Emperor had formed of his probable adversary. - -"A hard, stern face," said Siegfried. "A cold friend and an implacable -enemy, to judge by the glance I got of him. What think you?" - -"An adorable face," murmured the young man, absently, still gazing after -the rapidly disappearing cortège. "A face to dream over; to die for. Who -is she, Siegfried?" - -"The Countess Tekla," answered Siegfried, somewhat briefly and grimly, -for here their expedition, not without peril, undertaken against his -strongly urged advice, was turned from its purpose, at this critical -moment, by a passing glimpse of a pretty face. Perhaps, after all, the -Archbishop had made the remark attributed to him, and Rodolph seemed -determined on the most inopportune occasion, to give colour to it. - -"But who is she?" demanded the Emperor, covering again. - -"The Countess Tekla is the ward of the Archbishop. Her father died in -his service and is said to have been the only man Arnold von Isenberg -ever had any affection for. The sole living relative she has, so far as -known to me, is Count Heinrich, surnamed the Black, of Castle Thuron, -near Coblentz. Her mother was sister to the Black Count." - -"That marauder! No wonder she was not left his ward." - -"There was little love lost between her father and her uncle. 'Tis said -Heinrich tried to get possession of Tekla and has even had the temerity -to threaten an attack upon the Archbishop because of her, but he is -hardly likely to do more than bluster, for, however much the Count may -lack common honesty, he is not devoid of common sense, and well knows -that Arnold could crush him in his castle as a snail is crushed in its -shell under an iron heel." - -"The Countess Tekla," murmured the Emperor, more to himself than to his -companion. "She is the most beautiful vision that ever floated before -the eyes of man." - -"She is betrothed to Count Bertrich, who rode at the Archbishop's left -hand," said Siegfried, coldly. - -"What! To that florid image carved with a broadsword? I cannot believe -it. 'Twould be sacrilege." - -"Rodolph, since you allow me to call you so," replied Siegfried, -solemnly, "I have also heard that you yourself are hardly free." - -"It is false," cried the young man, hotly. "I am pledged to none. Such -thought is utterly baseless. The Princess herself would be the first to -disclaim it." - -"I mentioned no one." - -"Perhaps not. 'Tis false nevertheless." - -Two pikes, crossed, barred their entrance under the archway of the gate. - -"Where from?" - -"Frankfort." - -"Your purpose in Treves?" - -"We are two silk merchants." - -"Your papers." - -Siegfried handed down the documents to the officer who demanded them. -He scrutinised them closely, and, apparently satisfied, returned them. - -"What news from Frankfort? How fares our new Emperor?" he asked. - -"He has betaken himself to the Holy Wars," answered Siegfried. - -"By the Coat then, and are there not blows enough for him in Germany -without going abroad for them? I heard he was more gallant than -soldier." - -"It is not true," said Siegfried, with some sternness. - -"Soldier and gallant too, my friend," interjected Rodolph, fearing that -Siegfried's loyalty might lead him to indulge in censure which might -prove impolitic on the part of those seeking entrance, to those who were -the guardians of a gate. "Surely the two trades have gone hand in hand -before now?" - -"Aye, and will again," laughed the officer, twirling his moustache. - -Baron Siegfried von Brunfels now led the way through a narrow street, -riding confidently, like a man well acquainted with his direction. -Avoiding the main thoroughfare which led to the north gate, he turned -into what seemed little more than a lane, and now the horsemen were -compelled to travel in file, as the way was not broad enough for two -horses conveniently to walk abreast. Neither were there houses on each -side, as was the case with the street they had just left, but instead, -blank walls, such as might surround convents or monasteries, as indeed -they did. So high were these enclosing barriers, that Rodolph on his -horse could not see over them, and he had the feeling of a man making -his way along the deep bottom of a huge ditch, which impression was -intensified by the gathering gloom of approaching night. The lane, -continually bending toward the right of the riders, came at last to what -was quite evidently the city wall, and on this abutted the lesser wall -of the monastery grounds on the right, while that on the left ran for -some distance parallel to the more lofty ring of stout masonry which -encircled the city, leaving a narrow space between. The ringing sound of -the iron-shod hoofs on the stone causeway echoed from the ramparts in -the deep stillness. In the distance a large mansion built against the -city wall, stood across the way and ended the lane. The windows were -shuttered and heavily barred with iron, giving the building a -forbidding, prison-like appearance. The lane terminated at a strong -arched gate, with heavy double doors of oak, iron-bolted, in one leaf of -which was a shuttered grating that, being lifted, enabled those within -to see all who approached. The bastion to the left ended against the -side of this sinister house. - -"By the gods, Baron," cried the Emperor, "it is well I have confidence -in you, for never was man guided along a more death-trap road to such a -sepulchre-looking ending. What fortress have we here, Siegfried? This is -no inn, surely." - -The Baron half turned in his saddle, and spoke in a voice so low that -its tone alone was a hint against unnecessary conversation. - -"It is my house," he said. "You will be better served and less spied -upon than at an inn." - -A moment later the Baron, stopping at the archway, but without -dismounting, reached out his hand and pulled an iron rod which had a -loop lower down for the convenience of one on foot. The faint clanging -of a bell, jangling far within, could be heard. After the echoes died -away there was a perceptible interval, then the shutter behind the -grating was noiselessly lifted with some caution, and a pair of eyes -appeared and disappeared at the iron network. Instantly the gates were -flung open and were as speedily closed when the horsemen had ridden into -a courtyard. - -Having parted with their tired steeds, host and guest, hardly less weary -with their ride, mounted one broad stairway and two narrower ones, then -walked along a passage that led them to a door, on opening which, -Siegfried conducted the Emperor into a large square apartment lighted -by two windows heavily barred outside. The inside shutters were open, -and Rodolph looked over an extensive landscape bounded by red cliffs and -green hills, at the foot of which flowed the rapid Moselle. Although the -sun had gone down and the view was growing indistinct in the twilight, -Rodolph went to one of the windows and gazed admiringly upon the -prospect. The moon, nearly at the full, had risen, and was already -flooding the scene with her silvery light. - -"You have a pleasant outlook here, Siegfried," said the Emperor. - -"Yes, and a safe one." - -"A safe one?" echoed Rodolph, inquiringly. - -"You see this house is a story higher than the city wall. A rope flung -from that window gives a hurried man safe conduct to the open country -without the necessity of passing through a gate." - -"True," said the Emperor, with a smile; "but your hurried man would lose -some valuable time in filing through these stout bars. He would be a -ghost indeed to pass between them." - -"Not if he knew their secret." - -Saying this, Siegfried laid hold of an iron stanchion, one of two that -stood perpendicular on either side of the window-aperture from top to -ledge, pressed against the thick stone wall. The stanchion left the -stone under Siegfried's efforts, and proved to be shaped like an -elongated letter E, with three bolts of equal length that fitted into -three holes drilled in the side of the window-opening, one at top and -bottom, and the third in the middle. The Baron pushed outward the heavy -iron grating, which swung on hinges, pulling from the wall three bars -with round loops at the end of each, into which the three bolts had -interlocked when the grating was closed, and the E-like stanchion placed -in position. - -"A most ingenious arrangement," cried the Emperor, "lacking only the -rope." - -"A rope lies there," said Siegfried, kicking the coil with his foot, -where it rested on the floor and had escaped notice in the gathering -darkness. "It is fastened to a ring in the wall." - -"What a device for a lover!" exclaimed Rodolph. - -"It is intended for a man's safety rather than his danger," said -Siegfried, with the slightest possible touch of austerity in his voice. - -The Emperor laughed. - -"Nevertheless," he said, "had I my lady-love in this house, I would -prefer that she knew not the secret of this window. But why all these -precautions, Baron? They have not been put here because I am your -visitor, for I think the grate moved rustily upon its hinges." - -"No, the window has been as you see it these many years. I do not know -its history. I suspect that my father found it convenient sometimes to -slip out of Treves without much ado, for I know he felt safer on -occasion in our strong Rhine castle than in this sometimes turbulent -city. I have not interfered with the device, although I have seldom had -need of it. I even keep up an old custom of our house, disliking change -as all my forefathers have done, although I have never profited by it." - -"What old custom?" - -"The stationing of a sentinel night and day in a small room above where -we stand. When he sees a light in yonder house by the river, or hears by -night or day the cry of a waterfowl that frequents the upper Rhine, but -which is unknown on the Moselle, he instantly comes down to this room, -throws open the casement and flings out the rope. Although as I said, I -have never had actual need of this method of exit or entrance, I have, -nevertheless, tested the vigilance of my servants, and have climbed in -hand over hand." - -"Another question, Baron, and forgive my curiosity. How is it that you, -a noble and a householder in Treves, enter the gates as a silk merchant -unchallenged? Surely the Archbishop keeps slack guard." - -"Although I know many of those about the Archbishop's Court, I am myself -practically unknown. I attend once a year, perhaps, a formal function in -Treves, but it is generally supposed I am in my castle on the Rhine, or -at Frankfort, which is indeed the case. My house attracts no attention, -for it has belonged to my family for centuries. And now, your Majesty, -the room adjoining this, and connected with it, I design for your -sleeping apartment, and I trust you will rest well there." - -"One more question, Siegfried, in punishment for the title you have -bestowed upon me; that house by the river--is it also yours?" - -"Yes. A small place, but in some respects the complement of this. I keep -there a fast horse, and a swift skiff, so that the man in a hurry, of -whom I spoke, may betake himself either to the road or the river as best -falls in with his humour or necessity." - -"By the gods, Baron, and should we find it necessary to enter into a -conspiracy against the great Arnold von Isenberg, we are reasonably well -provided for any emergency." - -"It is said there is nothing entirely useless in this world, Rodolph," -answered the other, drily. - -The Baron drew in the grating, replaced the three-bolted stanchion, and -finally closed the inside shutters. A servant announced dinner, and -Rodolph betook himself to his room to prepare for it. - - - - -CHAPTER II. - -THE ARCHER INTRODUCES HIMSELF. - - -The Emperor, having removed the stains of travel, followed his host -downstairs to the banquet that had been prepared for him, and both fell -to with an appetite sharpened by a long journey. The white wines of the -Moselle, supplemented by the vintage of the Saar, speedily drove away -all remembrance of the day's fatigue. - -After the meal, the Baron, with a re-filled flagon at his elbow, -stretched out his legs and enjoyed to the full the consciousness that he -had been well fed and was comfortably housed, with nothing more arduous -in prospect than an honestly earned night's repose. The young Emperor -looked across at this picture of contentment with a twinkle in his eye. - -"Siegfried," he said, "I have a fancy for a moonlight stroll." - -The Baron drew in his feet and sat bolt upright, an expression of dismay -coming into his face. The sigh that followed, truly indicated what he -perhaps hesitated to express, that he wished people knew when they were -well off. The Emperor laughed heartily and added, "You may not have -noticed that the moon was nearly full." - -"If I had," said the Baron, "I should merely have thanked heaven for it, -resolved to stay indoors and follow her most excellent example. The wine -flagon has more attraction for me than the fullest of moons, and I have -some rare Rhenish in my cellars regarding which I was about to invite -your criticism--a more potent vintage than this of the Saar." - -"The Rhenish will be still older when we return, Siegfried." - -"Indeed, and that is true, Rodolph. It may have aged so much that our -heirs shall have the enjoyment of drinking it. The man who leaves a -secure door in Treves to stroll by moonlight has no surety of ever -reaching it again. A slit throat is an ill conduit for sound Rhenish." - -"Is Treves, then, so turbulent? I thought the Archbishop kept strict -rule." - -"Much goes on in Treves that the Archbishop knows nothing of, as our own -presence here is witness. The town is full of soldiers and bravos. There -are many outbreaks in the streets, and a brawl might be fatal to your -plans. We should assuredly be stopped and questioned, and we might have -to trust to our swords." - -"You think then, a jaunt in the country would be safer than a moonlight -stroll in the city?" - -"I do indeed." - -"That tallies exactly with my purpose. Never say again that I disregard -your advice, for it is not your secure door I would leave, but your -insecure window, trusting to find the rope dangling there when we -return. I am anxious to test your ingenious device of exit and entrance. -We shall walk to the river, and you will make me free of your boat and -your fleet horse. It is well that your servants at that small house on -the Moselle should know me, for if I enact the part of your man in a -hurry, it would avail me little to scramble down the city wall, while -you bravely kept the outer door with your sword against the minions of -Arnold, if your own minions by the river refused further means of -escape." - -"That is true, but we are safe here for the night and may we not without -prejudice put off further action until to-morrow?" - -"There speaks the comforting flagon, Baron. You are too well versed in -siege and surprise not to know that every precaution should be taken, -and that no moment is too soon for doing what reconnoitering there is to -be accomplished. I would not ask you to accompany me, were it not that I -need your introduction in the house by the river." - -This brought Siegfried instantly to his feet. - -"Where you go, I go, introduction or none. Let us then to the window -before the night grows older." - -They mounted the stairs again, and unbolted the swinging window-grate. -The Baron going first, slid swiftly down the rope, and a moment after he -reached the ground, the Emperor followed. Directly under the wall, they -were in the shadow, but the broad plain before them, and the cliffs -beyond, lay distinct in the moonlight. The small riverside hamlet, -towards which they bent their steps, showed here and there a few -twinkling lights, to guide them. The plain was uncultivated, covered -with thick rank grass, which seemed to betoken a marshy nature of the -soil, but the ground was nevertheless firm underfoot. The Baron, as best -knowing the way, took the lead, wading knee-deep in the thick grass, and -was silent, thinking rather of the luxury of bench and wine-laden table -than of the expedition in hand. - -The night was very quiet, the stillness being broken, now and then, by -the far-away cry of some sentinel on the wall proclaiming that all was -well, and that peace reigned over Treves, invoking piously a blessing on -the sleeping city--which Christian benediction was a duty resting on all -who kept watch and guard for that Prince of the Church, the Archbishop. - -The pair walked in silence as had been arranged, and the first to -violate the compact was the Baron, who stumbling over something, pitched -head-foremost, uttering a good round Rhenish oath as he did so. The -laugh on the Emperor's lips was checked by the sudden springing up, as -if from out the earth, of a man apparently fully armed, who instantly -put himself in a posture of defence. Simultaneously the swords of -Rodolph and Siegfried flashed from their scabbards, and the Baron, -finding the stranger had leaped up between him and his friend, rapidly -executed a semi-circular retreat, and stood at the side of the Emperor, -while the unexpected third, moving as on a pivot, faced Siegfried, with -a stout sword in his hand, making, however, no motion of attack. - -"If you propose to fight me together," said the stranger, quietly, -"permit me to stoop unscathed for my pike, but if you are content to -fall upon me one at a time, I shall be happy to meet you as I am, -although you have the advantage of the longer blade." - -"What need to fight at all?" asked the Emperor. "We are no enemies of -thine." - -"If, as I take it, you are marauders seeking gain from belated -wayfarers, it is but honest to tell you that, in case of victory, which -is doubtful, seeing you are but two and Germans at that, there is little -to be picked from me but hard knocks, or, given a proper distance, a -well-placed shaft which you would find harder to digest than anything -you have taken inwardly this some time past. I say this but in the way -of fair dealing as between man and man, to prevent after disappointment, -and not as prejudicing a fair encounter should your inclination tend in -that direction." - -"Fellow, we are no marauders, but peaceable merchants from Treves." - -"Then the merchandise you deal in must pertain to combat, for you came -more deftly by your blades than any yard-stick-handler I have met with -in all my wanderings. I know a well-hung weapon when I see it, ready for -thrust or parry, yet carried with seeming carelessness, as if nothing -were further from your minds than either assault or defence." - -"You are a shrewd fellow," said the Emperor. "Why lie you here in -ambush?" - -"It is no ambush other than one to capture sleep, which I had in thrall -when your comrade trod on my stomach and straightway rescued and put to -flight my drowsy prisoner." - -"And can a man of your ability provide yourself with no better bed than -one in the high grass by the side of the Moselle?" - -"There is little to complain of in the bed, my Lord, for I take you to -be no merchant, but a person of quality. A bed is but a place in which -to sleep, and where slumber comes, the bed has served its purpose. I -have before now laid down my head within walls and under roof in -circumstances of such uncertainty that a man slept at the risk of a slit -throat, while here the bed is wide with no danger of falling out, having -good fighting ground, if one is molested, and ample space for flight -should opposition over-match me. There is small fault to find with such -a resting-place." - -"You are easily contented, but surely you should have a cloak to ward -off, partly at least, the dews of night." - -"A cloak, my Lord, although I admit its comfort, hampers a man suddenly -awakened; still I should doubtless succumb to its temptations did I not -need it for the protection of a weapon that I love even more than the -pampering of my own body." - -Saying this, the man stooped and lifted from the ground a cloak which he -unfolded drawing from cover an unstrung bow somewhat longer than -himself. Resting one end on the ground against his foot, and bending the -upper part over his shoulder, he deftly slipped the loop of the cord -into its notch, and twanged the string, making it give forth a musical -note that vibrated melodiously in the still air. - -"There, my Lord, is a one-stringed harp, which sings of sudden death and -nothing else. Were it as good at arm's length as it is at stone's throw, -I should cumber myself with no other weapon; but it is as delicate and -capricious as a woman, and must be taken care of. So in the dampness of -the river valley I wrap it in my cloak to keep the moisture from it." - -"I should think so tender a weapon would be of little use in the rough -and tumble of actual war." - -"There speaks the unenlightened German! A slender shaft like this, two -hundred years ago, killed a king and lost my country to the Normans. The -German swine are as gross in their killing as in their eating. They -appreciate not delicacy in death, but must needs mutilate the image of -their Creator, slicing him with huge two-handed swords, or battering his -head with battle-axe, but a gentle arrow, truly sped, passing daintily -through an enemy, dipping its fleecy wing in the red core of his heart, -leaving little mark to attest its passage, and furnishing thereby a -corpse that is a delight to look upon, gives no pleasure to this -uncivilised people." - -"You forget, fellow, that you are speaking to Germans, and also that we -have had the cross-bow for centuries, as well as instruments not -dissimilar to thine," cried the Baron, with natural indignation at the -bowman's strictures. - -"Hush, Siegfried," whispered the Emperor, "let him babble on. Surely the -conceit of the rascal shows he comes from England." - -"I am a free man," continued the archer, calmly, "and am used to speak -my mind, but I seek not to shirk responsibility for my words. If any, -hearing me, take just offence at the tenour of my expressions, I shall -not deny him opportunity for satisfaction, under the equitable rule that -the victor enter into possession, not thereafter to be disputed, of the -belongings of the conquered. On these terms therefore I shall be pleased -to uphold against you, sir, the truth of my remarks about the German -people, your friend seeing fair combat betwixt us." - -"I cannot demean myself by fighting with a fellow of your quality." - -"Those are high words to be spoken by an honest merchant, the progeny of -a yard-stick, a class over which we men-at-arms hold ourselves the -superior. In a fair field all men, bearing arms, willing to submit to -the arbitration thereof, are considered equal. King William, perhaps -with some justice surnamed the Conqueror, questioned not the quality of -a yeoman who hotly beset him at the battle of Hastings, but honoured the -man by cleaving him to the midriff with his battle-axe, the which is -held in high esteem by the yeoman's descendants to this day. But -touching the use of the long bow, I grant that you may well make some -demur regarding unproven statements, if you have seen no better examples -of its merits than is shown by your German archers, who lazily prefer -the cumbrous cross-bow with a stake upright in the ground to steady it, -necessitating thus a clumsy equipment hardly more portable than a -catapult itself, whereas this fibrous length of toughened yew can be -held lightly in the outstretched left hand, and given but the skill -behind it, will nip you off a dozen men while the cross-bow villain is -planting his marvellous engine. But let the arrow sing its own praises. -You see yonder sentinel pacing back and forth in the moonlight on the -wall near the gate. I will wing you a shaft through him, and he will -never know whence comes the summons to a less contentious world." - -Saying this, the bowman placed an arrow on the string with much -deliberation and was about to raise his weapon when Rodolph and -Siegfried, with simultaneous movement, sprang between the unconscious -victim and the foreigner. - -"Good Heavens! What are you setting out to do?" cried the Emperor. -"Would you slay an innocent man, and bring a hornet's nest unnecessarily -about our ears?" - -"The hornets would not know whither to fly. The man would drop inside -the wall most likely, or outside perchance, but no one could tell from -which direction the shaft had sped, or whether it was let loose from -city or country. I hold no malice against the sentinel, but merely -offered this example in proof of what I spoke. Indeed I myself would be -the only one put to inconvenience by the shot, for you carry no bow and -it is likely they would see by the shaft when they got it, that it -differs from those in use hereabouts, for the Germans have small skill -in arrow-making; besides I did myself twice these last two days -endeavour to gain entrance to that stupid city, hoping to win -appointment to the Archbishop's train, and may have mentioned something -to the guardsmen at the gate of my own merit with the bow-string, but -they, on both occasions, refused admission unless I were provided with -passports, the which, of course, I could not show." - -"Why do you travel, or expect admittance to a walled town without papers -of identification?" - -"You have asked me many questions and answered none, excepting that -about your occupation, which I take to be devoid of truth,--nay, no -offence is meant, for I hold it each man's privilege to lie to any -chance wayfarer as may suit his purpose, and I myself never cling to -truth longer than my necessity serves. Are you then adherents of the -Archbishop and have you any influence with his Lordship such as might -bend him to look with favour on my desire for employment?" - -"We are not known to the Archbishop, therefore have no influence with -him. I come from Frankfort and my friend from the Rhine. We are but -visitors here, and so in some measure similar to yourself." - -"I take that to be well and truly answered. I shall deal with you in -equal honesty. My papers would be small recommendation to Arnold von -Isenberg, for they truly show that in his last campaign I fought -manfully against him. But peace being unfortunately declared, I am now -in want of occupation. Know you of any noble in need of an unerring bow -and a courageous heart at threepence a day, with victualling, and such -lodgment as a man, who cares not where he sleeps, may require?" - -"I have no need of such a warrior," replied the Baron, "but a man, -expert at ridding the world of his fellow-creatures, would find more to -do in the turbulent valley of the Rhine than in the more peaceful vale -of the Moselle. Here the nobles are awed by the Archbishop, and when he -is not in arms, the country rests, but on the Rhine the Barons are at -continual feud and there is no strong hand to restrain them." - -"You forget the Emperor," said Rodolph, in a tone of mild reproach. - -"He, alas! has gone to fight the Saracens," answered the Baron, with -calm mendacity. - -"Ah, would he had taken me with him," sighed the archer. "I have heard -that Eastern bowmen have much skill in the art, and I would like to have -tried conclusions with some of them. In truth, I had thought of going to -Frankfort when I heard some rumour of the Emperor's departure. As there -is little use in knocking at the door of Treves I will on the morrow set -my face down the Moselle toward the Rhine, in hope of falling among a -less peaceably inclined people. And now, my Lords, as it seems we can be -of little use to each other, I will, if it please you, go once more to -my interrupted sleep and allow you to proceed on your interrupted -journey." - -The archer, as he said this, unstrung his bow, and carefully wrapped it -once more in his cloak. With little ceremony he prepared to lie down on -the grassy couch from which he had risen. - -"If I cannot give you employment," began the Baron, "I can at least -offer you a more comfortable sleeping-place than the one in which I have -been the means of disturbing you. We are going to my house on the river, -and I think my servant can provide you with a heap of straw where you -will have a roof over your head. Then you can proceed on your way down -the river unmolested in the morning." - -"Indeed," answered the bowman, indifferently, "in so far as the roof and -the straw are concerned I would not travel a shaft's flight to secure -them. I can sleep refreshingly wherever my head touches pillow, be it -earth, stone, or straw, but if your generosity advances itself so far as -to include a yard of beef and a stoup of wine I will not say I shall -altogether and in spite of proper persuasions, refuse." - -"I am unacquainted with the present condition of my servant's larder, -but as he looks to his own provender at my expense, I doubt not he will -be well provided, and the chance may strike you as worth the risk of a -brief walk." - -For answer the archer thrust his short hanger into the leathern sheath -prepared for it, which hung at his belt, lifted his cloak-enveloped bow, -and also a long pike, and thus accoutred signified his readiness to -follow them. - -They marched in file, the Baron leading and the archer bringing up the -rear, reaching without further adventure the margin of the swift flowing -Moselle, then proceeded along its bank until they came to the first -house in the small hamlet of Zurlauben, where the procession paused, and -its leader rapped lightly at the door of the dark dwelling. The only -response was the baying of a hound within, and the low neigh of a horse -in the adjoining outhouse. A louder knock merely resulted in a deeper -bay from the hound. - -"He is perhaps asleep," said the Baron. "The rascal keeps early hours." - -"More likely he is absent," suggested the Emperor. - -The two went partly round the house, which was built with half of it -resting on the river bank, while the other half was supported by piles -rising from the water. This lower portion was enclosed, and had a door -that allowed the skiff to be taken in or out. The Baron, noticing that -the water door was ajar, pushed it further open with his sword, and -bending over, endeavoured to peer inside, as well as the darkness would -allow him. - -"The boat is gone," he said; "the fellow evidently fancies a moonlight -row. I shall hold some account with him when he returns." - -"I think he owes you an explanation," replied Rodolph. "It would be -somewhat inconvenient were the Archbishop's troops after us, and we -desired to escape by the water." - -The Baron said nothing, but his black looks boded ill for the absent -menial. - -"Some apology is due to the archer for a postponed supper," continued -Rodolph. "Let us quit this muddy spot and discharge that duty, in the -hope that his conversation may strengthen our patience while we wait." - -They climbed up the bank and came again to the front of the house, where -they found the bowman fully accoutred, sitting with his back against the -wall, his head inclined on one shoulder, sound asleep. The moonlight -shone upon him, and he snored gently. - -"His peaceful slumber is certainly a mark of confidence in his host. -Blessed is he who can sleep when he wills," said the Emperor, looking -down upon him. "If the fellow's skill at all equals his boasting, I -might do worse than send him to Frankfort, to instruct a band of archers -that would give good account of themselves in time of trouble." - -"To whom in Frankfort could you send him, and whom should the bowman -name as his sponsor when he arrived there? If he said he was sent by a -worthy merchant in Treves, I doubt if he would receive much attention -when his journey was completed." - -"That is true," returned Rodolph. "I fear I must part company with him -when we have fed him. Still I should like to see some sample of his -skill before we dismiss him." - -"That is easily tested if he does not shrink from the trial. On the -other side of the river I see rising and flying further up first one -heron, and then another, from which I surmise that my rascal is working -his way homeward in the skiff along the further shore, where the current -is slackest. He seems to be disturbing the birds and so this some time -back I have noted his slow progress. If our archer can wing you one of -these long-legged fowls, we may well believe he could have surprised the -sentinel." - -"Hey, bowman," continued the Baron, stirring up the sleeper with his -foot, "I hear my servant coming and we will be in presently. But first -we would like to hear the hum of your bow-string, if your skill has not -deserted you since you had sinister designs on the sentinel above the -gate." - -The archer had sprung to his feet, wide-awake, the moment he felt a -touch upon his body. - -"You can hardly expect me to bring down a man on Treves' wall from -here," he said, casting his eye toward the city. "My shaft does not live -in the air longer than one may slowly count a score. Nevertheless I am -willing to try, although I cannot guarantee a pleasurable result." - -"We set no such impossibility before the strength of your weapon; what -we desire----" - -"Nay, I spoke not of impossibility, but of surety," interrupted the -archer. "I can throw you an arrow high in the air and can guarantee that -it will fall within Treves or not far short of it, but to say definitely -that it will hit such and such a button in a man's doublet at that -distance, would be wild prophecy, for you cannot predict the home-coming -of a descending shaft, from which, as it were, the life and vigour of it -has departed, as you can the unerringness of an arrow sped horizontally, -retaining the message given to it by thumb and fingers until it reaches -the person to whom admonition is thus forwarded through its agency." - -While he spoke the archer had unwound the cloak from the bow and now he -strung the weapon with anxious care, after which he plucked a shaft from -the quiver that hung at his back. - -"There are herons rising ever and anon from yonder bank. The darkness of -the cliff somewhat obscures them, and they hang not out against the sky -like your soldier on the wall. Nevertheless the moon shines fairly on -them and the distance is less, so I beg of you to show us your skill -upon the body of the next that comes between us and the rocks." - -"Now the Fiend fry me on his gridiron," cried the archer, glancing at -the opposite cliffs, "I would rather shoot you ten soldiers than one -bird flapping through the air, for that asks of a bowman the measuring -of the distance the heron will advance from the time the arrow leaves -the string until it coincides with its quarry, the which renders -necessary also the nice adjustment by the eye of the space between -myself and the bird, a difficult enough task in broad day, causing such -a venture in the night to mix more blind chance with marksmanship than -any one not versed in necromancy should be called upon to endure." - -"So this is the outcome of your bragging!" cried the Baron, already -angered by the absence of his servant. "You well knew we would allow no -shots at a soldier and so you boasted safely. When a fair mark is -offered you, then come excuses and the making of conditions. I have a -mind, braggart, to lay my sword across your back, or rather a stout -cudgel which would better accord with your condition." - -The archer stepped rapidly away from them at this threat and said, with -arrow still notched on the string: - -"If you meditate any such breach of a hospitality which I accepted at -your proffer, and not of my own seeking, I would tell you first that I -am a free man, formal engagement having been refused by you, so keep -your cudgels for your laggard who deserves them, as standing thus by his -delay between a hungry man and his meat; while secondly I would inform -you that on the attempt at my chastisement, seeing the same is -unmerited, I would first put this shaft through you and then its mate -into the middle of your comrade, before he could lift foot to help you, -and neither of you would complain of any inaccuracy of aim, swift as -the shafts would follow each other. So advance one or both at your -peril." - -"Tush, tush," cried the Emperor, "no one will molest you. While you -chatter the heron escapes. There is one rising even now and will vanish -like his companions unscathed." - -The archer turned quickly to the north, his bow hanging almost -horizontally in his left hand. He seemed in no hurry to shoot, but -watched the bird beating the air heavily with its huge wings, its long -legs trailing behind, making seemingly slow and laborious motion across -the moonlit face of the opposite cliff. Suddenly the archer, having to -his satisfaction measured the distance with his eye, straightened -himself, lifted his bow to the perpendicular, drew back the string to -his right ear, and apparently taking no aim, let fly the shaft into the -night. He leaned forward, trying to watch its flight, but none saw the -arrow after it left the bow. The heron, however, with a cry of affright, -plunged downward, and whirled over and over until it struck the water -with a splash. - -"Nevertheless," said the archer, in a dissatisfied tone, "'tis no fair -test, and is, like enough, pure accident." - -"It is a marvellous shot," cried the Emperor, with enthusiasm, "and such -art is wondrous cheap at threepence a day." - -"With lodgment and provender," added the archer, once more unstringing -his bow. - -"Here, if your pouch has no hole in the bottom of it, is three months' -pay, which will not come amiss in your journey down the Moselle." - -"I thank your Lordship," said the man, taking the money with great -readiness, "this is more to my liking than offers of cudgelling." - -"And when you hear that the Emperor has returned to Frankfort I would -strongly advise you to go thither, for he is a lover of good qualities -wherever found. As for the offer of cudgelling, 'twas but a jest, or at -most the outcome of the delay of our custodian." - -"Here he is," said the Baron. "I think he will speedily regret his -absence." - -Across the moonlit river, in a small boat that drifted sideways rapidly -in the swift current, a man rowed with sturdy strokes. The two who -awaited him stood silently on the bank and watched his approach. The -archer had already seated himself with his back to the wall, and was -snatching a moment's repose. - -As the boatman ceased rowing and allowed his craft to float down to its -harbour, the Baron said sternly: - -"Get inside as speedily as you may and undo the door. Then I will have a -word with you." - -A few moments later there was a rattle of chains and bolts, the door was -thrown open, and gave the visitors a glimpse of a young man with white -face and trembling limbs. - - - - -CHAPTER III. - -LISTENERS HEAR LITTLE GOOD OF THEMSELVES. - - -"Come, archer," said the Baron, "arouse yourself. I have work for you to -do." - -"Not before the meal, I hope," objected the man, rising to his feet. - -"Yes; but it will not detain you long, and the supper shall be spread -before your sight, to quicken your hand." - -They entered a lower room, long and narrow, meagrely furnished, -containing a rough table thrust against the wall next the river, with -two benches, on one of which the Emperor seated himself. The trap-door -by which the man had ascended was still open and the gurgling sound of -flowing water came up. The hound crouched in a corner, and eyed the -visitors with lips drawn back from his teeth, uttering a low growl, as -if he did not like the situation so suddenly presented to him. The man -who was the cause of it all, liked it even less, and stood dumb, as one -paralysed with fright. - -"Close the trap-door," said the Baron, shortly. The man obeyed the -order. - -"Set a light in the upper window toward Treves." - -The servant disappeared up a ladder, set the light, and returned. - -"Place on the table supper for one, and a large flagon of wine." - -When this was accomplished, the servant, who had throughout spoken no -word, moving mechanically to and fro like one walking in a dream, stood -once more before his angry master. - -"Take your place with your back against that wall." - -The man, breathing hard, but still silent, stood up at the end of the -room, his wide eyes fastened in a hypnotism of fear on his master. - -"Now, archer, I am ready. Notch a shaft on your string and pin me this -deserter though the heart to the wall." - -The archer, whose eyes had been riveted on the viands set on the table, -impatiently waiting the word to set to, withdrew them with reluctance -and turned them towards the victim who stood dumb and motionless at the -other end of the room. - -"I am as loath to keep good victuals waiting as any man in the -Archbishopric, but, my Lord, I have failed to make plain to you the -nature of my calling. I am no executioner, but a soldier. If you give -yonder fellow a blade in his hand to protect himself, I will be glad to -carve him into as many pieces as may please your Lordship, but to draw -bow on an unarmed man at ten paces is a misuse of a noble weapon, and -the request to do so, were it not that this good flagon yearns for lips -to meet it, I would construe it into an insult to myself, warranting a -hostile encounter." - -"You were not so choice when you proposed to slaughter an innocent man -on the walls. Here stands a traitor, who has deserted his post and -richly earned his death, yet you----" - -"The man on the wall, my Lord, was a soldier, at that moment bearing -arms and enjoying pay for the risks he ran. When I myself mount guard I -make no objection to your German cross-bowmen practising at my body with -their bolts, taking whatever chance cares to offer, and holding it -commendable that they should thus industriously attempt to perfect their -marksmanship, but to send a shaft through a poor devil standing -weaponless at arm's length, as one might say, is no work for an English -archer, the which I will maintain, though you order this most tempting -food back into the larder again." - -The Baron scowled at the bowman, who returned his whole regard to the -table. The Emperor looked at his friend with a half quizzical smile on -his lips, while the speechless victim gazed helplessly at his master. - -"Siegfried, a word with you," said the Emperor, pointing to the bench -beside him. The Baron crossed over and sat down. - -"It is not your intention to have this young man executed, is it?" - -"Most assuredly; nothing but an order from the Emperor will save his -deservedly forfeited life." - -"Then God help him," said Rodolph, "for the Emperor is far away. If, -however, my own poor word can avail him, I would gladly see him spared, -and this without in any way underrating the heinousness of his crime." - -"His desertion might have cost either of us our lives, as you yourself -admitted but a short while since. I can forgive anything rather than -absence from the post of duty." - -"I grant you that if he were not alone here his offence would be -unpardonable, if but for the effect on others, but there is none other -to make a precedent of leniency. Then there is this to be said, he has -had a stern lesson, for if ever man read death in the eye of another he -saw it in yours a moment ago, although at first I thought you were -jesting. If you spare him, he will therefore be the truer in future and -will not soon forget this night, while another who takes his place will -still have the lesson to learn. May I question him?" - -"Certainly. He is yours, as I am." - -"Hark ye, fellow, were you ever out with that boat before?" - -"Yes, my Lord." - -"You see it is not the first offence. I beg you to let me execute -justice upon him," said the Baron. - -"A worse man would have denied it," responded Rodolph, eagerly. "He -speaks the truth when he knows it prejudices his case. I like the -fellow, although he is so badly frightened. Where do you voyage, -sirrah?" - -"To the Archbishop's palace, my Lord." - -"To the Archbishop's palace?" echoed both Rodolph and Siegfried, in a -breath. "In the Fiend's name what have you to do with the Archbishop or -his Palace?" - -The young fellow cleared his throat, and some colour mounted to his pale -face. - -"My Lord," he stammered, "a maid, who is named Hilda----" - -"I could have sworn it," cried the Emperor. "Now we have the woman, the -riddle unravels itself. What of Hilda, my young gallant?" - -"She is tirewoman of the Countess Tekla----" - -"Ha!" ejaculated the Emperor, a sudden interest coming into his face, -while the Baron's frown grew blacker. "You met with Hilda then -to-night?" - -"Not so, my Lord. I was on my way to meet her when, in the still night, -I heard a knock, and fearing it might be at this door I hurried back; -alas! that I kept your Lordship waiting." - -"Then if I understand you aright, Hilda has now accepted our late -_rôle_." - -The man looked at the ground, evidently not comprehending the last -remark. - -"Hilda is at this moment waiting for you, then," explained Rodolph. - -"Yes, my Lord." - -The Emperor turned his frank smiling face upon the Baron, who sat with -his chin in his hand, grimly regarding the servant, who, now that there -seemed hope of rescue, kept his eyes fixed on the floor. - -"You see," said Rodolph, "'tis but a simple lover's meeting, and I have -known great affairs of State put aside for such. What wonder that the -boy forgot his duty and stole away in your skiff to have a few sweet -words with the doubtless charming Hilda." - -"I distrust him," said the Baron, in a low voice. "I like not this -traffic with the Archbishop's Palace. Arnold von Isenberg is a -suspicious man, and has little scruple regarding the means he uses to -satisfy either his curiosity or his resentment. This young fool may be -innocent, but I doubt it. He made no protest against my judgment just -now, but stood silent, like one who knew his doom was merited. The -Archbishop may have heard something from his spies about this shuttered -house, and its mysterious horse, never taken out save for exercise. This -young fellow is practically a stranger to me. He is not one of my -hereditary servants, for I wished to have a man here who knew no one in -my house at Treves, and my servants there know nothing of this place at -the river, except the man on guard, who unbars the window and throws -down the rope when a light is displayed here, and he knows no more than -that. As for this fellow here and his glib love story I mistrust him -thoroughly." - -"I think you do him wrong. If ever I saw an honest face, it is his. -Besides, what harm can he do, since he knows nothing?" - -"The mystery of the house, and even his lack of knowledge might lead to -an investigation. Ordinarily I should care little for that, but now you -are here, I wish to move with all caution." - -"Then his truth is easily put to the test. I would vouch for the fellow -from his looks alone, but, as you say, much depends on his fidelity. He -cannot complain that his absence has aroused suspicion, so we will -insist that a second absence shall allay it. We will go with him in the -boat to meet this waiting girl and hear what comes of their -conversation. He will have no chance of warning her, and if there is -fair love-talk between them you will then be satisfied." - -"We cannot go with him unseen." - -"Why not? We shall be in the shadow of the Palace and in the bottom of -the skiff with our cloaks around us. It will not be a dignified -position, but anything is better than a slumbering distrust of one's -underlings, and then our situation will be heavenly compared with his in -any case. If he is a traitor he will assuredly betray himself by trying -to warn his confederate: if he is merely a lover it will be somewhat -embarrassing to uphold this character when he knows he has an audience. -But a man will do much to save his neck, and he will doubtless come -passably off with his rehearsal. If it is a woman who waits for him, and -if she proves ardent in her affections, we may have some ado to keep -from laughter, but even then our position will be enviable compared with -his." - -The conversation at this point was broken in upon by a doleful voice -which came from the patient archer. - -"I have met much hospitality of varying kinds, in different parts of the -world," he said, mournfully; "but never anything bearing resemblance to -this. I have heard that in savage lands they place food before a hungry -prisoner, the which he is unable to reach, although the sight of it -feasts his eyes and the aroma therefrom tickles his nostrils. But to -think that in a Christian land, where----" - -"In God's name, good fellow, are you still hungering?" cried the Baron. -"I thought when everything was prepared you would not need a formal -invitation. Fall to, fall to, without further delay, and prove yourself -as good a trencherman as you are excellent in archery." - -The bowman, losing no further time in talk, at once began his long -postponed repast, and continued the same with such absorption that the -Emperor and the Baron went on with their conversation in no fear of -interruption from him. Siegfried, with some reluctance, agreed to the -plan proposed by Rodolph. The latter beckoned to the man standing by the -wall, awaiting knowledge of his fate with that extreme anxiety which -the uncertain tenure whereby he held his life was sure to occasion. - -"You know, doubtless," began the Emperor, "that the late desertion of -the post entrusted to you has forfeited your life to your justly -incensed master?" - -The young man made a motion of assent to this proposition. - -"Having found you false in one thing, it is but natural that your master -should distrust you in all, and therefore he disbelieves the tale you -have told of meeting with a maid, attributing other motives to your -visit to the Palace." - -"What other motive could I have?" - -"That remains to be seen. Are you willing, then, that we should put your -fidelity to the test?" - -"I am willing." - -"Remember that you gain your life thereby. Where is it that you meet -this maid?" - -"On the river balcony of the Palace, at the corner nearest here." - -"How high is this balcony from the water?" - -"Less than a man's height. Standing in the boat the floor is level with -my shoulders." - -"Is it your custom to ascend upon the balcony?" - -"No, my Lord. I stand there holding the rope in my hand, which coming -from the prow of the skiff passes round one of the balustrades. Thus, in -case of interruption, I can instantly release my hold, sit down, and -float away unseen." - -The Emperor glanced at Siegfried with a look that plainly said, "This -man speaks the truth." But the Baron, with perplexed brows, showed that -he thought all the worse of him. Thus do the same words produce -differing effects on different minds. - -"Now, hark ye, fellow," said the Emperor, with more severity in his tone -than he had yet used, "and give good heed to what I say, for much -depends on it, especially to you. We will accompany you in the boat to -this tryst upon the water, but will so bestow ourselves that we shall -be unseen by whoever there awaits you. Now, mark this: you are to -proceed thither silently; you are to give neither sign nor signal. If -you so much as cough, your neck shall suffer for it. If you attempt to -whisper, or say aught that is inaudible to us, as we lie in your boat, -we will adjudge you a traitor. If it is but innocent love traffic that -calls you to the balcony, you will carry on your flirtation as if we -were not within hearing distance, and I will hold you unscathed for -anything you may say. Are you honest with this girl?" - -"As honest as I am with you, my Lord." - -"Ah! that is somewhat in doubt at the moment, but if you are honest then -will I give your Hilda a handsome dowry when she weds with the boatman -of the Moselle. Are you content with the trial?" - -"I am content, my Lord." - -"Then get ready the boat, so that we may not keep the maiden waiting." - -The young man raised the trap-door and disappeared down the steps. - -"I hope he will prove himself a true man," said the Baron, evidently -somewhat shaken in his suspicions by the straightforward answers and -actions of the person accused. - -"By the Holy Coat," cried the Emperor, with a laugh, "it is well for us -if he does so." - -"Well for _us_?" echoed the Baron; "well for him you mean surely." - -"Not so. Look you in what plight he has us should he be a traitor. We -are wrapped in our cloaks, lying in the bottom of the skiff. The young -man steers us to this balcony, springs nimbly upon it, the rope in his -hand, deftly with his foot upsetting the boat, as, like my countryman, -William Tell, he leaps from it. He cries aloud, 'Treason! treason -against my Lord, the Archbishop!' The guards rush out, we are fished -dripping from the water, and dragged before Archbishop Arnold to explain -to him who we are and what we did cruising round his Moselle palace. If -he is false, being a quick-witted man he sees his doom is fixed should -he refuse the test, while by accepting our proposal we at once deliver -ourselves shackled into his hands. I should ask nothing better than to -have two fools, who were my enemies, placed thus at my disposal." - -The Baron sprang to his feet with an oath. "We shall go on no such -hare-brained excursion," he cried. - -"Pardon," said the Emperor, calmly, "but I shall go, most assuredly. I -am not the man to propose a test and then shrink from it. But it would -be wiser for you to remain here, ready to stand sponsor for me with the -Archbishop, should I be captured. I assure you, good Siegfried, your -testimony will have much greater weight if you come to the Palace dry, -than if you are a dripping accomplice, rescued by his men-at-arms." - -"Where you go, I go," answered the Baron, nonplussed. - -The boatman put his head up through the trap-door and announced that the -skiff was ready. The Emperor laughed as he flung his cloak over his -shoulders; the Baron did likewise, but there was disquietude on his -brow. - -"There is like to be enough of meat," said the archer, seeing they were -about to depart, "but if you are to be long absent I would fain be put -into communication with the hogshead from which this most excellent -flagon is accustomed to be replenished. Wine, when a man is eating, -makes fair escort for good food down the throat, but one is scarcely -able thus to judge satisfactorily of its quality, missing the aroma -which the more leisurely drinking allows the palate to become acquainted -with. I hold that the proper time for doing justice to a good wine is -when hunger has been so thoroughly appeased that----" - -"The barrel is in the adjoining room," replied Siegfried, as he -disappeared down the trap-door. - -The boatman, sitting in the stern and using a paddle, propelled the -skiff through the water-doorway and out upon the broad bosom of the -river. His two passengers reclined near the prow and thus they floated -down with the current, passing the numerous small buildings, all dark, -which composed the little hamlet of Zurlauben. The huge square bulk of -the Archbishop's Palace rose in the moonlight at the further end of the -village, showing some lights in the upper rooms. The man in the stern of -the boat sat silent as a statue of Death, and almost as motionless. He -allowed the boat to drift with the current, making no effort to -accelerate its progress by use of the paddle that trailed in the water -behind, contenting himself by giving it a slight deflection to right or -left and thus direct the impetus of the craft this way or that. The tall -pointed windows of the large hall of the Palace, which, filled with -stained glass, gave a semi-ecclesiastical appearance to the river front -of the edifice, glowed softly with coloured light, like jewelled -pictures against the dark wall, showing that the room within was still -illuminated. The two passengers now reclined with heads towards the -prow, their cloaks entirely concealing their persons, and in the silence -and the darkness, with the mute figure upright in the stern, the weird -craft looked as if Charon were its master, ferrying two lost souls over -the Styx. - -As the boat floated noiselessly as a leaf on the surface of the water -into the great shadow which the Palace threw upon the river, the -stillness was broken by a woman's voice. She hissed out the one word-- - -"Laggard!" - -"I am not to blame," answered the boatman, rising, taking the rope in -his hand and flinging the loop of it upon the balcony, where it caught -upon some projection, and swung the skiff gently round till the prow -pointed up stream. - -"I assure you, Hilda, I am not to blame. My master had commands for me -which I could not dispose of sooner." - -"I wish I could see thy face," answered the girl, "then I would know -whether you speak the truth or not. It is like that you have been to -Treves to meet some wench more complaisant than I. Oh, I know of old how -well you can arrange meetings in the city, and if with me why not with -another?" - -"It is hard to be accused twice in one night of lying. I was on my way -to meet you when my master came, and he would not believe what I said. I -know not how to convince you of my truth unless you ask him whether or -no he stopped me from coming earlier." - -"Bring thy master to me instead, Conrad, and I will vouch thou art truth -teller except where women are concerned, and of that I have my doubts. -What hast thou in thy boat, Conrad? I saw the bulk of a burden when I -peered my eyes out watching for thy slow coming." - -"'Tis but dressed calves that I must deliver safe and sound at a house -in the village further up the river. I came direct to thee before doing -so." - -"Who is thy master then, that asks such strange service from his man?" - -"He is a butcher who delights in the killing." - -The prone Emperor nudged his companion and whispered, "The adage is -true, Siegfried; you are like to hear little that will flatter you." - -"Conrad, tell me you have not been to Treves." - -"I swear to you I have not." - -"And that you love none other than me?" - -"I love you only, and would stand against wall to be pierced through the -heart for thy sake." - -"Oh, Conrad!" cried the girl, kneeling and taking his head in her arms. -"No such test of thy love shall ever be required of thee, but I dearly -yearn to hear thee tell me so. Wilt thou come earlier to-morrow night; -for when the light dims in the great hall windows I must away, and I -feared to-night they would be dark ere I saw the boat. Say thou wilt -come earlier, then no time will be lost in chiding thee." - -"Hilda, it must be as my master wills. He is a strict man, and hard. If -he knows of my coming I cannot tell what may happen." - -"But why serve the butcher? If you quit him I will speak to my Lady, who -will surely get you a place in the household of his Lordship." - -"Advancement may be more certain with a hard master where there are few -servants than with one like the Archbishop, who has hundreds at his -command. I will answer you to-morrow. If my master is just and regards -truthful service he may look with favour on me." - -"But you said you knew little of him." - -"I know more of him now that he has returned. Hilda, I pray you cast -your memory back and tell me what I proposed to do when next I saw him." - -"You mean the telling him about our love and betrothal?" - -"Yes." - -"Then you have told him? What did he say!" - -"I have told him. I shall know to-morrow what he says." - -As he spoke the lights in the great windows dimmed and went out. - -"Alas! alas!" cried the girl, "our time is spent. Come earlier to-morrow -night. And now get thee back to thy butcher." - -"In truth, Hilda, he came nearer than you wot of, to the justifying of -your term to-night. Farewell." - -There was the smacking sound of several kisses hurriedly bestowed, then -the young man pulled the prow end of the rope toward him, and sat down -again in the stern. The boat floated along under the shadow of the -Palace, but the steersman with vigorous but silent strokes of the paddle -prevented it from drifting into the moonlight, shooting the craft -rapidly across the river until it reached the comparatively still water -near the opposite bank. The two in the prow now sat up but remained -silent, making no comment on the events of the evening in the hearing of -the person most interested, who applied himself strenuously to the work -in hand, and proved not only his strength, but his mastery of the -waterman's art. The moonlight falling on the Emperor's face, showed a -resolute effort on the part of his Majesty to keep from laughter, while -the Baron's countenance exhibited a settled gloom. When well above the -village, the boatman, with a few quick, well-placed strokes, sped the -skiff across the river, and timed his efforts so accurately that it -floated into the open doorway under the house. - -Rodolph and Siegfried mounted the steps and found the archer with his -head resting on his arms spread out over the table, sound asleep, and -audibly enjoying his rest. - -"Speaking for myself, I like Hilda," said the Emperor, with a laugh. -"How does your more experienced judgment approve of the girl, -Siegfried?" - -But the Baron did not answer the question. He said instead, with some -indignation, "A butcher, indeed! I shall give the fellow his life, -because I passed my word, but he is no longer servant of mine. I shall -take instead this honest archer, who has passed the time of life when -balcony work is attractive." - -"My lord Baron, you will do nothing so foolish. The young man is a -jewel. He is a proven man, while you know little of this stranger, who -is a foreigner, and, by his own account, a mere hireling. If I am ever -to make my escape from this place on horse, or in boat, I want this -young fellow here to help me. I feel I can depend on him in an -emergency." - -"In that case he remains." - -At this point Conrad himself appeared, and closing down the trap-door, -stood waiting orders. - -"You have proven yourself a true man," said the Emperor, "and I will -make my promise good to provide your Hilda with a suitable dowry. For -the time being your duty lies here, and I beg you to remember that a -shut mouth will lead to an open purse. Your master will tell you that -you are, for the present, to obey me as you would him, and should I -reach here without him, you are to be at my orders. Meanwhile, no word -to any of what happened to-night, least of all to Hilda herself, who -will not thank you, believe me, for providing witnesses able to give -testimony regarding her undoubted affection for you. I shall add to your -pay an amount equal to what my friend allows you. Are you satisfied?" - -"Yes, my Lord." - -"You will give this archer breakfast in the morning," added the Baron, -"and then bid him God-speed. Satisfy his hunger and thirst, but not his -curiosity. And finally remember well that you are to hold yourself at -all times under the special commands of this gentleman, to whom to-night -you owe your life, for had I been alone I would undoubtedly have made -good my title of your butcher." - -Conrad bowed and remained silent. - -The Emperor and the Baron departed, and made their way across the plain -to Treves, where they found the dangling rope awaiting them, by the aid -of which they reached their rooms, unimpeded by further adventure. - - - - -CHAPTER IV. - -THE EMPEROR DISAPPEARS. - - -For three days the Emperor and Siegfried wandered about Treves and saw -much to interest and instruct them. Among other things they noted that -the city was more efficiently garrisoned than was Frankfort, the -capital. Soldiers swarmed everywhere, insolent and overbearing. One -would imagine that no such person as the Emperor existed, for all -authority seemed vested in the Archbishop. The talk was of what the -Archbishop would do or would not do. Whatever nominal authority the -Emperor might possess in Treves, the Archbishop was the holder of actual -power, and his wishes were law without appeal. - -"I think," said Rodolph, "that when I return from the Holy Land I shall -get together an army and pay a visit of State to this Arnold. It would -be some gratification for me to know that a few good people in this city -were at least aware of my existence." - -Once or twice the two were stopped and questioned with an arrogance that -was particularly galling to both Emperor and Baron. On these occasions -Siegfried's suave diplomacy succeeded in avoiding disaster, but he was -in continual fear that the anger of the Emperor himself might be aroused -and that something would be said resulting in peril. On the third day -the crisis came, and then not through any indiscretion on the part of -the Emperor, but rather from the action of Siegfried himself. As they -approached the market-square on the evening of the third day, homeward -bent, a truculent officer, with feet spread wide apart, opposed their -passage. - -"Hold, my fine fellow," he cried, placing his hand rudely on Rodolph's -shoulder. "Are you military or civil?" - -"Let me pass," said the Emperor, quietly. "I am a peaceable merchant." - -"Then by what right do you wear a sword at your hip?" - -"By what right do you question me?" - -"I question you in the name of his high and mighty Lordship, the -Archbishop of Treves." - -"Then I answer that I wear this sword by permission of the Emperor -Rodolph, being a citizen of Frankfort." - -"The Emperor Rodolph is a Swiss, and no true German." - -"You lie!" cried Siegfried, whipping out his blade. "The Emperor is a -better German than you or any other Treves cut-throat, and he is -overlord of Arnold von Isenberg, whose menial you are. Doff your cap to -the name of the Emperor, or I will smite your head to the pavement, cap -and all." - -"Treason, treason!" shouted the officer, springing back and unsheathing -his sword. "Treason to the Archbishop! Treason!" - -The cry brought instantly all the military, both officers and men, -within hearing distance, to the spot, and caused, at the same time, the -few civilians of the neighbourhood to escape as quickly as possible. The -civil population well knew that in a military disturbance they were -safer in their own houses. - -Rodolph had also drawn his sword, ready to stand by the Baron should an -onslaught be made, yet he saw in a moment that resistance would be vain, -surrounded as they now were by an angry well-armed-mob. - -"Arrest those dogs," cried the infuriated officer, "who have dared to -question the authority of the Archbishop in his own town of Treves, and -have insulted him by drawing blade on one of his officers." - -Several soldiers moved forward to execute this command, when Siegfried, -holding his sword aloft in the air, shouted: - -"Have a care what you do! I am Baron Siegfried von Brunfels, a resident -and a householder in Treves, as noble as the Archbishop himself, which -his Lordship would be the first to allow. If there is to be an arrest, -let the proper authority take into custody this brawling officer, who -disgraces the uniform he wears by attempted mishandling of his -superiors. By the gods, his Lordship will be surprised to learn of the -manners that prevail in his good city of Treves during his absence, and -he barely outside the walls." - -Those around the Baron instantly fell back upon the proclamation of his -quality. Another officer pressed forward with outstretched hand. - -"Welcome to Treves, my Lord," he said. "I thought you were in -Frankfort." - -"I am but newly arrived," replied Siegfried, taking the proffered hand -of his acquaintance, "and come only to meet insult for myself and my -guest." - -"I knew not his condition," pleaded the originator of the disturbance, -in the most abject manner. "I crave your pardon, my Lord, and that of -your comrade." - -The Baron made no reply, but turned his back upon the suppliant. With -his anger rapidly cooling he began to realise the possible consequences -of his revelation of identity. He would now be compelled to pay formal -court to the Archbishop, and give some plausible reason for his -unexpected visit to Treves. If any word reached the suspicious ear of -the Archbishop that he had been in the city secretly for several days, -his already embarrassing situation would be rendered all the more -difficult, and he might speedily find himself an inhabitant of the -prison, where it was notorious that entrance was more easy than exit. - -He bade good-bye to the officer who had recognised him, pleaded fatigue -from his journey in excuse for his refusal of hospitality that night at -the officer's quarters, and departed with his guest, looked after -somewhat curiously by all who remained. - -He knew that they would now hear his opponent's version of the beginning -of the mêlée and that all would wonder why a noble of the Baron's rank -should be wandering through Treves with a man who announced himself a -merchant. The mystery would deepen the more it was discussed, and the -Baron felt increased uneasiness regarding his forthcoming interview with -Arnold von Isenberg. Yet what troubled him most was the future action of -the Emperor himself. He was resolved that Rodolph should forthwith quit -Treves and hie him back to Frankfort, leaving his friend to stand the -brunt of whatever explanation might be forthcoming. In this lay -difficulty. The Emperor was so loyal to his friendships that he might -refuse to leave Treves. Siegfried well knew that when Rodolph made up -his mind to a certain course of action, neither persuasion nor threats -could swerve him from it. Their coming had been but a foolhardy -expedition at the best, and a most dangerous one as well. The Emperor -himself had given out that he had departed for the Holy Land. None but -Siegfried knew that such departure had not taken place. Let but the -crafty Arnold get an inkling of the fact that the Emperor was in Treves -secretly, and disguised as a merchant, and he would instantly surround -the house with troops, convey both Emperor and Baron to the secret -prison he possessed, and there hold them until it suited his purpose to -let them go. No friend of either Emperor or Baron would have the -slightest suspicion of their fate, for each had elaborately perfected -the fiction that they had gone to the East, which fiction now seemed -like to be their own undoing, more to be feared than the wrath of the -Archbishop himself. How the crafty Arnold would chuckle at the trap they -had laid for themselves! - -"Baron," said the Emperor, as they walked silently homeward, "I am -sorry to disturb your most uncompanionable meditations, but I think we -are followed." - -"Followed!" echoed Siegfried in alarm, casting a look over his shoulder. -He saw in the distance behind them an officer and two soldiers, who -seemed anxious to escape observation and who slunk under an archway when -they saw the Baron turn his head. - -"Their suspicion is aroused then," said Siegfried. "What can they expect -to discover but that I go to my own house accompanied by my guest." - -"I thought, my valiant Baron, you would propose to double on them and -lead them a dance through the narrow streets of Treves. There would be -at least a little excitement in such a course." - -"It would merely confirm them in their evident belief that I have -something to conceal. No. Our wisest plan is to go directly to my house -and let them report that we have done so. But I am convinced that you -must leave Treves, and that as soon as possible. I propose, therefore, -that we ride through the gates to-morrow, and, if questioned, say we are -about to pay a formal visit to the Archbishop. We will then ride to -Zurlauben, where Conrad shall mount my fleet horse and accompany you to -Frankfort." - -"And you?" - -"I shall wait upon the Archbishop, and answer any question he is pleased -to ask." - -"My good Siegfried, no. I can scarcely desert you after having led you -into what you were pleased to term a piece of folly. We go together, or -we stay together." - -"But I must now wait upon the Archbishop. This night's work makes that -imperative. Believe me, were I sure you were well on the road to -Frankfort, I would meet his Lordship with an easy conscience." - -"Well, we will discuss the project further to-morrow, and, as I am alone -to blame, you will not find me obdurate. I shall fall in with any plan -you think is to our advantage, for I see you are anxious regarding my -welfare." - -The Baron von Brunfels was pleased to think that he had gained so easy -and complete a victory. - -They had now reached the arched doorway, and were speedily admitted. -After dinner the Emperor retired early, as had been his custom ever -since he reached Treves, excepting on the first night of their visit. -Before von Brunfels followed his guest's example he looked out upon the -moonlit narrow street, and was somewhat alarmed to notice two soldiers -on watch, although they were at such a distance that they probably hoped -to escape observation. On the other side of the house he also saw two -armed men. It was evident the dwelling was surrounded, and that all exit -was now impossible, save by passing the guards or by slipping out of the -barred window over the city wall. - -The distance at which the sentinels were posted seemed to indicate that -this was not done by the Archbishop's authority, but was a measure -adopted by some of his officers, who might if necessary disclaim any -intention of restricting the liberty of a noble so highly placed as -Baron von Brunfels, yet who were determined that no one should leave or -enter the house without their cognisance. The Baron's first thought was -to put the question to the test by himself passing through the cordon -and seeing whether any dare question him, but remembering that the -Emperor was in his charge, he hesitated about further jeopardising his -safety. He thought it better to consult the Emperor himself, and if -possible persuade him to escape by rope over the wall, make speed to the -house by the river, and take horse from there instantly for Frankfort. - -With this intent the Baron ascended the stair and tried the door of the -large apartment which communicated with the smaller room in which the -Emperor slept. The door was bolted fast on the inside. He rapped at -first lightly, then more loudly, but there was no response. Hesitating -to break the Emperor's slumber for what he might regard as a trivial -cause, von Brunfels returned to a lower floor and again reconnoitered, -but now saw nothing of the guards on either side of the house. -Perplexed, thinking that he had perhaps jumped too hastily to a -conclusion; that after all the house might not be invested by the -Archbishop's troops; that his own disquiet was the probable cause of his -aroused suspicions; he determined not to awaken Rodolph until there was -more pressing reason for doing so, but to remain himself on guard until -daylight. He asked a servant to put out all lights except that in the -dining-room, where he sat with a re-filled flagon at his elbow, ears -alert for any unaccustomed sound. Toward midnight he again thought he -saw soldiers move silently in the narrow street, as if guard were being -changed, but although the moon shone with midsummer brightness, the -depth of the shadows cast by the walls made it impossible for any -definite judgment to be formed regarding what was taking place on the -street below. - -When day began to break grayly, the Baron watched the departing shadows, -eager to learn whether or not their lifting would reveal anything of the -guard he was convinced had been set on his house, but the clear light of -morning showed the streets deserted and silent. Breathing more freely, -he threw himself on a bench with his cloak around him and was soon in a -deep sleep. - -It was late when he awoke. Calling a servant, he asked why he had not -been informed when his guest had breakfasted, and learned with renewed -alarm that the Emperor had not yet made his appearance. Springing to his -feet he strode hastily up the stair to find the door still bolted. With -ever-increasing uneasiness he mounted another stair to the small room in -which his sentinel sat, whose duty it was to watch for the light in the -river house, and to unbar the window below and throw down the rope. This -room communicated with the Emperor's apartments below by means of a -secret circular stair. The guard seemed surprised to see the Baron, and -what was said did not serve to reassure his Lordship. - -"The light by the river has been burning all night. When morning broke I -pulled up the rope and closed the window. Nobody came in." - -"Why did you not inform me before daybreak?" - -"I thought it was your Lordship who was out. You came in betimes these -three nights past." - -"Three nights?" cried the Baron. "Has the rope been in use for three -nights?" - -"Yes, my Lord. But, until last night, entry was made long before -cock-crow." - -The Baron, stopping to make no further inquiry, went down the circular -stair, and after rapping at the bedroom door, opened it. The room was -empty, and the bed had not been slept in. Cursing his own -thoughtlessness in allowing the night to pass before finding this out, -the Baron unbolted the door, went downstairs, and ordered his horse to -be saddled. It was evident that for three nights the Emperor had been -engaged in nocturnal rambles of some sort, and it was also plain that he -had intended to return on the third night as usual, otherwise the light -would not have burned till day-dawn in the window. What, then, had -prevented his return? Into what trap had he fallen while the Baron was -uselessly guarding an empty house? Had the suspected traitor at the -river house informed the Palace authorities of the advent of a -mysterious visitor, and had they learned who that visitor was? These -reflections tortured Baron von Brunfels as he paced the stone-paved -court impatiently waiting for his horse. He resolved to ride at once to -the house by the river and extort full confession from Conrad at the -point of his sword, slaying him with his own hand if there was the -slightest suspicion of treachery. - -He sprang into the saddle, when the horse was led out, and roused the -echoes of the silent narrow street as he galloped toward the North Gate. -He was permitted to pass through without question, and now proceeded -more slowly toward the river, not desiring to show unusual haste. The -light still burned in the upper window, and a few moments' investigation -served to show that the house was untenanted and the boat gone. -Thoroughly convinced now that Conrad was a traitor, he realised the -futility of expecting to find him, as he would doubtless be well -protected from vengeance by the Archbishop. The Baron bitterly regretted -that he had not placed one of his own true and tried servants in charge -of the river house. In his heart he had no fault to find with the young -Emperor for engaging, unknown to his host, in these hazardous midnight -expeditions. Rather he blamed himself for his reluctance in accompanying -Rodolph on the first stroll that they took to the river, and thought -this reluctance the probable cause of the Emperor's subsequent secrecy. - -Having at last succeeded in forcing an entrance, Siegfried unbolted the -stable door and placed the horse he had ridden beside the one standing -there. In the large room he found an iron lamp dimly burning, and the -trap-door raised. Everything tended to show that the Emperor fully -expected to return, as he had returned before. Von Brunfels sat down on -a bench and buried his face in his hands. He had not the slightest idea -what to do, hampered as he was on every side. He could not go into the -streets of Treves and cry that the Emperor was missing. He could not go -to the Archbishop and seek assistance, as he might have done were the -lost man any one else on earth than the Emperor Rodolph. He could not -return to Frankfort and raise an army to come to the assistance of a man -all supposed to be in the Holy Land. He might go to Frankfort and await -developments, but Rodolph at that moment probably needed the aid of his -good sword, a few hundred yards from where he sat. Every avenue seemed -closed to him. Rodolph, in whatever prison he lay, was not more helpless -than his friend outside. - -As the Baron sat there, in a state bordering on despair, his ear caught -the sound of a bugle, giving out an imperative note from the direction -of the Archbishop's Palace. This was answered faintly from the town. The -Archbishop was likely going to Treves. Siegfried sprang to his feet, and -determined to present himself to Arnold von Isenberg, as he had need to -do that day in any case, and by noting every look and expression of his -Lordship, endeavour to form some conclusion regarding Rodolph's fate. -Once more outside, he found that, during his brief withdrawal, many -things had happened. A troop of horse was drawn up in front of the -Palace. Mounted men were hurrying to and fro between Treves and -Zurlauben. From the North Gate of the city another body of cavalry was -issuing. Bugle notes came over the plains from Treves, and it was only -too evident to the Baron that something unusual was afoot. As may be -imagined, these hasty military preparations did not tend to soothe his -apprehensions. His first thought that the Archbishop intended to proceed -from Zurlauben to Treves seemed erroneous, because of the magnitude of -the movement going forward. Arnold marched in state when he went abroad, -but he did not throw the whole military force at his disposal into -commotion by doing so. The Baron's practised eye, and his knowledge of -life in Treves at once told him that some unexpected event had led to -the sudden rally of troops round the summer palace. He walked his horse -slowly towards the body of cavalry, and as he approached was saluted by -the officer in charge, whom he recognised as the friend who had come to -his rescue the evening before. - -"You have chosen an inopportune time, my lord Baron, for your visit to -the Archbishop, if such is your purpose," said the officer, in a low -voice, when the Baron came up with him. "I doubt if you will have -audience with his Lordship to-day." - -"I came with that design," answered Siegfried, with a scarcely -perceptible falter in his voice. "What has happened since I last saw -you, for there appears to be some commotion of more than usual -significance?" - -"Ah, that I do not know," replied the officer. "There is something -important in the wind that was not thought of last night. War, I hope. -My instructions--there is nothing secret about them--is to take the road -to Frankfort with all speed. I merely wait the coming of one who is now -with his Lordship receiving final directions. Count Bertrich was in -Treves this morning when, it seems, the Archbishop thought he should -have been at hand. I spoke with the Count two hours ago, and I'll swear -he had no idea that there was anything extraordinary afoot. A company -has already gone westward with all haste, and five messengers have been -despatched, one after another, to Treves for the Count. So impatient is -the Archbishop that no sooner does one mounted man disappear through the -North Gate than another is sent off. Here comes the Count now on the -gallop at the head of his troop." - -As he spoke the party which Siegfried had seen leaving the city came -racing up in a cloud of dust. Count Bertrich flung himself from his -horse and strode into the Palace, unheeding the salutations he received -on all sides. At the same moment a man, booted and spurred, but not in -armour, equipped rather for swift riding than for combat, came hurriedly -down the steps, sprang on his horse and shouted "Forward." - -The officer at once gave the word to his men, and the troop started off -at a trot for the Frankfort Road. - -Baron von Brunfels sat on his horse, doubtful what next to do. As he -hesitated, Count Bertrich came out of the Palace, with pale face and set -lips, mounted the horse he had left but a few moments before, gave a -curt word of command, and galloped at the head of his company down the -river road. Whatever communication he had had with the Archbishop must -have been of the shortest, and the cloud on the Count's brow showed it -had been at least unpleasant. The Baron determined to see the Archbishop -at all hazards, hoping that some chance word would give him a key to -these swift and mysterious movements. He dismounted, left his horse in -charge of one of the numerous retainers standing about, went up the -steps and entered the large hall, which he found filled with officers -and nobles, all speaking low to each other; all, quite palpably, in a -state of anxiety and unsatisfied curiosity. The Baron walked through -this throng to a smaller ante-chamber into which he was admitted by the -officer on guard, on mentioning his rank, and once there he sent his -name to the Archbishop. After a time the Archbishop's monkish secretary -came out, and bowing low said: - -"My Lord, the Archbishop sends greeting to Baron Siegfried von Brunfels, -and deeply regrets that it is impossible for his Lordship to receive -even the Emperor to-day, were he to honour Treves with his presence." - -"Even the Emperor!" repeated Siegfried, slowly, looking with keen -apprehension at the secretary-monk, who had delivered so singular a -message. - -"Those were his Lordship's words," replied the monk, again bowing -deferentially, which assurance did little to diminish the Baron's -anxiety. - -"I trust," said Siegfried, "that nothing untoward has happened to cause -his Lordship apprehension." - -"I devoutly trust not," answered the monk, with non-committal -obsequiousness, and after this remark he gravely took his leave. - -Baron von Brunfels again passed through the crowded hall, pausing to -converse briefly with one or two acquaintances, but he learned nothing; -on the contrary, he found those who knew him, expecting enlightenment -themselves because he had just come from the ante-chamber. - -The Baron mounted his horse and rode slowly back to Treves, pondering -on the exciting events of the day. These events had convinced him that -if Rodolph had been captured in the night, he had evidently escaped in -the morning, and that this was the meaning of the hurried scouring of -the country. There seemed nothing left but to return to his house in -Treves, for he thought that if Rodolph could remain in hiding until -nightfall he would probably attempt to re-enter the house by the way he -had departed from it, knowing as he must, the anxiety his continued -absence would cause his friend. Besides it must undoubtedly occur to him -that, while the search lasted, the safest place in which to hide was -Treves itself, for the Archbishop would most likely imagine that the -fugitive Emperor had made for Frankfort with all the speed he could -command. - -Reasoning thus, the Baron passed again unchallenged through the gate to -his house, which he found just as he had left it. He sent one of his -servants to the cottage by the river with strict instructions not to -quit the place until he was relieved, and to show two lights in the -window if, for any reason, help was needed. - -Then the Baron threw himself down on a couch to get some rest, and await -the coming of night. - - - - -CHAPTER V. - -LOVE LEADS THE WAY. - - -On the night after his adventure in the boat with the Baron, the Emperor -retired early, bolted his door, threw open the window, flung down the -rope, and so descended to the plain outside the wall. He made his way -across the plateau, pausing for some moments to look at the lighted -windows of the Palace, but hesitating to approach near, fearing to be -challenged by the sentinels who marched up and down in front of the huge -building. Finally he proceeded to the upper part of the village, knocked -at the door of his friend's châlet, and was admitted by the young man in -charge. - -"Well, Conrad," he said, "has our eloquent and skilful archer left you -yet?" - -"Yes, my Lord. He went away this morning after he had breakfasted." - -"Most heartily, I warrant?" - -"Yes, my Lord!" - -"And whither went he?" - -"He said he thought of marching to the Rhine, my master having advised -him that he would there find employment." - -"I doubt not he will obtain it. They were ever a turbulent crew on the -lordly Rhine. We are quit of the archer then. Have you seen Hilda since -last night?" - -"No, my Lord," said the young man, casting his eyes on the floor. - -"Ah, there I stand your friend. I am come to hold guard until you return -from the balcony. But hark ye, Conrad, we are all selfish in this -world, and I demand due recompense for my watch and ward. Will you make -bargain then to requite good deed with good deed?" - -"So far as deed of mine may repay you, my Lord, not only for what you -offer, but because of that you have already done on my behalf, you are -welcome to any service of mine you are pleased to accept. I hold my life -at your hands." - -"Then we begin fair, and I see I may make for myself a most favourable -compact with you. We are both of an age, and although it may seem heresy -to say so under the feudal law, there might be some difficulty, if each -were stripped of his trappings, to proclaim which of us was noble and -which plebeian. The valiant archer, who was your guest, said quite -truly, that under arms the best wielder of his weapon was ever the best -man, be he titled or nameless, and I think the same holds true where -such archery as that of Cupid comes in question. To be plain with you, -Conrad, as lover to lover, there exists a maid in yonder palace with -whom I would fain hold balcony discourse--but, alas! she waits not for -me, listening to the ripple of the river or for the splash of my paddle. -In truth, my friend, she, like many in this district, knows not of my -existence, and of the fact that I live and adore her I should dearly -love to make her aware." - -"You mean the Countess Tekla, my Lord?" - -"Conrad, 'tis easy to see that you have learned the craft of the arrow, -not from our stupid archer, but under the tutelage of the god of love -himself. Your first shaft shot straight home. Has Hilda ever spoken of -her?" - -"Sometimes, my Lord. The Countess is most unhappy, she says, because she -is to wed the mighty war-lord Bertrich, whom she loves not." - -"Then are we laggards indeed, did we stand idly by and offer no aid to -the lady. Now, Conrad, what I wish you to do is this: discover for me -whether the Countess walks in the garden attended only by Hilda, and at -what hour. Get such particulars as you can regarding means of access to -the spot, and beseech Hilda, as she hopes her own love shall prosper, to -be my friend should I seek speech with the Countess." - -"My Lord, there is a better way than that. Hilda told me when last the -Court was at the river palace, that I was to hold myself in readiness -with my boat, so that her ladyship might come secretly and be rowed by -me upon the water. Nothing has since been said of this excursion, but I -will ask Hilda to-night if it has been abandoned. I will ask her also to -urge her ladyship to come, for Hilda has a persuasive tongue, and the -Countess Tekla thinks much of her. Then I shall tell them that I must -have a comrade to help me to manage the boat because of the strength of -the current." - -"Now the gods stand our friends, but that is a most happy conceit of -yours, Conrad! Cupid should be the god of liars as of lovers. Therefore -get thee with haste to thy balcony. I see we will manage this most -skilfully together. See that Hilda be ready to say a soothing word -should the Countess take alarm at my addressing her. Urge thou the water -trip; dilate on the beauty of the full moon, the quickness with which it -waneth, and the softness of the summer night. Plead eloquently, Conrad, -and let Hilda think your anxiety rises from your desire to sit near her -in the skiff, which will indeed be the truth." - -"I shall do my best, my Lord," said Conrad, as he departed. - -The Emperor strode up and down, humming to himself a song of the Swiss -mountains that told of dangers dared for the sake of a lady. He kept his -watch, half-expecting that at any moment his friend Siegfried might -knock at the door; but no one came until he heard again the bump of the -boat's prow underneath the house. A few moments later Conrad appeared -through the trap-door. - -"Well, what news?" cried the impatient guard. - -"None, as yet. The Countess has not of late spoken of the boating -project, but Hilda will suggest it and let me know the result to-morrow -night." - -"Then with that we must be content. To-morrow--at the same hour--I shall -be here, and will again keep watch for you. Meanwhile take this and -present it to Hilda to wear for my sake. I should have given it to you -before you went to see her to-night, but became so interested in your -plans that I forgot. Set the light in the upper window, and so good -night." - -He handed to the young man a jewelled necklace, and was gone. - -At the same hour on the second night the Emperor was admitted by Conrad. - -"Now away to your tryst," cried Rodolph, as soon as the door was barred. -"I am impatient to hear the result of your oratory regarding the -pleasures of boating in the moonlight." - -The young man hesitated, then took from his bosom the necklace that had -been given him the night before. - -"I fear, my Lord, that this gift is too costly for me to present or -Hilda to wear. I beg of you----" - -"Tush, tush! Do not stand there chattering about trifles. I promised -Hilda a dowry: it is in those jewels if I never give her more. This is -an uncertain world, Conrad, and few of us know how long we may remain in -it. When you and Hilda are married who knows where I may be? I may -become Emperor, or may be a beggar; so in one case I should forget, -while in the other there would be little gear in my remembering. Always -take the good the gods send, when they send it. 'Tis unsafe to wait a -second offer. And now begone, begone. Tell Hilda to conceal the necklace -until such time as she can wear it safely or transmute the stones into -gold. Away, away!" - -Conrad descended to his boat without further ado, and again Rodolph -paced up and down the room with even more impatience than he had shown -the previous night. It seemed hours before he heard the lover returning, -and when the young man appeared-- - -"Well, well, well?" cried the waiting Emperor, "when do they come, when -do they come?" - -"That I cannot yet tell, my Lord." - -"Good heavens! May not a conclusion be more speedily reached on a -subject so trivial? What did Hilda say?" - -"She asked the Countess whether it was her will or no to go out in the -boat, as had been formerly proposed. Her ladyship seemed strangely moved -by so simple a question. She wrung her hands, Hilda said, and wept a -little, crying that she knew not what to do. Hilda assured her I held -myself in readiness, upon which the Countess walked up and down the room -in agitation, and asked Hilda to beg me not to fail her, if she called -upon me." - -"There is more in this than appears on the surface. Go on, go on." - -"She asked Hilda to inquire particularly where I lived, and where the -boat was kept; whether any one else was in the house with me, and the -like. Then she said she might go to-morrow night, but would let me know. -She said she must see the Archbishop first." - -"The Archbishop!" cried Rodolph. "In God's name, did she say why? Is she -a prisoner?" - -"Hilda thinks she wishes to get his permission." - -"A thousand terrors! This is most awkward. It will mean guards, a -retinue, and what not. Why did you not urge Hilda to beg her to come -without such ceremony?" - -"I did, my Lord, right earnestly. Hilda has promised to do so, and let -me know the result to-morrow night." - -"Another postponement! I like not the thought of the Archbishop mixing -in this matter; but, come what will, we are ready to face it. To-morrow, -then, and may it arrive speedily. I give you good-night, Conrad. I will -be here at the same hour to-morrow night, or earlier." - -When the Emperor arrived on the third night the events happening in -Treves, that evening, increased his fear that something would prevent -his meeting with the Countess. He felt that he was entangling his feet -in a skein that might at any time tighten and overthrow him. He well -knew that these three nights' work would meet the strong disapproval of -Siegfried, who had reluctantly enough given his consent to the project -when its objects were strictly political--the measuring of the -Archbishop's military strength and personal power--but now that Mars had -given way to Cupid, Rodolph dreaded the opinion of his friend, should he -get inkling of the change of purpose. Siegfried's hope was to see -Rodolph not only become a real Emperor, but a great one, reducing his -powerful and haughty subjects, the Archbishops, for instance, to their -proper relation to the Imperial Throne. The Emperor had been inspired -with enthusiasm when he left Frankfort, resolving to fulfil his destiny, -but now he could not conceal from himself that all political visions had -dissolved for the moment because of one fleeting glance at a handsome -woman. He knew he was jeopardising his brilliant future, and perhaps -life itself, for the mere chance of speaking to her, and sitting near -her. But he was twenty-eight, and he never even thought of turning back. - -Conrad had nothing new to tell him when Rodolph entered the house by the -river, and the Emperor hurried him away, begging him to make his visit -at the balcony as brief as possible. The visit was indeed brief, for the -Emperor, impatient as he was, had hardly imagined Conrad at the Palace -when the bumping of the boat underneath the house announced his return. -Conrad came up through the trap-door. - -"Hilda is not there, my Lord," he said. - -"Not there? Why did you not wait? My anxiety has brought me here early, -yet I could have sworn I arrived later than on either of the other -nights." - -"It is later; therefore I wonder what has detained her. I did not wait, -my Lord, but thought it best to return and let you know. I can go -instantly back." - -"Do so, Conrad, do so. She may be waiting for you now." - -As Conrad was about to depart there came a distinct knock at the door. -The two men looked at each other, Conrad in alarm, Rodolph with an -expression of annoyance in his face. Much as he loved his friend, the -Baron was the last person on earth whose presence he desired at that -moment. Not even the Archbishop would be more unwelcome. - -The knock was repeated with some emphasis. - -"Is there any place from which you can see who knocks? The moon shines -full on the front of the house," whispered Rodolph. - -"Yes; through the shutters of that bow-shot window." - -"Then move cautiously to reconnoitre. We will decide how to act when we -know who is there." - -Conrad tip-toed to the window, peered through, and drew back with a -suppressed exclamation. - -"It is the Countess Tekla herself," he cried. - - - - -CHAPTER VI. - -AN UNWISHED-FOR MARRIAGE DAY. - - -The Countess Tekla having dismissed her waiting-maid, sat long in her -boudoir over-looking the Moselle, and thought deeply upon the question -that the girl had brought uppermost, by asking if the Countess had -abandoned all purpose of making an excursion on the river. Such indeed -had once been her intention if the iron Archbishop, her unrelenting -guardian, persisted in forcing his will upon her. His last word had been -given her the day the Court left Treves, and it was to the effect that -she should hold herself in readiness to wed Count Bertrich at the -Cathedral when the Court returned. The time for preparation was short, -and once inside the walls of that grim city, all chance of escape would -be cut off. Could she but reach Castle Thuron, the lofty stronghold of -her uncle Count Heinrich the Black, on the Lower Moselle, she felt that, -for the sake of kinship, if not for her broad lands, he would refuse to -give her up again to the Archbishop and to this abhorred union with a -middle-aged ruffian, who, rumour said, had murdered his first wife. - -The stern Black Count, her uncle, she had never seen, and what she had -heard of him was disquieting enough. His mailed hand was heavy, and it -came down with crushing force on all who opposed his will; but he could -not make for her a more detested match than that which the Archbishop -insisted upon; and then he was her mother's brother; if any trace of -softness was concealed in his adamantine nature his niece might perhaps -touch it, for he had no children of his own. - -Yet the Countess felt that in setting up her own will against that of -her guardian she was doing an unheard of, unmaidenly act. All women were -thus disposed of. How came it that rebellion against just authority -arose in her heart? She could not herself account for this strange -anomaly, and she feared that evil lurked somewhere in her nature. She -had confessed this feeling to her spiritual adviser, and he had mildly, -reproachfully censured her for it, placing her under penance that she -willingly endured, hoping it would bring about a change; but it had not, -and she shuddered every time the battle-scarred face of Count Bertrich -leered upon her. The Countess knelt before the image of her patron saint -and implored help; help to decide; help to oppose; help to submit; but -the placid saint had sent, as yet, no solution of the problem. - -When last the Archbishop spoke, he spoke as one giving final decision -and he permitted neither reply nor comment. The days by the river were -slipping away and none knew how soon the Archbishop might suddenly make -up his mind to return to Treves. Then the Cathedral, and the wedding -procession! Why had Hilda spoken of the river and the skiff; that wild -project which she had prayed for help to put out of her mind? Was this -then an indication that her saint had come to a decision and that too in -her favour? It certainly seemed so. - -She resolved to seek her guardian, throw herself at his feet and implore -him by the love he had once held for her father, who had lost his life -in the Archbishop's service, to release her from this loathed union. She -would give up her lands willingly, if that were required, and would -retire to a convent in Treves, or to any other place of refuge that -might be appointed. - -Arnold von Isenberg sat in a chair that was with difficulty to be -distinguished from a throne. The back rose high above his head, and at -the top was carved in gilded relief the arms of the Electorate. The tall -pointed coloured windows by the river, cast a subdued radiance of many -hues on the smooth surface of the polished oaken floor. The lofty -timbered roof of the large room gave the apartment the appearance of a -chapel, which effect was heightened by an altar at one end, where -several high wax candles burned unceasingly. - -Near the Archbishop, by a table, sat the monkish secretary, who wrote at -his Lordship's slow dictation, orders pertaining to business both -ecclesiastical and military. At the door of the room, which was -concealed by a heavy crimson curtain, stood two fully-mailed -men-at-arms, with tall pikes upright, whose ends rested on the polished -floor. Near them, out of hearing of the Archbishop's low voice, stood, -cap in hand, a courier equipped for riding, evidently awaiting the -despatches which the monk was writing. Deep silence pervaded the great -room and each person within it was motionless, save only the monk, who -now was tying the despatches into bundles and sealing them at the small -candle which burned on the table beside him. - -The heavy drapery over the door parted, and a retainer entered softly, -standing with his back to the curtain until a scarcely perceptible -motion of the Archbishop's head permitted him to advance. Dropping on -one knee before the seated monarch, he said: - -"My Lord Archbishop, the Countess Tekla begs to be admitted." - -The Archbishop made no reply, and the messenger remained on his knee. -The despatches were given to the waiting courier, who departed. Then his -Lordship said curtly, "Admit her." - -The messenger, rising, went to the door, held back the curtains, and a -moment later there glided into the room the Countess Tekla, who stood -pale against the crimson background. The Archbishop regarded her with a -dark and menacing look, but gave no other greeting. Seeing no motion -which invited her to approach, the girl, after standing a moment or two -in hesitation, moved swiftly forward and sank down before the throne. - -"My Lord," she murmured; then agitation seemed to choke her utterance. - -"If you come here to kneel," said the Archbishop, in low, deep tones, -"kneel at the altar yonder and not to me. While you are there, pray that -the saints bestow upon you a contrite spirit." - -"My Lord," she cried, "I beg of you to take my lands, and graciously -permit me to retire to a convent that you may be pleased to appoint for -me." - -"Your lands are mine, as your person is mine, to dispose of at my will, -unquestioned." - -"My Lord, when my father gave my guardianship to you----" - -"I hold my guardianship, not by your father's will, but through the -reading of the feudal law. Your father, in dutifully testifying that his -wish ran parallel with the law, set an example which his daughter may -profitably follow." - -"I wish to follow his example. I wish to render up to you all lands that -were his. I wish to devote my poor services to Mother Church." - -"Your poor services shall be given where I bestow them. Betake yourself -to your apartments, and come not here again until you bring with you a -bending will and an unrebellious spirit." - -"My lord guardian, I do beseech you to hear me." - -"I have heard enough and too much," said the Archbishop sternly. -"Write," he added to the secretary: "'To Count Bertrich. Hold yourself -in readiness to wed the Countess Tekla in the chapel of our summer -palace two days hence--on Friday at mid-day.'" - -The Countess rose to her feet, the colour mounting to her cheek and -brow. - -"My Lord," she cried, a ring of indignation in her voice, "add to that a -request that the Count disclose to you the cause of his first wife's -death, so that you may judge whether he is a fit person to entrust with -a second." - -"You may question him regarding that after marriage. I have ever -understood that a man will grant information to his bride which he risks -peril of his soul by concealing from his confessor. To your apartments, -obstinate woman; there is but brief space to prepare for the -festivities." - -"My Lord, my Lord, I bid you beware. It is feudal law that you may -dispose of my hand as you will; but by feudal law I also have the right -to make choice instead of a convent and forfeiture of my lands." - -"Despatch that message to Count Bertrich," said the Elector to his -secretary. - -"My Lord Archbishop, I will appeal to our Holy Father, the Pope, and to -the Emperor." - -"Do so. We will marry you first, and should we have made a mistake our -Holy Father hath ample power to remedy it. And now, madame, your -audience is ended." - -The Countess retired to her apartments, knelt before the image of her -saint and prayed for guidance. She was in some doubt that the harsh old -man would insist on the carrying out of his threat, and she had hope -that he would send for her to tell her so, but no message came from him. -Tekla slept little that night, and going down to early mass she saw the -chapel already decorated for the dreaded ceremony, the workmen having -evidently spent the night in preparing it. - -The floral wreaths, the loops of white flowers breathing sweetness and -perfume, typical of love, joy and happiness, seemed in such ghastly -contrast to the reality, that their simple presence did more to decide -the girl than all the other influences which, on that eventful day, -helped to shape her conduct. - -She resolved to escape from the thraldom of the Archbishop; seek refuge -in the castle of her uncle, and from that haven send an appeal to the -Pope and also to the Emperor. The only question was now that of means. -Castle Thuron was on the Moselle; the river was swift; she knew little -of the geography of the country, but she was aware that the roads by the -stream were bad, and she doubted if they extended all or even the -greater part of the way to the Rhine. Could she once get several hours -start, on that rapid current, the chances of being overtaken were -slight. - -While the Countess had full confidence in her maid Hilda, she thought it -better not to confide her plans to any one. Hilda would be sure to tell -her lover, and that young man might at the very outset refuse to -undertake so perilous a voyage. - -Then if Hilda were cross-questioned and became frightened, she could not -confess what she did not know. In the case of failure Tekla wished to -face all the results of her rebellion alone, and leave herself the right -to say that none other knew of her purpose. Questioning Hilda, and -finding she had learned where Conrad lived, the Countess, with the -natural craft of her sex, made preparations calculated to baffle her -pursuers, temporarily at least. When darkness set in, she requested -Hilda to lay out for her the costume she usually wore. This costume she -astonished Hilda by asking her to put on. When the tire-woman had thus -arrayed herself the two looked like sisters, and Hilda laughed merrily -at the transformation, which caused even the Countess, anxious as she -was, to smile. - -"Now listen attentively, Hilda, and act with circumspection. I have -reason for wishing you to be mistaken for me to-night. You will put on -this heavy veil so that none may see your face. Go quietly through the -Palace and pass the guards without speaking to any or looking at any. -Avoid meeting three persons at all hazards; return at once if you see -one or other of them, and hie forth again as soon as danger is past. -These three are the Archbishop, Count Bertrich, and the monk who is his -Lordship's secretary. The guards will not stop you nor speak to you, -thinking it is I who pass. Once outside, see that you are not followed, -then get you to Conrad's house and bid him instantly to take you in his -boat to the watersteps of the Palace, where I will await you." - -"Conrad spoke of another to help him with the boat; should he be absent -shall Conrad search for him, my Lady?" - -"No. If he is there, bring him; if he is not, come instantly without. -But first you must come with me to the water-door and bolt the door when -I am out upon the steps." - -"But how shall we return, my Lady?" - -"I will tell thee more regarding our return when we are in the boat." - -Hilda barred her lady out, which seemed a strange proceeding, then, -safely reached without question or following, the door of Baron -Siegfried, where she knocked twice. - - - - -CHAPTER VII. - -THE FLIGHT OF THE COUNTESS. - - -"It is the Countess Tekla herself," cried Conrad, at the window. - -"Then unbar at once and do not keep her waiting," commanded the Emperor, -eagerly. - -The bolts were instantly drawn back and the door thrown open. - -"Oh, Conrad," whispered Hilda, flinging the veil over her shoulder, thus -disclosing her face. She paused in the midst of her speech when she saw -a stranger standing there. - -"It is Hilda," said Conrad, to the Emperor. "Why do you masquerade as -the Countess, Hilda?" - -"It was her ladyship's wish. You are to take me in the boat with you -immediately. The Countess awaits us at the watersteps." - -The trap-door was open, and the Emperor descended, saying, hastily, -"Come, Conrad." - -"He is no boatman," whispered Hilda, holding back in alarm. "Who is----" - -"Hush!" breathed Conrad, "trust to me and come." - -An instant later the boat was pushed out with its three passengers, -moving swiftly and silently down the stream, propelled by the lusty but -noiseless strokes of Conrad's paddle. As they approached the watersteps -it seemed at first that no one was there, but as Conrad with -outstretched arm placed hand on the stone stairway and brought the boat -to a stand, the shadowy form of the Countess came away from the closed -door and a whisper breathed the name of Hilda. Hilda responded -reassuringly, and the Countess came down the steps, Rodolph standing and -handing her into the boat with a deference that the lady was too much -agitated to notice. Her small hand, lightly touching his as she stepped -into the boat, sent a thrill through him such as he had never -experienced before. The Countess sat down with her back toward him, -facing Hilda and Conrad. - -"Now, good rowers," she said, breathing quickly, "keep within the shadow -of the bank until we are sure to have escaped espionage, then I shall -have further instructions, and remember that if you work well and -silently I shall reward you beyond your hopes." - -"May that prove true in my case," said Rodolph to himself. - -The huge Palace seemed to float to the west; the moon shone brightly, -but there was shadow enough thrown by the low bank to conceal the -voyagers not only from chance wayfarers, should there be any, which was -unlikely, but also from each other. The summer night was warm, and not a -breath of wind rippled the surface of the river. Now and then some -waterfowl, disturbed by their approach, plashed two or three times, -beating wing against water, until it rose with a cry and soared away -into the night. - -They had made down the river for nearly an hour when Conrad began -murmuring to Hilda, who sat next him. - -"The Countess does not know how swift this river is," he said. "We will -not get back in a week if we go much further. If it had been up the -stream time would matter little, but down----" - -"What does he say?" asked the Countess. - -"He fears we cannot return betimes if we go further. The current is -fleet to row against." - -"Conrad," said the Countess, bending towards him, "we go not back, but -forward. Seek the speediest part of the river, and guide the boat into -it. I am on my way to Castle Thuron near the Rhine." - -Both Hilda and Conrad gave utterance to exclamations of astonishment and -alarm. - -"But the Archbishop?" cried Hilda. - -"But my master!" groaned Conrad. - -"The Archbishop will follow us in hot haste when he finds us gone, -Hilda, which will be some time before noontide to-morrow, therefore must -Conrad persuade the swift stream to aid his stout arms." - -"The boat is not mine," said Conrad, "and I have left my master without -his sanction." - -"I will amply reward your master for the losing of his boat, and you for -the guiding of it. Both you and your comrade will I take into my employ, -and neither shall lose by the transfer." - -"Will you stand for me against my master as you did before, my Lord," -cried Conrad, in great alarm at the possible consequences of his -desertion from a master who brooked no excuse. - -"My Lord!" cried the Countess, half-rising and looking round for the -first time at the second boatman, on whom the moonlight now fell, -showing that he had removed his cap, and was bowing to her. - -"I pray you, madame, do not stand, for this boat is but unsteady at -best. I beg you not to be alarmed, for I shall be as faithful to your -behests as Conrad here, and no man can give himself higher warrant." - -"What lord are you, or are you one?" - -"Conrad, in his excitement, gives me title to which I make no claim, -exaggerating my importance because of some influence I have exerted on -his behalf with his master." - -"What is your name and quality, for I see you are no waterman?" - -"I am sorely disappointed to hear you say so, madame, for I hoped to -make good my reputation as waterman by my work to-night. My name is -Rodolph, and none who know me will deny I am a gentleman." - -"Are you German?" - -"As German as the Emperor and a fellow-countryman of his." - -"You are a Swiss adventurer, then?" - -"All men have a touch of the adventurer about them: I not more than -others, I hope." - -"Why are you here disguised as a boatman?" - -"I am not disguised, but in my ordinary dress--the costume in which I -have appeared these few days past in Treves. The house by the river, of -which Conrad is caretaker, belongs to my friend, who is Conrad's master. -It happened that I was there when your tire-woman came in real disguise, -and when I heard that you awaited the boat on the watersteps of the -Palace I felt sure something more serious than an excursion by moonlight -was intended, although Conrad suspected nothing. I came, therefore, -thinking you might perhaps need the help of a good sword, and that sword -I now lay at your feet." - -"I need a swift paddle rather than the best of swords. My safety lies in -flight, and not in fighting." - -"My services as oarsman are also at your disposal, madame. I trust that -in your presence there will be no need for swordsmanship; but should -such necessity arise a stout blade is not to be despised." - -The Countess mused for some moments in silence, evidently disquieted by -the intrusion of a stranger, yet well aware that if he proved true and -staunch his help might be invaluable. It was impossible for her to -question Conrad about him in his presence, for she saw he was a -gentleman, as he had asserted, but a fear arose that he might be some -adherent of the Archbishop, intent on furthering his own interests by -delivering her into the hands of his Lordship's minions. She knew that -at various posts along the river, companies of the Archbishop's troops -were stationed--at Bruttig, at Cochem, and elsewhere; he could, at the -moment of passing any one of these places, give the alarm which would -result in her immediate capture. He was armed and Conrad was not, -therefore there might be some difficulty in disposing of him even if no -help were at hand. Still anything was better than uncertainty, and she -resolved to act at once. The river now ran between high hills, densely -wooded from top to water's edge. If he could be put off it were better -to disembark him in a wilderness like this, than at some settlement -where he had opportunity of raising the hue and cry of pursuit. Yet she -did not wish to leave him to starve or be torn in pieces by wild boars -roaming an almost unlimited forest. The perplexing part of the problem -lay in the fact that if he were a spy and a traitor he might refuse to -land, while if he were a true man he would rid them of his company when -he saw that it was not wanted. - -The Countess leaned forward and spoke to Conrad. - -"Do you know this river?" - -"I know it as far as Cochem, my lady." - -"Where are we now, think you?" - -"We are some two leagues above the ancient Roman town of Boveris." - -Turning to Rodolph, she said: - -"Is the Archbishop your over-lord?" - -"No, madame. I am a free man, owing allegiance to none." - -"Not to the Emperor?" - -"To the Emperor, of course, but to none other." - -"Where did you come from, and how long have you been in Treves?" - -"I came from Frankfort some three or four days since, and never saw -Treves before." - -"You came to seek service with the Archbishop perhaps?" - -"No, madame. I am a student as well as soldier. I came merely to inform -myself regarding the manners and customs of so celebrated and ancient a -city as Treves." - -"Know you who I am?" - -"You are the Countess Tekla, ward of the Archbishop of Treves and niece -of Count Heinrich, to whose Castle of Thuron you are now betaking -yourself." - -"You are well informed. For what object did you gather this knowledge?" - -"I sat on horseback outside the North Gate, having just arrived from -Frankfort, when the Archbishop and his train passed through on their way -to the summer palace. I saw you riding by his side, and discovered who -you were." - -"Were you similarly inquisitive regarding the other ladies of the -Court?" - -"I saw no others, madame." - -The Countess seemed taken aback by this reply and remained silent for a -few moments. At last she said, with deep displeasure in her voice: - -"I distrust you, sir. If you are a gentleman, as you say, you are aware -that none such thrusts himself uninvited into a lady's presence. I ask -you, therefore, to leave us." - -"I am truly grieved, madame, to refuse your slightest request, but I -will not leave you until I see you safely at the gate of Castle Thuron." - -This refusal at once confirmed all the fears the Countess had -entertained. With rising anger she cried: - -"Not to the gates of Thuron will you deliver me, but to the Archbishop's -troops at Bruttig, and then return to Treves for your reward." - -Having said this she did what any girl of nineteen might have been -expected to do--she buried her face in her hands and wept. - -"Madame," said Rodolph, "forgive me. I may have overrated my ability to -serve you in the future, but I see there is no doubt I cause you present -distress. I will at once do as you desire. Conrad, draw the boat toward -the northern shore." - -When the craft touched the bank Rodolph sprang on a rock that jutted -into the stream. Before leaving the skiff he slipped his cloak from his -shoulders and allowed it to remain where he had been seated. On landing -he drew his sword from its scabbard and flung it to Conrad, saying, "Use -that only when you are compelled to do so, but trust, unless something -unforeseen occurs, to the paddle. Keep the boat in the swiftest part of -the current and stop question for none. And now, away with all speed, -getting as far down the river as possible before daybreak." - -Conrad looked stupidly from the sword lying at the bottom of the boat, -up to its owner standing on the rock, not comprehending at first what -had happened or was about to happen. When the situation broke upon him -he cried: - -"You are surely not going to desert us, my Lord?" - -Rodolph gave no answer, but the Countess, drying her tears, made reply -to him. - -"It is my wish that he leave us, Conrad." - -"If that be the case," said Conrad, stoutly, "I return to Treves. I have -put my neck in a halter only on the assurance of his Lordship that the -rope be not pulled. If my surety is gone, then will the halter tighten. -Not an inch further down the Moselle do I go; in truth, we are much too -far already, and God knows what time we shall see Treves again, against -this current." - -"Tell your fellow," said the Countess, imperiously, to Hilda, "that he -must complete the task he has begun. He will obey you, even though he -refuse orders from me, and I will protect him at the journey's end." - -"Indeed, indeed, my Lady," cried Hilda, in despair, torn between love -for her lover and loyalty to her mistress, "why cannot we go on as we -began? What needs this lord to be sent thus adrift in the forest, -weaponless?" - -"We want not his weapon; our safety, as he himself says, is in flight. -Give back the sword, Conrad. I will protect you." - -"Pardon me, my Lady," replied Conrad, with sullen stubbornness, "but how -you can protect me when you are flying for your own safety I cannot -comprehend. The one who can protect me and who has done so, stands on -the bank, and either he comes again into the boat, or I go back to -Treves. The fewer words that are spoken the less time there is lost." - -The Countess Tekla was quick in her decisions. She turned to the young -man standing silent in the moonlight upon the rock. She could not but -see what a handsome manly fellow he was, and at the sight of him her -fears regarding his loyalty diminished, in spite of herself, although -she strove in her own mind to justify her action. - -"My Lord, as they persist in calling you, in derision of your -disclaimer, you see my crew has mutinied on your account. I beg of you, -therefore, to return to your place." - -"Countess," answered Rodolph, "more great enterprises have been wrecked -through mutiny within the ranks, than because of the enemy without. It -is unpleasant to be looked upon as a traitor by one we are proud to -serve freely, therefore, as a condition of returning I must ask you to -withdraw the imputation you cast upon me." - -"I do withdraw it. Have you further terms to make now that you see me -helpless?" - -"I shall take advantage of your helplessness to impose one more -condition. I am to be captain of this expedition, my power being -absolute and unquestioned. You, not less than they, are to be under my -orders, which must be obeyed promptly and implicitly. Do you agree?" - -"Having no choice, I agree." - -"Countess, as you will, when your expedition succeeds, make generous -amends for the present ungraciousness of your acceptance, I am content -to wait for commendation until then. Conrad, give me the sword. Hilda, -sit in the bottom of the boat, and Conrad will fling his cloak about -your shoulders. Countess, my cloak will form but an inefficient carpet, -still 'tis better than naught. Lay your head in Hilda's lap, and your -own cloak shall be your coverlet. So. Now to sleep. Conrad, strike out -for mid-stream." - -Propelled by the sturdy strokes of both, the boat shot out from under -cover of the land and re-commenced its rapid voyage down the river. Now -and then a sleeping village was passed, and once disaster was narrowly -averted when Conrad's quick eye recognised the floating logs which -upheld the linked loops of chain that stretched across the river below a -robber castle. - -This obstruction was intended to stop boats of deeper draught than the -light skiff, and compel their owners to pay reluctant tribute to the -lord of the castle. The skiff passed midway between two of the logs and -floated over the submerged chain in safety. - -The banks on either hand were high, almost mountainous, and those on the -northern side were clothed with vines nearly to the summit. - -The moon sank behind the hills and for a time the darkness was intense, -rendering navigation a matter of some skill and alertness, not without a -spice of danger. Both the Countess and Hilda slept peacefully and -neither man spoke. Only an infrequent plash of paddle, or the lonely cry -of a disturbed waterfowl, or night-bird, broke the stillness. - -At last the short summer night gave token of ending. The lightening -surface of the water first heralded the approach of dawn, then the stars -began to dim over the eastern hills, and a faint, ever-spreading -suggestion of grey crept up the sky beyond. - -Rodolph ventured on a sigh of relief and weariness as the light -increased and the difficulties of the task lessened, but he soon saw -they were merely exchanging danger of one kind for danger of another, as -an early man-at-arms on the right bank espying him, loudly commanded -them to draw in and explain themselves, which command, being unheeded, -he forthwith planted stake in ground, strung his cross-bow and launched -a bolt at them in such hurry that it fell uselessly short and was a good -bolt lost. By the time the second was ready, the skiff and its occupants -were hopelessly out of range. - -But the cry of the challenger had awakened the Countess, who sat up to -see the red rim of the sun breaking out above the hills and flooding the -valley with golden light. - -"Are we nearly there?" she asked. - -"I think not," answered Rodolph. "In truth, I know not where we are. Is -it still far to Thuron, Conrad?" - -"We are not yet half-way. It is, I judge, but seven hours since we left -Treves, and if, with this current and our own work, we have sped two -leagues an hour we have done well. That gives us fourteen leagues -accomplished. From Treves to Thuron is somewhere about thirty-four -leagues, so there must be twenty at least before us." - -The Countess gave a cry of despair. "Is it then so far? I thought we -would reach the castle by daybreak. Have we passed the Archbishop's -palace at Cochem?" - -"No, my lady. Cochem is but six short leagues from Thuron." - -"Is it your wish, madame, to stop at Cochem?" asked Rodolph. - -"Oh no, no. Anywhere but there. I am well known to all about the -palace." - -"But none would have the right to detain you." - -"Not the right perhaps, but the power. To see me travel thus, without -fitting escort, would be sure to arouse suspicion, and the custodian of -the palace might well take it upon himself to hold me there until he -knew the Archbishop's pleasure." - -"We must have food. Conrad, know you of any inn further on?" - -"There are no inns along the Moselle except at Bruttig and Cochem; I -think there is a house at each place where soldiers drink and boatmen -eat and lodge." - -"How far is Bruttig from here?" - -"About ten leagues, my Lord." - -"That is five hours at this going. What soldiers are at Bruttig?" - -"The followers of Count Winneburg, those of the Count of Beilstein, and -soldiers of the Archbishop." - -"If the Archbishop's soldiers are there I beg that you will not stop," -said the Countess. - -"I am not sure but protection lies in the very fact that they are there. -Your flight, in all likelihood, has not yet been discovered in Treves; -we have many hours the start of pursuit, and are not likely to be -overtaken. Still we shall not stop there, if food can be procured -elsewhere." - -When the sun was two hours high, they drew in at a village on the -northern bank, nestling at the foot of the vineyard-covered hill. Here -they rested for an hour and broke their fast in a fashion. Nothing but -the coarsest of black bread could be obtained, with some flagons of -inferior white wine. The river was now broader and the current less -swift, so that progress was more slow than had been the case during the -night. In addition, they had frequently to creep close to the bank on -one side or the other to escape observation, and this delayed them. -Consequently the sun was well past meridian when Bruttig, with the -Castle above it came into sight, and all in the boat were ravenously -hungry. - -"We will halt here and dine," said Rodolph. "I think there is nothing to -fear. I have a passport, and I am a merchant from Frankfort, journeying -from Treves to Coblentz. You, madame, are my--my sister, and these two -are our servants. It is well to remember this if we are questioned -separately. You, Conrad, will wait by the boat, and I will have food and -wine sent to you. Countess, I shall escort you to the inn and Hilda will -wait upon you. Much depends on acting naturally and showing no anxiety." - -The Countess made no objection to this arrangement, and Conrad, with a -stroke of his paddle, turned his boat towards the sloping beach that ran -along the river in front of the little town. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII. - -THE RAPIER AND THE BROADSWORD. - - -Bruttig consisted of a row of houses facing the river, some few hundred -feet back from it. In the centre of the row, near the landing, which was -rudely paved with round stones, stood the inn, a sufficiently -forbidding-looking square structure, with an arched gateway in front, -apparently leading to a courtyard. The gates could be closed at night, -and doubtless were, so that, in a way, the inn might be successfully -defended from assault should necessity arise, as was often the case in -those troublous times. - -The bewildering mixed jurisdiction of the place, governed as it was by -no less than three over-lords, the Count of Winneburg, the Archbishop of -Treves, and the Count of Beilstein, was shown by the different uniforms -of the men-at-arms who now, in groups or singly, watched the landing of -the party from the skiff. - -The three Captains, who represented the three over-lords of Bruttig, -were lounging round the doorway of the inn, watching the landing of the -mysterious boatload. Such a frail craft coming down the Moselle was an -unusual sight, and naturally attracted the attention of the three -officers, who were, as a rule, excellent friends, except when a fight -was in progress, and some question of jurisdiction came up that had to -be argued on the spot with two-handed swords. They referred to each -other by the titles of their chiefs, each man, being spoken to by his -comrades as the Archbishop, Beilstein, or Winneburg. - -"What have we here, Elector?" asked the Captain who commanded the forces -of Count Winneburg. - -"That is for our comrade Beilstein to answer; this motley crew belongs -to him. You had the last boat-load to exact tribute from, and I the one -before. I am glad that it falls upon Beilstein to deal with women, for -such traffic befits not the Church," replied the Captain of Treves. The -Captain of Beilstein, a tall, powerful, swarthy man in full armour, -twirled his black moustache, which spread across his cheeks like a pair -of ravens' wings, and gazed down at the landing party. - -"There is this to be said, they give us little trouble in bringing them -ashore, but are, apparently, about to walk confidently into the lion's -mouth," remarked Beilstein, "which seems to argue that they are -waterfowl, little worth the plucking." - -"Rather that they know not whither they are bound," suggested the -Elector. "The young spark hands my lady from the boat with something of -an air about him that was not caught in trading booths, and the girl -stepped daintily out upon the cobbles in a manner that suggests the -Court. If she improves on closer inspection, Beilstein, you are in luck. -Would there were three women instead of two." - -"They are sufficient as it is," said Winneburg, with a chuckle, "for the -Church has just disclaimed all desire for such merchandise." - -"Ho, within there, Host," cried Beilstein, through the gateway. "Here -comes gentle custom for thine inn, and you are not by to welcome it." - -In response to his call a short burly sullen-looking man, with bullet -head, came out and stood under the arch, looking at the group ascending -from the river, but as there was little pleasure in his gaze he probably -expected small profit from their approach. - -Rodolph cast a rapid glance at the four men, bowed slightly to the three -officers, who took no notice of his salutation, and addressing the host, -said: - -"This lady desires a room where she may rest unmolested after her -journey. Let such refreshment as you have be instantly prepared. The -lady will lunch in her room, and I will eat wherever pleases you. Send -as speedily as possible, food and wine to my servant, who remains with -my boat by the landing." - -The host made no reply, but turned his lowering look upon the officers, -as if waiting for word from one or all of them. - -"You hear his Lordship's commands, I hope," roared Beilstein, "the best -in the house for the lady and that without delay. The gentleman will -doubtless wish to remain here and make the acquaintance of three good -fellows." - -The innkeeper, telling the Countess briefly to follow him, led the way -within. Rodolph was about to enter the court-yard, when the stalwart -Captain blocked his way, standing with feet set wide apart before him. - -"Friend," began the Captain, genially, "we fall on turbulent times, when -each man is suspicious of his neighbour. You have little objection, -doubtless, to inform us who you are and why you travel." - -"None at all," replied Rodolph. "I am a merchant of Frankfort; I -journeyed to Treves, transacted there my business and am now returning -to Frankfort by way of Coblentz." - -"And the lady?" - -"The lady is my sister. The two with us are our servants." - -"You have little room in your craft for merchandise." - -"We came to Treves on horseback by the Roman road, the merchandise -carried by mules. It is now sold and thus I return empty-handed." - -"Not entirely empty-handed, I trust, for you must have received -something by way of honest recompense for honest merchandise. If you -sent your gold back to Frankfort by the way the goods came, and now -journey down the Moselle with barely enough to pay the innkeeper here -for what you have of him, that, I fear, will be looked on by the -virtuous barons as a slight upon their probity, and some may hold you to -ransom merely to show all future travellers that the noble river is not -to be thus lightly dealt with. But, as I before proclaimed to you, we -live in a suspicious time, and you, probably do not expect your bare -word to be taken regarding your quality. I need hardly ask you if there -is in your possession some slight document having reference to your -occupation." - -"I have a passport, which I shall be pleased to exhibit on being assured -of the right of any questioner to demand it." - -"I am Captain of the forces here, stationed to serve my Lord, the Count -of Beilstein, one of the three over-lords of Bruttig. By consent of my -two colleagues of Treves and Winneburg I am Captain of the Day, -responsible to my master and to them that no traitors come within our -precincts. If further warrant of my right to question is required, then -my good two-handed sword stands sponsor to me, dealing forth argument -that few care to controvert. Is it your pleasure that I call upon it to -set any doubts at rest concerning my authority?" - -"Not so. The word of an officer is at all times sufficient for me. I -merely desired to know to whom I should have the honour of submitting -this document for inspection," saying which Rodolph handed to the -officer his passport, although it was evident a moment later that the -worthy man, brave soldier as he might be, could not read it. He turned -it over and over in his hand, then glanced at the Captain of the -Elector, who watched him with a smile. - -"This seems in proper form," said Beilstein, shrugging his shoulders, -"but you soldiers of the Church are on terms of acquaintance with these -characters, which are denied to us who are more practised at arms than -with the pen. Construe for us the sheet, Elector." The Captain of the -Elector took the parchment and cast his eye over it. - -"There is nothing here of a sister, merchant," he said, looking at -Rodolph. - -"It is not customary in Frankfort," replied Rodolph, "to take much -account of our women. They come and go as they please, providing they -are accompanied by a relative or guardian who possesses a proper -passport." - -"Frankfort customs hold not on the banks of the Moselle," said -Beilstein, menacingly. - -"Did your sister enter and leave Treves under this passport?" asked the -Elector. - -"Freely." - -"Unquestioned?" - -"Absolutely unquestioned." - -"Did the Archbishop know of her presence?" - -"She had the honour of appearing at the Archbishop's Court." - -"Hum!" ejaculated the Captain of the Elector, doubtingly, lowering at -the polite stranger suspiciously from under his bushy eyebrows. "The -manners of his Lordship's Court must have changed since I knew aught of -them, if Arnold von Isenberg invites Frankfort merchants to his circle." - -"We have the privilege of being vouched for by Baron Siegfried von -Brunfels, now in Treves. I may also add that although I engage in -traffic, there is no plebeian blood in my veins." - -The Elector's Captain handed the passport back to Beilstein, saying in -an undertone, "I should not meddle with these people were I in your -stead. 'Tis likely what he says may be true." - -"And what is that to me?" cried Beilstein, angrily. "Bruttig is not -under the jurisdiction of Arnold von Isenberg alone, nor will Winneburg -or Beilstein suffer sole jurisdiction to be claimed by him under any -pretence whatever. Speak I not true, Winneburg?" - -"Aye," agreed Winneburg's Captain cordially, "and this party falls to -you by fair agreement previously made." - -"I have put forward no claim to special jurisdiction," said the -Elector. "I gave a hint to a friend that it is ill meddling with any pet -of the Lion of Treves. You may act on it or not, as pleases you. I shall -not interfere unless the merchant here brings me written message from -Arnold von Isenberg. Have you any such, sir? If so, give it to me before -mistakes are made." - -The trend of the discussion showed Rodolph that he was in danger of some -kind, which might require all his craft to avoid, for if it came to -blows he stood no chance whatever. He also realised that hope lay in -winning to his side the good will of the Archbishop's Captain, and, if -possible, in gaining some assurance of the neutrality of Winneburg's -man. He imagined, however, that he saw a disposition on the part of the -two local authorities to stand together against the Archbishop, and a -reluctance on the part of the Archbishop's delegate to force matters to -an issue. It was, all in all, a most difficult position. - -"I have a message from the Archbishop to you, but it will please him -better if I am not compelled to deliver it. We are peaceful travellers -in his lordship's domains, and have a right to pass on our way without -hindrance." - -The surly host at this moment came out and announced that the meal was -prepared. A lad passed through with a loaf and a measure of wine for -Conrad. Rodolph, bowing to the three officers, followed the host. - -"What do you propose to do?" asked Winneburg. - -"I can tell you better when I have had a glimpse of the maiden. If she -suits my fancy I shall have a broadsword bout with the brother, by way -of introducing myself amicably to the family." - -"Not the best method, perhaps, of commending yourself to the lady, -whether victor or vanquished." - -"The strong hand, Winneburg, is ever the surest, whether it grasps girl -or gold." - -The officer of the Archbishop remained silent, while the other two -discussed the question. Something in the manner of Rodolph impressed him -with the belief that the young man spoke as one having authority, and he -knew that if a mistake were made, Arnold von Isenberg was one to punish -first and weigh excuses after. He knew that if he opposed Beilstein, or -even tendered advice, the obstinate officer would the more surely -persist in whatever course he had marked out for himself, so he resolved -to maintain silence and keep a watchful eye, governing his actions by -whatever might befall. With a scarcely perceptible signal to his -lieutenant, he conveyed a message to him that seemed to be instantly -understood, for the subordinate at once set himself quietly to the -gathering of his men, who grouped themselves round in an apparently -casual manner, and remained within call. - -While Beilstein and Winneburg were conversing Rodolph reappeared, with -the Countess and her maid accompanying him. The sun had already begun to -decline far in the west, and the cloudless sky gave promise of a fine -summer evening. Beilstein strode forward. - -"I have questioned your brother, my girl," he said, "and now, by your -leave, I would have a word or two with you. But first draw aside your -veil that we may all see whom we have had the pleasure of entertaining -in our poor town of Bruttig." - -The Countess shrank timidly from him without speaking, and Rodolph at -once stepped between her and the officer. - -"Sir," he said, gravely, "I have answered all your questions fairly and -fully. If you have more to ask, propound them, I beg of you, to me, and -I shall again reply until you are satisfied." - -"Merchant," cried the officer, working himself into an anger, "your -passport makes no mention of this lady. I must therefore look upon her -face and judge if there is any sisterly likeness that may give colour -of truth to your words. Madame, remove your veil, and put me not to the -disagreeable duty of tearing it from your face." - -"Is it possible, gentlemen," said Rodolph to the other two, "that a lady -is to be thus insulted in your presence, and am I to take it that we can -look for no protection from you?" - -"It is none of my affair," said Winneburg, impartially. - -"I can act only on the written authority of the Archbishop or on the -spoken word of a superior officer, whom I personally know," replied the -Archbishop's man, with a keen glance at Rodolph, which said as plainly -as words, "If you have such authority, in God's name, produce it." - -Rodolph, turning to the Countess, whispered, "Slip away to the boat -while I hold this fellow in check. Get in and tell Conrad to push out -into mid-stream. Float down the river and if I do not overtake you along -the bank, hurry on alone to your journey's end." - -"Sir," he said to the officer, "if you do not wish your own master to -curse your interference, you will allow me to go my way without further -question." - -"Then you shall explain to my master who you are. Come back!" he cried -to the Countess, who was hurrying down the slope, and he would have -followed after her, but Rodolph, whipping out his slender rapier, stood -squarely in the way. - -"Ho, there, men of Beilstein!" shouted the officer, "stop those women. -Tie me up that fellow at the boat, and cast the boat adrift. Now my fine -merchant you have at last found your toy weapon. Is it your purpose to -stand against me with that shivering reed?" - -"I will do my best, if you insist on an encounter, which I beg of you -and your comrades to note I have tried my utmost to avoid. But in -fairness allow my sister to go, and wreak your vengeance on me alone. -When did you men of the Moselle begin to war on women?" - -"The woman shall be the prize of the contest," said the officer, -confidently. - -The other two looked on in amazement. The rapier was entirely unknown -throughout Germany and had only recently come into use in Italy, where -Rodolph, dwelling as he did, on the borders of that country, had learned -its deadly use. The giant swung his two-handed sword once or twice round -his head, and in a loud voice asked his antagonist if he were ready. -Rodolph answered nothing, but threw away his cloak, which he would have -used as an article of defence had he been opposed to one similarly armed -to himself, knowing that in this encounter he must depend on his agility -for his safety, and to the cumbrous nature of his opponent's blade, for -his chance of attack. The battle was over almost before the spectators -knew it had begun. Beilstein brought down an overhead swirl of his heavy -blade which would assuredly have annihilated any living thing it -encountered, but Rodolph sprang nimbly aside and when the blade struck -the earth he darted sharply forward, thrusting the thin rapier through -the officer's neck, the only unprotected vital part of his body, -springing back again out of arm's length in an instant. The giant strove -to raise his blade, but the effort caused a red jet of blood to leap -from his throat, and spatter down upon his breast-plate. Rodolph stood -apart, braced and alert, the sting of death held tense in his hand, -showing not a trace of blood on its shining, needle-like length. No -groan escaped the Captain, but a pallour overspread his swarthy face; he -swayed to and fro like a tottering oak, apparently upheld by his huge -sword, the point of which he had been unable to extricate from the -earth. Then he suddenly collapsed, and came, with a clash of armour, to -the ground. - -The horrified lieutenant of Beilstein, seeing his master thus -unaccountably slain, at once raised the cry of "Beilstein." - -"Up! men of Beilstein!" he roared. "Your master is murdered. Surround -his assassin and take him, dead or alive, to the castle. Beilstein! -Beilstein!" - -"I ask your protection, gentlemen," appealed Rodolph, turning to the -remaining officers. "I claim adherence to the rule of the combat. I -fought reluctantly, and only by compulsion. I demand the right to go -without further opposition." - -"Beilstein! Beilstein! Beilstein!" The cry reechoed through the town and -soldiers came running from all quarters with weapons drawn. - -"He speaks truth," said the Elector's man. "He has won his liberty, and -may go for all I care." - -"Not so," cried Winneburg. "It was no fair contest, but devil's -swordsplay. To the castle with him and his brood." - -The angry soldiery now pressed round Rodolph, but took good care to keep -out of the reach of his flashing weapon. - -"Get a pike," said one; "that will outreach him." - -"Pikes, lances, pikes!" ran from mouth to mouth. Rodolph saw he must -speedily be overpowered, and a scream from the affrighted women in the -hands of the soldiery decided him to try a desperate remedy for a -desperate case. - -He sprang upon the prostrate body of his foe, and towering over the -heads of the clamouring throng, raised his sword aloft and shouted, "The -Archbishop! The lady is the Countess Tekla, ward of Arnold von Isenburg, -insulted by these Moselle ruffians, while you cravens stand by and see -it done. Officer, you have already nearly compassed your own damnation. -Redeem yourself by instantly falling to the rescue. Treves! Treves! Is -there an Archbishop's man within hearing? Treves! Treves! Treves!" - -The Archbishop's officer at once gave the word, and his men, beating -down opposition, formed around Rodolph and the Countess. Winneburg stood -undecided, and before he made up his mind, the fight was over, the -Beilstein men being demoralised for lack of a leader. - -"You have entangled us in this affair," said the officer to Rodolph, -"and if you have cried the Archbishop's name unwarranted, your head is -likely to roll off in consequence. I have seen the Countess Tekla. Will -she, therefore unveil so that I may be sure I have not been deluded, or -do you prefer to wait until I hear from his Lordship?" - -Before Rodolph could reply, the Countess threw back her veil. - -"I am indeed, as you see, the Countess Tekla, ward of the Archbishop," -she said. - -"A fine watch you keep on the Moselle," cried Rodolph, with simulated -indignation, "when the Countess Tekla cannot journey to her guardian's -Castle of Cochem without having his Lordship insulted in her person by -unmannerly marauders at Bruttig, where he supposes he holds through you, -control and safe-conduct for all properly authenticated travellers!" - -The officer bowed low to the Countess and to Rodolph. - -"I crave your Lordship's indulgence and forgiveness. Had you but given -me the slightest hint of this I would have protected you." - -"I gave you all the hint I could, but you paid little heed to it." - -"I am deeply to blame, and I implore your intercession with my Lord the -Archbishop. I will myself, with a troop of horse, instantly escort you -to Cochem and see you safely bestowed there." - -"All I ask of you is to secure our boat and let us depart as we came." - -"Alas! the boat is gone, and is now most likely half-way to Cochem. -Shall I order you accommodation here until you can communicate with the -Archbishop?" - -"No, we will at once to Cochem. Have you horses for the Countess and -myself and for our servants?" - -"Yes, my Lord." - -"Then we will set out on our journey as soon as they are ready." - -The officer saluted, and departed to give his orders. - -"What shall we do? oh, what shall we do?" asked the Countess, wringing -her hands. - -"Do not be afraid," said Rodolph, with a confidence he did not himself -feel. "We will be so much the further from Treves and so much the nearer -to Thuron. We will ride side by side to Cochem, and then consult on what -is best to be done when we get there. Meanwhile, keep a firm command of -your agitation, and do not show fear. The officer has no suspicion, and -will do whatever I ask of him. They, perhaps, do not know yet of your -flight at Treves, and even if they did they cannot get here much before -this time to-morrow, and not then unless they come by boat. Have no -fear; I will, as I promised, see you safe in Thuron gate." - -The Countess impulsively held out her hand, and gave a warm pressure to -the one extended to her. - -"Forgive me," she whispered, "for my distrust of you last night. You are -a brave and true soldier." - - - - -CHAPTER IX. - -A PALATIAL PRISON. - - -The Captain presently appeared with a dozen mounted men at his back, and -four led horses. - -"I hold it well," he said to Rodolph, "to get as speedily away from -Bruttig as may be. The lieutenant of Count Beilstein has gone in haste -to the castle to tell his Highness what has happened, and it was not -within my right to detain him. The Count will be beside himself with -rage at the loss of his Captain, so it is safer that you lodge within -Castle Cochem as soon as possible. He will think twice before he attacks -the Archbishop's stronghold. Is it your will that I send a messenger to -Treves to acquaint his Lordship with the welfare of his ward?" - -"That is not necessary," replied Rodolph. "The Archbishop will doubtless -prefer to hear of our safe arrival at Cochem, and a messenger can be -sent from there. Is there a chance that we may be intercepted by the -forces of Count Beilstein?" - -"No interception is possible. His men here are without a leader, and -will attempt nothing, even if they were able to accomplish anything. The -Count himself will likely come in haste to Bruttig, but by that time we -shall be in Cochem, I hope and although the road by the river is none of -the best, it is as bad for him as for us." - -"Let us get on, then," said Rodolph. He assisted the Countess to mount, -sprang into his own saddle, and felt that exhilaration which comes to a -horseman when he finds a spirited steed under him. - -Four of the cavalry headed the procession, with eight to bring up the -rear, the Countess and her attendants riding between. Rodolph rode by -the side of the Countess, with Conrad and Hilda out of earshot behind -them, the Captain leading the four horsemen in front. Their rough way -led along the right bank of the river. - -"Nothing has been heard from the Archbishop, I trust," said the -Countess. - -"There is little to fear from him until late to-morrow, and not even -then unless your escape was discovered early to-day--a most unlikely -event." - -"But might not the pursuers ride all night?" - -"A difficult and hazardous task they would set themselves in passing -through the forest in the dark, and slow work even if successfully -accomplished." - -"Then we need have no apprehension if we can get clear of Cochem before -the pursuers from Treves arrive at Bruttig?" - -"Once quit of Cochem, pursuit will be futile. My plan is to keep a sharp -look-out for the drifting boat. Conrad will secure it if possible, and -we will get away from Cochem to-night, if we can leave the castle; but I -know nothing of its conformation, nor of how it is guarded." - -The Countess shook her head. "I am afraid it will be difficult to leave -Cochem at night," she said. "The castle is always well and strictly -guarded, and occupies an almost inaccessible position on the top of a -hill." - -"There is nothing for it then but to go with this escort to Cochem, and -trust to Providence and our own ingenuity thereafter. I may have -something to suggest when I have seen the place." - -The increasing roughness of the road made conversation more and more -difficult. An hour's riding and a turn in the river brought them in -sight of the grand castle of Cochem, its numerous pinnacles glittering -in the last rays of the setting sun. It was another hour before the -cavalcade arrived opposite the place. A trumpeter of the troop blew a -bugle blast that was echoed back from the rock-ribbed conical hill on -which the castle stood. The signal was answered by another from the -ramparts of the fortification itself, and presently a boat put out from -the foot of the rock. In this boat the Countess and her attendant were -placed, while those on horseback set their steeds to the swift current -and landed some distance below, at the lower end of the little village -that clustered from the foot of the hill, extending down the valley. The -Countess mounted her dripping horse, and the troop rode slowly up a -winding path that partly encircled the vine-clad hill, and at last -arrived at the northern gate, which was the chief entrance to the -castle. Here, after a brief parley, the portcullis was raised and the -party admitted to a large courtyard that hung high above the Moselle, -overlooking a long stretch of the river as it flowed toward the Rhine. - -The custodian of the castle received his distinguished guest with that -humble deference which befitted her lofty station, assisting her to -dismount and evidently entertaining not the remotest suspicion that the -visit was unauthorised. The Countess enacted her part well. - -"I commend to your care," she said, imperiously, "my Lord Rodolph, who -has conducted me from Treves. Until the Archbishop himself arrives you -are to hold yourself entirely at his orders." - -The custodian bowed low, first to the Countess and then to Rodolph. - -"How soon may we look for his Highness the Archbishop?" he asked. - -"You will most likely hear from him to-morrow. Is my suite of apartments -ready?" - -"They are now being prepared as speedily as possible; but as no -messenger brought us word of your coming, I hope your Ladyship will -pardon the delay," answered the custodian, with some trepidation. - -The Countess made no reply, but with her whip beckoned Rodolph to her -side. - -"Do the troopers remain in the castle, or return to Bruttig to-night?" - -"I have told their officer to keep them here until morning. If a -messenger from the Archbishop arrives at Bruttig sooner than we look -for, he will likely remain there until this officer returns. The -Archbishop would count on the Captain being at his post, and it is not -likely that the messenger's instructions would run further than Bruttig, -which will give us further time." - -"Will you then give your commands to the custodian regarding the -disposal of the men? I think he will obey you; but it is well to -discover this by bestowing orders first that are unimportant, before we -put our power to a supreme test." - -Rodolph gave directions, which, to his relief, were instantly obeyed. -The custodian escorted Countess Tekla into the castle, while Rodolph -walked round the courtyard to get some idea of the lay of the land and -the construction of the fortifications. The view down the river was -magnificent, as also was the outlook up the Endertsbach valley, with the -huge round tower of Count Winneburg's castle standing out against the -evening sky, built on a hill nearly equal in height to the one crowned -by Schloss Cochem. - -Rodolph's short examination of the castle's position speedily showed him -that it was a place difficult to get into or escape from. To steal away -at night was hardly practicable, unless one had a ladder of ropes, while -to escape by day was equally hopeless, as a fugitive could be seen for -miles in any direction until he was lost in the forest. - -As the Emperor stood at the corner of the elevated terrace, gazing down -the river, he became aware of some one's approach, and a moment later -the deferential voice of the aged custodian broke the silence. - -"A goodly sight, my Lord," he said, "and although I have looked at it -for many a year, it never becomes less lovely to my eyes. It is rarely -the same, varying with every change in the atmosphere, but always -beautiful." - -"It is indeed a marvelous view, and not to be the less enjoyed because -your position up here is well nigh impregnable," answered Rodolph. - -"Altogether so, I think," replied the custodian, with the pride of an -old retainer in his castle and a belief in its unassailableness, the -result of many futile assaults he had seen. "Before Cochem falls the -souls of hundreds of its assailants will seek a final abiding place, in -bliss or other where, as God wills." - -"Does the road we came by from Bruttig, follow the river further down?" - -"No, my Lord, it ends opposite the castle. On this side, however, there -is a path that follows the river from village to village, but how far it -goes, I do not know, for I never explored it to the end." - -"Are there many castles between here and the Rhine?" - -"Only three or four, some standing back from the river in the valleys -that run into the Moselle. The chief castle is that of the Black Count, -robber and marauder that he is, and it is called Thuron. Were it less -strong, I think the good Archbishop would have smoked him out long ere -this. Count Heinrich has a chain across the river, stopping all honest -traffic until tribute is paid, and if there is any cavilling about it, -he takes the whole cargo and casts the merchant into a dungeon to teach -him respect for the nobility, as he says. But some day there will be a -reckoning, for Black Heinrich, while compelling due respect to be paid -by all inferiors, is himself most disdainful to those above him." - -"Flouts he the Emperor, then?" - -"Oh, the Emperor!" said the custodian, with a shrug of his shoulders, -that might have been held contemptuous, "the Emperor is but a name, and -commands scant respect along the Moselle. He is some young man recently -elected, who loves better the dallying of his Court than the risking of -good stout blows in the field. They tell me he comes from a noble family -in Switzerland, and is not of Germany at all, and I warrant the -Archbishop does not wait to ask his leave if he wishes to pull down a -castle about the ears of a truculent Baron." - -"Then it seems to me our friend, the Archbishop, may be accused of the -same want of respect for higher authority that you lay at the door of -Count Heinrich the Black." - -"The worthy Archbishop, God bless him, recognises no over-lord but the -Pope himself and I have sometimes doubted whether Arnold von Isenberg -paid very much attention even to his Holiness; but then I am letting my -tongue run away with me, and am talking of what concerns me not." - -"It will do you no harm as long as I am the sole listener. Does Castle -Thuron stand on this side of the river or on the other?" - -"On the other. It crowns a hill somewhat similar to this and as high, -but it is as unlike Cochem as one castle can be unlike another, for this -is part palace and part fortress, while Thuron is a fortress pure and -simple, and a strong one at that. A stout wall has been built from the -castle down to the river, and it is said that there is a passage within, -where ten men can walk abreast, although that I doubt. There is -certainly a passage by which food or water can be taken up to the -castle, while the carriers pass unscathed, protected by strong stone -walls." - -"It seems, then, that the first duty of besiegers would be to break that -wall, and thus cut communication between the castle and the river." - -"That is easy to suggest, but there would be difficulty in the doing. -The walls are stout and will stand some battering; then the two great -round towers of the castle are armed with catapults which, they say, -will fling round stones even across the river itself. Besides this, -there are engines along the wall for a similar purpose. The attacking -party would have to remove solid cemented stone, while the defenders -would merely have to sweep down along the hillside unprotected men who -had little to cling to. I think it is no secret that the Archbishop had -Thuron examined by spies with a view to its capture, but they strongly -advised him to leave it alone; safe counsel, which his Lordship -followed." - -"When the assault takes place I hope we shall be there to see." - -"Ah," said the ancient keeper, with a sigh of regret, "I fear I shall -have no such pleasure, for I grow old and Arnold grows cautious. My only -hope comes from Heinrich himself, for he is like enough to hurl some -insult at the Archbishop that cannot well result in anything but the -uprising of pikes; indeed, he once threatened to attack Cochem itself, -and for a day or two we had merry preparation, but he thought better of -it, and no more came of the threat, much to my regret, for I should have -liked to see Heinrich crack his crown against Cochem. And now, my Lord, -if you will come within, you will find a meal prepared, for which I -doubt not you have sufficient appetite." - -The young man and the old entered the castle together. - - - - -CHAPTER X. - -THE INTERCEPTED FUGITIVES. - - -In spite of his anxiety, Rodolph slept that night with a soundness that -carried him, unconscious, further into the morning than he had intended -when he lay down. It had been his purpose to rise early, and perfect -some scheme for quitting the castle without arousing the suspicions of -its inmates. The getting off, he knew, must be accomplished that day, -and as soon as possible in the day, for undoubtedly the pursuers of the -Countess must now be well down the river. - -The Emperor, on breakfasting, learned that the Countess had been up long -before, and was at that moment praying in the chapel. The Captain and -the escort had left for Bruttig, and when Rodolph went out upon the -terrace he saw the band far below, climbing up the opposite bank on -dripping horses, rising from the clear waters like spirits of the river, -into the thin transparent mist that floated over the stream. The morning -sun was gently gathering up the airy, white coverlet of the Moselle, -promising a clear and brilliant day. The troop below, seen dimly through -the intervening haze, had formed in regular order, two and two, the -Captain at their head, with the Archbishop's pennant flying above them, -and were now trotting slowly up the river road. - -"Always beautiful, and never the same, changing with every hour of the -day. In a short time the slight fog will have lifted, and the -heightening sun will reveal the full glory of the view." - -Rodolph turned quickly and saw standing at his elbow the old custodian -of the place, as he had stood on the same spot the evening before. - -The young man wondered if any suspicion of the real state of the case -had entered the custodian's mind; whether his cat-like steps and -unexpected appearances, his haunting of his guest, did not betoken some -distrust that all was not as it should be. The custodian had likely -learned from the Captain that the Countess came from Treves to Bruttig -in a small boat, practically without escort, and that there was trouble -before the identity of the party had been disclosed. On the other hand -the custodian must know that the Archbishop often adopted a course of -action, the object of which was known to none but himself, and his -Lordship had small patience with any underling who exhibited -inconvenient curiosity regarding the intentions of those above him. -Rodolph resolved to set his doubts at rest by a practical test. - -"The day," he said, "indeed promises to be fine. To a man of action, -however, the precincts of the castle are somewhat circumscribed, and the -marvellous view makes him more and more conscious of the limited extent -of this most charming terrace. Has the Archbishop some good horses in -his stables, or does he keep them all at Treves?" - -"His Lordship has a rare fondness for a choice bit of horse-flesh, and -there is here an ample variety. Does your Lordship wish to ride this -morning?" - -"Is the country round about safe? I have no desire to be captured and -thus put the Archbishop to the trouble of knocking down some castle in -effecting my rescue." - -"The district is reasonably safe. Perhaps it may be well not to venture -into the territory of the Count of Winneburg, up the valley of -Endertsbach yonder, but down the river there is little chance of -molestation; still, I can provide you with an escort that will most -likely leave you free from attack wherever you go." - -"No," said Rodolph, with unconcern. "It is not worth while to turn out -a guard, besides the Archbishop himself may be here at any moment and I -think he would like to find the whole garrison ready to receive him, -although he said nothing to me about it." - -"Yes, Arnold von Isenberg does not overlook scant ceremony when he takes -himself abroad. Would you care to see the horses, my Lord?" - -Rodolph thanked his host for the invitation, and together they went to -the stables, where he selected four horses, and directed that they -should be accoutred for riding, two for women and two for men. - -"The Countess," he said, to the custodian, "has been accustomed to -out-door recreation, and is an excellent horsewoman. I am sure she will -desire to take advantage of this exhilarating morning, but I shall now -wait upon her and learn her wishes." - -To the Emperor's relief, the custodian remained behind to see that the -orders were promptly carried out, while Rodolph went back to the castle. -He sought the chapel, which was reached by passing through the castle -and crossing another courtyard looking toward the west. The chapel at -the south-west angle of the castle seemed to hang over the river, -standing as it did on a projecting rock, whose straight sides formed a -perpendicular cliff, rising like a castle wall from the deep slope of -the hill. The chapel was a small but very perfect bit of ecclesiastical -architecture, recently built by Arnold von Isenberg himself. As Rodolph -entered the vestibule he was met by the Countess hurrying out. - -"Oh, my Lord, my Lord," she cried, with agitation in her voice, "the -troops of the Archbishop are now coming down the river. I have seen them -from the window within." Rodolph closed the door of the chapel so that -they might not be overheard. - -"I think," he said, "that the men you saw are those who left us this -morning. They are the troops of the Archbishop indeed, but they are -going toward Bruttig." - -"No, no. Hilda has been watching them for a long time, while I prayed -before the altar. Just now she told me she saw a troop meeting those who -escorted us hither. Come and see." - -The interior of the chapel was in dim-coloured obscurity, all the -windows being of glass, sombrely stained. The lower part of one window -looking to the south-west opened on hinges, and there Hilda stood gazing -up the river. For a long distance the Moselle ran straight toward them, -apparently broadening as it approached. Far away Rodolph saw the two -troops meet, but the distance was too great for him to distinguish whose -flag flew over the further party. - -"It may be that they are retainers of Count Beilstein," said the -Emperor. "If it should so chance, there is like to be a hostile meeting. -If they belong to the Archbishop, there will be a short conference, then -all will probably return to Cochem." - -As he spoke the approaching troops came together and it was soon evident -that they had no hostile intentions towards each other. A cry from the -Countess called his attention to the fact that one horseman was hurrying -alone toward Bruttig, and that all the rest were riding at increased -speed for Cochem. - -"There are four horses now ready in the courtyard. Countess, I beg of -you to appear calm and to show no haste in getting away. We will ride -slowly to the river and then into the forest: after that we will make -what speed we may to Thuron, and I much doubt if those who follow will -have sight of us before we reach the castle." - -The Countess and Hilda went to their apartments to prepare for the -journey, while Rodolph sought Conrad, and told him briefly that he was -to make ready for travel. - -The four horses with their attendants stood in the courtyard, and -presently the Countess appeared coming leisurely down the steps, -followed by Hilda. The ancient custodian busied himself in seeing that -everything was to the liking of his guests. The gates were thrown open, -and the portcullis gradually raised with much creaking of rusty chain. -The small cavalcade rode slowly forth, down the winding way, while the -old guardian of the castle stood watching them as they descended. - -No word was spoken until they had rounded the hill and once more caught -a glimpse of the river. The shoulder of the promontory on the opposite -side cut off their view of the Bruttig road, and there was, as yet, no -sign of the oncoming troop. - -"Even if there was only the river between us," said Rodolph -reassuringly, "we should win the race for their horses are tired, and -ours are fresh and of the best. We can surely ride as fast as they along -a road that is not well adapted for speed; the good custodian told me it -is but a path, and he seemed uncertain how far even that extended. -Everything is in our favour, and so far as I can learn, nothing but a -few leagues of forest and the waters of this river are between us and -Thuron gate." - -"Is the castle, then, on the other side?" asked the Countess. - -"Yes, but the path, such as it is, is on this, and I have no doubt our -horses, accustomed to the river, will make little of swimming across, -when we catch a glimpse of the two round towers of Thuron." - -"I can scarcely believe that we have come so easily forth from yon -stronghold, for last night my heart sank within me as I heard the clang -of the portcullis descending, and it seemed to me that we were trapped -beyond hope of rescue." - -"You showed little fear, Countess, if, indeed, you felt any, which from -your words and manner at the time, I am inclined to doubt." - -The Countess shook her head. "I quaked with fear, nevertheless," she -said, simply, glancing sideways at him. - -Reaching the foot of the hill they made their way, still without haste, -along the front of the village, which straggled for some hundreds of -yards facing the river. A short distance below Cochem the cliffs -projected to the Moselle, and the path struggled up the hill in zig-zag -fashion, finally forming a narrow cornice road running parallel with the -stream, but high above it, and when at last it descended to a lower -level Cochem Castle was finally shut from their view as they looked -backward. Rodolph, who was leading, now put spurs to his horse, and the -rest of the company came trotting behind as best they could, Conrad -bringing up the rear. The path kept mostly along the margin of the -stream, frequently diverging into the forest, and then always mounting -upwards, to pass some obstacle where the banks were steep and the waters -of the Moselle lapped the face of the rocks. On every height Rodolph -paused till the others came up with him, and looked anxiously back where -the trees permitted a retrospect, but no sign of pursuit was ever -visible. Thuron Castle stood but five leagues from Cochem, and between -the two places the river ran nearly in a direct line, forgetting the -crooked eccentricities that had marked its progress further up. The -roughness of the path and its numerous divergencies from the level made -it difficult for the riders to accomplish more than a league an hour. -They had been four hours on the journey when Rodolph called Conrad to -his side, and said to him: - -"Have you any knowledge of the distance still between us and Thuron?" - -"No, my Lord. I have no acquaintance with the river below Cochem." - -"The sun is at least two hours past meridian, and we must have food. -Ride on to yonder village and see if they will prepare something for -us." - -"My Lord, knowing how badly travellers fare who depend on chance -foraging down this valley, I brought with me from Cochem a skin of wine -and food enough for half a dozen. We might rest on the hill top after -passing through the village and there eat." - -"Your foresight was wise in one way and dangerous in another. Asking for -food and wine might have aroused suspicion in the castle, although -apparently it has not done so." - -"I took none into my confidence, my Lord. The buttery is well provided, -and they keep not such strict watch on it as they do at the outer gate. -I was bidden go there and refresh myself; which I did, and then took -with me what was most portable, palatable and sustaining." - -"In that case you are to be commended as a more thoughtful campaigner -than myself, but, in truth, I was so anxious to get out of the castle I -thought little of bringing anything else with me than those in my -charge." - -Passing through the village, which they learned was called Hattonis -Porta, from the hill that overshadowed it to the east, they began the -ascent that was to bring them to their resting-place. The top of the -hill commanded the valley up the Moselle for a distance of two or three -leagues, and they would thus have ample notice of pursuit, and might -therefore lunch in peace. Furthermore, when Rodolph reached the top, he -was delighted to see but a short distance further on, and across the -river which, rounding the promontory, turned toward the north, the two -grey towers of a strong castle, which from the description he had -received of it, he instantly knew to be Thuron; thus their journey's end -was in plain sight. The empty road far up the river gave him assurance -that, should the enemy appear in view, there was ample time for them to -cross the river and reach the castle before they were even caught sight -of by their pursuers. Rodolph slipped from his horse and stood there -awaiting the arrival of the Countess, whose tired steed was coming -slowly up the hill. Before he assisted her to dismount he pointed out -the castle. - -"There, my Lady," he said, "is the residence of the Count, your uncle, -and the end of your toilsome march." - -"Now may the saints be thanked for their protection," cried the wearied -girl. "How I have prayed this some time past for a sight of those -towers!" - -She slipped from her horse into his arms, and he held her perhaps a -moment longer than was necessary to set her safely on the turf. If the -lady resented this, she at least made no complaint about it, but the -colour came swiftly to her fair face, and she sighed, probably because -the haven was so near. - -Conrad and Hilda now came up, and assisted each other in setting forth -the meal that the former had brought from Cochem. Then the horses -cropped the grass near by, securely tethered, as Tekla and Rodolph took -their repast together, while Hilda and Conrad did likewise at a little -distance. - -"What do you propose to do when we reach Thuron?" asked the Countess. - -"I shall first offer some good advice to the Count Heinrich, if he will -listen to me." - -"What advice?" - -"To provision his castle instantly for the coming siege." - -"The coming siege? I do not understand you. The country is at peace." - -"True, but the peace will be speedily broken. The Archbishop will invest -Thuron Castle as soon as he can collect his forces." - -The Countess looked at him for some moments with dilated eyes, in which -apprehension grew more and more pronounced. - -"Do you mean that there will be war because--because of me?" - -"Most certainly. Did you not know that?" - -The girl arose and regarded him with ever-increasing dismay. - -"I shall return instantly to Cochem," she said, at last. "I will give -myself up to the Archbishop. There shall not be bloodshed on my account, -no matter what happens to me." - -The Emperor smiled at her agitation, and her innocence at not in the -least appreciating the inevitable consequence of her revolt. - -"You will do nothing so foolish," he said. "Besides, you are under my -command until I deliver you safely to your uncle, and I assure you I -permit no rebellion in my camp. Even if you returned to the Archbishop -you would merely consign yourself to a prison, and would not prevent a -conflict. I understand that your uncle has on more than one occasion -demanded the custody of your person, and the crafty Archbishop would -never believe that he had no hand in your flight. His Lordship has for -some time been meditating an attack on Thuron, and I learned at Cochem -that the devout Arnold recently sent spies to discover how best the -castle might be taken; so it is more than likely you are doing your -uncle the greatest service in giving him warning of a struggle which is -hardly preventable, and which might, at any moment, have taken him -unaware." - -"A siege!" said the Countess, clasping her hands before her, speaking -more to herself than to her listener and gazing across the blue river at -the two grim grey towers on the hill top. "A siege of Castle Thuron?" -Then turning suddenly on Rodolph and flashing upon him a swift -bewildering glance of her splendid eyes, speaking rapidly, she asked: - -"Will you be in the castle during the conflict?" - -"I most sincerely hope and trust I shall," cried the young man, -fervently. The girl drew a deep breath that was almost a sigh, but said -nothing. Rodolph stretched forth his hand to her and she put her hand in -his, looking frankly into his honest face. No speech but that of their -eyes passed between them. But there ran rapidly through her mind the -thought that had the Archbishop endeavoured to force her to marry a man -like Lord Rodolph, she might never have sought escape from Treves. - -Conrad at this point interrupted them. - -"My Lord," he said, "there is one coming up the hill, who looks like the -archer." - -The Emperor rose, and accompanied Conrad to the brow of the descent, -with some anxiety, fearing that the newcomer might prove to be one of -the pursuers who had somehow escaped his vigilance. There was, however, -no cause for alarm; a moment's glance showed that it was indeed the -archer, who being stout and cumbered by pike, cloak, and various -belongings, with longbow slung over his shoulder, toiled somewhat slowly -up the steep ascent, pausing now and then to mop his brow and gaze -around him, a habit of caution learned during the years of campaigning. -On catching sight of the two men standing above him he stopped, took the -bow from his shoulder, strung it, gazing up at them for a moment, then -mounted leisurely as before, ready for any greeting he might receive. - -When within earshot he again stood still, and accosting the two, said: - -"Good day to your honours, who seem to be men of peace and but scantily -armed, the which makes it most unlikely that you can be of that service -to me which doubtless your good nature would give you pleasure in -rendering. I am, as you may have noticed, a man accustomed to the wars, -and now on the outlook for some noble who has quarrels on hand and the -will to pay for a skilful archer who, I may say in all modesty, seeing -there is none to testify on my behalf, never misses a mark he aims at, -providing the object be but a fair and reasonable distance away. I am -desirous of taking upon me the quarrel of any such noble, all the better -pleased if the quarrel be just, but not looking too closely into the -merits of the dispute, as experience has shown me that few controversies -exist, in which there is not something to be said for both sides; the -only conditions I would be inclined to impose being that pay should be -reasonably sure, and that the provender, such as a man may require to -keep him in health, be ample, for a taut string is of little use unless -there be good muscle behind it." - -"Well and truly spoken, Sir Archer," cried Rodolph, "and inaccurate only -in one detail, which is that there stands a man before you who can -testify most enthusiastically regarding your skill with the bow. Then -you have not yet won your way to the Rhine?" - -"Ah, my Lord, is it indeed you? I thought there was something familiar -in your appearance; but I saw you before for a short time only, and that -at night. Although I spoke just now of taking service with any noble who -might be in need of a man-at-arms, still I hold myself in some measure -as being under your orders, for I accepted from you three months' pay, -and while it is true that I have had to provide food at my own expense -and lodging where night overtook me, still neither the quality nor cost -of either has been such as to invalidate our bargain, should you care to -hold me to it. Of the food along the Moselle I can truly and of -experience say it is most vile and swinish, always excepting the supper -and breakfast provided me by the good fellow who stands at your side, -and who is, if I mistake not, the same whom your comrade, having small -knowledge of the dignity of archery, the which is only what might have -been expected of him, being an untaught German, desired me to execute by -driving a good shaft through him at three yards or so distance." - -"You have fallen among friends," said the Emperor, "and although I fear, -that, if your fasting has been involuntary, you can claim little credit -from it for the benefit of your soul, yet we are happily in a position -to give you one good meal, which will banish the remembrance of hunger -and at least afford temporary benefit to your body." - -"I am loath to say that I give little thought to my soul," replied the -archer, promptly advancing when he became aware that there was -sustenance on the top of the hill, "and I minister unto it perhaps as -much as any man now under arms in Germany, which is not high -recommendation; still the body has a practice of pressing its claims -upon a man's mind in a way that will not be denied, and therefore I -accept with most hearty gratitude any victual that your Lordship may -have at your disposal, and I trust that in the provisioning of your -expedition such an important item as that of drink has not been -forgotten." - -"Your faith in the thoughtfulness of our caterer is far from being -misplaced. I can guarantee you wine as good as the Archbishop himself -keeps in his cellars." - -The archer drew the back of his hand across his waiting lips, and -smacked them in anticipation of the unexpected good fortune that had -befallen him. Rodolph asked Conrad to provide as well for their visitor -as the remnants of the feast would allow, and the archer, wasting no -time in further conversation, fell to, and left nothing for a later -guest, should such an one arrive. - -While the archer heroically made up for lost time, Conrad brought round -the horses, and Rodolph assisted the Countess to mount. Hilda and Conrad -were also ready for the short journey that lay before them, but the -Emperor stood with bridle rein over his arm, and waited the finishing of -the feast, desiring to give the archer hint that there was probably -action ahead at Thuron Castle. - -"You have met with little encouragement, then, on your march down the -river," said the Emperor, as the bowman, with a deep sigh, ceased -operations. - -"No encouragement at all, your Lordship. Never in all my travelling, -either in Germany or elsewhere, have I passed through a country so -depressingly peaceful, which weighs heavily on one's spirits: indeed it -is enough to make a man turn monk, and forsake the bow-string for a -string of beads. What better evidence could there be of the sluggish -nature of this district than the fact that there is at this moment -approaching us, doubtless from yonder castle, three mounted and armed -men, who in some sort appear to be trying to come upon us unmarked, yet -here we are, a tranquil group, paying scant attention to their -adjacency." - -As the archer, who was gazing toward Thuron Castle, spoke thus in a tone -of complacent dejection, Rodolph, who had been scanning the district to -the west, turned suddenly round, and to his amazement beheld three men -on horseback, who had evidently worked their way unseen up the opposite -side of the hill from which the Emperor and his party had ascended, and -who now stood some distance off, regarding the startled quartette and -their calm guest; the bowman not having the remotest idea what the -sudden appearance of those to whom he had thus casually called attention -meant to his hosts. - -To Rodolph they were merely three armed men, but the keener eyesight of -the Countess brought swift knowledge to her, and caused a quick pallor -to overspread her face. - -"The Count Bertrich!" she cried. - -The Emperor clenched his fist and drew a deep breath, as the thought of -all his useless scouring of the western horizon surged over him. - -"Intercepted!" he muttered to himself, with a half-smothered oath. - - - - -CHAPTER XI. - -IN QUEST OF A WIFE WITH A TROOP OF HORSE. - - -When Count Bertrich flung himself from his horse in front of the -Archbishop's summer palace at Zurlauben, and strode hastily up the steps -that led to the entrance, he passed through the crowded hall, looking -neither to the right nor the left until he reached the ante-chamber that -communicated with the large room in which the Elector transacted his -business. The waiting and excited throng in the hall made way for him, -as the great war-lord and acknowledged favourite of the powerful -Archbishop went clanking through among them clad in full armour, paying -not the slightest heed to their salutations. - -The Count found the secretary ready to conduct him instantly into the -presence of the Archbishop, and together, in silence, they entered the -lofty apartment that was part chapel and part throne-room. - -At the further end of the noble presence-chamber Arnold von Isenberg -paced back and forward across the polished floor, his hands clasped -behind him, a dark frown on his downward bent brow. He was clad in the -long silken robes of his priestly office, and their folds hissed behind -him like a following litter of serpents as he walked. He paused in his -promenade when the Count and the monk entered, and, straightening his -tall form, stood regarding them in silence, until the secretary slipped -noiselessly from the room and left the summoned and summoner alone -together. - -"You are here at last," began the Archbishop, coldly. "It is full time -you arrived. Your bride has fled." - -"Fled? The Countess Tekla?" - -"You have no other, I trust," continued the Prince of the Church, in -even, unimpassioned tones. "My first thought on learning she was missing -made me apprehensive that the girl had anticipated the marriage ceremony -by flying to your notoriously open arms, and I expected to be asked to -bless a bridal somewhat hastily encompassed; but I assume from your -evident surprise that she has been given the strength to resist -temptation which takes the form of your mature and manly virtues." - -The sword cut across Count Bertrich's face reddened angrily as he -listened to the sneering, contemptuous words of the Archbishop, but he -kept his hot temper well in hand and said nothing. The manner of his -over-lord changed, and he spoke sharply and decisively, as one whose -commands admit neither question nor discussion. - -"Last night the Countess Tekla took it upon herself to disappear. The -guards say she passed them going outward about ten o'clock, and no one -saw her return. This leads me to suspect that, with childish craftiness, -the passing of the guards was merely a ruse on her part, intended to -mislead, and so although I pay little attention to such a transparent -wile, I have taken all precautions and have already acted on the clue -thus placed in my hands, for there is every chance that the girl is -indeed a fool; we usually err in ascribing too much wisdom to our fellow -creatures. Regarding the proposed marriage, which, strange and -unaccountable as it may appear to me, and must appear to you, the -Countess seemed to view with little favour, she threatened to appeal to -the Emperor and also to his Holiness the Pope." On mentioning the name -of the latter, the Archbishop slightly inclined his head. "I take small -account of the Emperor, but have nevertheless sent a body of fleet -troopers along the Frankfort road in case she meant what she said, which -I suppose may sometimes happen with a woman. They know not whom they -seek, but have orders to arrest and bring back every woman they find, -therefore we are like to have shortly in Treves a screaming bevy of -females, enough to set any city mad. I have thrown out a drag-net, and -we shall have some queer fish when it is pulled in. But to you and to -you alone, Count Bertrich, do I reveal my mind; see therefore that you -make no mistake. The fool has taken to the water and is now committed to -the sinuous Moselle. - -"She said nothing in her protests about her uncle of Thuron, and unless -I am grievously misled, the crooked talons of the black vulture are in -this business. He has doubtless provided boat and crew, and they are -making their way down the river in the night, concealing themselves -during the day. They will avoid Bruttig and Cochem. Make you therefore -for Bruttig with what speed you may, sparing neither horse nor man; -yourself I know you will not spare. If nothing has been heard of them -there, order a chain across the river that will stop all traffic and set -a night guard upon it; then press on to Thuron across the country by the -most direct line you can follow, coming back up the river to intercept -them, for their outlook will be entirely directed toward what is -following them. If, in spite of all our precautions, the girl reaches -Thuron, seek instant entrance to the castle and audience with the Black -Count. Demand in my name, immediate custody of the body of Countess -Tekla; if this is refused, declare castle and lands forfeit and Heinrich -outlaw. Retire at once to Cochem, where I shall join you with my army. -And now to horse and away. Success here depends largely on speed." - -Count Bertrich made no reply but sank on one knee, rose quickly and left -the room. The expression on his face as he passed through the multitude -in the great hall was not such as to invite inquiry, and no one accosted -him. - -"There is war in that red scar of Bertrich's," said an officer to -another. - -Outside the Count flung himself on his horse, gave a brief word of -command to his waiting troop, and galloped away at the head of his men. - -He made no attempt to pursue the extremely crooked course of the upper -river, but, knowing the country well, he left the Moselle some distance -below Treves, and, taking a rude thoroughfare that was more path than -road, followed it up hill and down dale through the forest. He was -determined to reach Bruttig that night, hoping to finish the journey by -moonlight, taking advantage of the long summer day and riding as hard as -horseflesh could endure. When the day wore on to evening Bertrich saw -that he had set to himself no easy task, for in the now pathless forest, -speedy progress became more and more difficult, and when the moon rose, -the density of the growth overhead allowed her light to be of little -avail. Several times a halt was sounded and the bugle called the troop -together, for now all attempt at regularity of march had been abandoned, -but on each occasion the numbers thus gathered were fewer than when the -former rally was held. In spite of his temporary loss of men, Bertrich, -with stubborn persistence, determined to push on, even if he reached -Bruttig alone. For an hour they pressed northward to find the river -which they now needed as a guide, knowing they would come upon it at -Bruttig or at least some short distance above or below it, but before -the Moselle was reached they suddenly met an unexpected check. The -outposts of an unseen band commanded them to stop and give account of -themselves. - -"Who dares to bar the way of the Archbishop's troops?" demanded Count -Bertrich. - -"It is the Archbishop's troops that we are here to stop. Will you fight -or halt?" was the answer. - -Bertrich, with his exhausted men and jaded horses, was in no condition -to fight, yet was he most anxious to pursue his way, and get some -information of his whereabouts, so he spoke with less imperiousness than -his impulse at first prompted. - -"I am Count Bertrich, commanding a division of his Lordship's army. I am -on a peaceful mission, and, when I left his Lordship this morning, he -had no quarrel with any. There has been some misunderstanding, and I -should be loath to add to it by drawing sword unless I am attacked." - -"You shall not be molested if you stay where you are. If, however, you -attempt to advance, our orders are to fall upon you," said a voice from -the darkness. - -Noticing that the voice which now spoke was not the one that had first -challenged, Count Bertrich said, - -"Are you in command, or am I speaking to a sentinel?" - -"I am in command." - -"Then who are you and whom do you serve?" - -"Doubtless you are well aware whom I serve?" - -"I know no more than the Archbishop himself." - -"That I can well believe, and still would not hold you ignorant." - -"We are talking at cross purposes, fellow. There must be, as I have -said, some mistake, for the domains of the Archbishop are in a state of -peace. There is no secret about my destination as there is none about -the name which I have rendered to you. I am bound for Bruttig and hope -to reach there before day dawns." - -"My master knew of your destination and that is why I am here to prevent -you reaching it." - -"What you allege is impossible. None knew of my destination save the -Archbishop and myself, and I have ridden from Treves with such use of -spur that news of my coming could not have forestalled me. Again I ask -you whom you serve." - -"That you doubtless guess, for you know whom you are sent against, and -why you ride to Bruttig." - -"You speak in riddles; what have you to fear from plain answers?" - -"I fear nothing. My duty is not to answer questions but to arrest your -progress toward Bruttig. If you have questions to ask, ask them of Count -Beilstein." - -"Oh ho! Then it is to Count Beilstein I owe this midnight discourtesy. I -thank you for that much information, which is to me entirely unexpected. -Where is the Count?" - -"He is at Bruttig." - -"How far is that from where we stand?" - -"Something more than a league." - -"I cannot comprehend why Count Beilstein should endeavour to prevent my -reaching Bruttig, nor how he can be aware of an expedition of which -neither the Archbishop nor myself knew aught this morning. In addition -to this, Bruttig is under the joint jurisdiction of my master and yours -and the Count of Winneburg, therefore the retainers of each over-lord -have free entrance to the place." - -"Such was indeed the case until the Archbishop broke the truce. Now -Beilstein and Winneburg have combined, overthrown the Archbishop's -jurisdiction, and they hold Bruttig together, with the men of the -Elector prisoners." - -"In the Fiend's name when did this take place? We knew nothing of it at -Treves. How broke the Archbishop the truce?" - -"It was broken by an emissary of his, who by magic sword-play slew my -master's Captain, leaving in his neck a hole no bigger than a pin's -point, yet enough to let out the life of my fellow soldier. Then when -there was outcry at this foul play, the fellow, being sore pressed, -cries 'Treves, Treves,' claiming that the wench with him was no other -than the ward of the Archbishop----" - -"Ha! Say you so? And what then?" - -"Thereupon the Archbishop's Captain bugles up the men of Treves, rallies -round the emissary of his crafty Lordship, and makes rescue, escorting -him later, wench and all, to his Lordship's stronghold of Cochem, where -doubtless they think themselves safe. But Beilstein, issuing from his -castle, went forthwith to Bruttig, joined with Winneburg, made prisoners -of the men of Treves, and sent me here in force to intercept any whom -they expected the Archbishop would shortly send, as indeed he seems to -have done under your distinguished leadership." - -"You fill me with amazement. There is, as I surmised, a -misunderstanding, and one of no small moment, which we must make it our -business to set right. It is therefore most important that I should have -speech with your master and that speedily. I pray you instantly to -escort me with your men to Bruttig." - -"That may I not do, my Lord. My orders are strict and Count Beilstein is -not the man to overlook divergence from them." - -"Then come with me yourself; I shall go as your prisoner or in any guise -you please, so that no time be lost. My men will camp here for the -night." - -"I cannot part company from my orders, which are to stop you or to fight -with you if you refuse to stand." - -"But the man you call emissary of the Archbishop, who killed your -comrade, is the one I travel in hot haste to arrest. Him the Archbishop -will gladly yield to your master for fitting punishment, but while we -babble here, time flies and he with it." - -"It will take more than the bare word of any follower of Treves to make -my master believe that the murderer, who went jauntily with escort of -the Archbishop's men to the Archbishop's castle in Cochem, is one whom -the Archbishop is desirous of handing over to my Lord for punishment, -still this much I may do. I will send at once a fleet messenger to my -Lord at Bruttig, acquainting him with your presence here, and that -messenger will take any word you are pleased to send to Count -Beilstein." - -Count Bertrich sighed as he agreed to this, for he was too strict a -disciplinarian himself not to know that the Captain who offered to do -this much, dare not wander from the definite instructions he had -received. He had at first some thought of beseeching Beilstein to send -instant word to Cochem to hold within the castle all who lodged there, -until the arrival of commands from the Archbishop, but he was loath to -divulge to Beilstein and Winneburg the full facts of the case, and he -was well aware that, without doing so, he would have some difficulty in -explaining his own presence, which seemed to tally so exactly with the -forecasts of those now temporarily opposing him. However, a league was -but a short distance and a swift messenger would speedily cover it. His -men, thoroughly exhausted, were, many of them, asleep in their saddles, -and although he himself was still eager to be on his way, he saw that -any attempt to move onward would be futile and would still further -complicate the already intricate condition of things, so he contented -himself with sending a message to the Count, the purport of which was, -that there had been a mistake which the Archbishop would speedily -rectify, and that it was imperative for the capture of the criminal, -that an immediate conference should take place between Count Beilstein -and himself. - -This done, he gave the order for dismounting and resting until the -messenger returned. A camp was formed and picketed to prevent surprise, -although he had little fear of an attack, as he had evidently convinced -the opposing Captain of his good faith, yet the military instinct was -strong in Count Bertrich, and he took all the precautions which suggest -themselves to a man in an enemy's country. The moment he threw himself -on the ground he fell into a sound and much needed sleep. - -It was daylight when one of the sentinels awoke him, saying the -messenger had returned. Count Beilstein gave Bertrich choice of three -courses of action: first, he might come alone to Bruttig; second, he -might bring his men with him, provided they first deliver up their arms -to the Captain who had stopped him; third, he might fight. Count -Bertrich quickly decided. He ordered his followers to deliver up their -arms to the Captain, he himself retaining his weapons, and thus they -marched into Bruttig. It was soon made apparent to both the opposing -nobles that the unknown young man who had proved himself so expert a -swordsman was no minion of the Archbishop. The Archbishop's Captain had -not yet returned from Cochem, so the only one who could give a connected -account of what had taken place was Winneburg's Captain, who, under the -shrewd cross-questioning of Count Bertrich, speedily proved that no -document had passed between the young man and the Archbishop's leader; -that, in fact, the Captain had several times asked for such, but it had -not been produced. - -"It is as I suspected," said Count Bertrich, "the person who held a -passport from Frankfort is a follower of Black Heinrich, whose object is -but too evident. He seeks to embroil you with the Archbishop, and has -come perilously near to success. If the scoundrel is still at Cochem, -into which castle I assure you he went with extreme reluctance, and only -under pressure of circumstances, for you learn from your own man that he -refused to send a messenger to Treves when the Captain offered to -dispatch one, then we have him fast, and I undertake, on my own -responsibility, to deliver him to the just vengeance of Count Beilstein. -What I fear is, that this unfortunate delay has given him time to slip -away from Cochem and betake himself to Thuron, where we may have to -smoke him out, if Black Heinrich refuses to deliver him to us. As to -this imprisoning of the Archbishop's men in the absence of their -Captain, I think the least said about it the better. I shall certainly -not dwell upon it when I return to Treves, but I would suggest that they -be liberated without further delay. The Archbishop was not in the -happiest temper when I parted from him yesterday, and one can never -predict with certainty what he may do under provocation. I have myself -been so anxious to avoid any cause of offence, that I have gone to the -extreme length of disarming my men and coming unprotected among you, an -act for which his Lordship is little likely to commend me, should it -come to his ears. The moment their weapons are restored, I shall journey -to Cochem and endeavour to catch my young swordsman." - -Winneburg, the quarrel being none of his, having slept on the matter, -and seeing more clearly than he did on the previous day the danger of -entangling himself with so formidable an antagonist as the Archbishop of -Treves, at once admitted that there had been a misunderstanding all -round, and expressed his willingness to revert to the former condition -of things, as the Archbishop, through Count Bertrich, had disclaimed the -doings of their visitor of the day before. Beilstein, more hot-headed -and more stubborn, was reluctant to admit himself in the wrong, but if -his ally fell from him, there was nothing for it but submission, with -the best grace he could bring to bear on his retreat; and certainly -Bertrich seemed in no way disposed to impose hard conditions, so he gave -order that the prisoners should be released, and that their arms should -be returned to Bertrich's men. - -Having eaten, Count Bertrich and his troop hastened down the river, -hoping to intercept the fugitives at Cochem. In sight of the castle he -met the Captain and his dozen horsemen returning. He sent all back with -the exception of one man, whom he forwarded to Treves to acquaint the -Archbishop with what had taken place. The Captain was ordered to detain -the Countess Tekla in Cochem Castle until the Archbishop's pleasure -should be known; to arrest the young man who accompanied her, take him -to Bruttig, and deliver him to Count Beilstein. Then taking but two -followers with him, Count Bertrich struck across the country direct for -Thuron Castle. He approached that stronghold with caution, keeping to -the high lands above the castle until he espied on the other side of the -river the party of whom he was in search, and saw that they had indeed -stolen away from Cochem. Coming down to the river edge, keeping all the -while in concealment as much as the nature of the country permitted, -knowing there was danger in crossing the stream in full view of Thuron -Castle itself, but nevertheless not hesitating for a moment, he and his -two men plunged their horses into the flood and won the other side a -little below the promontory of Hattonis Porta. Stealthily ascending the -hill, hoping to take the party by surprise, but in any case having not -the slightest doubt of the result of the encounter, Count Bertrich found -himself within range of the alert eyes of the English archer. - - - - -CHAPTER XII. - -CUPID'S BOW GIVES PLACE TO THE ARCHER'S. - - -Rodolph's first thought ran toward the safety of the Countess. He -resolved at once to send her down the hill they had so recently climbed, -and, under escort of Conrad, ask her to cross on horseback to the other -side of the river, reaching the castle as soon as might be, while he -held Count Bertrich and the two men in check; but a moment's reflection -convinced him that the Count, having intercepted them by cutting across -country to the south of the Moselle, had most likely placed on the -opposite bank a company of troops in ambush, ready to capture whoever -came within its radius. The crossing must be done under shadow of the -castle, so that any lurking enemy might be over-awed by the menace of -its presence, and thus they could ascend unhindered to its frowning -portal. That their situation was already attracting attention at Thuron -was evident, for the Emperor saw bodies of men grouped upon the walls, -while several horsemen were collected at the entrance as if in readiness -to ride, should occasion demand their interference. But there was no -signal by which Rodolph could call for aid, and, of course, Black -Heinrich had little suspicion that his own niece was probably about to -be captured almost within the shadow of his strong castle. - -There was, however, scant time for pondering. Now that concealment was -no longer possible, Count Bertrich, adjusting his lance for the -encounter, was advancing, closely followed by the two men. - -"Conrad," cried the Emperor, "take the Countess down the hill till you -lose sight of our assailants, then, as speedily as possible, bend -through the forest to the north, circling this spot so that you come -upon the Moselle opposite Thuron. Cross the river and make for the -castle gates." - -"But you, my Lord, unarmed, cannot oppose three armoured men," objected -Conrad. - -"I stand by his Lordship," said the archer, with an unruffled -confidence, that in spite of the strait they were in brought the -suggestion of a smile to the lips of the Emperor. - -"We will hold our ground, with what success may befall us," replied -Rodolph, "but lose no time in your circuit, and keep strict watch for -ambush." - -The Countess, Conrad, and Hilda departed, leaving Rodolph and the bowman -alone on the top of the hill, in serious jeopardy, for neither man wore -armour, and the Emperor had no weapon except his slight rapier. - -The archer, seeing from the first that trouble was ahead, but having too -little curiosity regarding its origin to cause him to venture inquiry, -so long as no attempt was made to smooth away difficulty and bring about -a peaceful understanding, caring not a jot whether the side of the -quarrel he expected to champion was just, or the reverse, had unslung -his bow, giving a hitch to the full quiver so that the ends of the -arrows were convenient to his right hand, and now stood with left foot -slightly forward as a bowman should, measuring critically with his half -shut eye the distance between himself and the three horsemen. - -"Is it your Lordship's pleasure," he asked, "that I kill all three, or -do you purpose to try conclusion yourself with one or other of them? If -so, which shall I spare?" - -"These men are cased in iron, and proof against your shafts. I will -parley with them and offer single combat to their leader; we cannot hope -to prosper in a general onset." - -"Their faces are bare, which is all the kindness I ask of any man who -sets himself up as target." - -"If choice is to be made, spare the leader, and leave him for me to -deal with," said Rodolph, stepping forward and raising his voice, as he -accosted the hostile party. - -"My Lord, Count Bertrich," he cried, "I ask of you a truce and a parley, -when we may each disclose our intentions to the other, and find if -amicable adjustment be possible." - -An exclamation of intense disgust escaped the impatient archer at this -pacific proclamation, but his drooping spirits revived on hearing the -defiant tone of the Count. - -"Who are you, whelp, to propose a conference with me? Were it not that I -promised to take you alive so Beilstein may have the pleasure of hanging -you, I would now ride you down and put a good end upon mischievous -interference. Therefore surrender, and appeal for clemency to Beilstein, -for you will have none from me." - -"Spoken like a brave man and a warrior," exclaimed the archer, with -enthusiasm. "Would there were more nobles in Germany resembling him. -Now, my Lord, surely the insult anent your hanging, demands that instant -defiance be hurled at him." - -"Peace, peace," whispered Rodolph, "you will have your fighting, never -fear. I must gain time so that the others may escape." Then he cried -aloud, "If I surrender, my Lord Count, it must be on terms distinctly -set forth, with conditions stated and guaranteed by your knightly word." - -The Emperor's diplomatic efforts were without avail. Count Bertrich made -no reply, but giving a quick word of command to his followers, levelled -lance and dug spurs into his horse. The three came on together, the -Count slightly in advance, his men at right and left of him, the -pulsation of the beating hoofs on the hard turf breaking the intense -stillness. The Emperor stood firm with tightened lips awaiting the -onslaught, having little hope that it would end favourably to him. The -archer, however, gave forth a joyous cry that was half-cheer, -half-chuckle, and, without awaiting for command, drew swiftly the string -of his bow to his ear, letting fly twice in succession with a twang that -sounded like a note from a harp. The arrows, with the hum of angry bees, -passed first by one ear and then by the other of the advancing warrior, -who instinctively swayed his head this way and that to avoid the -light-winged missiles, thinking he was shot at and missed, but the -piercing death-shriek first from the man at his left and then from the -one at his right, speedily acquainted him with the true result. Before -him he saw the deadly weapon again raised, and felt intuitively that -this time the shaft was directed against himself, although the archer -paused in the launching of it, apparently awaiting orders from his -superior. The Emperor raised his right hand menacingly and cried in a -voice that might almost have been heard at the castle: - -"Back, my Lord Count. There is certain death to meet you in two -horse-lengths more." - -The impetus of the Count's steed was so great that it was impossible to -check it in time, but he at once raised his lance in token that he had -abandoned attack, and, pulling on the left bridle rein, swerved his -course so that he described a semi-circle and came to a stand facing his -foes, with the two dead men lying stark between him and his intended -victims. - -With a downward sweep of the hand that had been lifted, the Emperor -signalled to his ally to lower his bow, which the archer reluctantly -did, drawing a deep sigh that the battle should be so quickly done with. - -Rodolph advanced a few steps and once more accosted his foe. - -"My Lord," he said, "you see, I trust, that I hold your life at my -mercy. I am willing to give terms to a brave antagonist, which he -refused to me." - -"In truth," grumbled the archer, "I see nothing brave in one who -attacks with three, all heavily armoured and mounted, two on foot, one -of whom is without weapons. I beg you to tell him so, or allow me to -speak my mind to him, for he is a proud man and I doubt not with proper -goading, he may be urged to a fresh onset." - -Rodolph paid no attention to the interruption, but continued: - -"If you will give me your word that you will return to Cochem, you may -pass unharmed, and we will not attempt to molest you further." - -The Count, however, made no reply, but sat like a statue on his black -horse, gazing on his fallen comrades and meditating on the changed -situation. Then he groped in a receptacle that hung by his saddle and -drew forth, not a new weapon, as the archer, peering at him, suspected, -but a filmy web that glittered like an array of diamonds. This, removing -his gauntlets, he clasped about his neck, fastening it to the lower part -of his helmet, shaking the folds over his shoulders like a cape. - -"Fine chain armour of Milan steel," murmured the archer, seemingly -hovering between anxiety regarding the defensive qualities of the new -accoutrement and delight at the thought that the Count was again about -to venture himself against them. With a clank of iron on iron the -warrior brought down his barred visor over his face, and, drawing on his -gauntlets which during these preparations had rested on his saddle bow, -grasped his lance and lowered it, presenting now no pregnable point of -his person to the flying arrow. - -"By Saint George," cried the archer, "I would fain take service with -that man. He displays a persistence in combat which warms my heart -towards him." - -But the softness of the archer's heart did not cause him to take any -precaution the less, for he drew out a sheaf of arrows, selecting -carefully three that seemed to be thinner at the point than the others. -Two of these he placed in his mouth, letting their feathered ends stick -out far to his left, so that his bow arm was free from their -interference; the third he notched, with some minuteness, on the string. - -"My Lord, I must shoot now," he mumbled with his encumbered mouth, -looking anxiously at Rodolph, who in turn was viewing no less anxiously -the silent preparations of Bertrich. The Count, however, was in little -hurry to begin, apparently wishing to satisfy himself that he had -neglected no expedient necessary for his own safety. - -"There is no help for it," said the Emperor. "Do your best, and Heaven -speed the shaft." - -The bowman twanged the string, bending forward eagerly to watch the fate -of his arrow. The shaft sang an ever lowering song, as it flew, falling -fairly against the bars of the visor with an impact that rang back to -them, palpably penetrating an interstice of the helmet, for it hung -there in plain sight. The Count angrily shook his head, like an -impatient horse tormented by the bite of a fly, but he sat steady, which -showed the archer there was an arrow wasted. The toss of his head did -not dislodge the missile, and the Count, with a sweep of his gauntlet, -broke it away and cast it contemptuously from him. - -"Alas!" groaned the archer, fitting the second to the string, "it was -the thinnest bolt I had." - -Count Bertrich waited not for the second, but came eagerly to meet it, -bending down as a man does who faces a storm--levelling lance and -striking spur. The horse gallantly responded. The second arrow struck -the helmet and fell shivered, the third was aimed at the chain armour on -the neck, and striking it, glanced into the wood, disappearing among the -thick foliage. Still Bertrich came on unchecked, raising his head now to -see through the apertures of his visor to the transfixing of the archer, -who, well knowing there was but scant time for further experiment, -hastily plucked a fourth arrow from his quiver, and, without taking -aim, launched it with a wail of grief at the charger, driving the arrow -up to its very wing in the horse's neck just above the steel -breastplate. The horse, with a roar of terror, fell forward on its -knees, its rider's lance thrusting point into the earth some distance -ahead, whereupon Bertrich, like an acrobat vaulting on a pole, described -an arc in the air and fell, with jangling clash of armour, at the feet -of the Emperor, relaxing his limbs and lying there with a smothered -moan. - -The archer paid no attention to the fallen noble, but running forward to -the horse began to bewail the necessity that had encompassed its -destruction. He however thriftily pulled the arrow from its stiffening -neck, wiped it on the grass, and spoke, as if to the dead horse, of the -celerity of its end, and the generally satisfactory nature of bow-shot -wounds, wishing that the animal might have had a realisation of its -escape from being mauled to its death by clumsy Germans. - -Rodolph stooped over his foe to throw back on its hinges his visor, -whose opening revealed the unconscious face of the Count. - -"It seems inhuman to leave him thus," he said, "but there is a woman's -safety in question, and I fear he must take the chance he drove down -upon." - -"He can make no complaint of that," replied the archer, "and is like to -come speedily to his contentious self again, if I may judge by the -flutter of his eyelids. Indeed, I grieve not for his bruises, but for -the hurt his obstinacy forced me to inflict upon his poor horse, a noble -animal which I never would have slain did not necessity compel." - -"Capture a horse belonging to one of the fallen men, and accompany me -down the hill," said Rodolph, briefly. - -The archer first recovered the two arrows that had overthrown his -unknown opponents, bestowing on their bodies none of the sympathy he had -lavished on the horse, for, as he muttered to himself, it was their -trade, and a well-met shaft should occasion them little surprise, which -undoubtedly was the fact. - -Having, with some difficulty, secured one of the horses, and with still -more trouble succeeded in seating himself in the saddle--for, as he -said, he was more accustomed to the broad of his foot than the back of a -horse--he followed his leader, who, with grave anxiety, was scanning the -river bank opposite Alken, hoping to see some indication of the Countess -emerging from the forest. - -"Archer," said Rodolph, turning to his follower, "your great skill, and -no less indomitable courage, has to-day saved my life, and has placed me -otherwise under more obligation to you than you can easily estimate. I -hope yet to make good my debt, but in the meantime I may cheer your -heart by telling you that your expert bowmanship has made inevitable -what was before extremely probable, which is, that these valleys will -shortly ring with war, and the Lord only knows when the conflict shall -cease--possibly not until yonder castle is destroyed, or the Archbishop -returns defeated to Treves." - -"Say you so, my Lord? Then indeed is virtue rewarded, as I have always -been taught, though seeing little confirmation of it in my wandering -over this earth. I winged my shafts for the pure pleasure of seeing them -speed, not forgetting my duty to you in the earning of my threepence a -day, duly advanced into my palm before service was asked, the which, I -know to my grief, is not customary among nobles, although fair -encouragement in spoils gives compensation for backwardness in pay; -still I had no hope for such outcome as war, when I drew string to ear, -and am the more encouraged to think that a wholesome act, thus -unselfishly accomplished, brings fitting recompense so trippingly on its -trail. You spoke of the Archbishop (God bless his Lordship), do I fight, -think you, for, or against him?" - -"As the man you have so recently overturned is the friend, favourite, -and in general the right hand of the Archbishop, judge you in which camp -your neck is hereafter the safer." - -"I have long desired to fight for the Church, but, for a devout man, it -seems ever my fate to be on the opposite side. Ah well, it matters -little, and it serves the Archbishop right for the inhospitality of his -gate at Treves, where they know not a useful soldier when they see one. -We are like to be beleaguered in yon castle then?" - -"Very like, indeed." - -"Know you aught of how they are provisioned for a siege?" - -"That will be among the first things I shall inquire when I enter." - -"It is a most important particular, and in the inquiry it might not be a -waste of breath to give some hint regarding the plenishing of the wine -vaults." - -"I understand Black Heinrich has a secret passage to the river, so we -are not likely to suffer from thirst." - -"'Tis a sensible precaution; I would not say a word against water, which -I have often found to be useful in the washing of wounds and otherwise, -still when a man is expected to fight, I think there is nothing puts -such heart in him as a drop of good sound wine, so it be not taken to -excess, although the limit of its usefulness, in my own case, I have -never yet had a sufficiency of the beverage to gauge." - -"The Black Count, from what I hear of him, is not one to neglect the -laying in of wine; it however may be well to question him closely -regarding his cellarage before you take service with him, for I surmise -that he who finds lodgment in the castle will not soon get abroad again, -as the troops of the Archbishop will shortly encircle it closely." - -"The prospect," said the archer, drawing the back of his hand across his -mouth as if his lips were already moist with good vintage, "is so -alluring that I can scarce credit it, and fear the Archbishop may give -or accept apology, for we seem to be in a region where compromise is -held in high esteem, and his Lordship has already acquired the -reputation of being a cautious man (may I be forgiven if I do him an -injustice); still, if the Count who plunged so bravely against us, hath -the ear of him, he may whisper some courage into it, for he acquitted -himself on the hilltop as a man should. I must confess that I should -dearly cherish the privilege of being beleaguered in a strong castle, -for it hath ever been my fortune to fight hitherto in the field, -directing my shafts against various strongholds, and living with scant -protection while launching them, sleeping where I might, in a ditch or -in a tent, as the gods willed, and ever like to have my slumbers broken -by a stampede or sortie when least expecting it. I was never one who -yearned for luxury, but it must be a delight to rest under continual -cover with a well-stocked cellar underneath, and the protection of a -stout stone parapet while taking deliberate aim, not to mention the -advantage that accrues to an archer who lets fly at one below him, -rather than continually craning his neck to send his arrow among the -clouds, the which gives little chance for accurate marksmanship. On one -of yonder towers a man might well aspire to the delight of loosing -string at the great Archbishop himself, and may such luck attend me, -although I am the least covetous of mortals." - -"Well, archer, we shall presently see what befalls and I feel myself the -safer that you did not take fee from the Archbishop when you applied at -the gates of Treves." - -The archer looked gratefully at his leader for the compliment, and -together they rode in silence to the waterside opposite Alken. - -As yet there was nothing visible of Conrad's party, who had probably -taken a longer circuit than the occasion demanded, but the Emperor saw -the cavalry of the castle, which had watched the conflict motionless, -now descend towards Alken, and he rightly considered this move in his -favour, did more of Bertrich's men lie in ambush in the opposite forest. -Rodolph hoped that the Black Count himself was at the head of his men, -but at that distance could distinguish nothing. - -As they drew near the spot Rodolph was gratified to perceive Conrad -emerging from the forest, where he had asked his charge to remain until -he had reconnoitred and proved that the way was clear. The horsemen from -the castle had reached Alken, and now stood drawn up fronting the river, -ready to assist at the landing of the new-comers, or prevent the same, -as might prove to be convenient. - -Rodolph shouted across, asking that a boat be sent over, for he saw -several lying on the beach, but those on the other side made no movement -to comply with his wishes; in fact, it was doubtful if they understood, -for here the Moselle is wide, with water flowing slow and deep. - -Conrad, at a word from his master, plunged his horse into the flood, -entering below the spot where Heinrich had placed a chain across the -river for the encouragement of traffic, and, when he had landed, a boat -was shoved off in which the Countess and Hilda were ferried over, the -others following on swimming horses. - - - - -CHAPTER XIII. - -THE BLACK COUNT IS PERSUADED NOT TO HANG HIS EMPEROR. - - -The Emperor, when his dripping charger climbed the incline before Alken, -looked with concern toward the troop of horse drawn up facing the river, -wondering whether or no Heinrich himself was there to greet them. The -leader of this scant cavalry sat on his steed a horse-length in advance -of his men, and was rather startlingly red than black. His hair and -beard were fiery crimson in colour, while the face they framed was of a -similar hue, scarcely less violent, although it deadened somewhat as it -reached the nose, and painted that well developed and prominent organ a -rich deep purple, giving evidence, Rodolph thought, of the potency of -Heinrich's liquors. The man's eyes were shifty and suspicious, and, all -in all, his face was as forbidding as one would care to see, bringing to -life the conjecture which had more than once crossed the young man's -mind, that in thus unceremoniously changing guardians the Countess had -scarcely bettered herself. However, he still had hopes that this -crafty-looking horseman was not the uncle, from whom he expected -violence perhaps, but not treachery. - -The Emperor advanced and saluted the red warrior, who remained -motionless upon his horse, bestowing an inquiring but none too friendly -glance upon the approaching stranger. - -"I would have speech with Count Heinrich, of Thuron," said Rodolph. - -"Then you must seek him in his castle," was the reply, which brought a -sigh of relief to the lips of the Emperor. - -"Whom have I the honour of addressing?" he asked. - -"I am Steinmetz, Captain of Castle Thuron. Who are you?" - -"My name is Rodolph, a Lord of Frankfort, and I desire convoy to the -castle." - -"That is as may be," answered the Captain, with lowering brow. "What is -your business with my Lord the Count, and who is the lady that -accompanies you?" - -"My business I will relate to the Count himself. The lady is the -Countess Tekla, niece of Count Heinrich and sometime ward of Archbishop -Arnold von Isenberg of Treves. If you have further questions to ask, it -may be well to put them to your master, for my patience is at an end, -and I am unaccustomed to the cross-examination of my inferiors. There is -a chance that Count Heinrich may thank you for this delay, and a chance -that he may not; you know him better than I, so act as best pleases you -under that knowledge." - -The Captain gave a whistle of astonishment when the name and quality of -the lady were mentioned, and instantly saluted with his sword the man -whom a moment before he had treated with scant courtesy. The truculence -disappeared from his manner, and he said, with some eagerness: - -"I shall be pleased to act immediately as your convoy to the castle, my -Lord." - -"Nothing could be more satisfactory," replied Rodolph. - -The Captain gave the word to his men, who formed in line, some before -and some after the visitors, and thus the procession made way through -the village and up the zig-zag path that led to the castle, a rugged -slanting road rising higher and higher at each turn, and disclosing -broader and broader views of the charming valley of the Moselle. The -scene was peaceful in the extreme, and, but for the clatter of armed -men, one might have imagined that no such thing as conflict could exist -in all that region. On the hilltop, beyond the river, Rodolph could see -that Count Bertrich had come to himself, had captured the remaining -horse, and was transferring the accoutrements of his own animal to the -new mount. - -While Rodolph was watching his late opponent with keen interest, -wondering whether the Count would betake himself to Cochem, or persist -in his quest and visit Thuron, Tekla spoke to him. - -"My Lord," she said, "you have somewhat neglected me of late, and I am -still in ignorance of what happened when you so unceremoniously turned -me off the hilltop. I trust you are unhurt." - -"Not only unhurt, but untouched, Countess, thanks, not to my own -prowess, but to the marvellous skill of the English archer, who -annihilated the foe like a necromancer with a touch of his wand." - -"Is Count Bertrich slain then?" she asked, with a shudder. - -"No. Yonder he stands gazing at us, seemingly in hesitation as to what -he shall do next, but his two followers are dead, and the pride of -Bertrich encountered a shattering fall before he consented to let us -pass him. I have proven myself a blundering guide, otherwise he had -never intercepted us; but defenders are ever at hand when your Ladyship -needs them, and I trust we are about to find the chief of them within -these walls." - -"Now that we are at our journey's end, I am oppressed with fear. I am -more afraid than I was in grim Cochem itself, for I like not the look of -this Captain and his men." - -"They might be more prepossessing, it is true, but we should not judge -hastily by externals. The outside of Castle Thuron seems forbidding -enough, but no doubt a warm welcome awaits you within. Count Heinrich -has to hold his possessions with a strong hand, and so cannot be too -nice in the selection of those who are to do his work. You will find -him, I trust, a true nobleman and an indulgent relative." - -"I hope so," said the girl, with a sigh, which seemed to indicate that -she looked forward to the meeting with more apprehension than she had -yet shown. - -The Captain sounded a bugle that hung at his belt, and the gates of the -castle were thrown open in response, allowing the cavalcade to enter a -wide stone-paved courtyard. There was none in authority to meet them, -which was not strange, as no news of their approach could possibly have -yet reached the stronghold. The gates were instantly shut behind them, -and the Captain, flinging himself from his horse, strode into the -castle, doubtless to acquaint his chief with the important tidings he -carried. Rodolph dismounted, assisted the Countess to dismount, and then -all stood there with the horsemen surrounding them, more in the attitude -of captives than of welcome guests. - -The archer gazed about him with much nonchalance, at the defences of the -place, and asked questions concerning them from some of the servitors -and men-at-arms who stood silently by, regarding the newcomers with -looks of distrust, answering nothing. Far from being nonplussed by the -scant attention paid his queries, he strutted round in high good humour, -as if the castle were his own, and audibly made comments which were -sometimes far from complimentary. - -"If this man, Heinrich the Black, has a head on his shoulders somewhat -more intelligent than those of his men-at-arms, he might defend the -place with reasonable success, providing he was amenable to advice -regarding certain additions I consider necessary, for if the attacking -party----" - -"Do not cheapen your advice, archer, by tendering it unasked," said -Rodolph, somewhat sternly, "and avoid comment until you have made the -acquaintance of the Count." - -"Indeed there is wisdom in that," replied the archer, unabashed, "and I -would that his Lordship showed greater anxiety to receive us suitably, -for then the sooner would come a taste of his hospitality, the which I -am already anxious to pass opinion on." - -Further conversation was prevented by the return of the Captain, who -curtly informed Rodolph that Count Heinrich commanded the whole party to -be brought before him, adding with a malicious leer that he had not -found his Lordship so anxious for the meeting as the words spoken by the -river bank had led him to suppose. - -"You will remain in your saddles until further orders," said the Captain -to his men, a behest that did little to reassure the Emperor. - -The Countess spoke no word, although her pale face showed that this -reception was scarcely to her liking. They all followed the Captain, who -led them along a hall, up a broad stair, and through a doorway into a -large and lofty room, where half-a-dozen men sat at a table with -drinking flagons before them, while one strode angrily back and forward -across the floor; his place at the head of the table was empty thus -indicating that he was the Count, although Rodolph needed no such token -to aid recognition. - -Count Heinrich was more than six feet high, and strongly built. His -massive head was covered with a shock of jet black hair; his beard and -fierce moustache were of the same sombre colour, while his face was so -swarthy that at first sight one doubted if the man had a drop of Saxon -blood in him. He seemed more like the king of some heathen African -domain, than a nobleman in a Christian land. His piercing eyes lit up -his dark face, and a glance from them reminded Rodolph of a flash of -lightning athwart a black cloud. He stopped abruptly in his march as -those summoned into his presence entered, and roared rather than spoke: - -"Well, madame, what do you here in Thuron?" - -The Countess had taken a step or two in advance of her comrades, but -paused dumbfounded at the thunder in his tone and the savagery of the -face turned upon her. - -"My Lord--uncle," she faltered at last, "I am here to implore your -protection." - -"Protection?" shouted Heinrich. "Is not the Lion of Treves able to -protect you? It is _his_ duty, not mine. Why does he send you journeying -with such a scurvy escort?" - -"My Lord, if you will permit me to address you in private I will inform -you why----" - -"You will inform me here. Have you, as I suspect, left Treves without -sanction of the Archbishop?" - -"Yes, my Lord." - -"Of all reckless fools a woman--Are your horsemen still in saddle?" he -cried, abruptly, to Captain Steinmetz. - -"They are, my Lord." - -"Well, madame, we shall repair the mischief you have done as speedily as -horseflesh may. You shall have escort to do you honour, but must make -your peace with the Archbishop as best you can. Take her to Cochem, and -there present her to the Archbishop, or, in his absence, to the officer -in charge." - -"Oh, uncle, uncle," cried the girl, throwing herself at his feet, "you -cannot commit such a crime. Remember, I am the daughter of your only -sister. The Archbishop commands me to marry the Count Bertrich----" - -"And a most proper union. It is his right to marry you to whomsoever -pleases him. You cannot gainsay that. Am I to engage in war with Treves -merely because you do not fancy Count Bertrich? It is enough that one of -my line is a fool. I am none such." - -"If you will not shelter me, let me, I beseech you, pass on to Frankfort -to beg protection from the Emperor. Although you have the right to -refuse hospitality you have no right to take me prisoner and send me -back to Cochem." - -"That shows you to be doubly a fool. The Emperor has gone to the Holy -Land, where God protect him, and were he at Frankfort he would send you -back to Treves, for he must uphold the Feudal law. The Archbishop's will -elected him, and if his will is to be void regarding a fire-brand like -you, it would also be void regarding the Emperor's own elevation. As for -my right to prison you, I have what rights I take, which even the -Archbishop will hesitate to question." - -"My Lord, touching the Emperor," began Rodolph, stepping forward, then -checking himself, hardly knowing how to continue. - -"Yes? Touching the Emperor? Are you empowered to speak for him? Who are -you, sir, and what is your share in this business?" - -Black Heinrich had calmed perceptibly as the colloquy between him and -his niece went on, but the interpolation of Rodolph at once roused him -to fury again, and caused him to turn on the young man with blazing -eyes. - -"I am a namesake of the Emperor, Lord Rodolph of Frankfort, and I am -further his most intimate friend." - -"Are you so? Then I am glad to hear it. You will thus make all the more -acceptable a sacrifice to Arnold von Isenberg, who likes interference as -little as do I, whether from Emperor or serf. Captain Steinmetz, get -hither your hangman, reeve a rope through a ring on the river front of -the castle, and hang me this fellow so that the Archbishop's emissaries -will see him dangling as they come up to inquire respecting this -enterprise." - -"My Lord, I would like a word with you in private before you proceed to -this extremity." - -"I transact my business publicly, that all the world may see." - -"The more fool you," returned Rodolph, stoutly. "You have already -bandied the epithet, therefore I use it. The Archbishop, who is no such -ranter, but who acts while you sleep, has had secret spies here to note -your weakness. His army is doubtless now on its way to Thuron. If you -send back your niece he will think you to be a coward; he already holds -you to be a liar, and will believe nothing you say anent this affair, -though you hang your whole garrison outside the walls. While you stand -babbling there, gloriously frightening women and threatening defenceless -men, he, like a sane warrior, is surrounding you. What the Archbishop -thinks of your innocence in this matter is shown by the fact that Count -Bertrich was sent directly to Thuron, and met us almost at your gates. -Blood has already been shed, and two of the Archbishop's men lie dead -within sight of your towers. Judge, then, of your childish paltry scheme -of returning the Countess Tekla to Cochem. He knows you to be a knave, -and will think you poltroon as well, and is doubtless right in both -estimates." - -Something almost resembling a ruddy colour came into the atramentous -face of Black Heinrich as he listened to this rating of himself in his -own hall. His jaws came together with a snap, and as the tirade went on, -his bearded lips parted and showed his teeth like a white line across -his face, giving him an expression that might well be called diabolical. -His eyes nearly closed, and his breath came and went with a hissing -sound. He stood rigid and motionless, while on the faces of all present -was mute amazement at this temerity on the part of one virtually a -prisoner. When Heinrich spoke, however, his former loudness was gone, -and his words came quiet and measured. - -"You are not wanting in courage, therefore will I countermand the order -for your hanging, and cause your head to be struck off instead." - -"Oh, uncle, uncle!" cried the horrified girl. "Do as you will with me, -but he is guiltless even of previous knowledge regarding my escape from -Treves. It is his misfortune, not his fault, that he is here. I implore -you----" - -"Steinmetz, let two of your men conduct this fellow to the courtyard, -and there behead him." - -The captain was about to move when a new voice from the corner of the -apartment broke in upon the discussion. - -"May I ask your Blackness," said the archer, "to turn your mind from -the seeming peril of my Lord, to the much more certain jeopardy which -confronts yourself, and charge the heathen who obeys you to make no -motion, otherwise shall you instantly die. Without boasting, Henry -Schwart, I beg to acquaint you with the fact that not all your men nor -the surrounding of your strong castle can save your life if this string -but slip my finger. I have killed two better men than you to-day when -they were charging upon me at full speed, and well protected with -armour; judge then what chance you have, standing there a rank -temptation to an honest archer. My sure arrow cares not a jot whether it -pierces the heart of a Count Palatine, or the honest if stupid brain of -a serf. And now, my Lord Rodolph, the life of his Blackness rests upon -your lips. If you say 'Let fly' I kill him and whoever stands behind -him, for I will break bow if this shaft go not through at least three -unarmoured men." - -"It is as the archer says, my Lord," said Rodolph, "and his expertness -with his weapon is something almost beyond belief, as your own men, -watching from your walls a while since, will doubtless testify. I beg -that you make equitable terms with us, for I assure your Lordship the -archer is more to be feared at this moment than a round dozen of -Archbishops. I ask you to pass your knightly word, and to swear by the -three Kings of Cologne and the Holy Coat of Treves, that you will do us -no hurt, but allow us to pass freely on to Frankfort." - -The Black Count glared in speechless rage at the unwavering archer, and -made no reply, but one of the men seated behind him shifted position -gingerly, speaking as he did so. - -"It is no shame to yield, my Lord," he said. "I was witness to the -bowman's skill and saw the two men unaccountably fall with less -difference in time between them than the drawing of a breath." - -The Count spoke after a moment's silence. - -"If I respect not my own word, the swearing on Kings of Cologne or Coat -of Treves will not make me keep it." - -"I will take your word, my Lord, so that it includes us all, especially -the archer, and stands also for the good conduct of your men." - -"My men will not lay finger on you with safe conduct from me. I give -you, then, my word that you pass on unscathed to Frankfort. Does that -suffice?" - -"It does, my Lord. Archer, unbend your bow." - -The archer, with a sigh, lowered his weapon, but apparently had no such -trust as Rodolph, for he still kept the arrow on the string. Captain -Steinmetz looked shrewdly at his master, as if inquiring "Does this -hold?" but he met only a lowering frown and a sharp command to betake -himself to the courtyard and disband his men. - -A bugle at that instant sounded outside, and the captain presently -returned to announce that Count Bertrich was without, and demanded -instant audience in the name of the Archbishop of Treves. - -"Demands, does he? Let him wait until I am ready to receive him," -replied the swarthy Count. Then, turning to a servitor, he commanded him -to ask the attendance of his lady. - -Heinrich continued his pacing of the room, which he had abandoned when -the Emperor and those with him had entered. Moodiness sat on his brow, -and he spoke to none; all within the apartment maintained silence. -Presently there entered, dressed in deep black, a thin, sallow lady of -dejected appearance, who probably had none too easy or pleasant a life -of it with her masterful husband. - -Heinrich stood, and without greeting said: - -"This is my niece, Tekla of Treves, now on her way to Frankfort. She -will rest here to-night, so I place her in your care." - -When the ladies had departed the Count ordered that Conrad and the -archer should have refreshment, then turning to Rodolph, he said: - -"As the visit of Count Bertrich may have connection with the escapade -in the development of which you have no doubt ably assisted, I request -you to remain here until the conference is ended, as your testimony -concerning it may be called for." - -Rodolph bowed without speaking. - -"Admit Count Bertrich," directed the master of Thuron, standing with his -great knuckles resting on the table, ready to receive his warlike -visitor. - -Bertrich strode into the room quite evidently fuming because of the -waiting he had been compelled to undergo. He made no salutation, but -spoke in a loud voice, plunging directly into his subject. His face was -pale, but otherwise he showed no sign of the rough treatment he had -encountered. Looking neither to the right nor to the left, but straight -at the Black Count, he began: - -"Heinrich of Thuron, I bear the commands of my master and yours, Arnold -von Isenberg, Lord Archbishop of Treves. In his name I charge you to -repair instantly to Treves, bearing with you my Lord's ward, the -Countess Tekla, whom you have treacherously encouraged and assisted in -setting at defiance the just will of his Lordship. You are also to bring -with you as prisoners those who aided her flight, and deliver them to -the garrison at Cochem." - -The eyes of Count Heinrich gleamed ominously from under the murky brow. - -"I have heard," he said, harshly. "Is there anything further I can do to -pleasure his Lordship?" - -"You are to make public apology to him in his Palace at Treves, -delivering into his hands the keys of Castle Thuron, and, after penance -and submission have been duly performed and rendered, his Lordship may, -in his clemency, entrust you again with the keeping of the castle." - -"Does the category end so lamely?" - -"I await your answer to as much as I have already cited." - -"The Countess Tekla is of my blood, but somewhat contaminated, I admit, -by the fact that her father was your predecessor in the Archbishop's -favour. She was Arnold's ward, betrothed to you, his menial. She was in -your hands at the capital city of the Archbishop, surrounded by spies -and environed by troops. If then the girl has the wit to elude you all, -baffle pursuit, and arrive unscathed in Thuron, she is even more my -relative than I had given her credit for, and now the chief loser in the -game comes yelping here to me like a whipped spaniel, crying 'Give her -up.' God's wounds, why should I? She will but trick you again and be -elsewhere to seek." - -"I demand your plain answer, yes or no, to be given at your peril!" - -"There is no peril in dealing with so stupid a band as that at Treves, -whose head a simple girl may cozen and whose chief warrior, mounted and -encased in iron an unarmoured foot-soldier can overthrow. By the three -Kings, you strut here in my hall with jingling spurs which you have no -right to wear. You know the rules of chivalry; give up your horse, your -armour and your sword to the archer who rightfully owns them, having won -them in fair field. When thus you have purged yourself of dishonesty, I -will lend you a horse to carry my answer back to Treves, which is as -follows: Tell the Archbishop that the maiden is in my castle of Thuron. -If he want her, let him come and take her." - -The colour had returned in more than its usual volume to the pale face -of Count Bertrich as he listened to this contemptuous speech, but he -made no reply until he had withdrawn the gauntlet from his hand: then, -flinging it at the feet of the Black Count, he cried: - -"There lies the gauge of my Lord Archbishop of Treves, and when Thuron -Castle is blazing, I shall beg of his Lordship to allow me to -superintend the hanging of the pirate who now inhabits it." - -Heinrich threw back his head with a rasping bark that stood him in place -of a laugh. - -"Indeed, my Lord, you have the true hangman's favour, and I marvel not -the girl fled from you. I am, as you say, somewhat of a pirate, but with -more honesty in me than passes current in Treves, so I cannot lift the -gauge without leave of its real owner. Steinmetz, bring here the archer -with his bow." - -When the wonder-stricken archer appeared, grasping his weapon, his mouth -full, for he had been reluctantly haled from a groaning board, he looked -with some apprehension at the Black Count, expecting a recantation of -the promise wrung from him. - -"Archer," cried Heinrich, "there lies a gauntlet which is yours of -right. I ask you for it." - -"Indeed, my Lord," replied the archer, hastily gulping his food to make -utterance possible, "if I have aught to say concerning it, it is yours -with right good will." - -"Then from where you stand, as I refused your formal proposal to judge -your marksmanship, pin it for me to the floor." - -The archer, nothing loath, drew bow, and with incredible swiftness shot -one after another five shafts that pierced fingers and thumb of the -glove, the first arrow still quivering while the last struck into its -place. - -For the only time that day the dark face of the Count Palatine lit up, -in radiant admiration of the stout foreigner who stood with a smirk of -self-satisfaction while he nodded familiarly to Captain Steinmetz as who -would say: - -"You see what would have happened if----" - -Count Bertrich regarded him with wonder in his eyes, then pulling a -purse from under his breast-plate, he said: - -"Archer, I am in your debt for horse, armour and arms, and think it -little shame to confess defeat to one so skilful. If you will accept -this gold in payment, and leave me steed and accoutrements, I shall hold -myself still your debtor. My excuse for tardy payment is that you did -not wait to claim your own." - -"My Lord," said the archer, "I am always willing to compound in gold -for any service I can render, and only hope to have another opportunity -of practising against your closed helmet with arrows which I shall -shortly make a trifle thinner in the shank than those I used to-day. I -have to apologise to your Lordship that my shafts were rather too thick -at the point to give complete satisfaction either to you or to me." - -All sign of levity vanished from Count Bertrich's face as he turned -again to the Black Count. - -"Although the exhibition we have been favoured with is interesting," he -said, "I do not understand what bearing it has upon the point we were -discussing. Do you accept challenge, or shall I intercede with my Lord -the Archbishop to grant you the terms formerly recited by me?" - -"Tell the Archbishop that the glove has been pinned to my floor by five -shafts, piercing the points of its five members; there it will remain -until his Lordship contritely enters this hall on his knees and pulls -them out with his teeth. When he does this and delivers up Count -Bertrich to my hangman he shall have peace." - -Count Bertrich, again without salutation, turned his back upon the -company, and left the apartment while the archer gazed with admiration -on Black Heinrich, whose language had no mincing diplomacy about it, but -stood stoutly for a quarrel. - - - - -CHAPTER XIV. - -A RELUCTANT WELCOME. - - -After Count Bertrich's unceremonious departure, Heinrich stood by the -table with black brows, in the attitude of one who listened intently. No -one in the room moved or spoke, and in the silence there came from the -courtyard the noise of horse's hoofs on stone--first the irregular -stamping of an animal struck or frightened by an impatient master, then -the rhythmical clatter of the canter, gradually diminishing until it -lapsed beyond the hearing. The shutting of the gates with a clang seemed -to arouse the master of Thuron. He drew a deep breath and glared about -him fiercely, like a man ill-pleased, but determined. - -"Steinmetz," he said, gruffly, "have you three men who can be trusted?" - -"I should hope, my Lord, that we have many." - -"Are you sure of three?" - -"Yes, my Lord." - -"Then send them with money--no, I will not tempt the dogs. Let one on -horseback cross the river, and scour the region round Munster-Maifield, -telling each peasant to bring to Thuron all the grain he has to sell. -Announce that I will pay for wheat delivered here at once, a trifle -higher than the market price." - -"Indeed, my Lord," said Steinmetz, "it will not be believed; better -trust your men with the money--if you really intend to pay." - -"Tell the peasants that all who bring in grain to-morrow will be paid, -and fair weight allowed. Say that I will in person visit those who do -not respond, accompanied by a troop of horse, and take then what -pleases me without payment. See that no word slips out about the coming -of the Archbishop. Another horseman is to go eastward and treat on our -side of the river in the same way. Let the third ride up the Moselle and -collect wine on similar terms. To-morrow it is bought; next day it is -taken." - -"The sun is already set, my Lord. The men cannot go far to-night. Might -it not be better----" - -"Steinmetz, I spoke of hanging to-day, and I am still in the mood for -it. If you do not listen silently and act promptly and accomplish -effectually, you shall dangle. The three men you despatch must be in the -saddle all night, returning here by sunrise, with a full account of what -we may expect. They will be the surer of finding the peasants at home -from now till cock-crow. If my vaults are not full to-morrow at this -hour, some one's soul goes to Purgatory. Arrange as best pleases you, -and account to me twenty-four hours hence. I shall myself superintend -the intake, and will know how to deal with you if it is insufficient." - -Steinmetz looked with evil eye at his imperious master, but left the -room in silence and haste, to make the best of a dangerous commission. - -Heinrich turned to Rodolph, and was about to address him when the -archer, who had been uneasily awaiting a chance to attract attention, -clearing his throat emphatically and often, with little result, spoke -up. - -"My Lord, I am pleased to see that you so thoroughly understand the -first requisite of a good captain, the which is to attend properly to -the victualling of his garrison, but I was somewhat hastily removed from -a full board at which I had hardly seated myself, leaving in my hurry to -wait on your highness, a full tankard of wine, which I would fain return -to. Therefore, my Lord----" - -"In the Fiend's name, do so!" cried Heinrich, who with wrinkled brow had -at last comprehended his guest's volubility, whereupon the archer waited -no further permission but took himself off with a celerity which caused -more than one smile to brighten the anxious faces in the room. - -"You are doubtless as hungry as your man-at-arms," said Heinrich, -turning to Rodolph, "but will possibly pardon the necessity that -intervened between you and the board." - -"Indeed, my Lord, I care little for food to-night, being more in need of -rest, and, if I have your leave, would be glad to get sight of bed, -especially as I hold it necessary to be early astir to-morrow, if we are -to make Frankfort before nightfall." - -"It is not my intention that you go to Frankfort; I have changed my -mind. It will profit my niece nothing to go to Frankfort, for even if -the Emperor were there, he is nothing but a hare-brained fool." - -"I most emphatically agree with your estimate of him, my Lord." - -"I thought you were a friend of his?" - -"I am, and therefore know him well, and so with easy conscience can -perform the part of candid friend and amply corroborate what you say -concerning him." - -"I know him not, and judge him but by hearsay. He is a foreigner and no -true German, and was elected by the two Archbishops for their own -purposes and cannot therefore be either a fighter or a man of brains. He -lacks wisdom, think you?" - -"He has no more wisdom, my Lord, than I, who mix with other people's -quarrels and get scant thanks for my pains." - -"A man can scarcely be expected to give thanks when he finds that others -have arranged a war for him without his knowledge or sanction." - -"That is very true, my Lord, and consequently I expect no thanks from -the Archbishop, who thus finds his hand prematurely forced, and timely -warning given to the redoubtable Count Heinrich. His secret preparations -against you are thus unmasked, and I can well understand his rage -thereat." - -The Black Count scowled darkly at the younger man, and seemed unable to -measure accurately his apparent frankness, feeling the awkwardness of an -unready man in the polished presence of a courtier, and resenting the -feeling. - -"That was not my meaning," he said, curtly. - -"I am under little obligation to the Archbishop, and therefore tell you -frankly that I believe it was his intention to attack you later, and -catch you unaware. I was confirmed in this belief by some remarks -dropped by the custodian of Cochem castle. He told me the Archbishop had -lately sent two spies secretly, to find out all there was to learn -regarding your defences. They did so, and reported to his pious and -crafty Lordship." - -"Did the custodian say Arnold intended an attack?" - -"Had he said so, then would I have surmised you were free from danger. -On the contrary, he said the Archbishop had thought better of it; but -knowing the devious ways of the Elector, I am convinced he was making -secret preparations for your downfall. He is not a man to wear his plans -upon his robes of office. Imagine then his present rage at finding -himself unaccountably forestalled, for nothing on earth will persuade -him the flight of the Countess is not all your doing. He is taken -unprepared. His troops are some days' hard marching from Thuron, and -when they come, they find the land has already been scoured; that you -have collected in your cellars all the meat and drink there is in the -region round about, so therefore must he sustain his army from a -distance and at increased labour and cost. Instead of secretly -encircling your castle with an army, as if he called his troops by magic -from the ground, and driving back your foragers on a half empty larder, -he comes upon you well stocked and waiting for him. Instead of the -haughty Bertrich giving you his ultimatum with a company at his back, -and the white tents of Treves gleaming over the green landscape, the -envoy goes back on the horse of one of his own slain men, himself -compelled to compound with an unknown foot-soldier for his forfeited -accoutrements, and that in the hall of his enemy, under the taunts of -the master of Thuron and the scornful gaze of his nobles. He returns to -Treves an overthrown man with good assurance that Heinrich of Thuron -cares not one trooper's oath for either the Archbishop or himself. -Therefore, my Lord, you have right valid reason for thanking the -Countess Tekla and myself, although I must own that some short time -since, you gave but small token of your gratitude." - -Heinrich regarded the young man as he spoke with a look of piercing -intentness, tinctured with suspicion. As the recital went on and he -began to see more clearly in what light his actions would go abroad, and -how he stood in relation with the Archbishop, he drew himself proudly -up, the smell of coming battle seeming to thrill his nostrils. -Nevertheless there was rarely absent from his penetrating gaze the -indication of slumbering distrust, with which a man uncouth and rough of -tongue, usually listens to one of opposite qualities for here before him -was a puzzle; a man who apparently did not fear him, who spoke smoothly -and even flatteringly, yet who, in a manner, looked down upon him as if -he were inferior clay. He had this young man entirely in his power, yet -the position might have been reversed for all the comfort it gave the -Black Count. - -"I am not sure but you have some qualities of a great commander," said -Heinrich, a compliment which although perhaps reluctantly given, the -nobleman recalled in after life as a proof of his own foresight, when -Rodolph had become in the estimation of all Europe the most notable -Emperor Germany had ever seen. - -The young man laughed. - -"I am scarcely in physical condition to do justice to whatever qualities -I may possess, for these two nights past I have had more fatigue than -sleep." - -His entertainer, however, did not take the hint. His brow was knitted -in deep thought. At last he said, with a return to scepticism to his -eyes: - -"You spoke of being at Cochem. What did you there? Were you the guest of -the Archbishop?" - -"In a manner. A guest without his knowledge. The Countess and her party -enjoyed the hospitality of Cochem last night." - -"You amaze me. In your flight from Treves had you the actual temerity to -make a hostel of the Archbishop's own palace?" - -Again the Emperor laughed. - -"It was not our intention to do so, but hospitality was forced upon us. -At Bruttig I was, with some reluctance, compelled to slit the throat of -Beilstein's captain in defence of the Countess, and, in the mêlée that -followed, I had to proclaim the quality of the lady and demand -protection from the Archbishop's troops there stationed. They conducted -us to Cochem, and the Countess was received by the custodian of the -castle there with a courtesy which seems to be entirely absent from such -ceremonies further down the Moselle." - -The Black Count grunted and the expression on his countenance was not -pleasing to look upon. However, he did not pursue the subject, but -called to an aged waiting servant and said: - -"Conduct Lord Rodolph to the round guest-chamber." - -"With your Lordship's permission," said Rodolph, "I would crave a word -with the Countess Tekla. She has had recent trying experiences, and -after the tension may come relapse. I would fain speak encouragingly to -her, if you make no objection." - -Heinrich threw back his lion head and laughed hoarsely. - -"Objection of mine comes rather tardily. An unmarried woman who throws -herself into the arms of the first chevalier who presents himself, and -journeys with him night and day across the country, has no reputation -left for me to protect. See her when you will for aught of me." - -Rodolph reddened, and his lips came tightly together. - -"My Lord," he said, slowly, "I have already informed you that I slit the -throat of a man who spoke less slightingly of her Ladyship than you have -this moment done, and, from what I saw of him, he was as brave a warrior -as you, and had the advantage of being surrounded by a larger following. -Yet he lies buried in Bruttig." - -"We have had this trick performed to-day already by the archer, and it -is now stale. Push me not too often to the wall, for I am an impatient -man, and some one is like to get hurt by it. I say nothing against the -girl; she is my niece and if any one draw sword for her it should be -me." Then to the aged servitor who still stood waiting, he cried: - -"Take him to my lady's portion of the castle, and after, to the round -guest-chamber." - -Rodolph followed the servant, who shuffled on before him through various -passages, and at last came to a small door where he knocked. It was -opened by an old woman, who, after explanation, conducted the young man -through several small rooms, in the first of which the manservant -awaited the Emperor's return. This suite of rooms looked out on a -courtyard overshadowed by one of the tall round towers of the castle, -and in the courtyard there had been an attempt at gardening, unattended -with marked success. The further room of the series was larger than any -of the others, and was furnished less rudely than the huge apartment in -which the Black Count and his men were gathered. - -The sallow wife of Heinrich sat at a table near one of the windows and -was gazing silently out on the courtyard. The Countess Tekla sat also by -the table with her arms spread upon it and her head resting, face -downward, upon them. Hilda had a bench to herself in a corner of the -room, and it was evident that all three women had been weeping in a -common misery. The Countess Heinrich gave Rodolph a timid, almost -inaudible greeting, and when Tekla raised her head at the slight sound, -she sprang to her feet on seeing who had entered, undisguised joy in her -wet eyes. - -"Oh Lord Rodolph!" she cried, but could get no further. - -The Emperor took her unresisting hand and raised it to his lips. - -"I have come, my Lady Tekla," he said, with a smile, "to congratulate -you on the successful accomplishment of your dangerous journey." - -"Successful!" she cried. "Yes, successful as far as you could make it -so, and most sincerely do I thank you. But cannot we leave for Frankfort -to-night? I am now rested, and eager to be quit of this inhospitable -dungeon. I would rather be in the forest with you----" then adding in -some confusion, realising what she had said in her zeal to set off -without delay, "and Conrad, and Hilda, than to stay longer in Thuron." - -"In that you would do grave injustice to your valiant uncle, who but now -has said he would be first to draw sword for your defence. No, Bertrich -has returned empty-handed as he came, unless a bold defiance of the -Archbishop from Heinrich of Thuron be considered, which he takes with -him to Treves. The Emperor, as Heinrich truly says, is not at Frankfort, -so a journey thence might be ill-timed. Your uncle freely extends to you -the shelter and protection of Thuron. I must own to having formed an -admiration for the man, although at first my feeling tended rather in -the opposite direction. But it must not be forgotten on his behalf that -our coming was unexpected, and he can scarcely be blamed if, like a -spirited horse, he shied at first." - -"He is a good man," said the Countess of Thuron, mildly, "if he be not -crossed. He will brook no interference." - -"Then we stay in Thuron!" cried Tekla, in amazement. - -"It is your uncle's wish." - -"And what of the Archbishop? Will he attack, think you?" - -"Of that I have grave doubts. Arnold is above all things a cautious man, -and if one were sure what any other would do, one might guess that the -Archbishop would act the contrary. I think he will attack, but my -thinking so quite prepares me for the opposite. In any case, Lady Tekla, -you have nothing further to fear from Count Bertrich, for your uncle -seems to hold him in less fear than you do yourself." - -"Thank God for that!" said the Countess, fervently, with an involuntary -shudder. She stole a furtive glance at the young man before her. "Do you -depart from Thuron on the morrow?" she asked, in a low voice. - -"That rests largely with Count Heinrich--and--and with you. If you -desire my presence, or my absence, I shall endeavour to fulfil your -wish." - -"Your own affairs will not be bettered by your absence from them I -fear." - -"Indeed," said Rodolph, with a laugh, "I doubt if it will make great -difference either way." - -"If that is truly the case, I would be--I think my uncle will need all -the stout hearts he can muster round him." - -"My own wish is to stay. But we will see what the morrow brings. -Meanwhile, you are tired, and little wonder. I wish you good rest, and I -am sure you may sleep in serene peace of mind, for your troubles are at -an end." - -With that he took leave of her, sighing to think they were no longer -alone together, he her sole protector, and so it may have chanced that -his eyes spoke what his lips dare not utter, but if this were the case -Tekla had no censure for him, but sighed in company, though so lightly -he did not hear as he turned away. - -The ancient man, who was patiently waiting for him, had now a torch in -his hand, which he lighted when he came to the courtyard, applying it to -another that flared in an iron receptacle fastened to the stone wall. -He led the way to one of the round towers, and climbed slowly up a -narrow stone stair, passing several doors, but stopping at none until he -seemed to have reached the top. Then, resting his torch in an iron -holder, he, with much effort, drew back heavy bolts and threw open the -door. The torch lighted a round chamber in which were three narrow -windows in the thick stone, wide at the inner surface of the wall, but -narrowing to a mere slit, with scarce room for a man's hand to penetrate -to the outer air. A pallet of straw lay by the wall furthest from the -door, and there was in the room a rude table, and a ruder bench. The old -servant placed the burning torch within the room, and muttering a -good-night, withdrew, closing the door after him. A moment later Rodolph -heard the bolts being shot into their places. He cried aloud, beating -the stout oaken panels with the hilt of his rapier. - -"Here, fellow. You are exceeding your instructions. The Count said -nothing of my being barred in. I am no prisoner, but a guest." - -But the old man did not draw the bolts. - -"The instructions ever follow the order given. Take him to the round -guest-chamber, says my Lord, which means also, bolt him in there." - -Again Rodolph loudly protested, but the shuffling steps of his guide -echoed hollow from the circular stair. The Emperor, when the last sound -had ceased, threw himself, dressed as he was, on the straw, and an -instant later was sound asleep. - - - - -CHAPTER XV. - -CASTLE THURON MAKES A FULL MEAL. - - -The sun, shining through one of the narrow slits in the circular wall, -striking on Rodolph's face, woke him next morning, and when he sat on -his straw pallet he saw that the door had been unbarred and thrown -partly open. He walked down into the quiet courtyard, with its neglected -garden, and glanced up at the windows of the suite of rooms which the -women of the castle inhabited, but saw no signs of any of them. Passing -through a hall he entered the outer courtyard, where the day before he -had dismounted after his journey. The gates were wide apart, and the -courtyard itself looked like a city market-place. The scene was one of -hurry and animation. The enclosure was filled with rude carts, and with -lowing cows and oxen that had drawn them, steaming after the exertion of -dragging their heavy loads up the steep hill. A procession of others, -waiting their turn, extended through the gateway and along the hillside -road that led to it. The Black Count himself superintended the intake of -sacks of grain and casks of wine, estimating rather than accurately -measuring their value, and paying with his own hand for what was thus -brought to his doors. Count Heinrich, like many other nobles of his -time, had the right to coin gold and silver, and his mint-master had -been busy all night striking off pieces of different sizes, each with a -rude effigy of the Count on one face of the coin, and its value in Roman -numerals on the other. - -Heinrich seemed to be driving generous bargains, loudly demanding what -the owner thought his contribution worth, and when the sum was -tremblingly named, giving often more than was asked, but never less. He -acted like a man who had long defied public opinion, but who now, for -reasons of his own, preferred to court it, not knowing how soon he might -be in some measure dependent upon it. Rodolph learned that before -midnight the wine from the upper valley had begun to come in, and that -the Count, having been in council with his captains until that hour, had -gone forth to make payment by torchlight, while his mint-master sent him -from the cellars of the castle, bags of currency still warm from the -crucible. Heinrich showed no sign of fatigue, but was as alert as any, -standing on the stone steps that led to the castle door, a head or more -above the throng, while two secretaries counted out the sums he demanded -and handed them to him from the bags at his feet. His eagle eye covered -the whole scene, and now and then when the incomers and outgoers became -jammed in an apparently indissolvable tangle, wheels interlocking, and -goads falling ineffectually on the patient backs of the cattle, the -Count with stentorian voice and eloquent gesture would command one to -back here, another to go forward there, whereupon the knot would be -speedily unloosed and the business go forward as it should. - -If the stout Heinrich had little mercy on himself he had none at all on -his servitors. Panting men struggled with heavy sacks on their backs, -disappearing through the open archway that led to the cellars, emerging -empty handed, drawing sleeve across sweating brow, to bend back -instantly under a fresh burden and return. Full casks of wine were -rolled and lowered out of sight, as if the castle were some huge -open-jawed monster who was swallowing a gigantic meal with little sign -of repletion. Did a man pause but a moment to fill his lungs with the -fresh morning air, the all-encompassing eye of the master had singled -him out and a roar of rage made all within hearing tremble. It was -evident that peasant and servitor alike, officer and foot soldier, were -in deadly terror of the Black Count. - -Rodolph made his way up to the battlements and looked down on this -stirring scene. Then he walked along the walls to gain some idea of the -castle's strength and situation. There was a broad level promenade -parallel to the river front, protected by a strong machicolated parapet. -The promenade ran due north and south, and was nearly a hundred yards in -length. At each end of the castle, but some distance back from the -front, rose a round tower, the north tower being slightly lower than its -brother. Behind the north tower was a precipitous wooded cliff falling -steeply down to the little river Thaurand. The northern, eastern, and -southern sides of the slope, at the top of which the castle stood, were -densely wooded. The western slope, descending some hundreds of feet to -the Moselle, was covered with vines, through which, beginning near the -northern end of the stronghold, ran at steep incline the stout wall that -ended at the river, carrying on its back here and there a stumpy square -stone guard-house. Clustered at the foot of this wall, and stretching -along the edge of the Moselle, lay the small village of Alken, over -which was thrown the dark shadow of the Black Count's castle. Beyond it -flowed the broad smooth river, placid as a sheet of glass, reflecting, -far down, the forest-covered hills of its western bank. - -At the junction of the hollow river wall with the castle, there stood on -the terrace, at either side of the up-springing causeway, a huge, clumsy -catapult, one commanding the northern face of the wall coming up from -the river, the other the southern side. Here and there, at the edge of -the promenade furthest from the parapet, were piled, with some attempt -at symmetry, many hundreds of round pieces of granite, each considerably -larger than a man's head, and each weighing as much as a man might care -to lift. These spheres were ammunition for the catapult, and Rodolph saw -that the Count appreciated not only the necessity of guarding his way to -the river, but also the difficulty the Archbishop's men would find, in -the face of hurling granite, to force a breach in the stonework. All in -all, Arnold had a hard nut to crack in Castle Thuron, defended as it was -by a man of resource and resolute determination. - -On the opposite shore of the river Rodolph saw collected many ox-carts, -while the three boats which the day before had been drawn up on the bank -at Alken, were busy ferrying over the produce brought by the carts. -Sturdy villagers with bags on their backs were slowly plodding up the -hill to the castle, ignoring the zig-zag road, and coming steeply and -straight up the lanes between the rows of vines. - -As Rodolph leaned against the stone parapet watching the villagers -crawling like laden ants up the slopes, he was accosted by the cheery -voice of the English archer. - -"I hope you have slept well, my Lord," he said. - -"Excellently. And you?" - -"Never better. With the blue sky above me and my mind at peace with all -the world; a bed of moss and a sloping hillside, that the water may -speedily run away should a shower come on, no man can ask for better -resting-place." - -"Good Heaven! The Count did not turn you thus inhospitably adrift on the -landscape surely? He has roof enough and room enough to give you some -choice of a sleeping chamber." - -"Oh, the Count's intentions were doubtless fair enough; I make no -complaint of his Blackness. That he is uncivilised and knows nothing of -the courtesy that pertains to a guest, is the fault of his upbringing -and should not be justly charged against him. I was taken to a dark -vault and barred in, the which I never can put up with, unless I am a -legal prisoner, and even then only if it fall in with my convenience. I -had some thought of slaying my jailor and taking his head with me to the -Count, to demand an unbarred door, but the rascal was too quick for me, -and before I fathomed his inhospitable intent, had thrust bolt in -socket, himself safely on the outside, scorning my protestations. A -fastened door gives me a sense of suffocation that I find ill to abide. -I tested the door by various expedients which lie at the hand of an -experienced soldier, but found it proof against them all. Window there -was none, but the open chimney gave me a speedy way, working with hands -and knees, to the roof. The moon, just past the full, was shining -brightly, and at some risk to my bones I got from roof to lower roof, -and so at last to the battlements, where by trusting my body somewhat -precipitously to the top of a tree, I won my road to the ground outside -the castle. There I made myself a bed and was awakened as a man should -be, by the singing of the birds, after a most refreshing night of it. I -wandered about in the forest testing the different trees to find timber -for the making of arrows, or a bow if need be, although I found little -suitable for the latter. With these branches of timber I presented -myself at the entrance gate to the no small amazement of the guards, and -found all in a bustle, with the buying and selling of grain. Henry -Schwart espied me as soon as I entered, notwithstanding the throng, and -he roared out how the devil I came there, and who had unbarred the door, -whereat I laughed at him, and said they kept such loose watch at Thuron -that an industrious man might have cut all their throats while they -slept, had he been so minded, and this brought greater blackness into -Heinrich's face than I had hitherto seen there." - -"If a suggestion does you any good," said Rodolph, with some severity, -"I would not make his Lordship the subject of mirth." - -"Indeed, my Lord, your words are full of wisdom, which I marvel at -considering your youth; but with me it is usually the word first and the -thought after, which may be likened to putting the cart before the cow, -as they would say in these parts. No; I saw that Heinrich did not enjoy -my merriment, but what was I to do when the laugh had already echoed -from the stone walls, and was thus beyond recall. He sent one messenger -to my room, and another to yours, with instructions to leave your door -open and unbarred, which seemed to show that the Black Count may still -be judiciously taught by good example. The messenger to your room -reported you to be sleeping soundly, while the one to mine said the door -was still bolted, which was undoubtedly true, for I had not meddled with -it. But I much fear, as you have already hinted, that I have forfeited -the love Heinrich bore me yesterday, when I pointed an arrow at his -heart, for when I asked permission to go to Treves (granted that I -received your leave) he opened his eyes till they were round as targets, -and cried that he would see me in the region of the condemned with -pleasure, but not to Treves, which I took as an ill-natured remark, -given coarsely as he put it." - -"To Treves? Why to Treves of all places in the world? How could you -expect Count Heinrich to permit you to go to Treves from this castle -when he is in momentary anticipation of being besieged by Treves?" - -"I told him I should return unless I was decapitated by the Archbishop -or Count Bertrich, in which case he could hardly look to me to keep my -tryst with him. I have a friend whom I left near Treves, from whence, if -I succeeded in getting employment, I was to send him word, so that he -too might have a place beside me. In case of not hearing from me he was -to betake himself to Treves and there make inquiry regarding me; that, I -fear, he has done, or is about to do, and I wish to engage him on my -side in this quarrel. It has been our fate this many a year to be in -opposing camps, and thus not only are we deprived of each other's -company, but our lives are placed in jeopardy, each through the -marksmanship of the other; and while I should as fain take my departure -from this world on one of Roger's shafts as otherwise, yet it would -grieve him ever after, for he is a tender hearted man as ever let fly -unerring arrow. It would greatly advantage Black Heinrich, had he but -sense to see it, to let me go to Treves and bring back Roger Kent with -me." - -"Is he then an archer also? There surely cannot be two such." - -"No, there is none like him. He regards me as his most promising pupil, -but that is merely because of his fondness for me, who will patiently -listen to the poetry he makes." - -"Is he a poet as well? Such a man, if he betters you in shooting, must -write most stirringly of war." - -"He is the greatest of poets, for so he himself admitted to me. He -writes poetry that no man on earth can understand, and if that be sign -of greatness, it must be as he says. He has slight conceit of himself as -an archer, in which craft I know him to be unequalled, but I am no judge -of his verses, although they read most soothingly and put a man to sleep -when aught else fails. He writes not of war, my Lord, but of love. He -indites verses to many foreign virgins of ancient times, whose very -names I am never able to remember, and he has marvellous pages on the -birds and the woods and mosses, and all flowers that grow, which, he -says, speak to him in a language of their own, and that I can well -believe, for I have no understanding of it. And he has penned many -touching lines on the blessings of peace, though how he could earn his -threepence a day if peace abounded, is something which even he, poet as -he is, cannot explain." - -"I think such a soldier would be an acquisition to our garrison, and I -shall see whether Count Heinrich can be persuaded to allow you a visit -in Treves, although I can well understand his reluctance, fearing the -losing of so valuable an archer as yourself. I also have a message to -send to Treves, so perhaps we shall prevail on the Count to think better -of his decision. You gave me the name of your friend, but I have never -yet learned your own." - -"I am called John Surrey, my Lord. I am Saxon, as you may see, but Roger -is a Norman, tall and thin and nearly as black as Heinrich himself. We -should be enemies and not friends, for the Normans conquered the -Saxons, but as that conquest is now some time past, and I saw not how to -better the matter by my interference so long as the Normans had such -archers as Roger; and as he could get none of his own countrymen to -listen to his poetry, we had need of each other, and our only grievance -is that we fight usually on opposite sides, the which I should in this -instance amend if the Count but let me to Treves before the Archbishop -has Roger enlisted. If there is a tumult in Treves and men are called -for, he will be one of the first to offer himself, thinking to find me -in the ranks, for he knows that it was to take service with Arnold that -I journeyed forth." - -"I have, as I said, a message to send to Treves, so I shall speak to the -Count on behalf of your mission, but I doubt if he will risk the loss of -one archer like you on the remote chance of gaining two such later." - -"Am I then in the Count's service and not in yours? Have you transferred -me to him, my Lord?" - -"Not so. You are at present my archer regiment, which I hope to increase -in number as opportunity serves, but we must now do our best to aid the -Count, having helped in some measure to bring on his dilemma." - -"With right good will, my Lord, so be it that he treats a man not as a -slave or prisoner, and if it come to hanging, or the like, I would -rather be hanged by you than by the Count." - -Rodolph smiled and said: - -"You may be sure I shall not deliver up to the Count whatever rights I -possess regarding your fate. I have always insisted on the esteemed -privilege of hanging my own men; it is not an advantage I would -willingly bestow upon another." - -"In that your Lordship is wise," answered the bowman, soberly, "for the -relinquishing of apparently trivial pretensions is generally followed by -increased encroachment. I shall now bid your Lordship good morning, for -I must betake myself to the workshops of the castle and there teach a -knave Heinrich has given me, the proper making of arrows, the which is -likely to be a task of some duration, for the rascal does not seem -over-bright, and the Germans have little skill, at best, in the accurate -manufacture of shafts, and the correct balancing of them. I hold it well -to prepare for the coming of the Archbishop, and meet him with suitable -offerings, lest he suspect us of disrespect to his high station." - -"I hope he will appreciate your thoughtfulness," said the Emperor, -whereupon the archer descended from the battlements. - -Rodolph rested his arms on the parapet and gazed at the peasants toiling -slowly up the incline from the river with their burdens. As the sun rose -higher and higher the shadow of the great castle also moved -imperceptibly up the slope, as if emulating the labourers. The houses of -Alken, closely packed together, as was the case with all mediæval -villages, stood brilliantly out in the sunshine, now that the shadow of -the castle was removed from them. In the clear air every stone of the -place stood distinctly out, and it seemed so surprisingly near that one -might have imagined he had but to stretch down his hand and touch its -roofs. From its streets came up the merry laughter of children, joyous -at the unusual bustle going forward, having not the slightest idea of -the ominous meaning which the hurrying to and fro brought to older -minds. - -A musical greeting caused the Emperor to start from his reverie and turn -suddenly round. The Countess Tekla stood before him, smiling, and -seeming herself a spirit of the morning. To Rodolph she appeared to be -robed magnificently, and he wondered how she came by all this finery, -which suited her so well, making her look the great lady she undoubtedly -was. Notwithstanding her youth, there was an unconscious dignity about -her that awed him, even though he was accustomed to the splendour of the -grand dames who thronged his now deserted Court at Frankfort. Could -this be the girl who had come through such rough usage with him from -Treves to Thuron, standing now like a fair goddess of the Moselle in her -queenly beauty? Here was one indeed to fight for and to die for, if -necessity arose, thinking oneself blessed for the privilege. Her head -was coroneted by a semi-circular band of gold, encrusted with jewels. -Behind her fair neck the rich profusion of hair was kept in bounds by a -clasp of finely-wrought silver, from which imprisonment it then flowed -unimpeded, the colour of ripened wheat, each thread apparently spun from -the golden beams of the sun itself. It covered her like a mantle, making -even the embroidered splendour of her gown seem poor by comparison. - -To this radiant vision so unexpectedly risen before him, the Emperor -bowed with the slow, lowly deference of a courtier to his monarch, -speechless for the moment through the emotions that stirred within him. - -The girl laughed merrily at his confusion. - -"You must not so critically regard me, my Lord," she said. "My wardrobe -is elsewhere, as you know, and I have been compelled to explore this -grim castle for the wherewithal to attire myself, finding more of coats -of mail than of ladies' adornments, for it is long since feminine vanity -dwelt herein, so I have been compelled to piece out this with that, to -make myself presentable, and I feel like one engaged in a masquerade, -tricking myself out as they tell me the ladies do at some grand function -given by the Emperor at Frankfort." - -"My Lady, the Emperor's Court is lit by candles; I stand now in the -radiance of the sun." - -The lady turned her dancing eyes upon him. - -"If that is a compliment, my Lord, 'tis fit for Frankfort itself; if it -merely refers to the undoubted fact that the sun is shining bravely on -you, and that the Court is dim by comparison, think not you will deter -me from going there, for I should dearly love to witness the pageantry -of the capital." - -"Indeed, Countess, if you fail to do so it will not be through lack of -invitation." - -"When invitation comes I shall eagerly accept it." - -"I sincerely trust you will, my Lady." - -"Perhaps you also will be there, and may not have forgotten me. If I see -you, I shall ask you to point out to a stranger those who are notable." - -"Such is my most devout wish, although I lacked the courage to give -expression to it." - -"But I breathe a warning to you. My uncle tells me you spoke slightingly -of the Emperor last night. I was grieved to hear it, for I am a loyal -subject of his, and were I a man, would draw sword, did any in my -presence allude to the head of the state in other terms than those of -respect." - -"Knowing your pleasure, I shall be careful not to offend again. Still, -in my own defence, I should like to say that I spoke only of faults that -the Emperor himself would be the first to admit. An Emperor should be an -Emperor, and not a nonentity whose wish commands but slight attention." - -The lady drew herself up, a slight frown marring the smoothness of her -brow. - -"You pay little heed to my request, and while professing to comply, -offend the more. A loyal noble would scarce call his Emperor a -nonentity." - -"Look around you, Countess. Here are going forward busy preparations for -war. Does the Count appeal to his over-lord against the suspected -incursion of the Archbishop? 'Twould be grotesque to hint that such a -thought ever occurred to him. Does the Archbishop send an envoy to -Frankfort acquainting the Emperor with his purpose and asking leave to -launch an army against Thuron? Not so. He doffs his clerical vestments -and dons a coat of mail, as mindless of the Emperor as if no such person -existed. Here red-handed war is about to open within a day's journey of -the capital, in the centre of the Emperor's domains, and if he ever -hears of it, 'twill be because some friend tells him. That jumps not -with my idea of the high office." - -"But the Emperor is at the Holy War in foreign lands." - -"Then should he instead stand where I stand, in the midst of the unholy -war in his own land, to stop it or to guide it." - -"If you think thus," said the girl, perplexed at the confident tone of -the young man, and forgetting the censure she had just pronounced upon -him, "why have you left his side? Why do you not say to him what you say -of him to me?" - -"Indeed, my Lady," replied Rodolph with a laugh, "I have but little -influence with his Majesty. Often has he pursued a course that has not -met with my approval, being turned aside from great policies of state by -the sight of a pretty face. You could sway him, Countess, where I should -be helpless. But I know that he has lately met one, who can if she -likes, make a great Emperor of him, should he prove capable of a -distinguished career, so my part in his reformation will count for -little." - -"Then she will do so, of course, and be proud of the opportunity," cried -the Countess, eagerly. - -"Perhaps. Who can tell what a woman may do? It is my earnest hope that -she prove not unwilling." - -"Is she beautiful?" - -"The divinest--yes, she is accounted so." - -In spite of Tekla's enthusiasm for the welfare of her Emperor, the -ardour with which the young man began his eulogy regarding the unknown -lady in question, and the quick suppression of the same, did not escape -her notice, nor did it bring that satisfaction which a moment before -Tekla had anticipated. She turned her eyes from him and allowed them to -wander over the wide and peaceful landscape, whose beauty was so much -enhanced by the winding, placid river. - -Then she said suddenly, obviously apropos of the labouring peasants: - -"We shall be in little danger of starvation in Thuron, unless the siege -be long." - -"I am not so sure of that," replied Rodolph. "I had no supper last -night, and this morning none has said to me 'This is the way to the -dining hall.'" - -"Do you mean that you have not yet breakfasted?" cried Tekla, turning to -him with quick surprised interest. "And I have been standing here -censuring a hungry man. You must think our race a most ungrateful one." - -"I had no such thought. But your mention of starvation reminded me that -I am rather in the condition of a famishing garrison myself." - -"Then come with me at once. I will be your hostess, and will endeavour -to recompense you for the inhospitality of the castle. There is a -delightful balcony overlooking the quiet inner courtyard, and there we -shall spread your repast. Come." - -The Emperor followed her, and presently arrived at the balcony she had -spoken of, overhanging the neglected garden. It was, indeed, a pleasant -spot in so stern a fortress, shut off by heavy velvet hangings from the -apartment out of which it projected and forming thus a little square -room half inside the castle and half in the open air. - -Rodolph sat at the table with the Countess opposite him, while Hilda -waited on them. Tekla chatted as her _vis-à-vis_ broke his long fast. - -"I intend to make this plot of ground my care, and, while all others are -busy fighting for me, I shall be peacefully engaged in gardening. I hope -to interest my aunt in horticulture. Poor woman, she seems to have -little to occupy her mind in this prison, and I fear her husband pays -scant attention to her. Him too I shall cultivate if I get an -opportunity. He has need of civilisation, for he scarce seems to believe -that women have a right to exist, and his wife has for years been so -patient and uncomplaining, that he has been confirmed in his neglect of -her." - -"I have already cautioned my archer this morning not to encroach too -boldly on his Lordship's good nature, which the Count seems to have but -short stock of. May I venture to suggest that the task of reforming him -will be more safely accomplished perhaps when your Ladyship occupies -your strongest castle, with a stout garrison about you?" - -"Have no fear, my Lord. He came to us last night and sat talking to me -as smoothly as if he were the Archbishop himself--in truth, much more -smoothly than the Archbishop has lately spoken. He sat there with his -elbow on the table looking fixedly at me, quite ignoring his wife, who -trembled with fear while he was in the room, and groaned aloud when I -spoke my mind to him on one or two occasions. He said that we two were -the only kin each had and should think much of each other. I told him -frankly I should be pleased to think much of him as soon as I saw -occasion to do so, but that what I had seen of him heretofore had not -made me proud of the kinship. My Lady caught her breath and looked -imploringly at me, but he, frowning, gazed sternly at me, first saying -nothing, then after a long silence muttering: 'I would you were a man,' -'Indeed, uncle,' I replied, 'such was my own wish this afternoon, when, -instead of throwing myself at your feet I might have drawn sword and -taught good manners in Thuron.' Then you should have seen him. His brow -was like midnight, and his eyes blazed. He started up in wrath, and I -little wondered that my Lady moaned and wrung her hands, but I laughed -and returned his look without flinching, although I may confess to you I -was as frightened as when in Cochem. But his frown cleared away, and -something almost resembling a twinkle came into his piercing eyes. I am -sure there was at least the beginning of a smile under his black beard -as he said, quite in kindly tone, 'We are, indeed, relatives, Tekla.' He -placed his hand on my head as if I were a little child, sighed, turned -on his heel and strode away without further farewell. My aunt gazed -wonderingly at me as if I had baited a bear, and had unexpectedly come -forth unscathed." - -"Which is exactly my own opinion. I beg of you not to repeat the -experiment." - -Tekla looked archly at him across the table, with a smile on her face -like the play of sunshine on the fair surface of the river. - -"Why should I repeat it, my Lord? It is only men who do that, and as -your former advice was given to a man, it was of course well placed. A -man always repeats. Oh, I know his formula. First there is the haughty -word; next the sneering reply; then a mounting flush of anger to the -forehead, and hand on the hilt of the sword. It always ends with the -sword, for the men have little patience and less originality. With a -woman it must be different, for she carries no sword, and her ingenuity -is her only weapon. My dark uncle, when he reflects slowly on his -treatment, will come at last to a conclusion regarding what he shall do -when next I laugh at him. But when he visits us again I shall be most -kind to him, and he will learn with amaze how pleasant he finds it when -he acts less like a bear with his women folk. I shall take him to this -balcony and feed him tenderly. Hilda knows the method of preparing some -culinary dainties, which are common enough at Treves, but utterly -unknown at Thuron. On each occasion my dear uncle will find me -different, and whatever plan he prepares for one method of attack, will -be utterly useless when confronted with another. I can see he is an -unready man, and I shall never give him time to build up a line of -defence while he is with me. Oh, if the Archbishop attacks Thuron with -half the skill with which I shall besiege my uncle, then is the castle -doomed. And in the end you shall find that my dark uncle will so dearly -assess me that he will fight for me against a whole house of -Archbishops." - -"I can well believe that," said Rodolph, with undisguised admiration. - -Before Tekla could reply a wild cheer went up from the further -courtyard, echoed by a fainter cheer outside the castle. Rodolph started -to his feet and listened as the acclamations continued. - -"Run, Hilda," cried the Countess. "Find the cause of the outcry and -bring us tidings of it." - -When the girl breathlessly returned she said they were hoisting on the -great southern tower the broad flag of Thuron, and that the people were -cheering as if they were mad, but the cause of it all she could not -learn. - -"The Archbishop's army is very likely in sight," said Rodolph, "although -how that can be, unless Arnold has sent it close on Bertrich's heels, I -cannot understand. Perhaps Bertrich has met it between the castle and -Cochem and has returned with it. Let us go and see." - - - - -CHAPTER XVI. - -THE COUNTESS TRIES TO TAME THE BEAR. - - -Once more Tekla and Rodolph found themselves on the battlements. The -flag hung listless at the top of the pole in the still air, as if the -time for action had not yet arrived. On a hill summit further up the -river another flag was fluttering, and on the other side, still more -distant, a third flag was being slowly raised against the sky. Whether -or not this betokened the coming of the Archbishop, Rodolph could not -determine. The nearer flag seemed to be of the same design as the one -that hung over Thuron; the third flag was too far away to allow its -character to be discerned. The line of peasants winding up from the -river and stretching along the banks had taken up the cheering which -echoed lustily from hill to hill. It was evident that that most -infectious malady, the war spirit, was abroad, for fighting songs, -ringing and truculent, with swinging, inspiring choruses, were being -chanted in the village and along the river. Some rumour or suspicion of -what was going forward had undoubtedly permeated the mass of people -collected within and under shadow of the castle; Rodolph felt the -enthusiasm of coming battle in the air. Yet these people had always been -tyrannised over by the Black Count, and this was probably the first time -he had paid for what he took from them. Nevertheless, they were shouting -for him, and woe betide the man who now raised his voice against him. As -Rodolph looked on in wonderment, the Black Count himself came up the -steps that led to the lofty promenade, and there was a gleam of fierce -delight in his dark eye as he swept it over the animated scene. Some of -the songs sung had evidently not been intended as complimentary to the -Count when they were originally composed, but now the singers had either -forgotten the first import of the words, or had added others that turned -censure into laudation. The burden of the chorus in one of them was "The -Devil is black," a line oft repeated, and ending with a phrase which -betokened the ultimate fate of his sable majesty. Although some -unthinkingly, carried away by the enthusiasm of the occasion, repeated -the old ending, the majority gave the new rendering, which was to the -effect that their devil was more than a match for any other devil in -existence. The Count as he approached the two young people standing by -the parapet, had shaken off much of his habitual gloom, and was even -humming to himself the catching refrain referring to the blackness of -the devil, quite unheeding any personal reference it might contain. - -"Good day to you, my Lord Count," said Rodolph. "You have had little -rest since I last spoke with you. Do the flags on the hill-tops betoken -the coming of Treves?" - -"No, they are my signals, already agreed upon, to let the peasants know -the castle can hold no more. Thuron has had a full meal, and now let -Arnold come on when he pleases: we are ready for him." - -"Shall you not follow the castle's example, uncle?" said Tekla. "You -must be both tired and hungry I have a meal in preparation for you." - -"Hungry always; tired never. The loss of one night's sleep is nothing to -me. If it were ten I might wrap my coat about me and look for a corner -to lie down in. I shall eat with my men in the great hall, child, so -never depend upon me for a table companion, but dine when and where it -pleases you. I place few restrictions upon those within these walls, and -suffer none at all to bind myself. Go therefore to your apartments; the -ramparts are for men-at-arms and not for women. I wish to have some -words with this gentleman." - -"Nay, but uncle," pleaded Tekla, in a pretty tone of entreaty, placing -her small white hand on his gigantic stalwart arm, "I have appointed -myself caterer of the castle and must not have my housewifely arts so -slighted by the chief thereof." - -"Uncle me not so frequently," he cried, with rude impatience, trying to -shake off her hand; but it clung there like a snowflake against a piece -of rock. "I am rarely in the humour for pretty phrases. I am not a man -of words, but a man of action." - -"Then, mine only uncle, as you yourself reminded me last night, come and -show yourself a man of action against the meal I shall prepare for you." - -Black Heinrich glanced helplessly at Rodolph with so much of comic -discomfiture that the young man had some ado to keep his countenance. - -"If I had a score of uncles," continued Tekla. "I might lavish my -kindness on them one after another; as I have but one he must be patient -with me, and take to my civilising influence with the best grace he may. -You will come then when I send for you?" - -"Well, well," said the Count gruffly, so that his giving way might -attract the less notice, "if you leave us now, I will go." - -When Tekla had departed and the two men were left alone together, -Rodolph was the first to speak. - -"I know not what you have to say to me, my Lord Count, but I have -something to say to you. Last night you told me I was not a prisoner, -yet was I treated like one when I left you. I protested against being -barred in, and was informed that when you ordered a guest to the round -chamber, the bolting was included in the hospitality. I should like, -therefore, to know what my standing is in this castle. Am I a prisoner -at night, and a free man during the day, or what?" - -"It is on that subject that I wish to speak with you," said the Black -Count. "We were in a mixed company last night, and it was not convenient -for me to enter into explanations, which I propose now to do. I am -still in some ignorance concerning your part in this flight from Treves. -Perhaps you will first tell me exactly who you are, what is your -quality, and where your estates lie, if you have any?" - -Rodolph had anticipated such inquiry and had thought deeply how he -should answer when it was propounded. He had come to the conclusion that -there would be great danger in making full confession to the Black -Count, known far and near as a ruthless marauder, who, but for the -strength and practically unassailable position of his castle, would have -been laid by the heels long before, if not by Emperor or Archbishop, or -surrounding nobles, by the banded merchants on whom he levied relentless -tribute. To put such a man in possession of the fact that he had in his -power the Emperor of all the land, was to take a leap into a chasm, the -bottom of which no eye could see. With such an important hostage what -might not the ambition of the Black Count tempt him to do? No friend -that Rodolph possessed had the slightest hint of the Emperor's position. -It would be as difficult for him to get out of Thuron without its -owner's permission, as it was like to prove for the Archbishop to get -in. The Black Count was surrounded by daring and reckless men, to whom -his word was law, and it was not probable that, in case of need, Rodolph -could hold his sword aloft and shout 'The Emperor,' with any hope that a -single warrior would rally to his side. He had learned much in his short -journey through his own domains. He found that where his own title had -no magic in its sound, the cry of 'The Archbishop,' had placed an army -at his command, and had turned the tide of battle that had threatened to -overwhelm him at Bruttig. If then he ever hoped to make the name of the -Emperor as potent a spell, he must, until he reached Frankfort again, -keep his identity a secret. Therefore he fell back on the old fiction -that he was a silk merchant at Frankfort, in support of which he had a -passport to show. - -"My Lord Count, this passport will tell you my name and quality, and -will also give reason for my journey from Frankfort to Treves, at which -latter place, through an entirely unexpected series of circumstances, I -came to lend aid to your niece in her escape from Arnold's stronghold. -Until I arrived in Treves a few short days ago I had never heard of the -lady. I am, as you will see by the parchment you hold in your hand, a -silk merchant of Frankfort, who journeyed to Treves with a friend, to -discover there the prospect of trade." - -"A merchant!" cried Heinrich, frowning, and making no effort to conceal -the contempt in which he held such a calling. "I understood you to say -last night that you were noble, and laid claim to the title of lord." - -"I am as noble as yourself, my Lord Count, although not so renowned. -Many of us in these times of peace have taken to trade, and yet are none -the less ready to maintain our nobility at the point of the sword, -should our title be called into question. Indeed I have heard that you -yourself have on various occasions engaged in traffic of silk and other -merchandise which passes your doors, and have become rich by such -dealing. The only difference between you and me as traders is that I -make less profit in the transaction than you do, as I am compelled to -pay for the goods I resell." - -Heinrich bent his lowering brow over the parchment he held in his hand, -but whether it conveyed any meaning to his mind or not, Rodolph was -unable to conjecture. There was, for some moments, silence between them, -then the Count spoke: - -"Are you a rich merchant?" - -"I am not poor." - -"You have had a hand in bringing me to the pass I find myself in, it is -but right then that you should see me out, or further in; but right or -wrong it is my intention to hold you, and if disaster comes, I shall -make you bear some share in it. It is useless for me to demand ransom -for you now, because if the Archbishop knock down my house he will lay -hands on whatever treasure lies therein. When we come to an end of the -siege then I shall compound with you on terms that may seem to me just -or otherwise, depending in a measure on how you hereafter comport -yourself. If you give me your word of honour that you will make no -attempt to leave the castle without my permission, then I will accept it -as you accepted mine yesterday, and you shall be as free as any man -within the castle. If you will not give me your word then you are -prisoner, and shall be treated as such; in fact, I have some men-at-arms -within call who will at once convey you to the round chamber, there to -rest until my contest with the Archbishop is decided." - -"Then, my Lord, is your word of little value, for you promised that I -should be free to pursue my way to Frankfort in the morning if the -archer spared you." - -"Not so. I promised you your life." - -"Very well. We shall have no argument about it. I give you my word, and -I swear to keep it as faithfully as you have kept yours." - -Heinrich looked sternly at his guest with a suspicious expression which -seemed to say: "Now what devilish double meaning is there in that?" - -Up from the outside of the walls came the chorus "The Devil is black," -and Rodolph smiled as the refrain broke the stillness. - -"Do you mean to impugn my word?" Heinrich said aloud. - -"Nothing is further from my intention. I mean to emulate it. It is my -ambition to keep my word as fully as you keep yours, and you can ask no -better guarantee than that, can you? The truth is I am as anxious to see -the outcome of this contest as you are, and I intend to be in the thick -of it. If you imprison me, the chances are that you will thrust bolt on -the only man of brains in the place, not excepting your august self, for -although you may be a stubborn fighter, I doubt if you know much of -strategy, or can see far ahead of your prominent nose. So, my Lord, you -may act as best pleases you, and call up all the men-at-arms in the -castle, if their presence comforts you. If you trust me, I may, at a -critical moment, be of vast assistance to you. It is even possible that -should the Archbishop press you too closely, I may, by slipping out of -Thuron, make way through his camp and, gathering my own men, fall on him -unexpectedly from behind, thus confusing your foe. If you choose to -treat me as a prisoner, then do you put your wits against mine, and you -will wake up some morning to find three of your best men gone. So, my -Lord, ponder on that, and lay what course you choose." - -It was plain that the unready Count was baffled by the free and easy -manner in which the other addressed him. The same feeling of mental -inferiority which he had felt in Rodolph's presence the night before, -again came over him, and, while it angered him, his caution whispered -the suggestion that here was a possible ally who might in stress prove -most valuable. Never had Heinrich met one apparently helpless, who -seemed so careless what his jailer might think or do. The Count wished -he had braved the archer's shaft, taken the risk of it, and hanged this -man out of hand. However, it was too late to think of that now, and he -asked, keeping control of his rising temper: - -"How many men answer to your call?" - -"Enough to make the Archbishop prefer, at any time, that they be not -thrown in the scale against him. More than enough when he faces so -doughty and brave a warrior as the devil of Thuron, regarding whose -colour and fate those peasants outside are chanting." - -"I take your word," cried Heinrich, with sudden impetuousness. "I -should, of course, allow you to go free to Frankfort, but I beg of you -to remain with me. I ask you not to leave until you have consulted with -me, but, excepting that condition, you are as free of the castle as I -am." - -"Spoken like a true nobleman, and on such basis we shall have no fault -to find with each other. And now I request your permission to send a -messenger at once to Treves." - -"To Treves!" cried the Black Count, the old look of fierce suspicion -coming again into his piercing eyes. "Why to Treves? The archer wants to -go to Treves. You want to send to Treves. It is nothing but Treves, -Treves, Treves, till I am sick of the name. Why to Treves?" - -"It is a very simple matter, my Lord Count. I told you I came from -Frankfort with a friend. I also informed you that I took this journey -down the Moselle most unexpectedly. My friend, who distrusts the -Archbishop as much as you distrust him, and more if that be possible, is -now in Treves not knowing what has become of me. He will imagine that -the Archbishop has me by the heels, and may get himself into trouble by -attempting my liberation. I wish, therefore, to get word to him of my -whereabouts, not only that his just anxiety may be relieved, but also -that if we are hard pressed, he may come to our timely rescue." - -"If we are to trust each other, I must have fuller knowledge. Who is -your friend?" - -"The Baron von Brunfels." - -"What? Siegfried von Brunfels of the Rhine? The friend of the Emperor?" - -"The same." - -"He has enough retainers of his own to raise the siege of Thuron if he -wished to do so." - -"That is true. All the more reason then that he should be acquainted -with the fact that his friend is here, for, from what I have heard him -say of you, he would never stir a man through love of Heinrich of -Thuron." - -"If Baron von Brunfels is your friend, you are no merchant." - -"Indeed, I have often thought so; for I make some amazingly bad -bargains." - -"Should the Archbishop and his men come on, it will not be possible for -a single horseman to get through to Treves. I do not wish to lose the -archer, nor can I spare one of my own men. Do you intend yourself to go -to Treves." - -"No. Neither do I desire to lose the archer, even though he should bring -back his equal with the bow, which would be his purpose in setting out. -He has a friend, he says, who excels him in skill, although that I -doubt. I desire to send my own man, Conrad, who knows Treves, and who -was in the employ of the Baron. He will win his way through if any one -can, and may bring the other archer back with him. Besides, there is a -chance that the crafty Arnold is not yet on the move, and it would be -interesting to learn something of what is going on in Treves, and what -happened when the valiant Count Bertrich returned to his master. This, -Conrad can discover much more effectually than the archer, for he is -intelligent, and loves not the sound of his own voice as does our -bowman. Conrad is a listener rather than a talker; I cannot say the same -for the skilful arrow-maker." - -In deep doubt Black Heinrich stood gazing on the stones at his feet. He -was outmanoeuvred, yet knew not how to help himself. Full authority was -his, yet the control of affairs seemed slipping from his grasp. He had -not entertained the slightest intention of allowing any one from the -castle to depart for Treves, yet here he felt he was about to consent. -He chafed at the turn things had taken, but knew not how to amend them. -If he refused permission to everything proposed, he feared he might be -making a fool of himself, and acting against his own interests, and -worse, that the cool confident young man would know he was making a fool -of himself, and despise him accordingly; still, he was loath to allow -even the semblance of power to pass away from him. - -"I like not this traffic with Treves," he said, at last. - -"Nor do I. Still I am determined in some fashion to let Brunfels know -where I am. Further than that I shall tell him nothing, if such -knowledge is against your wish; but if you give your consent I shall ask -him to keep an eye on this siege; and if, as is very likely, you beat -off Arnold, he is not to interfere, but if you are getting the worst of -it, there is little harm in having a friend outside on whom we can, in -emergency, call. It all rests with you, my Lord; I merely make -suggestions, and if they do not jump with your liking then they are of -little value. Your experience is greater than mine, and your courage is -unquestioned. A man less brave might hesitate to lay plans for -emergencies, but with you it is different. Therefore you have but to -command and I shall obey. I shall send word to Brunfels of my own safety -to relieve his anxiety, and I shall ask him to keep an eye on the siege -if you care to have me do so. It can at least bring us no harm." - -The Count looked at the speaker with an expression in which distrust -seemed to be fighting with gratification. There was at first a lurking -fear that the young man was trifling with him, but the other's serene -countenance gave no indication of lack of earnestness, and Heinrich's -own self-esteem was so great that no praise of his courage could seem to -him overdrawn. When all suspicion of Rodolph's good faith had been -allayed, he said, heartily: - -"Send what message you will to the Baron. We may be none the worse for a -stroke from him at the right time." - -With that the Count strode away, and Rodolph gave his instructions to -Conrad, watching him ride from the gates in the direction of the -Frankfort road, with the passport of the silk merchant in his pocket. - - - - -CHAPTER XVII. - -THE ENVOY'S DISASTROUS RETURN. - - -The sun rose and set, and rose and set again, before news came to Castle -Thuron. There was no sign of an enemy; the Moselle valley, as seen from -the round towers, seemed a very picture of peace. During these two days -the air was still, the flag drooped, unfluttering, from its staff, and -the sun shone warmly in the serene heavens. Yet there was something -ominous in the silence, and each person in the castle felt, more or -less, the tension of the time. Black Heinrich scanned the distance from -the battlements with growing impatience, for, like all men of action, he -chafed at the delay and was eager for the fight to come on, even should -it prove disastrous to him. Anything seemed better than this newsless -waiting. The huge gates were never opened; in fact, it was now -impossible to open them, for the outer courtyard was partly filled with -sacks of grain and butts of wine, which were piled in a great heap -against the two leaves of the gate, and any one desiring to depart from -the castle had to climb down from the platform over the gates by a -ladder resting there, which could be pulled up at any moment's notice. -The two days were a most enjoyable interval for Rodolph, who spent much -of his time, in ever increasing delight, with the Countess Tekla. Yet -there was an alloy in his happiness. He felt that he was not wise in -lingering in Thuron, which at any moment might prove a trap from which -escape was impossible, either through the Count learning who he actually -was, and thereupon imprisoning him to make the most of his detention, or -through the sudden beleaguering of the castle by forces from Treves. -His confidence that Conrad would reach his friend in the house by the -city wall quieted his conscience, which with some persistence was -telling him that he neglected duty and high affairs of state, all for -the sake of spending the golden hours with a fascinating girl of -nineteen. - -But these qualms left him when in her presence, and as he spent much of -his time with her, there was little chance for his conscience to work a -reformation. He consoled himself with the reflection that a man can be -young but once, and there was probably a long life before him which he -could energetically devote to the service of his country. He knew that -Baron von Brunfels would carry out faithfully his instructions in -Frankfort, and if the Emperor's presence became necessary there, he -would bring on a force that neither the Archbishop nor Black Heinrich -could cope with, did either attempt to detain him against his will. He -had unlimited faith in Brunfels' judgment, and thus he lulled -disquieting thought. Nevertheless he knew that his place was at -Frankfort and not in Thuron, where, if the turbulent Archbishop moved an -armed man without his sovereign's consent, that sovereign could emerge -from the capital at the head of the German army and bid the haughty -prelate back to Treves; yet prudence told him such a course might plunge -the country into civil war, for he knew not the exact military strength -of the Archbishop, and was well aware that his own army should be -considerably augmented before it undertook so hazardous a commission, -for nothing short of overwhelming force might overawe the fighting Lord -of Treves. In truth it was to see for himself what manner of man the -Archbishop was, and to form some estimate of the forces at his back, -that the secret journey to Treves had been taken, now so strangely -deflected from its original purpose. Both the Emperor and von Brunfels -believed that the present strength of the army at Frankfort was not -sufficient to cope with the battalions of Treves, especially if the -Archbishops of Cologne and Mayence made common cause with their brother -in the West--an eventuality not at all improbable. The first step then, -should be the return of the Emperor to his capital, to be followed by a -quiet increase of the imperial army until it reached such strength that -no combination could prevail against it. Rodolph knew his duty, yet -silken fetters held him from action. Had he been certain of the -sentiments of Tekla regarding himself he would have spoken to her, -without revealing his identity, and then might perhaps have made -arrangement with her uncle by which he could proceed to Frankfort, but -although the events of a lifetime had been compressed within the last -week, yet he could not conceal from himself the fact that the Countess -had known him for three or four days only, and he felt that to speak to -her at the present moment would be premature. Of course it was quite -within his right to assume his place at the head of the state once more, -and demand the lady, in which case neither her guardian nor the Count -would dare refuse, nor would one of them be the least likely to refuse, -for Black Heinrich was not the man to underestimate the qualification of -relationship with an Empress. But the Emperor was in no mind to follow -the example of Count Bertrich, and accept an unwilling wife. - -He set before himself the enticing task of winning the lady as a -nameless lord, letting her imagine that he was perhaps not her equal in -station or fortune, and then, when consent had been willingly gained, to -demand her from his throne, allowing himself to dwell with pleasure on -her amazement at learning that her Emperor and her lover were one and -the same person. - -But there was savage news in store for him, and for all within Castle -Thuron; news that made his rosy dreams dissolve as the light river mists -dissolve before the fierce midsummer sun. On the evening of the third -day after Conrad's departure, an unkempt, tattered figure staggered from -the forest and came tottering towards the gate of the castle. The -archer, on duty above the gate, drew string to ear and ordered the -fugitive to halt and explain himself. The forlorn man raised his hands -above his head, gave a despairing upward look, took two faltering steps -forward and fell prone on his face, as the bowman relaxing his weapon, -and peering eagerly forward, cried aloud: - -"My God, it is Conrad!" - -Then instantly forgetting his duty as guardian of the gate, he dropped -bow and sprang down the ladder, running to his fallen comrade. The news -spread through the castle with marvellous rapidity, and the Black Count -and Rodolph were on the battlements above the gate before the archer and -some of the garrison had hoisted the insensible man up the ladder. - -"Take him to the great hall; he is wounded and seems famished as well. -Perhaps a cup of wine will revive him; meanwhile keep strict watch on -the gate; those who have pursued him cannot be far distant. Draw up the -ladder and man the battlements, Steinmetz." - -The Captain at once gave the necessary commands, while those who had -rescued Conrad carried him to the great hall and laid him on a bench. -His clothes were in rags, and his face gaunt from fatigue or want. As -Heinrich had suggested, a cup of wine held to his lips revived him, and, -opening his eyes, he glanced at Rodolph and gasped: - -"We are completely surrounded, my Lord." - -"Impossible!" cried Rodolph. "The Archbishop could never have moved his -troops so quickly." - -The Black Count said nothing, but scowled down on the wounded man, whose -garments the leech was removing in order to apply ointment to wounds -evidently caused by shafts from the crossbow. John Surrey looked on -these wounds with a lofty contempt, muttering: - -"If I had drawn string at him there would be fewer hurts, but he would -not be here to tell what happened." - -Conrad drank a full flagon of wine, which revived him sufficiently to -enable him to tell his adventures. He had directed his horse towards the -Roman road between Frankfort and Treves, but on approaching it saw -troops. Turning back he proceeded further west, but came again upon -armed men. In neither case was he himself seen. Retracing his way, he -tried to pass to the west, nearer to the river, but there also he found -an encampment. Surmising now that the wide space between the Roman road -and the Moselle was in the Archbishop's hands, and that there was no -chance of penetrating towards Treves in that direction, he resolved to -make for Frankfort itself, get to the south of the Roman road, and reach -Treves round about, through the great forest. To his amazement here also -he saw portions of the army, and it began to dawn upon him that the -castle was environed, at least on the south. He now determined to make -no more attempts to break the circle, but return to Thuron and report -the alarming situation he had discovered. In journeying through the -forest towards the castle he came unexpectedly upon a camp, and there, -for the first time, was seen by the enemy. He tried flight, but a -crossbow bolt brought down his horse and resulted in his capture. It -never occurred to those who held him prisoner, that he had come from -Thuron; in fact they readily believed he was, what his passport -proclaimed him, a merchant from Frankfort who was trying to reach -Treves. They assured him that such a journey was impossible at the -present moment, but said he could get through unmolested when the troops -had drawn closer round Thuron. They kept him merely a nominal prisoner, -paid little attention to him, and talked freely before him, having no -suspicion that he belonged to the castle. Nothing was said of the flight -of the Countess Tekla, and he surmised from this that her sudden -departure was unknown. It was believed that the investment of Thuron had -been projected for a long time, and that the Archbishop had struck thus -suddenly to take the Black Count unaware. From the fact that the troops -had been sent along the Roman road in detachments, Conrad inferred that -they were there when Count Bertrich had flung his glove on the floor of -Thuron. In like manner part of an army had been sent down the river to -Cochem, and from that place had pushed round the castle on the north -side of the stream until they saw their comrades on the other shore, -while between the two camps a chain had been stretched and all traffic -up and down the river stopped. But the most startling part of Conrad's -budget was this. The Archbishop of Cologne had come through the Eifel -region to Treves and had joined hands with his colleague, Arnold von -Isenberg. Troops were then marching up the Rhine from Cologne, and the -two Electors had made common cause regarding the reduction of Thuron. -The army of Treves had surrounded the castle, and would draw closer the -moment the army of Cologne arrived. It was supposed that the speedy -environment of the place was to prevent the Black Count and his company -from escaping to the Rhine or to Frankfort. Conrad learned all this on -the evening of the first day, and, watching his opportunity, made his -escape, but was seen by the guards, whose bolts came near to making an -end of him. For two nights and two days he wandered without food in the -forest, not knowing his whereabouts, and following streams which he -expected would lead him to the Moselle, but was often forced to abandon -them because of the hostile parties encamped near their waters, and thus -at last he had reached Thuron. - -The Emperor listened to this recital, appalled at the position in which -he found himself. With the two Archbishops besieging the castle, there -would be small chance of his reaching Frankfort, and as the ultimate -reduction of the castle was now certain, he would find himself the -prisoner of his two turbulent and powerful subjects, Treves and Cologne, -confronted with the problem of whether he preferred being hanged as an -accomplice of the dark marauder who stood by his side, or revealing his -identity and taking what chance might offer when the knowledge was thus -brought to the Archbishops. Meanwhile his friend, Baron von Brunfels, -would not have the slightest inkling of his whereabouts, and if the -disappearance of the Countess was thus kept secret, as seemed to be the -intention of Arnold and Count Bertrich, Brunfels would not be able to -hazard even a guess. However, there was this consolation, that at no -time could he have escaped from Thuron. He was in effect trapped the -moment he set foot within its gates. Had he, with the Countess, set out -the following morning for Frankfort they would evidently have been -intercepted by the Archbishop's troops, and had he alone attempted to -reach his capital the same fate would have been in store for him. His -only regret now was that von Brunfels must remain in ignorance of his -position, but, as he had done his best to remedy that, he could only -blame fate for its unkindness to him. - -The Black Count listened in sombre taciturnity to Conrad's record and -spoke no word when it was finished, but stood there in deep thought, his -eyes on the floor. Rodolph was the first to break the ensuing silence. - -"You see, my Lord Count, the case stands as I expected. It was Arnold's -intention to have besieged you, and he has craftily entered into -negotiations with Cologne, doubtless fearing to attack you alone. This -scheme has been some time in concocting, and the flight of the Countess, -so far from bringing on the contest, has merely given you bare time for -preparation." - -Heinrich gave utterance to an exclamation which can be designated only -by the inelegant term, grunt. It was his favourite method of expression -when perturbed. He did not raise his eyes from the floor, nor did he -reply. - -"The fact that two Archbishops instead of one do you the honour to -besiege you should really not have much bearing on the result. I doubt -if they can carry the castle by storm, so their numbers are of little -avail to them. They can but starve you, and that one Archbishop could -have done as well as two. I suppose you have at least a year's provision -now in the vaults?" - -"Two years," answered the Black Count, gruffly. "I shall turn out of the -castle all but fighting men. Not an extra mouth shall remain within the -walls." - -"You surely do not intend to turn the Countess Tekla and your own -Countess from Thuron?" cried Rodolph in alarm. - -Heinrich looked sullenly at him for some moments, and then said: - -"No. Neither do I care to be questioned, and, least of all, interfered -with. You see how much your precious scheme for informing Baron von -Brunfels is worth, therefore be not so forward with advice or comment." - -"I beg to call your Lordship's attention to the fact," said Rodolph, -with cool firmness, "that my precious scheme has informed you of the -odds against you. You may take the knowledge with the petulance of a -woman or the courage of a man, as best befits you. A gloomy brow never -yet encouraged beleaguered garrison. If you hold off this pair of -prelates with their armies for a year or more, then will your name be -renowned in song and story wherever brave deeds are valued, and the two -Archbishops will become the laughing stock of Christendom. By my good -sword, the carvers of the Black Forest shall make wooden figures of them -butting their twin heads against Thuron, and the children of the world -from now till doomsday will pull a string to see them jump. 'As foolish -and as futile as the two Archbishops' will pass into a proverb, or -perhaps it will be 'As brave as Heinrich of Thuron.' You have indeed an -opportunity which falls to but few, if you meet it with unwrinkled -brow." - -The Count's countenance had perceptibly cleared while this recital was -going on, but he made no direct reply, merely telling the attendants to -convey Conrad to a room and see that he was well cared for. Then he -asked that Captain Steinmetz be brought before him, and when that ruddy, -uncomely officer entered, he said: - -"Have you disposed your men along the walls?" - -"Yes, my Lord." - -"Are any of the Archbishop's troops yet in sight?" - -"No, my Lord." - -"Send a trusty man to Alken, and tell the dwellers therein that we are -to be besieged by the Archbishops of Treves and Cologne. Ask them to -spread the news along either bank of the river with these instructions, -that all are to make the best terms with the Archbishops they can; to -sell their provisions and wine for the most money obtainable, preferring -the gold to their Lordships' blessings, if they take my advice. Tell -them I shall look out for myself, but that I cannot offer protection to -any outside the castle walls; therefore, I shall in future, if -victorious, not hold it against any man that he has saved his skin, or -his grain, or his wine, by denouncing me. Make all arrangement for the -women folk and very old men who are now in the castle. Pay for a year's -keep of each of them, and say that if more money is required I shall see -they get it. Marshal the non-combatants over the wall and down the -ladders as quickly as may be, and if any have friends in the village -with whom they prefer to lodge, arrange it to their satisfaction." - -"All the women, my Lord?" cried Steinmetz, in astonishment. - -"All the women in the castle, with the exception of my wife and my -niece, and all the old men incapable of bearing arms." - -Steinmetz hesitated, yet seemed incapable of protest. - -"Well!" roared the Black Count. - -"There will be grumbling among the men, my Lord." - -Heinrich brought his huge fist down on the table with a resounding -blow. - -"Bring me the head of the first man who grumbles. Go and execute your -orders, send the women away at once, and they will the sooner make terms -with their innkeepers." - -Steinmetz departed, and the Black Count strode up and down the room, -muttering to himself and scowling like a demon. Rodolph saw he was not -in a humour to be remonstrated with, and so said nothing; indeed he -understood the military necessity of the apparently harsh measures the -Count proposed in deporting from the castle all those who were not -necessary to its defence, yet who would likely come to no ill through -leaving the fortress. For a long time there was silence in the room, -broken only by the Count's measured stride on the oaken floor, in the -centre of which Count Bertrich's glove lay pinned with arrows. Rodolph -himself was in no pleasant temper, and he looked ahead with some dismay -toward imprisonment in a castle which was commanded by so rude and -disagreeable a person as the swarthy Count. The archer stood guard at -the door, having been set there by the Count's command when Steinmetz's -men took their places on the walls. Rodolph wished that he might go to -the entrance and talk with the good-natured bowman as an antidote to the -gruffness of the Count, whom he found becoming more and more unbearable. -There had been moments when he thought the Count might be won over by -judicious flattery and soothing compliments, but as he learned more of -his temperament he saw that all this had but a transient effect upon -him; that, indeed, the Count resented any superior readiness shown by -others in conversation; and, in addition, had a nature so suspicious -that after having had time to think on what had been said, he became -more intractable than ever, evidently coming to the conclusion that the -wheedling phrases used to him had been spoken for the purpose of -mollifying him and attaining certain ends, all of which he resented. - -Presently Rodolph was startled from his reverie by the entrance of the -Countess Tekla, accompanied by Hilda, who was weeping. A rich colour -mantled the cheeks of the Countess, and it needed no second glance to -see that she was in a state of angry indignation. Rodolph, remembering -that she expected to civilise her uncle, began to have doubts of her -success. Heinrich stopped in his walk when she came in, and glared -blackly at her but without speaking. - -"Oh, uncle, uncle!" cried Tekla, her voice showing she was nearer tears -than the haughty expression of her face indicated, "you surely cannot -intend that Hilda and I are to be separated, and that she, a stranger to -all here and in Alken, is to be taken to the village?" - -"I will have no interference with my orders, Tekla--not from any one." - -"But one person more or less can make no difference in the result of the -siege. If you think it will, give Hilda and me a single share of food -between us, but do not send her away." - -The Black Count with almost inarticulate rage at this crossing of his -will, beat the table with his fist repeatedly, but seemed unable to -speak. He stuttered, with white foam flecking his lips and his black -beard. Rodolph edged nearer the Countess, and in a whisper begged her to -go away; that unexpected tidings seemed to have for the moment overcome -the Count's self-control. - -"But they are waiting outside to take Hilda with them. They will seize -her unless the order is countermanded," cried the Countess. - -"It is war, you fool!" at last roared the Count. "If I have another word -from you, huzzy! I shall send you also with your Treves trollop; a fine -to-do about a menial like her! And from you, who are the cause of all -our trouble." - -"You know that is a lie," said Rodolph, quietly. - -The Count turned on the young man with an expression like that of a -ravenous wolf; his jaw dropped, showing his white teeth against the jet -black of his beard. He seemed about to spring at Rodolph's throat, but -his wild eye, wandering to the door, saw the dreaded archer on the -alert, watching with absorbed interest the loud-talking group in the -centre of the room. His weapon seemed itself on the alert, and there was -enough of sanity somewhere in the Count's brain to bid him pause in his -projected onslaught. But the fact that he had to check himself added -fuel to his anger. - -"Get you out of this!" he shrieked; "all of you. I am master of this -castle, and none breathes herein but by my permission, man or woman. -Whoever questions my authority by word or look, dies. Now, out with -you!" - -Before any could move Steinmetz strode into the hall, holding by the -hair a human head lopped off at the neck, raggedly, the red drops -falling on the floor as he walked. - -"There, my Lord," he said, holding up the ghastly trophy at arm's -length, while he cast a malignant leer at Rodolph, who involuntarily -shrank from the hideous object. Even the Black Count himself seemed -taken aback by the sudden apparition that confronted him. - -"What ... what is that?" he stammered. - -"The head of the first man who grumbled at your command about the women, -my Lord. I obeyed your orders and struck off his head." - -Rodolph, pale as the dead face, stepped hurriedly between it and the -Countess, but not in time to prevent her getting sight of it. She raised -a terrified scream that rang to the rafters and covered her eyes with -her hands, tottering backwards, while Hilda implored her to withdraw, -saying she would go anywhere the Count ordered, and begged her mistress -not to cross him. Rodolph sprang quickly to the side of the Countess and -supported her. The scream once more aroused the tigerous anger of her -uncle. His eyes shot fire as he shouted: - -"You did right, Steinmetz, and I am glad there is one man in the castle -who obeys the master of it unquestioning. It is war!" and as with -increased violence the Black Count roared these words, he smote the -grinning head with his gigantic paw and sent it spinning along the floor -like a round projectile from a catapult. - -"It is not war, it is murder!" wailed the Countess. "There is a curse on -this doomed roof, and it shall fall in deserved ruin." - -"Hush, hush," whispered Rodolph in her ear. "Bend to the storm; nothing -can be done with him now." - -"I am going with Hilda; I am going with Hilda. I care not where, so long -as it is away from Thuron." - -"No, no. Hilda will be safe enough, while you are not, outside those -walls. Let me conduct you to your apartments, and I will be surety that -you shall see Hilda shortly. For her sake as well as your own, bend to -the storm. Don't you see you are dealing with a madman?" - -Count Heinrich stood watching them, laughing in short snarling harsh -snatches that did indeed resemble the ejaculations of a lunatic, but he -made no attempt to interfere with them. Hilda, thoroughly hysterical -through fear, leaving her mistress in the care of Rodolph, had flung -herself at the feet of the Count, beseeching him to deal with her as he -pleased, saying she would go anywhere he ordered her to go, and in the -same breath imploring him not to be harsh with her mistress. - -"Take her away, Steinmetz," commanded Heinrich, spurning her with his -foot. "Send her down to the village." - -The Captain, grasping her wrist, jerked her rudely to her feet, pushed -past Rodolph and the Countess, dragging the girl out with him. The -Countess seemed again about to protest, pausing in her progress, but the -young man urged her towards the door, still counselling silence. - -"Shall I pin him to the wall?" whispered the archer, who had been -watching the scene with wide open eyes, his fingers twitching for the -string, on tension for any sign from his master that might be -constructed into permission to launch a shaft. "It seems high time." - -"No," said Rodolph, sternly. "Keep true guard where you stand. See -nothing, and say nothing." - -Man and woman disappeared, leaving the archer murmuring that he wished -his master had some courage. The Black Count now alone, except for the -silent archer at the door, resumed his walk up and down, first savagely -kicking the decapitated head from his path. - - - - -CHAPTER XVIII. - -A TWO-HANDED SWORD TEACHES DEPORTMENT. - - -The archer on guard in the Rittersaal stood with his back to the -doorway, bow ready to hand, his mouth pursed as if he were silently -whistling, his eyes upraised to the ceiling, seeing nothing and saying -nothing, as had been his orders. There was a look of seraphic calm on -his face, as if he had never spent a more enjoyable half-hour than that -which had just so tumultuously terminated. - -In a short time the heavy curtains that concealed the entrance to the -room parted, and the Emperor reentered alone. His face was pale and his -lips were tightly drawn. The Count stopped in his walk at the further -end of the room, and turned to face the incomer. - -"Well, my Lord," he said, a savage leer of triumph in his red eyes, "you -have seen, I hope, who is master of this castle. There have been -indications that you supposed I was to be cajoled by flattery into -relaxing my authority; but we shall have no more of that, I trust, and -there will hereafter be no question regarding whose will is law within -these walls." - -"On the contrary, Count of Thuron," said Rodolph, with deferential -smoothness, "it is that very question I now propose to discuss with -you." - -"I will have no more discussion," cried the Count, his anger returning. -"There shall be nothing but the giving of orders here and the prompt -obedience of them." - -"Ah, in that I quite follow your Lordship, and have great pleasure for -once in agreeing entirely with the valiant Count of the lower Moselle. -Archer, close the doors and bar them." - -The archer, a smile coming into his cherubic face, dived behind the -hangings and disappeared. - -"Hold!" roared the Count. "Stand to your guard, and obey no orders but -mine." - -There came from behind the curtains the clanking sound of the two heavy -oaken leaves clashing together, then the shooting of bolts and the -down-coming of the weighty timber bar, capable of standing almost any -assault likely to be made against them. Again the rich hangings parted -and the archer stood once more before them, his eyes on the ceiling and -lips prepared to whistle. - -"Do you mean to defy me in my own hall of Thuron?" said the Count, in -low, threatening tones, glaring luridly from under his bushy black brows -at his opponent. - -"Oh, defiance is a cheap commodity, and I have heard much of it since I -entered this castle. Of ranting and of shouting I have had enough. I -propose now to see what capable action is at the back of all this -plenitude of wind." - -The wall to the right was covered with many weapons and hung with -armour. The Emperor took down a huge two-handed sword, similar to the -terrific weapon Beilstein's captain had used so futilely against him at -Bruttig. He held it in both hands and seemed to estimate the weight of -it, shaking it before him. Then with the point of this sword placed -under a similar weapon that hung against the wall, he flipped it from -its fastenings and sent it, with ringing clangor, to the floor almost at -the feet of the Black Count, who stood with folded arms and face like a -thunder cloud, watching the movements of the younger man. He was -swordsman enough to know that the very manner in which Rodolph handled -the weapon to estimate its weight and balance, proved him an adversary -not to be lightly encountered. He made no motion to lift the blade at -his feet. - -"Is this, then, to be a duel at which no witnesses of mine are -present?" - -"It is no duel," cried Rodolph, his control over himself for the moment -dissolving in the white heat of his continued anger. "It is to be the -chastisement of a craven hound. Not a single honourable wound shall I -inflict upon you. You shall either kill me, or I will punish you as a -cowardly dog is punished. Up with your sword, courageous frightener of -women, up with your sword, and let us see what it will do for you." - -The archer, breathing hard, had difficulty in fixing his eyes on the -ceiling, and in endeavouring to conceal his excitement he began actually -to whistle, the infectious refrain, "The devil is black," coming to his -lips, and disturbing rather than breaking the silence which followed -Rodolph's words. The Count still did not bend his back, but stood there -with his arms across his breast. The whistling turned his attention to -the door. The Emperor looked round, annoyed at the interruption, -whereupon the refrain suddenly ceased, and the bowman's eyes again -sought the ceiling. - -"I understand," said the Black Count slowly. "It is a most admirable -arrangement. When I have you at my mercy your follower there is ready to -turn your defeat into a victory by sending shaft through my body; -assassination beautifully planned under the guise of fair fight." - -"Archer," commanded Rodolph, "unbar again the door and place bow and -arrows outside, then fasten bolts once more." - -"My Lord," demurred Surrey, "that will arrest attention and lead to -interference, which is doubtless what his Darkness desires, for the -devil is not only black but treacherous." - -"There is truth in that," admitted the Emperor. "Unstring your bow, -then, and give it to me." - -When the archer had done this with visible reluctance, for he was like a -fish out of water deprived of his lithe instrument, Rodolph, passing -the Count, flung the bow into the farther corner of the room, and -returned to his place nearer the door. - -"Now, my Lord Count," he said, "if you defeat me you can easily keep the -unarmed archer away from his weapon. If he calls for help, it will be -your own men who answer, for my only other follower lies sorely wounded -in your service. If, on the other hand, I defeat you, the archer will -have no need of his bow. Is your chivalrous spirit now content? You -have, lion-like, out-faced the women, and sent them beaten from your -presence; let me see you now stand up to a man, for I swear to you that -if I hear another word from those lips until you fight, I will throw -knightly weapon aside and assault you with the back of my hand." - -The Count, stooping, raised the sword, swung it powerfully this way and -that, then whirled it round his head. Unpleased with it, he strode to -the wall and took down another and a heavier one. Rodolph stood in an -attitude of defence, watching intently every movement of his enemy, -turning his body to face him as he walked to the wall and back. The -Count was a stalwart man somewhat past the prime of life, so far as -active swordsmanship goes. Rodolph having quickly thrown off his -doublet, standing in his shirt sleeves, with their lace ruffles at their -wrists, seemed no less powerful, and youth gave him an agility which was -denied the elder man. But the Count was partly encased in mail, while -his rival had no such protection; a disastrous inequality should the -opposing sword break through his defence. Europe came later to know -Rodolph a master of weapons, as he was of statesmanship, but at this -time the Count little anticipated what he was about to face, and had no -reason to doubt that he himself was a match for any swordsman in the -Empire. - -With bull-dog bravery he launched himself upon the young man, swinging -his gigantic weapon with an ease and dexterity which, considering the -weight of it, was little short of marvellous. That he had determined to -kill, and not to wound, was evident from the first flash of his massive -blade. Rodolph, strictly on the defensive, gave way before him inch by -inch. Thus the two, their falchions glittering like lightning shafts -around their heads, came slowly down the long length of the great room, -admirable for such a contest, except for the semi-gloom that pervaded -it. There was no sound save the ring of steel on steel. The archer stood -with his back against the curtain, his hands on his hips, body inclined -towards the combatants, neck craned forward, every muscle tense, almost -breathless with the excitement of the moment. His master's back was in -alignment with him, and he saw with dismay his almost imperceptible -retreat. Through the shimmering of the whirling steel the wild eyes of -the Count glared like sparks of fire, filled with relentless hate and a -confidence of victory. Sometimes the blades struck a shower of sparks -that enveloped the fighters like a sudden glow of flame, illuminating -the dark timbers of the ceiling, and drawing scintillations of light -from the polished weapons along the wall. Backward and backward came -Rodolph, nearer and nearer to the archer, who liked not this slow -retreat, and wondered at it; thinking perhaps his master came thus -toward him expecting something from him which he had not the wit to -understand, but determining to intervene with his bare hands if his -master's safety demanded it. Why had he foolishly been deprived of his -bow? He thought of stealing to the corner and re-possessing himself of -it, but feared Rodolph's displeasure, so stood rigid and helpless, -looking at this contest of the giants, quailing at the inch by inch -retreat. No human being could hope to keep up for long that onslaught, -yet no sword stroke came through the cool guard of Rodolph. The archer -began at length to see with an exultation he could scarcely keep from -translating into a victorious shout, that despite the yielding foot by -foot his master seemed covered by a roof of steel. Black Heinrich might -as well have rained his blows on the main round towers of his own -castle; in fact, he could have done so with more visible effect. - -As the clashing tornado of strokes went on without cessation, the archer -began to wish he could see the face of his friend and master, but he -dared not move from the spot. The Count was quite manifestly beginning -to feel the effects of his own fury. His brow was corded and huge beads -of sweat rolled down his forehead and dripped into his eyes, interfering -with his sight and causing him, now and then, to shake his head -savagely, thus momentarily clearing his vision. The same motion -scattered the foam gathering at his open lips, and flecked white -splotches on his black beard. Rodolph's attitude had been practically -unchanged since the contest began, with the ever shifting backward -motion, and now as the two neared the entrance end of the long room, the -swing of the Count's blade had gradually become automatic as it were, -resembling measured strokes regulated by machinery, rather than designed -and varied by a sentient human brain. In response to this, Rodolph's -defence took on a similar fixity and regularity of movement, and to the -onlooker it seemed that the fight might so continue indefinitely, until -one or the other dropped from sheer exhaustion. - -Suddenly Rodolph stepped swiftly back, whirled his blade round his head -with a speed that made it whistle in the air like a gale through a key -hole, and, in its sweep from right to left, curving upward, it caught -the downward stroke of Heinrich's sword near the hilt with irresistible -impact, whirled the weapon out of the Count's hands, and sent it flying -to the left wall, from which, ringing against the armour, it fell -clattering to the floor. Rodolph, letting the point of his weapon rest -at his feet, leaned his arms on the transverse piece, which gave the -sword the appearance of a cross, and stood thus regarding his -antagonist, who, as if the hilt he had grasped had been the source of -his motion, remained in exactly the posture he held when it was struck -out of his hands. He resembled a figure turned suddenly to stone by the -sweep of a magician's wand. Leaning forward, his hands outstretched, the -one before the other, as if holding an invisible weapon, the spasmodic -heaving of his breast was the only motion that agitated his indurate -frame. For the first time Rodolph saw in his eyes a lurking flash of -fear. - -"Take a moment's breathing space, my Lord Count," said the Emperor. "If -you exhaust yourself before attack begins how can your defence prosper?" -Then turning his head he said, across his shoulder, "Bring the Count his -sword, archer." - -Surrey saw with jubilation that there was no sign of fatigue on the calm -face turned to him, and he had difficulty in smothering a joyous whoop -as he picked up the weapon and gave it to Black Heinrich, who, taking it -like a man in a dream, backed cautiously to the spot where the fight had -begun. It needed no second glance to see that his unexpected disarming -had thoroughly demoralised him; yet he made no appeal for mercy, but -stood there in sullen obstinacy awaiting the attack which would bring -death to him were his antagonist bent on killing him. - -"Defend yourself," cried Rodolph, advancing towards him. The other took -a firmer grip of his sword hilt and stood ready. The contest was -scarcely of a moment's duration. The Emperor struck down his guard -several times in succession until Heinrich could have no doubt that he -stood entirely at the assailant's mercy whenever he chose to take -advantage of a defence that availed nothing; then whirling his weapon -several times round his head while Heinrich guarded here and there in -doubt where the blow was about to fall, Rodolph dealt the Count a -fearful blow on the cheek with the flat of the sword and sent him head -over heels with a clatter of armour and the jingling of the liberated -sword dancing along the floor. The Count lay where he fell, so dazed -that he held his elbow above his head as if that would protect it. - -"Get up, you craven dog!" cried the Emperor, the fever of battle -unloosing his hitherto suppressed rage. "Get up, you terroriser of -women, you executioner of defenceless men. Stand on your feet and don't -cringe there like a whipped spaniel." - -But the man remained prone and made no motion to help himself. Rodolph -raised his sword once or twice and seemed about to strike his fallen foe -with the flat of it, but he could not bring himself to hit a helpless -enemy, so flinging the blade to the wall where its companion lay, he -walked down the room, took up his doublet, and put it on. - -For a few moments he paced up and down the room as the Count had done, -then seeing Heinrich getting somewhat unsteadily to his feet Rodolph -stopped and watched the very gradual uprising. The side of Black -Heinrich's face was bruised and swollen, and he rubbed it tenderly with -his open hand. - -"Now, my Lord Count, if you are ready, we shall conclude this discussion -regarding the exercise of authority within this castle." - -"Oh, take the castle," cried its owner, dolorously, "and the devil give -you good of it." - -"I have no wish to deprive you of castle or of anything else. I fought -that our lives and liberties may not be at the disposal of a truculent -coward." - -"I am no coward, my Lord, as you yourself will willingly admit when you -are cooler. It is little disgrace to me that I fell before such -sword-play as yours, the like of which was never before seen in Germany. -If you have no distrust of me, I have no rancour against you for what -has happened, and I am content to acknowledge my master when I meet him. -What, then, have you to propose to me?" - -"I have invited no witnesses to this bout, not because I wished to take -unfair advantage, as you suggested, but so that you might not be -humiliated before your own men. The archer here will keep a still tongue -anent what he has seen. You will bear me out in the promise of that, -Surrey?" - -"I will not mention it, even to the bow, my Lord." - -"Very well. Then, Count Heinrich, you have nothing to fear if you play -fairly. Are you honest when you say you will bear no malice?" - -"I am honest," said the Count, rubbing his swollen cheek, adding with a -grunt, "indeed, I have every reason for wishing you my friend." - -"We will take it so. Archer, place the swords where they were against -the wall, and take up your bow from the corner. Now I consent that you -still exercise full authority in your castle, but we must have no more -scenes like that of to-day, where we plead and protest in vain against -your barbarous decisions." - -"It was a military necessity, my Lord, that forced me to remove all -useless persons from a castle about to be besieged. It is always done." - -"I quite agree with that, and quarrel with nought but the method of the -doing. I will go further and say that your message to the villagers -giving them liberty to make the best terms they could for themselves, -had in it traces of nobleness that left me entirely unprepared for the -madness which followed. To every rule there are exceptions. Are you -prepared to order the return of Hilda, the handmaiden of your niece?" - -"Such will be my first order on leaving this room." - -"You will perhaps promise there are to be no more murders by that -cowardly assassin, Steinmetz." - -"I shall punish him for what he has done. It was not my intention that -any should be beheaded." - -"You cannot punish him, richly as he deserves it, for you are the real -culprit, giving first the order and then approving the deed when it was -done. You promise then, that there shall be no more of such sanguinary -commands?" - -"I promise." - -"The archer will hereafter be my bodyguard, and where I go, he goes. He -is to be under no orders but mine. I shall choose my lodgings in this -castle where it best pleases me, and none shall enter therein without my -invitation. It may be well to remember, that if it come to such a pass, -the archer and myself are prepared to stand out against you and your -whole garrison." - -"I had hoped that so brave a man as you, would have been willing to -accept the word of an equally brave, if less youthful and less skilful, -antagonist." - -"My confidence in mankind has not undergone improvement during my brief -stay at Thuron. Some of your favourites I most thoroughly distrust, -Steinmetz for example. It will do no harm if you intimate to him that -your severest displeasure will rest on whoever molests us. As for -Conrad, when he recovers----" - -But this sentence was never finished, and its lack of completion came -near to costing Conrad his life, but that was through no fault of Count -Heinrich. The conference was interrupted by a vigourous knocking at the -closed doors. The Count looked at Rodolph, and it was the latter who -ordered the archer to withdraw the bolts and raise the bar. Captain -Steinmetz entered, and seemed amazed at finding the door shut against -him, but he saw the two men seated at a table as if they were merely in -friendly converse together, and so thought no more of the unusual -shutting in. - -"My Lord," he cried, "the Archbishop's men have entered Alken, coming -unexpectedly up the river, instead of from the direction of Cochem. -Others have appeared on the heights above the valley by the north tower, -and a further body to the south. Foot soldiers are now marching down the -left bank towards Alken. A troop of horsemen were the first to enter the -village, but now armed men appear in every direction. They are putting -up tents on the plains above Alken." - -"Has the conductor of the women returned from the village?" - -"Yes, my Lord, he is now in the castle, and not a moment too soon." - -"He left the women there?" - -"Yes, my Lord." - -Heinrich turned to Rodolph and said in a low voice: - -"I am willing to venture a detachment, to rescue the girl, if such is -your wish." - -"No, it is too late, and too hazardous. She will probably come to no -harm where she is, and a detachment lost would weaken our force so that -the castle might be taken in the first rush." - - - - -CHAPTER XIX. - -A MAN AND A WOMAN MEET BY TORCHLIGHT. - - -Heinrich and Rodolph left the grand hall with the archer following at -their heels, and ascended to the battlements. The sun had set, and long -parallel belts of crimson clouds barred the western sky with glory. The -wide valley of the Moselle was filled with a lovely opalescent light, -and the river, winding through it, shone like burnished silver. Not a -breath of wind stirred the listless flag, and here and there in the -encampment slender columns of smoke rose perpendicularly in the air, -spreading out like palm trees at the top. White tents had risen as if -they had been a sudden crop of mushrooms, and the voices of men came up -from among them through the still air. From the village was heard the -beat of horses' hoofs, and mounted troopers galloped here and there up -and down the darkening valley. On the heights across the Thaurand chasm -to the north of the castle, a huge tent was being erected, which -Heinrich surmised to be the headquarters of the Archbishops. They had -chosen the highest point of land in the neighbourhood with the exception -of the spot on which Thuron itself stood; a good coign of vantage, -overlooking the Moselle valley in part, and the village of Alken and -some of the lower tents, while behind it stretched the level open plain. - -"By the gods of our forefathers!" cried the Black Count, drawing down -his brow, "I will venture a stone or two at that tent from the north -tower catapult before it grows darker." - -"Do nothing of the sort," advised Rodolph. "In the first place, it may -be well to let the Archbishops begin the fray in whatever set form they -choose. Should the affair come up for arbitrament, that point will be in -your favour. You were attacked, and you defended yourself. Then I would -waste no stones on an empty tent, for if you strike it, they will but -move further afield. I should try the range when their august Lordships -are there to bear witness to the accuracy of your aim." - -"Oh, very well," said the Count, moodily. - -"Nay," continued the Emperor, in kindly tone, placing his hand in -friendly manner on the other's shoulder, "I meant what I said merely as -a suggestion. Act as pleases you, untrammeled. I seek but to help, and -not to hinder you. The utmost I ask is that, if I lodge protest, my -protest shall be at least considered. On you rests the defence of the -castle, and in that you must be unhampered." - -The Count turned quickly and held out his hand, which the Emperor -grasped. "Your suggestion was right, and mine was wrong. I want you to -stand my friend in this pinch. I have few that wish me well, though -perhaps I have as many as I deserve. But I never met a man like you, and -I say truly that I would rather meet the two Archbishops with you by my -side than have the two with me, and you against me." - -"No fighter can ask a higher compliment than that, my Lord Count. We -stand or fall together, let the fate of the castle be what it may." - -As darkness filled the valley, slowly climbing the hills, whose tops -were the last to part with the waning light, numerous camp fires shone -in spots of crimson along the river bank. The sound of horses plashing -in the water, an occasional snatch of song, with now and then a distant -bugle call, echoing against the opposite hills, interfered with the -accustomed stillness of the valley. - -Rodolph chose for himself and the archer two rooms at the top of the -southern tower, one above the other, John Surrey occupying the lower. -The narrow stone stair which gave access to both rooms ended at the -circular flat roof of the tower, a platform protected by a machicolated -parapet. The flagstaff of the castle rose from the centre of this -platform, and over the parapet one had a broad view, which included -hilltop and high level plain, for the summit of the south tower was the -highest spot in all the Moselle district. From this lofty perch the weak -point of the castle was easily recognised. If Thuron was ever to be -carried by assault the gate front would probably be the portion to give -way. - -The builder of the castle had recognised this, and had constructed a -gate ridiculously small when contrasted with the great bulk of the -castle itself. The entrance was barely wide enough to allow a cart or -two horsemen abreast to pass in. The flattened Norman arch above it -supported masonry pierced for the crossbow bolts that might be launched -in its defence, and the flat parapet-protected platform over the gate -might be covered with warriors, while a huge catapult lay there ready to -hurl round stones on whoever attacked the portal. Even if the two stout -oaken leaves of the gate, iron bolted, and barred within by heavy -timbers, were broken down, the gateway might be held by two expert -swordsmen against an outside host. So when the assault was made the -souls of many of the besiegers would pass through the gates of Paradise -before the bodies of their comrades won their way through the gates of -Thuron. Nevertheless, the entrance was the weak point of the castle, for -in front of it lay comparatively level ground, while everywhere else the -slopes fell steeply from the walls, and the man who attacks up a hill is -ever at a disadvantage when he meets the defender who is already on the -top. The gate was at the south-western corner of the castle, facing the -south. The south tower stood on the eastern face of the fortress twenty -yards or less north of the south-eastern corner of the stronghold. - -Rodolph came to the conclusion that when the gate was attacked, John -Surrey, stationed on the lofty platform of the south tower, with a -bundle of arrows at his side, would give a good account of himself, and -make some of the besiegers wish they had been elsewhere. - -The Emperor, leaving Surrey in his lofty eyrie, went down the stone -steps, and endeavoured to send a message to the Countess that he wished -to have a word with her. The wholesale deportation of the servants made -the carrying of intelligence about the castle difficult, and he, on -personal investigation, found the door to the women's apartments barred. -Entering the inner courtyard, which was in darkness, for the moon which -had been at the full a week before was now on the wane and had not yet -risen, he groped his way until he estimated that the balcony was above -him, and there softly cried his lady's name, but without receiving any -response. No light shone in any of the windows, and a vague alarm filled -his breast, not knowing what the Countess might have done in her -despair. That she could have left the castle was hardly possible, for -the guard was now most vigilant, yet it might be that she had slipped -away when the others were taken to Alken, although, as Rodolph had -conducted her from the grand saal to the door of the women's apartments, -he had imagined that the women and old men were already gone, the last -to depart being Hilda herself, who had been taken to the outer courtyard -by Captain Steinmetz after the stormy interview in the great hall. The -Emperor left the courtyard and returned with a lighted torch, which he -placed in a holder set against the wall on the side opposite to the -windows, and this with its sputtering resinous flame illuminated the -neglected garden, on which Tekla's horticultural efforts had not yet -made visible impression. The light had the effect Rodolph desired. The -curtains at the back of the balcony parted, and the Countess, wrapped in -a long white robe, looking, Rodolph thought, like an angel, came to the -edge of the stone coping. The rays of the torch showed her eyes still -wet with tears, but their swimming brightness seemed more beautiful than -ever. The young Emperor caught his breath with delight on seeing the -fair vision before and above him, standing out in pure dazzling white -against the grim grey walls of the castle. He tried to speak, but could -not trust his voice. - -"Is it you, my Lord Rodolph?" asked the Countess, in her low, rich -voice, peering into the semidarkness of the garden. - -"Yes, Lady Tekla," said the young man, at last finding utterance. "I -could not go to rest without having a word with you. Your door was -barred and I could get no one to hear me, so I called fire to the aid of -my impatience, and set up a torch before your windows." - -"We are self-made prisoners. I myself barred the door and paid no heed -to the knocking, for I thought it was my uncle returned again. He came -once and demanded admittance, which I refused. Then to our amazement he -went quietly away, when we fully expected he would batter down the door. -My aunt is prostrate with fear of him, and I have but now left her -bedside, where she has at last fallen into an exhausted sleep. Oh! why," -cried the Countess, raising her arm as if in appeal to a just heaven, -"are such uncivilised wretches as the master of Thuron allowed to live -and contaminate this fair earth?" - -"Well," said Rodolph, with a smile, happily unseen by the girl, who was -intensely in earnest, "we must admit that the Archbishops are doing -their best to eliminate him. I have often thought that it is only our -wonderful self-conceit that leads us to suppose we are actually -enlightened beings, and I fear that perhaps future ages may look back on -the thirteenth century, and deny to it the proud pre-eminence in -civilisation it now so confidently claims. But I have had some -conference with your uncle since I last saw you, and I think you will -have nothing now to fear from him. There will be no more scenes such as -that of this afternoon. He has promised me as much." - -"Promised!" cried the girl, indignantly; "I put little faith in his -promises." - -"There. I think, you do him an injustice. I make no attempt to defend -his conduct, but he had most disquieting news brought by Conrad, -and----" - -"Has Conrad then returned?" - -"Yes; a fugitive and sorely wounded. He brought news that the two -Archbishops, Treves and Cologne, are leagued against Heinrich of Thuron. -This was sufficient to disturb a much less despotic and evil-tempered -man than your uncle. He knew that the lines were rapidly closing in upon -him, and his ordering of the non-combatants out of the castle, when they -might go with no risk to themselves and live safely as humble villagers, -was a measure that all custodians of a stronghold threatened with -besiegement would have taken, had they been wise. There is no fault to -be found with the act as it stands, although his method of carrying it -out may lend itself to amendment. And the order was accomplished not a -moment too soon, for the fugitives were scarcely in the village before -the troops of the Archbishop had taken the place; besides this, Heinrich -very nobly counselled none to make resistance but to disclaim all -sympathy with the master of Thuron." - -"Are the Archbishop's troops now in Alken?" - -"In Alken? They are all around us. Not in Alken alone but on the heights -to the north, and on the plains to the south. We are completely -environed, and, from the round tower above us, a thousand watch fires -may be counted in every direction." - -"What of Hilda, then, thrust thus among enemies?" - -"Hilda is at this moment much safer than you are, my Lady. The Black -Count would have sent and brought her back but that he gave the order -too late." - -"If she is free from harm, I have no complaint to make. You must not -think that I protested against her removal through selfishness, or -because I was in any way thinking of my own comfort. She has become to -me friend as well as servant, and if privations are to be borne within -this castle I have no wish to elude my share." - -"Hilda is safe in the village and may come and go as she pleases so -long as she does not approach the castle, and perhaps even that the -Archbishops' troops will allow. They are not warring with women, but -with the master of Thuron and his followers. All those who have left the -castle are in more prosperous circumstances than we who remain, for -should the fighting become desperate and a sack ensue, I should rather -have friends of mine out than in." - -"Is there danger of the castle being taken?" - -"I think the danger is not great, but the Archbishops do not agree with -me, otherwise they would not have encircled us. Then chance works -strange pranks in situations like ours. The truth is, no one can tell -what may happen." - -"That is not encouraging, is it?" - -"You see I have got into the habit of talking to you just as if you were -a fellow campaigner, for you are certainly not the least courageous in -this garrison; indeed I doubt if any one else would have had the bravery -to face the Count as you have done on more than one occasion. I intended -when I came here to-night, to relieve your mind of anxiety regarding -Hilda, and forgot that we might need mutual encouragement over our -situation. I confess I am rather eager to know what is going to happen, -and I wouldn't be anywhere else than where I am for the wealth of the -Archbishops themselves. I count much on your uncle, and I think their -high and mighty Lordships may wish they had encountered some one else -before they are done with him. He is a man of the most headlong courage, -as you will see when you know him better, and when you remember that he -has probably never been contradicted in his life till we thrust -ourselves upon him, I think he is almost amenable to reason." - -"Alas, I have not found him so, and my aunt can hardly be looked upon as -a favourable example of treatment by a reasonable man. She trembles when -his name is mentioned, or when she hears his footstep." - -"Nevertheless, I hope you will not give up all efforts toward his -reclamation. Believe me, he has sterling qualities that I would were -more conspicuous in some of his followers." - -The Countess sighed deeply and drew her robe closer about her. The torch -had gone out, but the rising moon had begun to silver the top of the -round tower. The place was as still and peaceful as if it had been some -remote convent garden, far removed from the busy world and its strife. - -"It is growing late," said Tekla, "and I must bid you good-night. Your -coming has cheered me." - -"It gives me delight to hear you say so. May I not come here to-morrow -night at the same hour and bring you the latest news?" - -"Yes," replied the lady, adding, "again good-night." - -Her white form was swallowed up by the dark hangings and the young man -climbed the stairs of the tall south tower. - - - - -CHAPTER XX. - -A BREAKFAST ON THE TOP OF THE SOUTH TOWER. - - -The Emperor was awakened by the ringing martial sound of bugles, calling -the various camps from slumber. The sun had not yet risen when he -reached the platform that formed the roof of his chamber, and there he -found John Surrey scanning the military preparations around and below -him with undisguised satisfaction. Soldiers in the valley were already -falling into line, and the clear stillness of the air made the sharp -commands of the officers audible even at the distance where Rodolph and -the archer stood. The tall powerful figure of the Black Count could be -seen pacing up and down the broad promenade on the west front, which -seemed hardly less remote than the valley itself, so lofty was the -tower. The whole design of the castle lay beneath them like a raised -map. - -"I think he has been there all night," said the archer, nodding towards -the Count. "I sat here late making arrows in the moonlight, and he was -on the battlements when I went down. I was here at daybreak, and there -he was still. What a lovely scene it is, my Lord, viewed from this -perch," he cried, enthusiastically, waving his hand in a semi-circle -about him. - -"It is indeed," concurred the Emperor. "The placid river, the hill tops -touched with the growing light, the green of the dense forest and the -yellow of the ripening grain, with the dark cliffs of rock above the -polished surface of the deep waters, are well worth getting up early to -see." - -The archer scratched his head, and an expression of perplexity clouded -his brow. - -"That was not quite what I meant, my Lord, for although there may be -pleasure in viewing hills, fields and river, as my friend, Roger Kent, -the poet, often pointed out to me, yet to my mind all such, which we -have continually seen these few days back, are little to be compared to -the blossoming of the tents on the plain, the stir of marching men eager -for the coming to conclusions with their fellows, as men should, and the -dealing and receiving of honest blows, doughtily given. Indeed, my Lord, -I would rather see one good two-handed sword argument like that between -your Lordship and his Darkness yesterday, than all the hills that were -ever piled one above the other in Switzerland." - -"That contest," said Rodolph, sternly, "is not to be spoken of. You -heard me promise the Count that you would keep silence regarding it?" - -"Oh, I did not take it to mean that we might not discuss it among -ourselves; indeed, it was my intention on the first opportunity to -inquire of his Blackness how he felt when he saw you approach like a -windmill gone mad, with the sword in every place but where he expected -it." - -"You hold your life lightly to trust it on such a query. You have my -strict command to say nothing to him on any subject whatever unless he -speak first to you, and then answer briefly and with not too much -curiosity." - -"I shall cling close to your wish, my Lord, the more as there is little -of intelligent talk to be got out of his Blackness at best. These -warriors below are like to give us enough to think and speak about. They -were early afoot, and got to their work like men who expected to take -the castle before breakfast, sack it for mid-day eating, and be home to -sup at Treves. I trust we shall keep them with us longer than they -think." - -The Emperor glanced at the heap of feathered arrows which lay against -the parapet partially hidden by a mantle that had been thrown over them. -"Has your arrow-maker proven a success then? You seem to be well -supplied." - -"He is so far a success as a German can be expected to succeed in a -delicate art. The making of an arrow," continued the archer with great -complacency, taking a specimen in his hand the better to illustrate his -argument, "is not merely one art, but rather the conjunction of several. -There is an art in the accurate shaving of the shank with a sharp flint -stone; there is an art in the correct pointing of it, and the sloping of -its shoulders so that it take not the wind more on the one side of it -than on the other, thus deflecting it from the true course; there is an -art in the feathering of it, which is in reality the winging of it; the -cutting of the notch requires great care, for there it receives its -impetus, and the making of the notch I hold to be like the training of a -youth, his course in after life depends on it; then it should, when -completed, balance on your forefinger, thus, with just so much length to -the right and so much to the left. In the making of a perfect arrow -there are thirty-four major points to be kept in mind, added to -fifty-seven minor details which must in no instance be neglected, the -which, beginning with the major points, are as follows, to wit, -firstly----" - -"We are early afoot, John Surrey, but still too late for the beginning -of such a recital. During the siege it is most likely that we may have -to spend some sleepless nights on watch, and during these vigils you -will tell me all the conditions that go to the constructing of a perfect -arrow, for in the still watches I can give that attention to particulars -which the importance of the subject demands." - -"The suggestion of your Lordship is good, and shows that you have some -appreciation of the task's difficulties, the which I have never been -able to beat into the head of the German hind the Count has bestowed -upon me, although I find him useful in the splitting of wood and the -rough shaping of the shaft; indeed he has advanced so surprisingly that -he now sees that a piece of timber, bent and twisted like a hoop from a -wine butt, is not suitable for the making of an arrow; that the presence -of a straight grain is more desirable than many knots, and so I have a -hope that in time he may gather much useful knowledge regarding the -arrow-maker's craft. But I would on no account have your Lordship labour -under the delusion that the mastering of the major and minor points will -guarantee you success in the construction of a shaft. No; you must be -born to it as well, because there is an intuition in the estimating of -its value when completed; for many of our archers in England, unerring -in aim, could not, did their life depend upon it, make for themselves a -true flying arrow; indeed the making and the speeding have ever been -regarded as separate and distinct accomplishments, expertness in the one -being no assurance of expertness in the other; the which is but to be -expected in a civilised country, for England must not be confounded with -the more barbarous nationalities of the continent; and so in my land the -arrow-makers are a guild in themselves, to which trade a man must be -duly apprenticed, forswearing in his indentures all vices by which the -steadiness of his nerves are affected, as the drinking of strong liquors -or the amorous pursuit of----" - -"Yes, yes," cried the Emperor, with scarcely concealed impatience, "all -the virtues of earth are concentrated in your land and upon the -inhabitants thereof." - -"Nay, I made no such claim," continued the archer, calmly, "but I may -state without suspicion of prejudice in favour of my countrymen that for -honesty, bravery, skill, intelligence, modesty, integrity, patriotism, -strength, nobility of character, firmness, justice, enlightenment, -courage----" - -"And a good appetite. John Surrey, have you breakfasted? Do you feed -with the men of the castle, or alone?" - -"The room below," said John, in no wise disconcerted by the sudden -change of the subject, and ever ready to discourse on any topic -presented to him, "being much too large for my sleeping accommodation, -and one never knowing what may happen, especially after such a bout as -you had with the master of the place--I beg your worship's pardon, I -shall not more particularly refer to it--I might more properly have -said, in the circumstances that have come to our private knowledge, I -thought it wise to fill the remainder of the space with provisions from -the outer courtyard, where they ran some danger of being spoiled by the -first rain that falls; and I have also, with much effort and with the -help of my arrow-making knave, trundled up these stairs, several of the -smaller casks of wine from the same place, the hoisting of the larger -butts presenting difficulties we could in no wise overcome. I have -furthermore taken the precaution to provide myself with various -trenchers, flagons, and the like, and a few stools, for as I have some -skill in cookery, picked up in various countries, I thought I might have -the privilege of preparing a meal for your Lordship when you were -disinclined to venture down these long stairs. I foresaw that such a -thing might come as a siege within a siege, and for all such emergencies -it is well to be ready, even though they never come. A stout swordsman -in a pinch might hold these stairs though a thousand tried to mount -them, and when he is tired, a skilful bowman might take his place -without danger to any but those below him." - -"John, all the compliments you tender your countrymen do I multiply -tenfold and bestow on thy resourceful head. Wisdom, thy name is Surrey. -Is thy knave in thy room below?" - -"Aye. He sleeps, my Lord, that being the greatest of his -accomplishments." - -"Then waken him; transport table and stools to this platform. Prepare a -choice breakfast for four. We will invite the Count himself to breakfast -with us, and the two ladies of the castle, if they will so honour us. -Therefore let me boast of thy skill with the viands, John." - -"I like not the coming of the Count," said the archer, sturdily. "I did -not wish him to know that we were also provisioned for a siege." - -"The knowledge should make him the more chary in attacking us, were such -his intention. But he has no malignant designs. I trust Count Heinrich." - -"You trusted him before," persisted the archer, with the dogged tenacity -of his race, "and all that came of it--again craving your pardon--was -stout blows and the flying of sparks." - -"The Count differs from you, archer, in learning a lesson and profiting -by it. No more pardons for such allusions will be granted; three within -an hour have exhausted my stock. Attend you to the preparation of the -meal; keep strict silence while serving it, and expect generous reward -if it prove satisfactory. Leave all dealing with the Count to me, and if -you cannot trust his Lordship, trust in Providence." - -Saying this, Rodolph went down the stairs, while the archer, grumbling -to himself, descended to his room and kicked the slumbering menial into -a state of wakefulness that enabled him to appreciate the hard realities -of life. - -The Emperor, reaching the battlements, greeted the Lord of Thuron, who -returned his salutation without lavish excess of cordiality. - -"My Lord Count, in honour of the coming of the Archbishops, I am having -prepared a breakfast on the top of the southern tower. The archer -pretends to some knowledge of cooking, and I ask your Lordship to help -me form an estimate of his abilities." - -"I shall breakfast on these battlements. I wish to watch the movements -of the enemy." - -"There is no more admirable point of observation than the top of the -tower, for from there you may view what is going on all round you, while -from here you may see but towards the west. It is also my intention, -with your permission, to invite the ladies, your wife and niece." - -Count Heinrich made no reply, his restless eye scouring the plain -below. - -"I hold it well," continued Rodolph, suavely, "to begin our conflict -with peace and harmony within, whatever may happen outside the walls. -Have I your Lordship's consent?" - -"My whole mind is in the coming fight," said the Black Count, still -keeping his eyes on the valley, "and I have little skill in the nice -customs and courtesies that perhaps you have been accustomed to. I am a -soldier, and prefer to eat with soldiers." - -"Am I to understand that you consider me no soldier?" - -"You twist my words. I am an awkward man. I mean that I care not for the -company of women." - -"You owe some reparation to your niece for your harshness of yesterday. -It is the least you can do to tell her that you are sorry. I have -already said to her on your behalf that your mind was worried by the -unexpected news of the junction of the two Archbishops, and although -that is no excuse for a grown man, still I think I persuaded her it was. -She will, no doubt, forgive you, little as you deserve it." - -"Forgive me!" cried the Count, angrily. - -"Aye. We all need forgiveness, and I judge you are not so free from -blame that your statue will be erected in the valley as the Saint -Heinrich of your day. Come, my Lord Count, be a bear to your enemies if -you like, but a lamb to your friends, whose scarcity you but last night -deplored!" - -"The Countess Tekla has refused to see me; she barred my own door -against me." - -"And quite right too. She is a girl of spirit, and worthy of her warlike -ancestors. Therefore, the more proud should you be that she consents to -take you by the hand this morning." - -"But does she so consent?" asked the Count, dubiously. - -"Come to the tower and see. Large minds bear no malice. We will signal -to you when the meal is ready." - -Rodolph found there was more difficulty in persuading Heinrich's wife -to be one at the table with her lord, than there was in winning Tekla's -consent, but at last all obstacles were removed and he escorted the -ladies up the narrow winding stairs. The Countess Tekla was in -unexpectedly high spirits, and she admitted to him gaily that she had -been at her wit's end to know what they should do for breakfast, as all -attendants had gone, and her uncle had shown no anxiety regarding their -substance. - -It was Tekla's first visit to the tall tower and she looked upon the -marvellous scene spread before her with keen and enthusiastic -appreciation. The sun had risen and the morning was already warm, but -the skilful Surrey had spread an awning from flag pole to parapet, which -shielded the table from its rays. The elder lady seated herself on one -of the stools, and paid no attention to the view, awaiting with evident -apprehension the coming of her husband. Tekla passed from point to point -in the circle of the parapet and exclaimed joyously as the beauties of -the landscape unfolded themselves to her. The deep, sombre, densely -wooded chasm of the brawling little river Thaurand, from which in three -variants, the castle took the several names that designated it, she had -never until this moment beheld; the more familiar valley of the Moselle -revealed new aspects at this height, not noticeable from the lower level -of the battlements. Rodolph accompanied her and pointed out this and -that, having himself eyes for nothing but the delighted and delightful -girl, and thus, telling the archer to summon the Count, he paid no -attention to Surrey's method of doing so, which might not have met his -approval. The Count was standing at the edge of the battlements gazing -abstractedly down upon the village of Alken, his arms folded across his -breast and his back towards the tower. The bowman deftly notched an -arrow on the string and let fly with such precision that its feather -must have brushed the Count's ear. The amazed and startled man -automatically smote the air and his ear with his open hand as if a bee -had stung him, and sprang several yards from where he had been standing, -glaring angrily round, wondering whence the missile had so unexpectedly -come. - -"My Lord," said the archer, deferentially, leaning over the stone coping -and motioning with his bow, "breakfast is ready." - -For a moment the Count stood as one transfixed, then a reluctant smile -made itself visible through his thick beard, and he strode along the -promenade, disappearing down the steps. - -A few moments later he was on the platform of the tower, visibly ill at -ease. His eyes were on his niece, seemingly in doubt regarding the -nature of her reception of him. The girl on hearing his steps had turned -away from the parapet, and now stood somewhat rigidly with heightened -colour, waiting for him to approach her. - -"Tekla," he began, but she quietly interrupted him, saying: - -"When you have greeted my aunt, I shall be glad to receive your -salutations." - -Heinrich was taken aback at this. He had not thought of looking at his -wife, but now he glanced at her shrinking form cowering on the stool. He -took a step forward, and placed his hand roughly on her shoulder. - -"Wife--" he said, and paused, not knowing what to add, until sudden -inspiration seemed to come to him, and he cried, masterfully: "We are -surrounded by enemies, but we will beat them off, damn them!" - -"Yes, my Lord," whispered his spouse, meekly, trembling under his heavy -hand. Tekla laughed merrily, and sprang forward to him, flinging her -arms about him, to his great embarrassment. - -"You great Swartzwald bear!" she cried, "of course you will beat them. I -am sure no one can stand up against you." - -"Tekla," he protested, with visible discomposure, "that is the -Archbishops' tent on the heights. They can see us." - -"Let them!" cried the girl, waving her hands towards the large tent. -"This is my uncle, Heinrich of Thuron, surnamed the Black, my Lords and -Archbishops, and we hurl defiance at you, for he fears you neither -separately nor together." - -The Black Count smiled grimly, and very soon they were all seated at -breakfast, Rodolph and Tekla bearing the burden of the conversation, the -Count and his wife adding but little to it. It was easily seen that -Heinrich's mind was not on his meal, but on what was passing in the -valley, where his uneasy eye wandered ever and anon. - -As the breakfast ended and the Countess Tekla was congratulating the -archer on its excellence, there came up to them a fan-fare of trumpets, -and all saw, issuing from the forest to the south, an impressive -cavalcade, headed by Count Bertrich, at whose side rode another, -seemingly his equal in rank, and quite his superior in equipment, whom -Rodolph at once recognised by his blazonry as the representative of the -Archbishop of Cologne. Behind these two rode a group of perhaps -threescore men, all gaily bedecked and fully armed. Five or six -horse-lengths in front of this notable procession came four heralds -holding long trumpets from which depended gay silken banners in gorgeous -colours, setting forth, two the arms of Treves, and two the arms of -Cologne. As the cavalcade advanced the trumpeters raised bugles to lips -and gave forth the musical notes that had first attracted the attention -of those on the tower. The Count sprang instantly to his feet, Rodolph -also rising. - -"A demand of surrender," said the latter, "about to be set forward with -due ceremony and circumstance. I must say the Archbishops acquit -themselves creditably." - -"Will you attend me while I make reply?" asked the Count, of Rodolph. - -"Surely," returned the other. - -"I should be glad of your counsel," continued Heinrich, "and of some -slight hint regarding the choice of words to be used. We have usually -fallen to without so much preliminary flourishing at Thuron, and I am -not versed in the etiquette of the occasion." - -"Answer slowly," said the Emperor, "taking ample time to consider each -question, and if there is any hint to give, I will whisper it to you." - -The two men departed down the stairs, leaving at least one interested -spectator of the conference about to take place. The elder woman -remained where she was, with her hands folded on her lap; the Countess -Tekla leaning against the parapet, saw her uncle and Rodolph, attended -by Captain Steinmetz and a guard of lancers, mount the platform above -the gates, while the imposing troop of horsemen came to halt amidst -another blast from the trumpets. - - - - -CHAPTER XXI. - -AN EXPERIMENT IN DIPLOMACY. - - -In loud and sonorous voice Count Bertrich spoke, his words plainly heard -by all on the castle walls and even far down the valley. - -"Heinrich of Thuron, sometime Count Palatine, now deposed by lawful -authority duly proclaimed, you are summoned to surrender the Castle of -Thuron at present held by you, to the custody of his High Puissant and -Reverend Lordship, Konrad von Hochstaden, Archbishop of Cologne, and his -ally, the High Puissant and Reverend Lordship, Arnold von Isenberg, -Archbishop of Treves, and in event of such summons not being instantly -obeyed, your life is declared forfeit and all within your walls -outlaws." - -"Ask him," whispered the Emperor, "on what authority this summons is -delivered." - -"On whose authority do you act?" cried Heinrich, in a voice no less -powerful than that of Bertrich. - -"His Lordship the Archbishop of Treves is your over-lord, and as such is -entitled to make the demand I have set forth." - -"Then ask him what the devil Cologne is doing in this business," said -Rodolph. - -"Why then is the Archbishop of Cologne put first in your proclamation, -and by what right does he claim jurisdiction over me?" cried Heinrich. - -The two emissaries of Treves and Cologne consulted for a few moments -together, and it was quite evident that Count Bertrich had little liking -for the turn the colloquy had taken, his haughty nature scorning -lengthened talk with a man whom he considered an inferior, and in any -case the sword was with him a readier weapon than the tongue, as indeed -it was with Heinrich himself, but the envoy of Cologne seemed in a -measure impressed by the replies of the Lord of Thuron, and appeared to -be protesting against what the other was proposing, a backward wave of -the hand seeming to betoken a desire to break off negotiations and -return whence they came. At last Bertrich again spoke. - -"Their High and Mighty Lordships of Cologne and Treves are, as I have -said, allies in this quarrel, and they demand your instant answer." - -"Say it is impossible for you to recognise Cologne in a matter that -concerns you and Treves only. Add that if Treves alone press the demand -you will make suitable reply," dictated the Emperor. - -"A noble answers only to his own over-lord," shouted Heinrich. "If the -Archbishop of Treves make a demand, he shall have my reply, but I stand -no question from his Lordship of Cologne, nor can he justly prefer the -right to question me except through my over-lord." - -"Well spoken," said the Emperor, emphatically, "and good feudal law." - -Again a conference ensued between the two envoys, Bertrich first -protesting against the decision of his colleague, then reluctantly -accepting it. In his anger shearing Arnold of some of his adjectives, -Bertrich cried: - -"In the name of the Archbishop of Treves, my master and yours, I demand -that you surrender to him the castle of Thuron." - -"Say that you appeal for justice to the over-lord of all, the Emperor, -and offer to surrender your castle when you see his signature to a -document demanding it," whispered Rodolph. - -Heinrich turned to him in astonishment. - -"I fear the Emperor less than I do Treves, and have no intention of -surrendering to either. He may have the signature of the Emperor, and -then I should be in serious jeopardy." - -"He has it not, nor can he obtain it. The Emperor is in Palestine." - -The humour of the situation began to appeal to Heinrich. For the first -time in his turbulent life he was posing as a respecter of the law and a -stickler for forms. The envoy of Cologne sat on his horse awaiting the -answer with an expression on his face which showed that he believed the -Black Count to be more in the right than he had hitherto suspected, -while Bertrich, fuming with impatience and anger, savagely dug spurs -into his horse and then reined in the astonished animal with rude -brutality when it curvetted under the sting of the steel. - -"In a case so serious," cried Heinrich, sternly, "I appeal to the -over-lord of the Archbishop, who is my over-lord as well, his Majesty -the Emperor. That no injustice may be done, I will deliver up my castle -to the Emperor, or, in his absence, to any delegate whom he empowers, -the same to show me his credentials signed by his Majesty." - -"The Emperor," roared Bertrich, "has already delegated his authority to -the Archbishop, who now acts thus under the power granted him. This -juggling with words will not serve you. I demand----" - -But here he was interrupted by the envoy of Cologne, who seemed -surprised when it was alleged that the Emperor had delegated his -authority to the Archbishop of Treves. He laid his hand on Bertrich's -arm and spoke earnestly with him. - -"What comes next?" said Heinrich. - -"Oh, the rest is most simple," replied Rodolph. "Bertrich has lied, for -there has been no delegating of Imperial authority to his master. Worse -than that, he has sown seeds of dissension between the Archbishop of -Treves and the haughty Lord of Cologne, and Bertrich has not yet the -sense to see it. Tell him you did not know of this bestowal of -authority. Ask for the witnesses, if the delegation was verbal, or for a -document if he has a written commission from his Majesty." - -"But he may have it. How can you say whether he has or no?" - -"I tell you the man has lied. Would the Emperor, think you, dare to give -to one what he did not give to another? See the surprise on Cologne's -face at such an absurd statement. Have no hesitation. He has few -qualifications fitting him to be a diplomatist." - -"I was not aware," cried Heinrich, stoutly, "that the Emperor had so -favoured Treves at the expense of his brother of Cologne. If such is -indeed the case, then we need parley no longer. On proof to me of this -bestowal of Imperial power on his Lordship of Treves, I will at once -surrender my castle to him, leaving the Emperor to adjudicate between -us." - -Then did the choleric Count indeed justify Rodolph's prophecy. Shaking -his sword over his head, Bertrich shouted: - -"Surrender the castle, you robber dog, or I will knock it down about -your ears, black son of a rooting boar." - -The hand of Count Heinrich sprang to the hilt of his blade, and he would -have answered angrily in kind, but the Emperor, touching him gently, -said: - -"Softly, softly. Call our astonished friend of Cologne to witness that -you have done everything you could in the way of peace, and the -upholding of the feudal law." - -Heinrich drew a deep quivering breath into his huge chest, and -controlled himself with an effort that made his stalwart frame tremble. - -"I ask your colleague," he said, at last, in a voice that was somewhat -uncertain, "to bear witness that I have been treated with grave -disrespect while endeavouring to yield deference to all above me; the -Emperor no less than the Archbishops. I am anxious to abide by the -feudal law, and while protecting my own rights, infringe not on the -rights of others." - -Bertrich gave vent to a cry of disgusted impatience, spurring his horse -onward and then round until his back was to the castle. The envoy of -Cologne bowed low to Count Heinrich, although he said nothing, which -bow the Black Count handsomely returned. With a blast from the four -trumpets, the glittering cavalcade turned, and at slow, dignified pace, -as befitted an embassy, left the castle. - -Rodolph and Heinrich watched the departure in silence, the latter still -struggling with his suppressed emotions, more than half feeling that he -had not acquitted himself as a man should, by neglecting to fling back -in the teeth of his enemy the contemptuous phrases he had received. - -"My Lord Count," said Rodolph, "you have conducted the negotiations most -admirably, and I desire to offer you my congratulations." - -"I would rather have cut his beggarly throat than bestowed smooth words -upon him," muttered the Count. - -"There is much that is commendable and even alluring in the project, and -doubtless before the sun has set, Bertrich will wish you had, for I do -not envy him the meeting with his master. Never was the Archbishop so -rascally served. One of two things will happen now, thanks to your -diplomacy. The Archbishop of Treves, proud as he is, will be compelled -to humble himself before his haughty ally, and declare that Bertrich -failed to speak the truth, or the Archbishop of Cologne will gather his -men about him and depart down the Rhine to the less picturesque -precincts of his famous city. Even if a peace be patched up between -them, there will be deep distrust in von Hochstaden's mind against the -crafty Isenberg, for, knowing the wily Arnold as he does, Cologne will -never believe but his envoy blurted out the truth, in spite of his -master's assurance that it is a lie. Believe me, you might have rained -blows on Bertrich's back and he would consider the chastisement as -nothing compared with the humiliating dilemma in which your words and -calmness have placed him." - -"The words were not mine, but yours," said Heinrich, much mollified. - -"I will not have you say so. I did indeed give you some hints but you -clothed them in your own language, and in every case added force to -them. It is not flattering to say I did not expect such from you, but I -have to admit the truth. Words, my Lord Count, are often more deadly -than swords. The man of words who can keep his temper will ever rule the -man of the sword. As you acted this morning you might guide an empire." - -"And as I acted yesterday, I could not rule my own household," said -Heinrich, dryly. - -"So far as I am concerned, my Lord, yesterday is dead. I do not remember -what happened. I deal only with to-day." - -"Lord Rodolph," cried Heinrich, with sudden exultation, "we shall beat -these villains yet." - -"So the Countess Tekla has prophesied, and so I devoutly believe. In any -case this conference has postponed attack for a few days. It will take -some time for the Archbishops to adjust their differences, and who knows -what may happen later?" - -Whether the Countess should prove a true prophet or no remained to be -seen, but Rodolph was quickly shown to be a false one. - - - - -CHAPTER XXII. - -THE FIRST ATTACK ON CASTLE THURON. - - -It is doubtful if a nation or a military commander is strengthened by -securing an ally, even though that ally be powerful. One determined man -will wage war with more success than will a committee that commands a -larger force. A general with an ally must be ever thinking of what that -ally will do, or will not do. He is hampered at every turn, and must be -careful not to take too much glory to himself or show himself a better -warrior than the other. - -As those within Castle Thuron afterwards discovered, what happened on -the morning of the first attack was this. Count Bertrich in his original -visit to Thuron and his ignominious departure therefrom, saw with quick -military eye, which he allowed no personal feeling to obscure, that the -gate, narrow though it was, offered the best means of capturing the -stronghold. Once that was battered down, there would be a hot fight in -the outer courtyard, then, resistance being overpowered by numbers, the -castle belonged to the assaulters. His plan was approved by the -Archbishop, who, however, was annoyed to find that his colleague of -Cologne desired that Heinrich should be summoned in due form to -surrender peacefully before hostilities commenced. To this proposal von -Isenberg had to accede, and he did so the more readily as Bertrich -assured him that the hot-tempered Count would make some insulting reply -which would offend the northern Archbishop when it was reported to him. -Although the cautious Arnold was usually most scrupulous in his -observance of forms and ceremonies, he had been so angered in this -instance, first by the successful flight of his ward, from under his -very roof, and second by the contemptuous defiance of himself by his -vassal, Heinrich of Thuron, whom he had always hated, that he was now -eager to recover lost prestige, and to accomplish by instant -overwhelming force the downfall of the Black Count. He was the less -particular in this matter as it never occurred to him that his action -might possibly come up for review and judgment by his own nominal -over-lord the Emperor, for no Emperor in recent ages had commanded the -slightest respect. When it is remembered that twenty-two years before -the election of Rodolph, the Archbishop of Treves had captured the -capital itself, Frankfort being the place where the election of Emperor -was held, and, keeping the Archbishops of Cologne and Mayence outside -the gates, proceeded himself to elect an Emperor, while the shut-out -electors met under the walls and solemnly elected another, some idea may -be formed of the slight influence an Emperor had over his proud and -powerful vassals. - -It was arranged that the force on the heights to the south of Thuron, -concealed in the forest, should be augmented by others from the plain by -the river, comprising a company of crossbow men and a troop of lancers, -the first to harass the garrison while the gate was being battered down, -the second to storm the castle when a breach was made for them. The -attack was to be delivered when the embassy had retired after receiving -the contumacious reply of Count Heinrich. The assault was to have been -led by Count Bertrich and the envoy of Cologne, but when the two had -reached the shelter of the forest, Bertrich's colleague refused to take -part in the fray, until he had first acquainted his master with the -purport of the conference at the gate of Thuron. By this time Count -Bertrich felt that he had come badly off in his diplomatic bout with the -Black Count, and the knowledge maddened him. He therefore told his ally -that Cologne might do as he pleased, but Treves would attack -immediately, and the two Archbishops might settle details after the -castle was captured. Bertrich believed that his success in taking the -fortress would more than blot out any resentment his master might feel -for his failure in diplomacy, as he well knew the state of Arnold von -Isenberg's mind regarding Count Heinrich; furthermore, he had not the -slightest doubt that with the forces at his command, he would speedily -be in possession of Castle Thuron. - -So the envoy of the Archbishop of Cologne, attended by his guard, passed -through the forest into the ravine of the Thaurand, and thus up to the -heights of the Bieldenburg, where the tent of his master was situated. - -Rodolph and Heinrich were still standing on the platform above the gate -when they saw emerging from the forest a monster closely resembling the -dragons which were supposed to infest the Rhine, but from whose baleful -presence the Moselle had hitherto been free. Rodolph gazed at its coming -with astonishment in his eyes, and the swarthy countenance of the Count -seemed almost to blanch, for although that courageous man was not afraid -of the Archbishops and their armies, he was in deadly fear of dragons. -If their Lordships had invoked the aid of such, then was Thuron indeed -doomed. But as the apparition came nearer it proved to be a huge oaken -tree, stripped of its bark, advancing, butt foremost, towards the -castle. On the underpart all the limbs had been lopped off, but at each -side of it the branches remained, stripped of leaves and twigs, -sprouting out like the fins of a gigantic fish to right and left. The -great tree was borne aloft on the shoulders of more than twoscore men, -who were distributed equally on either side of it, and so it advanced -slowly, with its white body and gaunt branches, like an enormous -centipede. It was evidently the intention of the carriers to throw the -tree from their shoulders at the gate, and then taking it by the -branches, half a dozen or more at each limb, swing it back and forth, -using it as a battering ram to force in the gate. The men carrying this -monster oak had still breath enough left to cheer as they advanced, and -Count Bertrich, in the full armour he had worn at the conference, rode -by the side of this strange procession encouraging the bearers by word -and motion of the sword. From out of the wood, like the first flakes of -a snow storm driven by a gale, came bolts from crossbows, the pioneer -shafts falling far short of the walls, but gradually coming nearer as -the bowmen the better estimated the distance. Bertrich waved his sword -at those in the forest, indicating that a closer approach would please -him better, and by and by the bolts began to strike against the walls -and even fall into the courtyard. - -The Black Count, as soon as he was assured that he had to contend with -the things of this world only, took on at once the mien of a true -commander. He ordered up his catapult men, and two stalwart fellows were -speedily at the levers of the engine, working back the flexible arms of -timber which acted as motive power for the huge balls of stone. As the -bolts from the crossbows began to fall here and there on the walls, -Heinrich turned to Rodolph and curtly ordered him to seek another -portion of the castle. - -"I am very well where I am," answered the Emperor. "I wish to see the -result of the attack, and am also anxious to watch your practice with -this engine." - -The Black Count bent a look upon the younger man that was not pleasant -to behold, but before he could speak again the other added hastily: - -"I am wrong, my Lord; I go at once." - -"When you have armour on you, I shall be glad of your company," said -Heinrich, in a tone less truculent than his glance. - -The Emperor, fearing to miss the issue of the fight, did not betake -himself to the armoury to fit a suit to his body, but mounted to his -eyrie on the south tower, where he found the archer watching the -approach of the enemy with great interest. The catapult was at work, but -doing no execution. It seemed impossible to predict where one of the -huge pieces of rock it flung would alight; some went crashing into the -forest and perhaps had an influence in frightening the crossbow men, -although there was little indication of any such result, for the bolts -came as thickly as ever, and were now so truly aimed that they harassed -the defenders on the walls. The majority of the granite balls, however, -fell to the right of the approaching party and bounded harmlessly down -the hill. Meanwhile the men at the levers worked like demons after each -shot, and so hard was their labour that others had to take their places -after a few rounds. There was no question that if they once succeeded in -getting the range, and dropped a few of the boulders on the procession -they would speedily demoralise it, but those carrying the tree not only -moved forward, but advanced in a zig-zag fashion, that made marksmanship -difficult, even had the cumbrous instrument lent itself to accurate -aiming, which it did not. The Emperor saw at once that Heinrich should -have had several catapults over the gate instead of one, for the -interval after each discharge was quite long enough for great advances -to be made between shots. Also Heinrich was weak in having no men of the -crossbow. This siege had come upon him so suddenly that there had been -scant time for the training or arming of crossbow men, and in his -marauding expeditions he had never needed them. It was also evident that -his men were unaccustomed to catapult work. The castle had never before -been attacked, and although the engines had long been part of the -equipment of the walls, yet had there been no occasion heretofore to use -them. So the Count fought at a grievous disadvantage, and was well aware -of the fact, for he worked like a madman, sometimes even handling the -levers himself, when a man was injured by the flying bolts, or showed -signs of exhaustion. The men themselves, although they worked doggedly -under the eyes of the Count, gave no answering cheer when the besiegers -shouted their exultation at the erratic work of the stone-heaver, and -the crossbow brigade now issued from the forest, and boldly planted the -stakes on which their weapons rested in the open, concentrating their -bolts on those who manned the only engine of defence. One valiant -crossbow man, panting for distinction under the eye of a leader who was -quick to recognise bravery, ran with weapon and stake far ahead of those -coming with the battering ram, planted his stake not more than a score -of lance lengths from the gate, and began to prepare for a trial at -close quarters. This so enraged the Black Count that he seized one of -the great spheres of stone, and not waiting to place it in the slow -engine, hoisted it up and poising it for one brief second above his -head, as he stood on the edge of the parapet, flung it with such -accuracy and such tremendous force, that it rolled at great speed -towards the man, who turned and fled in terror, leaving his weapon and -stake behind him, amidst the jeers of his own comrades, and the first -cheer that went up from the garrison. - -"Wait till we get the villains under us at the gate, and we will need no -catapult," roared Heinrich, in a voice of thunder; and indeed, here was -a danger that made the attacking party pause for a moment until urged on -again by their intrepid leader. - -When Rodolph arrived at the top of the tower, the archer looked up at -him with an expression of inquiry, and seemed not too well pleased with -his coming. On the ledge of the stone coping, the Emperor saw arrayed -with nice precision a dozen arrows, all an equal distance apart. The bow -was in Surrey's hand, strung and ready for action, but his jaw dropped -on seeing the Emperor, who gazed at the mathematically arranged display -on the coping with a smile curling his lip. - -"John Surrey," he said, "I trust it was not your intention to molest the -Archbishop's troops without command of your superior officer." - -"Well, my Lord," replied the archer, in a hesitating tone most unusual -with him, "it is difficult to see so pretty a fight in progress and not -do something to the furthering of it. The Archbishop has a hundred -bowmen, such as they are, while his Darkness does not appear to have -one, if I am not to be allowed to draw string." - -"But we have no quarrel with the Archbishop, John." - -"Indeed, my Lord," answered Surrey, bitterly, "you forgot that, when you -ordered me to bend bow against his two men-at-arms on the hill yonder." - -"True, true, so I did, and right well you acquitted yourself. Can you do -the same from this height?" - -"Can I? My fingers were just getting beyond my control when you came up. -No man could wish better shooting than is here to his hand." - -"We will wait a little and see if they cannot do better with the -catapult. They need some practice, and will never have a finer -opportunity." - -"Look you, my Lord, at the crossbow shooting. Did you ever see the air -so thick and so little damage done? 'Tis a most contemptible instrument, -as I have before averred to you, and now you can see its uselessness for -yourself. A body of English archers would have had the castle taken and -the Count well hanged long ere this." - -"I hardly see how archers alone could scale the battlements, however -expert they might be; but perhaps they project each other over stone -walls attached to their arrows; they do such wonderful things in -England." - -"I make bold to inform you, my Lord, that----" - -"I do not doubt it. Let us watch the fight." - -When the cheer went up that greeted the hurling of the stone, and the -very precipitate flight of the jeopardised crossbow man, the Emperor -turned to the offended and silent archer and said: - -"Now is your time, John. Show them what true marksmanship is, and -remember the eyes of Germany are on you, or presently will be." - -The archer needed no second bidding. Rubbing his right foot on the roof -to make certain against slipping, then standing squarely with feet the -correct distance apart, in a position where the arrows laid out were -ready to his hand, Surrey, with tightly set lips and wrinkled brow, -launched shaft after shaft in marvellously quick succession. The first -man at the butt end of the log on the right hand side fell, pierced in -the neck downwards through the body. The second man on the same side -dropped, then the third, then the fourth, then the fifth. The sixth man -jumped, with a yell of terror, to one side, leaving his place, while the -remainder not understanding what had happened, straining to uphold their -increased burden, at last gave way, and the falling log pinned many of -them to the ground. - -The archer, the frenzy of killing in his eye, a veritable angel of death -on the tower, shouted sharply to the Emperor, as if Rodolph were his -menial, "Scatter more arrows on the coping," and his Majesty promptly -obeyed. - -Into the midst of the now panic-stricken crowd, that a moment before had -so proudly borne aloft the oaken tree, Surrey sped his winged -messengers, each bringing forth a yell of pain or an expiring groan. -Count Bertrich, lashing about him with the flat of his sword, tried to -stay the flight of his men, but without avail. - -"Roll the log from your comrades, you cowardly dogs, and then fly if you -must!" he shouted, but his commands were unheeded. - -"Shoot none of those pinned to the ground," cried the Emperor. - -"Have you ever seen me shoot a helpless man or horse--except -Bertrich's?" cried the insulted archer. "More arrows and less talk." - -"Discipline and respect have both gone for the time being," said Rodolph -to himself, with a chuckle, as he placed arrows from the pile along the -coping. The thought of Bertrich's horse turned the archer's attention to -that thoroughly enraged commander. One arrow glanced from Bertrich's -shoulder, and another struck him squarely on the side of the head, -shattering itself, but dealing a staggering blow to the Count. Bertrich -shook aloft his sword defiantly at the man on the tower, and received a -third arrow in his sleeve which came perilously near to be the undoing -of him. - -"Shoot me that archer on the tower!" he said, to his crossbow men. "Let -one bolt at least among the hundreds you have wasted account for -itself." - -But the order was more easy to give than to obey. The crossbow is not -suited to upward firing, for if a man uses a stake, he must lie down to -shoot at a height. Surrey, however, turned with an exultant laugh -towards those bowmen who had the courage to try conclusions with him, -and pinned three to the earth while the others took to flight leaving -their cumbrous weapons behind them. A moment later the surviving -crossbow men were safe in the forest. - -Count Bertrich, to whom the archer again turned his attention, sprang -from his horse, paying little heed to the shafts, and, going to the tail -end of the log, exerted his great strength, pulling it partly from those -nearest him, who, getting up, sorely bruised as they were, lent a hand -and rolled the log from the others. - -"Stop!" cried the Emperor to the archer, in a tone of voice which left -no doubt that authority had returned to its usual habitation. - -Surrey paused, and turned a sweat-bedewed face towards his master. - -"I am not hurting him," he protested, dolefully, "and it is excellent -practice." - -"You need no practice, John; and the day is triumphantly yours and yours -alone. Never will I believe there lives on this earth a greater bowman, -be he English or the devil himself." - -"Ah," cried the archer, drawing a long breath of deep satisfaction, "if -you could but see Roger Kent. God grant that he is not with yonder crowd -on the plain, or some of us will never set foot out of Thuron." - -Black Heinrich stood gazing up at the round tower, an unkempt figure, -after his great but fruitless exertions. Rodolph waved his hand to him, -and leaning over the coping cried: - -"How like you our catapult, my Lord?" - -"In truth it is amazing. Guard the archer well, and see he does not -expose himself. I will burn this clumsy implement and cook our dinners -at the fire. 'Tis all it's fit for." - -"Your men are not in practice. Give it another chance." - -When the log was rolling away, many who were under it lay prone on the -ground, crushed to death. Count Bertrich approached the gate on foot, -his hand upraised, unheeding the catapult which Heinrich kept his men -steadily working, saying that if Bertrich did not give in, he would not -cease battle, being less chivalrous toward a brave enemy than Rodolph -had proved himself. - -"My Lord of Thuron," cried Bertrich, when within hearing distance, -"although there is little chance of harm, we know not what accidents may -arise, so I beg you to stop your practice, as some of my poor fellows, -sorely hurt already, may suffer if I do not formally proclaim our defeat -to you. I have no flag of truce with me, and, therefore, ask you to -overlook informality, and give me the opportunity of conveying away my -dead and wounded." - -"Your request is granted, my Lord," said Heinrich, telling his men to -cease their efforts, "and I hope that to-day's check will not deprive us -of the happiness of meeting you again." - -"From what I have seen of your own military skill, my Lord, we might in -perfect safety camp within lance length of your gate." - -With which interchange of civilities Bertrich strode back to attend to -the removal of those who were injured, while the Black Count, moodily -cursing his catapult, said to his men: - -"Follow me to the north tower. We shall see if the engine there is no -surer than this one." - -As the Count strode away Rodolph joined him, and Heinrich explained -half apologetically that he was about to test all the other catapults in -the castle. - -"I am going to heave a stone into the Archbishop's big tent, if you have -no objection," said the Count. - -"None in the least," cried the Emperor, "providing the projecting -machine is equally willing." - -A round stone was put in place, when the levers had done their duty, and -Heinrich himself discharged the shot. The formidable projectile -described an arc over the profound valley of the Thaurand, struck fairly -the western end of the huge tent, and disappeared within it, leaving a -ragged hole to attest its passage. - -"Ah, that is better," said the Black Count in a tone of exultant -satisfaction. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIII. - -THE TWO ARCHBISHOPS FALL OUT. - - -The great white tent erected on the heights of Bieldenburg was in -reality much larger than it appeared from the battlement of Thuron. It -is doubtful if any who then beheld it, lord or serf, had the slightest -conception of its significance. It was actually the precursor of what is -perhaps the grandest cathedral the world has ever seen; and when, two -years after, Konrad von Hochstaden laid the foundation stone of Cologne -Cathedral, it was the designer of this tent who drew the plans for that -splendid edifice, which was not to be completed for centuries later. - -If the three Archbishops of Cologne, Mayence and Treves, who were also -Electors, could have held honestly together, and could have suppressed -their jealousy of each other, they might have swayed the destinies of -Germany much more surely than they did, for they needed but one more -Elector with them to form a majority of the Electoral College, the -number of whose members was now fixed at seven, a figure which the -Germans were loath to change, because it had come, in this connection, -to have almost a mystical significance. Not only had the Electors power -to nominate whom they pleased as Emperor, but the College had also the -right to depose him, yet the latter privilege was practically nullified -by their fear and hatred of each other, so that afterwards an -acknowledged fool, Charles IV., who was held in such slight respect that -a butcher in Worms had him arrested for not paying his meat bill, so -worked on the mutual dislikes of the Electors that he not only reigned -undeposed, in spite of a thousand reasons for being rid of him, but -actually arranged matters so that his weak-minded son was elected to -succeed him, in spite of the determination heretofore held, that no -colour should be given for establishing a precedent that a son might -succeed his father on the German throne. - -The Rhine, flowing from Mayence to Cologne, seemed to have formed a link -between the Archbishops of each place, and they were usually found in -alliance with each other, bonded against powerful Treves, whose -iron-handed master had defied them both and held them at bay outside the -barred gates of Frankfort. The astute Arnold von Isenberg had now -resolved to lure the Archbishop of Cologne from the Archbishop of -Mayence, and thus Treves and Cologne found themselves in alliance -opposite Thuron. What the inducements were is unknown, but as the -Archbishop of Cologne two years later began the great Cathedral, and as -the Archbishop of Treves four years later began the castle of -Stolzenfels on the Rhine, it may be surmised that there were mutual -concessions, and that each was reasonably well guaranteed from -interference by the other. Stolzenfels stands, as near as may be, midway -between Cologne and Mayence, so in fixing a fortress residence for -himself and his successors right on the line of communication between -his two rivals, it must be admitted that the Archbishop of Treves had a -substantial advantage in the bargain. This desertion of his ancient ally -must have somewhat surprised the Archbishop of Mayence, for he doubtless -remembered that twenty-one years before, Frederick von Isenberg, a -relative of the master of Treves, had assassinated on the Cavelsburg, -Engelbert von Berg, Archbishop of Cologne, the predecessor of Konrad von -Hochstaden, one Archbishop reigning between. - -There were also reasons of locality which made an alliance between -Cologne and Treves natural. Mayence up the Rhine, Cologne down the -Rhine, and Treves up the Moselle formed the points of a large triangle, -and the latter cities being further from the capital than the other, -were perhaps freer from fear of whatever influence the Court might -possess. - -It had long been the ambition of Cologne to build a Cathedral in keeping -with the growing ambition of the Archbishopric. Both Mayence and Treves -had great Cathedrals. The Cathedral at Mayence had been four times -destroyed by fire within the past two centuries and had arisen like an -ecclesiastical phoenix in greater splendour after each conflagration. -That of Treves had been built on the site of the Roman Basilica, and was -said to rival the ancient edifice in size and magnificence. The -ill-fated Engelbert took the first steps towards the beginning of a -Cathedral in Cologne that would at least equal those of Mayence and -Treves, but his assassination ended the scheme for a time. His successor -did nothing, and now that Konrad von Hochstaden was Archbishop he was -ambitious to link his name with the commencement of an edifice that -would eclipse anything then in existence. It was his intention to employ -the greatest architects in Germany, and when this determination spread -abroad, it caused many artists more or less known to submit plans to -him, but none of these met the Archbishop's entire approbation. - -There came a man from a small village near Cologne who desired to submit -designs for a great church, but being without influence and without -wealth he never succeeded in gaining audience with the princely -Archbishop. He had no gold with which to bribe attendants and no highly -placed friends who could whisper a word for him at the proper moment. -Yet he had one friend who believed in him. Father Ambrose, clerical -secretary to the Archbishop, was a native of the small and insignificant -village of Riehl near Cologne, where the man ambitious to build a -Cathedral lived, and Meister Gerard, the architect, was well known to -him. Ambrose spoke once or twice to Konrad regarding this man, but the -Archbishop was then busy with the secret envoys from Treves, and while -war is being concocted, churches must stand in abeyance. When these -secret negotiations were completed, Father Ambrose again attempted to -bespeak a hearing for his fellow-townsman. The Archbishop, however, was -not then in the architectural mood, and Ambrose feared his request had -been inopportune. - -"You are a good man, Ambrose," said the Archbishop, "but persistent. Now -let me tell you finally what my purpose is. It is not a village church I -wish to see builded, but a Cathedral that will outshine Imperial Rome -herself. Therefore it is not a village architect I am on the outlook -for, but one who will prove the modern brother of the builder of the -Parthenon in Athens." - -"I know not who built the Parthenon, my Lord," said the monk, with the -dogged pertinacity of the North German, "but it may have been a village -architect, despised by the great of Greece." - -"It may indeed be so. Whence comes this architect of yours?" - -"From Riehl, my Lord." - -"From Riehl, indeed! You might at least have given us a town the size of -Bonn. From Riehl!" The Archbishop threw back his head and laughed. - -"'Can any good come out of Nazareth,' quoth they of old," said the monk, -solemnly. The Archbishop became instantly serious. - -"Ambrose, that smacks strongly of the sacrilegious." - -"I may put it thus then--'A prophet is not without honour but in his own -country, and among his own kin, and in his own house,'" said the monk, -giving the quotation in Latin. - -"You think much of this man?" - -"I do indeed, my Lord." - -"Then I will give him a commission, but it shall not be the building of -a Cathedral. I have made compact with my brother of Treves, Arnold von -Isenberg, too long estranged from me. We are more like to find ourselves -engaged in tearing down than in building up. Let your architect then -design for me a large tent, one that will hold a hundred men while -seated at dinner, or five hundred, with tables removed, to hear Mass. -Let the tent be well proportioned, for in that lies architectural skill. -Its ornamentation will give little scope to a dull man and much to one -who is ingenious. Draw what money is needed from the Treasury for its -construction, and see that the sum be ample, so that your architect may -have fair recompense, and that I may not be ashamed of my tent, for -within it shall the Archbishop of Treves meet me in conference. Have the -tent made ready as soon as possible, for I know not the day I may need -it, and in the building of it let your fellow remember that the beauty -of a tent is that it bears transportation well, being not over bulky, -and that it is erected quickly and stands firmly in a storm." - -Thus came the large tent, made in Cologne, to be placed on the heights -of Bieldenburg over the Moselle, with Meister Gerard himself -superintending its erection. - -The floor had been constructed of flattened timber, bedded in the cement -used for the building of castles, which when hardened was more difficult -to break than the stones it bound together. Over this was laid Eastern -cloths, soft in touch to the foot, and pleasing in colour to the eye. -When the tent was erected, Meister Gerard waited eagerly until the sun -rose next morning, so that he might persuade Ambrose to ask the -Archbishop's criticism of the work now completed that he might thus -obtain an opportunity to speak with the great ecclesiastic, on whom the -architect felt his future depended. Gerard saw the envoys depart on -their mission to the castle, and, early as it was, he also saw Konrad -von Hochstaden, the monk Ambrose by his side, walking to and fro before -the Archbishop's residential tent. The great audience pavilion stood -alone, one end facing the east, as any erection intended for the use of -two Princes of the Church should stand. To the north of it was the -cluster of tents occupied by Konrad and the numerous attendants who -waited upon him. To the south was a similar village belonging to the -Archbishop of Treves, each village being at the point nearest the city -from which its master took his title. The trumpets were blaring before -Castle Thuron when Ambrose induced the Archbishop to inspect the new -tent. He stood within it and gazed about him, while the architect, near -by, waited for a word of approval or condemnation. - -"You have given us no ornamentation," said Konrad at last. - -"The ornamentation, my Lord, is largely in its correct proportion; -nevertheless, I have ventured on a touch of colour which may be seen, or -not, at your Lordship's pleasure." - -"Let us behold it, then." - -The architect gave a signal to two workmen who waited at the western end -of the tent, and they, by the pulling of cords, rolled up an inner -screen. There was disclosed a picture wrought in many coloured silks, -deftly sewn together, representing the arms of Cologne and Treves in -juxtaposition. The light shone through the scheme of colour from the -outside, and the richness of the painting stood out with the more -distinctness that the whole interior of the tent was of one subdued hue -of white. - -"That is most ingenious," the Archbishop was pleased to say, to the -architect's gratification. "We will have it remain so." - -"I have another picture on the eastern end as well," said Gerard. "Have -I your Lordship's permission to exhibit that also?" - -"Surely, surely," answered Konrad, whereupon the two workmen walked the -length of the tent, and rolled up another screen similar to the first. - -The result was most startling. The morning sun shone fully upon the -eastern end of the tent and imparted a glory to the rich colouring, -which gave the picture a brilliancy savouring more of Heaven than of -earth. The design represented a twin spired Cathedral, worked out in -the fullest detail, the spires encrusted with ornament, the beautiful -Gothic door between them being a model of correct proportion, yet of -immense size, the whole representation one on which the eye rested with -ever increasing delight, wonder, and admiration. - -For some moments the Archbishop stood speechless before this marvel in -line and tint. At last he said: - -"It is not possible that such a building actually exists and I have -never heard of it! Where is it?" - -"Only in my brain, my Lord, but it may exist in Cologne, if your -Lordship so wills it." - -"Ah!" The Archbishop drew a long sigh of supreme gratification. "Are you -sure you sold not your soul to the devil for this design, Meister -Gerard." - -"I had hoped your Lordship would attribute the design to a higher -source. It was my belief that inspiration prompted the picture which -made me so persistent in trying to obtain permission from your Lordship -to exhibit to you the drawings. There will be no Cathedral like that of -Cologne in all the rest of the world, if this building is erected." - -"You speak truly. Let down the curtain, and see that it is securely -fastened. The design cannot be seen from without, can it? I did not -notice it as I entered." - -"No, my Lord, unless at night when the tent is lighted, and then only -when the curtain is raised." - -"This curtain is not to be raised. No one must look upon this picture. -Have a new end made for this tent, and put in a drawing of Treves -Cathedral if you like, but this is to be seen by none. Meister Gerard, -you are the architect of Cologne Cathedral. He is to have a room in the -palace, Ambrose, and a fitting allowance: see to it. As soon as another -end is in place, get you back to Cologne and work upon your plans. Men -less inspired will attend to the fighting." - -Therefore was the stay of Meister Gerard, architect of Cologne -Cathedral, of short duration in the neighbourhood of the Moselle. - -The Archbishop was still in the tent when his envoy returned from the -mission to Castle Thuron, and reported there to his master the colloquy -that had taken place between Count Heinrich and Bertrich. Konrad von -Hochstaden frowned as he listened, and for a time pondered deeply in -silence over the information he had received. The architect and the -workmen were gone, and Archbishop, envoy and monk were alone in the -tent. - -"You say that Count Bertrich attacked the castle as you departed. Are -any of my men in the fray?" - -"No, my Lord. I urged Count Bertrich to postpone assault until you were -made acquainted with the result of our conference at the gate, but this -he refused to do. I then ordered your captain to hold aloof until he got -direct command from you." - -"You did well. This Bertrich seems to act much on his own -responsibility; a hot-headed man, whom perhaps his master employs for -that very reason; if successful, the Archbishop may commend, and if -unsuccessful, disclaim. Is there a chance of capturing the castle -through his onslaught?" - -"I could form no opinion thereon, not knowing how rigorously the place -may be defended." - -"I must have some explanation from Arnold von Isenberg before the -question is decided. Ambrose, deliver greetings from me to the -Archbishop of Treves, and acquaint him with the fact that I await him -here, as there are matters of grave import to discuss." - -The monk departed, and presently the Archbishop of Treves entered the -tent attended only by his secretary. After salutations had passed -between the two Princes, Konrad von Hochstaden began the discussion, -going directly to the heart of the matter, as was his fashion, for he -never imitated the round-about method of approaching a subject that so -much commended itself to his more subtle colleague. - -"I am informed that Count Bertrich has attacked the castle, and is at -present engaged in its reduction, and this without waiting for -co-operation from my forces." - -"If he has done so," replied Arnold suavely, "he has most gravely outrun -his instructions." - -"He furthermore stated to the Count of Thuron that you had certain -powers granted you by the Emperor Rodolph. What is the nature of those -powers?" - -"In that also is Count Bertrich wrong. I have never so much as seen the -Emperor Rodolph." - -"You may, nevertheless, have had communication with him." - -"I have had no communication with him." - -"It seems strange that such a claim should have been put forward on your -behalf by your own envoy." - -"I cannot account for it. Bertrich has not yet returned, but when he -does, I shall ask him for an explanation, and that in your presence. He -is a turbulent man, and a good fighter, but difficult to restrain. One -has to work with the tools that come to one's hands, and often the -service is ill-rendered, as seems to have been the case in this -instance." - -As the Archbishop ceased speaking there arose cheer after cheer from -Castle Thuron, which caused all present to listen intently, and for a -short time nothing further was said. It was his Lordship of Cologne who -first broke silence. - -"Those cries are too near at hand to betoken victory for Count Bertrich. -Perhaps it may be well to send him reinforcements." - -"No," said Treves. "This action has been begun without my sanction, and -Bertrich must conduct it as best he can. He has the demerit of being -over-confident, and a check, while not affecting the final result, may -make him the easier to reason with, and prevent the recurrence of such -hasty unauthorised action." - -"You take it coolly. I confess I would learn with some impatience that -my troops were being over-borne, and my first impulse would be to send -assistance." - -"Your action would be natural and creditable to you, but there is more -at stake than the issue of a mêlée. I find myself unexpectedly put on -the defensive, and have no reply to make beyond giving you my simple -word. I know no more than you do what has happened, and have had, as -yet, no account of the parley with the occupier of Thuron. It is -necessary there should be complete confidence between you and me, and I -regret that in the very beginning of our united action, suspicion should -be engendered in your mind. If Bertrich captures Thuron, he mistakes me -much if he thinks that the bringing thither of the Black Count will -compensate for the shadow he has cast on my good faith with you. -Therefore I propose to await his coming, and I shall be most gratified -to have you question him before he has had word with me, either in my -presence, or in my absence, as best pleases you." - -The candour of Arnold von Isenberg made an evident impression on his -suspicious colleague, who said after a pause: - -"Yes, there must be confidence or our united action will be futile. -There are our arms, side by side, on the end of this tent, facing the -stronghold which we expect to reduce. Our several motives should be as -plainly in sight to each other, which is my excuse for speaking thus -openly to you, rather than cherishing secret distrust." - -The sentence was strangely interrupted. The cheering had for some time -ceased, and now through the arms of Treves, blazoned on the wall, there -came, with a sound of tearing cloth, the huge round stone shot from the -catapult. It fell with a resounding crash on the floor and rolled -between the two Electors, who both started back with dismay on their -faces. The silk and canvas hung in tatters, and showed beyond a bit of -the blue and peaceful sky. The Archbishop of Cologne devoutly crossed -himself, but his comrade of Treves looked alternately at the rent, and -at the great missile that caused it, like one stupefied. - -"If I believed in portents," said the Archbishop of Cologne in the -uncertain voice of one who did so believe, "that might have seemed an -unlucky omen." - -The Lord of Treves, recovering himself, shrugged his shoulders. - -"It is but a chance shot, and the rending of a bit of painted cloth. I -shall send flag of truce to Heinrich and ask him to deal us no more of -these pleasant surprises. If he refuses, then must our encampment be -removed further from the castle, while we shall place some catapults -here and return his favours to him, so I have little doubt he will -consent to leave us unmolested." - -As he finished speaking there entered to them Count Bertrich, his face -flushed with anger, but his demeanour in a measure crestfallen. He bowed -to each Prince of the Church, and stood there silent, wincing under the -lowering indignant gaze bestowed on him by his imperious master. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIV. - -COUNT BERTRICH EXPLAINS HIS FAILURE. - - -The two Archbishops looked at one another as if each waited for his -colleague to begin. - -"Will you question Count Bertrich, my Lord?" said Treves, at last. - -"No. He has represented you, and should account to you. As I have your -permission to note his replies, I shall put question when I have heard -what he has to say, if further examination seems necessary." - -"You went on a diplomatic mission," began Treves, very slowly to his -follower; "am I correct in surmising that you return from a battle?" - -"Yes, my Lord." - -"Is it true that you began this attack notwithstanding the protest of my -ally's representative?" - -"It is, my Lord." - -"In pursuance of instructions previously given by me?" - -"No, my Lord; I had no instructions from you to offer battle, but I knew -it was your intention to fight, if Heinrich refused to surrender. He did -so refuse, and I took it upon myself to begin." - -"What was the outcome?" - -"I was defeated, my Lord." - -"Have you lost any men?" - -"Something over a dozen, and under a score. They were killed by the -archer I told you of, just on the point of victory. We would have had -the castle otherwise." - -"You return, then, a defeated man, having insulted your master's ally by -refusing to listen to his counsel, your followers are slain, and you -admit having acted without orders. What have you to say in excuse, -Count Bertrich?" - -"There is nothing to say. I stand here to take the brunt of my acts, and -to endure what punishment is inflicted upon me. A fighting man makes -mistakes, and must bear the issue of them." - -"Yet, what I have chronicled is not the most serious of your offences. -It seems hardly credible that you should have said such a thing, but I -am told you boasted to Heinrich that the Emperor had bestowed certain -authority on me. Made you any such statement, and if so, what -explanation have you to offer?" - -"I out-lied the villain, that was all?" - -"To whom do you refer when you speak of the villain?" - -"To the black thief of Thuron. Perhaps I should have admitted two -villains, myself being the other. He said that he would surrender the -castle if you had authority from the Emperor. I knew he was lying, and -would surrender to none, so I said you had such authority." - -"What grounds had you for making such statement?" - -"No grounds whatever, my Lord. It was merely a case of two liars -meeting, one on horseback, the other on the walls of Thuron." - -Notwithstanding the seriousness of the occasion, a slight smile -disturbed the severe lips of the questioner, and a more kindly light -came into his eyes. He was shrewd enough to see that the blunt and -prompt outspokenness of the Count served his purpose better than the -answers of a more diplomatic man would have done. There was never a -moment's pause between question and reply, nor was there any evidence on -the part of Bertrich of an endeavour to discover what his master wished -him to say. Any sign of an understanding between the two, any hesitation -on Bertrich's part in answering, might have added to the apprehensions -of Konrad von Hochstaden. But the dullest could not help seeing that -here stood a brave unscrupulous man who knew he had done wrong, yet who -was not afraid to take upon himself all the consequences, attempting -little excuse for his conduct. The Lord of Treves turned to the Lord of -Cologne. "Have you any question to ask?" he said. - -"Not one. I have nothing to say except to beg of you not to visit any -resentment you may feel upon Count Bertrich, who is a brave soldier, if -an unskillful liar. Indeed I am not sure but the Count has done us both -a service in bringing to an issue this matter, which, to our detriment, -might have dragged on longer than would have been convenient. The Black -Count seems to possess some skill in diplomacy, which I did not give him -credit for, and it was probably his intention to keep us parleying with -him until he was better prepared to receive us. All that now remains for -us to do is to plan a comprehensive attack on the castle with our whole -force, which will be immediately successful. Your archer can do little -when confronted by an army, for, as I understand it, there is but one -archer in the castle. Then we will take the Black Count and the other -prisoners with us to Treves in a few days, and there pass judgment upon -him, for I think it better that such trial should take place under your -jurisdiction than under mine, Heinrich being your vassal, and he seems -to show a preference for having all transactions done in strict -accordance with the feudal law, which is but just and proper. He may -then appeal to the Emperor--if he can find his wandering Majesty." - -"I entirely agree with your argument," replied Treves; and turning to -Count Bertrich, he continued, "In deference to what has been urged on -your behalf by his Lordship of Cologne, I shall say nothing further in -regard to your conduct, beyond breathing a fervent hope that you will -not so offend again. Take or send a flag of truce to Thuron gates, and -ask the Black Count to respect this camp. Tell him that if he will not -so arrange, he will merely put us to the trouble of moving back our -tents, and placing catapults here instead. If he molest us not, we -shall take no offensive measures against him from this quarter. This -piece of rock has just been hurled from the castle through the tent, and -it came dangerously near being the death of some of us." - -"By the gods, then," cried Count Bertrich, "Heinrich has greatly -improved his catapult practice in very short time." - -"We have no desire to be his targets, so make the arrangement with him -if you can." - -"My Lord, if I may venture the suggestion, it were better to have no -further traffic with the Black Count, for I doubt if he will keep his -word, even if he gave it. But besides that, this is the only point from -which a catapult can be of service against the castle. Placed here, -half-a-dozen engines, energetically worked, might fill his courtyard for -him. I strongly urge you to remove the tents and fix catapults in their -places." - -"Count Bertrich," said Arnold, harshly, gazing coldly upon him, "this -morning's excursion has led you into delusions not yet cleared away, I -fear. This campaign is to be conducted by the Archbishop of Cologne and -myself. We desire no suggestions from you, but very prompt obedience. -You have heard the order, transmit it to one of your officers, for I -distrust your own powers as faithful envoy. When he reports the result -of his conversation with Count Heinrich to you, you will then, perhaps, -be good enough to bring the tidings to me." - -Count Bertrich reddened angrily, kept silence, bowed to the two -dignitaries and withdrew. - -"Nevertheless," he muttered to himself as he strode away, "it is folly -to waste the best point of attack for the convenience of two -Archbishops. Heinrich is no such fool as not to jump at such a senseless -proposal." - - - - -CHAPTER XXV. - -THE SECOND ASSAULT ON THE CASTLE. - - -The swarthy Heinrich, summoned once again by bugle blast to the gate top -of the castle, seeing there a man with white flag, heard with amazement -that the high and honourable Archbishops did not wish to be incommoded -by his catapult practice and the incoming inconvenience of the lumps of -stone, and were, therefore, willing themselves to forego the bombarding -of the castle from that point, if he would promise not to fling rounded -granite again into the deliberations of the mighty Lords aforesaid. -Heinrich, casting a glance over his shoulder at the heights of -Bieldenburg, scarcely believing that men pretending knowledge of war and -siege would so easily forego so great an opportunity as the heights -afforded them for the annoyance of the castle, not to mention the -destruction which might be caused by the falling of stone on the roofs -inside the walls, readily gave his consent to put the catapult of the -north tower out of action--a promise which he duly kept in the letter, -if not quite in the spirit, as will be seen when this history has -somewhat farther extended itself. - -So great, however, was his distrust of humanity in general, and the -Archbishops in particular, that he did not remove his catapult from the -north tower to some part of the battlements where it could make its -influence felt on the invaders, but kept it there idle, expecting that -their Lordships would, when they came to realise the advantages of the -situation, forthwith break their word, which, it is pleasant to record, -they never did. The incident of the white flag and its mission -encouraged Heinrich mightily, for small as was his respect for his -assailants before, it was less now. They might easily have shifted their -tents farther back, while he could not remove the castle, nor eliminate -the Bieldenburg, and thus they possessed a notable natural advantage -over him which they had recklessly bargained away, getting practically -nothing in exchange. The Black Count walked up and down gleefully -rubbing his hands together, communing with himself, for he was not a man -to run and share his satisfaction with another. This was but the first -day of the siege, yet he had enjoyed a victory in diplomacy, a victory -in battle and a victory in bargaining, and in pluming himself thereon he -quite overlooked the fact, as mankind is prone to do, that in none of -the three cases was the merit due to himself, but to the actions of -others. - -There were to be no more pleasant breakfasts on the top of the south -tower, it being within the range of possibility that a crossbow bolt -might find its way thither, so the two ladies of the castle could not be -permitted to run the chance of such an eventuality. Heinrich, however, -beginning at that late day to show some human interest in his family, -arranged that they should eat together in the great hall. Here he took -the head of the table, with his wife and Tekla on one side, while -Rodolph occupied a seat on the other. The archer had proved himself no -less expert with cooking utensils than with the bow, and on the promise -of an extra penny a day, willingly prepared their meals, which were -carried in by two men-at-arms, who proved, at first, clumsy waiters -compared with the neat and deft-handed Hilda. These meals, however, were -anything but cheerful functions, for the Count and his wife rarely broke -silence, and although some conversation passed between Rodolph and -Tekla, it was overshadowed by the continual gloom that sat on the brow -of their taciturn host. - -Watch was set for the night, as evening fell once more upon the valley, -and again the hundreds of camp fires glowed in the darkness, while up -from the tented plain, in the still air, came the singing of familiar -songs, deep-throated bass mingling with soprano and tenor, the harmony -mellowed by distance, sounding sweet in the ears of the beleaguered. The -songs for the most part were those the Crusade had brought forth, and -the words, while often warlike, even more frequently told of Christ and -his influence on the world. They were the songs which had stirred the -sentiment of the nation and had caused so many to go forth to battle for -the rescue of the true sepulchre from infidel hands. Militant marching -tunes mingled with other sadder strains which mourned the nonreturn of -friends from the Death Plains of the crimson East. - -In the morning the circling army was early astir, displaying an energy -not less remarkable than it had exhibited on the previous day. It was -evident that an attack of some kind was contemplated, and those within -the castle had not long to wait before the design was disclosed. A line -of men, probably numbering a thousand, was drawn up at the foot of the -hill extending between the village of Alken and the castle, from the -north of the Thaurand valley far towards the west. The warriors stood -about, or sat down, or sprawled at full length on the ground, as suited -each soldier's fancy, and apparently waited the word of command which -their officers, standing on the alert, would give when some signal was -shown or sounded. The few sentinels on watch along the eastern wall of -the castle gave warning that a like company of men was crawling up the -steep slopes of the Thaurand through the forest, but little heed was -given to them, as the eastern sides of the castle were so high that no -man could easily win to the top with any ladder the besiegers might -construct, and if they attempted such scaling, the guards at the top -would have no difficulty in dislodging the ladders with their pikes and -lances. The line near Alken rested out of reach of catapult-stones, but -in a measure only. Although the catapult which Heinrich at once set in -operation, could not hurl a stone directly on their line, yet the balls -of granite rolled down the hill with irresistible force, and while the -men were inclined at first to hail these missiles with shouts of -merriment, dancing this way and that to avoid them, several standing -with legs widespread allowing the projectiles to pass between their -feet, yet now and then a hurling stone would take an unexpected leap in -the air and double up a man, whose laughter was heard no more. After -some moments of eruptive activity on the part of the castle the soldiers -were compelled to treat the efforts of the enemy with respect, while the -officers moved their men in extended order, so decreasing the danger -from the catapults. - -Presently there emerged from the forest, in front of the gate, twoscore -or more of men in complete armour. They advanced to the great oaken log -which had proved so disastrous to their comrades the day before. -Crossbow bolts now flew again from the wood, but a wholesome fear of the -archer on the tower kept the bowmen from showing themselves. The men in -armour with some difficulty lifted the heavy log to their shoulders, and -as they advanced towards the gate, Surrey's arrows glancing -ineffectually from their protected bodies, a bugle call rang out over -the valley. Instantly the men at the bottom of the hill gave a great -cheer and charged up the slope, treading down the vines, while others -behind them carried scaling ladders of a length suitable for the long -low front of Thuron. Those at the catapults now worked like madmen, and -their efforts told heavily on the advancing army, whose movement, -laborious because of the steepness of the hill, the feet of the men -entangled in the tenacious, trailing vines, was once or twice checked in -the ascent, but they always rallied with a cheer, under the -encouragement of their officers, and set their faces to the task before -them with renewed energy. - -The archer on the tower desisted from his fruitless efforts against the -men in armour, and now turned his attention to the unprotected horde -climbing the hill, and although every arrow did execution, the stormers -were in such multitude that his skill had no effect in checking the -advance. - -The Black Count strode from catapult to catapult, alternately cursing -and encouraging the workers. Rodolph, now in full armour, commanded a -body of men who stood on the battlements with axes on their shoulders, -ready to spring forward when ladders were planted. The twoscore with -their battering ram threw down their bulky burden at the gate, and -endeavoured to put it to its use, but it was soon evident they could not -hold the position they had won. Besides, they were unaccustomed to the -weight and awkwardness of armour and made little headway with their -battery. Their heads being enclosed in iron--for if they had shown an -inch of their faces the archer would certainly not have turned -discouraged from them--prevented their hearing the words of command, and -they seemed incapable of swinging the log with rhythmic motion. Count -Bertrich, on his horse, his visor up in spite of the archer, roared -orders that were not obeyed, because unheard, and in his frenzy the -Count seemed about to ride down his own followers, while loudly cursing -their clumsy stupidity. But worse than this was the rain of stones which -even armour could not withstand. The Black Count, summoning his most -stalwart followers, hurled down on the men beneath them the huge granite -spheres, acting for the time as their own catapults. The machine itself -did better execution than it had accomplished the day before, as its -workers had now learned its peculiarities. The oak log gave infrequent -feeble blows against the strong gate, but one after another of its -carriers were felled by the stones, then the log itself proved too heavy -for its thinned supporters, and so came to the ground, whereupon those -who remained turned and fled for shelter in the forest, all of them -sweating in the unaccustomed iron cases in which they found themselves: -some falling prone on the ground through heat and exhaustion, not -knowing how to unloose their headpieces to get a breath of fresh air. - -Bertrich wasted no further effort on them, but called his crossbow -brigade out of the wood to advance and harass those on the walls while -the scaling ladders were being put into use. They came out timorously -with an eye on the tower rather than on the direction of their bolts. -Here, at last, was Surrey's opportunity. His hatred of a crossbow man as -a cumberer of the earth lent strength to his aim, and his anger at being -baffled by those in armour made the game he was now playing doubly -enjoyable. He raised a Saxon yell, heard far and wide over hill and -dale. - -"Oh, here you are at last!" he cried. "Come along with your ox-bows and -hay ricks." - -When half-a-dozen had fallen under the whizzing, almost invisible, -shafts that so quickly succeeded each other, the ranks of the crossbow -men wavered and broke, every man of them getting under cover as speedily -as he could. - -Those on the western wall under Rodolph's command were now having all -they could do. The hill climbers, although somewhat out of breath with -their hurried ascent, swarmed in such numbers at the foot of the walls, -that for a time their repulse seemed almost hopeless. Each of the -attacking soldiers carried, wound round his waist, a rope tied at one -end to a piece of timber three or four feet long. This billet of wood -they flung over the parapet, dragging instantly on the attached rope. -Sometimes the billet came down on them again, but more often it caught -and held in the machicolations of the parapet, and then the soldier, -setting his feet against the stone wall, climbed nimbly up the rope, -usually to get knocked on the head with a battle-axe when he appeared at -the top, but while many went thus down again, others obtained a -precarious footing and fought fiercely until they fell backwards over -the parapet. - -Rodolph saw that the moment three or four of the enemy made good their -stand at any one part of the wall, their comrades would swarm up at that -point and the castle would be taken, for the besiegers were so numerous -they might speedily overpower the little garrison. He gave the word to -cut the ropes whether the ascending man got foothold or not. The -defenders, in the fury of the battle, were paying more attention to the -splitting of skulls than the destroying of the means of ascent, often -leaving a rope dangling where another than its original owner might come -up. After this command the battle-axes clove each rope at its junction -with the wooden billet, and so destroyed its usefulness, for there was -no time in the mêlée to retie the cord to other billets, even if other -billets were to hand. When at last the ladders came, the fight waxed -more fierce. Here Rodolph took pattern by the Black Count, and gave -command to the defenders to hold catapult stones in readiness and wait -till two or three men were following each other up a ladder, then hurl -granite on the foremost, who in his fall brought down his comrades with -him. In each case when this was accomplished the men on the walls were -instructed to rush forward, pull up the ladder and throw it inside the -courtyard. In this way most of the ladders had been taken before the -attacking force rightly estimated their loss, or indeed noticed it in -the exciting conflict which was going forward, and with each capture the -danger to the castle grew less. Black Heinrich looked grimly on, taking -little part in the defence now that the attack on the gate had been -abandoned, but once when, in spite of all efforts of the defenders, four -ladders had been placed simultaneously together and half-a-dozen men -succeeded in mounting the battlements, the Count sprang forward and -grasping one after another of the invaders, flung them, head over heels, -through the air in such quick succession, and with such incredible -force, that most of them rolled well nigh into the village of Alken -before they came to rest on the hillside. The raiders gradually became -discouraged, but were buoyed up by the hope that other points of attack -might be more favoured by fate than theirs, else the retreat would have -sounded from the bugle. But suddenly a riderless horse came galloping -round a corner from the gate, and the officers recognised the animal -from its trappings. Like wildfire spread the rumour, "Count Bertrich is -slain," then all heart departed from the attack, and a wild exultant -cheer rose from those in the castle. The retreat down the hill became a -panic-stricken flight, which the catapults, now in activity again, -accelerated. - -"Show your white flag!" roared Heinrich, striding up and down the -battlements, intoxicated with his triumph, and waving hands above his -head like a madman. "Show your white flag; you surely were not foolish -enough to attack without it." - -The white flag presently did appear coming up from Alken, and the -request was made that they be allowed to bear away their dead and -wounded. Then at last the active engines ceased and the tired men sat on -beams and parapet, drawing sleeves across their sweating brows. - -The foot of the walls presented an appalling spectacle. There was a -windrow of dead and wounded, as if the poor wrecked human beings had -been some sort of wingless moths who had flung themselves against these -adamant walls, and had paid the last penalty of their rashness. Parts of -broken ladders lay mingled with the slain, together with the round lumps -of stone which had been their undoing. - -"Is it true that Count Bertrich has been slain?" asked Rodolph of -Heinrich, when the latter had assumed his customary calm. - -"I know nothing of it. Here is the archer who was on the tower; he may -be able to tell us." - -"Indeed," said Surrey, "I fear it is not true, for I had no fair shot at -him. It was not my intention to have killed him so early in the game, -but he must needs insult me, so I let fly at him." - -"How did he insult you?" - -"He raved at the cautious crossbow men, telling them that if they did -not come out from the wood they were cowards. Now it is not fair to call -a man a coward who fears my bow, and that expression I took as an -insult. He is a wise man and not a coward who betakes himself to the -wood when my arrows are abroad." - -"I can bear witness to the truth of that," said the Black Count. - -"I therefore loosed arrow at his slanderous mouth, but he turned his -face just at the moment, and although I unhorsed him and he lay still -enough till they dragged him away, I have my doubts regarding his -death." - -During all the rest of that stirring day soldiers were busy carrying -their dead and wounded comrades down the steep hill to the village, and -the white flag flew until darkness blotted it out. - - - - -CHAPTER XXVI. - -AN ILLUMINATED NIGHT ATTACK ON THURON. - - -On the following morning there were no signs of activity in the camp, as -the sentries on the castle walls gazed about them in the early dawn. - -Heinrich thought that after a defeat so overwhelming the Archbishops -would strike tent and hie themselves back to their respective cities, -there to resume the religious duties which had been interrupted by the -martial bugle blast, but Rodolph laboured under no such delusion. He -said the defeat made a prolonged siege inevitable; that the feudal lords -could not afford to turn their backs upon a vassal who had thus repulsed -them, or their prestige in the land would be gone forever. And it was -soon evident that, although there was no activity in the camp, neither -was there any sign of departure. It was learned from those who came to -make further search for the missing, that Count Bertrich lay grievously -ill of his wound, and if he recovered there would be another scar on his -already unattractive face, but hope was held that he might live, as he -was being tenderly cared for in his own tent next to that of the -Archbishop of Treves himself. Rodolph acquainted the archer with the -condition of his high-born foe, and Surrey received the news with -subdued dejection. - -"I had no fair chance," he said, sadly. "A man on a prancing horse is -ever a difficult mark, but when he is encased in armour with only his -face showing, and then unexpectedly turns his head just as arrow leaves -string, death, however merited, can hardly be looked for." - -The archer spent most of his time on the tower top, industriously -making arrows, and attended assiduously by his menial, who had conceived -a strong attachment to him, chiefly through the medium of vigorous kicks -and blows which John somewhat lavishly bestowed, hoping thus, as he -said, to make a man of him. - -"You may have another opportunity of giving Count Bertrich a taste of -your skill," said Rodolph, "for I doubt if the siege is yet near its -conclusion. Indeed that we still hold the castle is due most of all to -you." - -"We hold the castle through the mercy of Providence alone," said the -archer, gloomily, uninfluenced by his master's praise. - -"Through that of course," remarked Rodolph, "but also in a measure -through our own hard blows and your accurate marksmanship." - -"I am saying nothing against the valour of the garrison, my Lord. What I -mean is, that if Providence had led my friend Roger Kent into the camp -of the enemy, as I supposed was probable, there would have been little -use of our longer holding out, for he could have stood in Alken or even -further away and picked us off one by one as pleased him. No man would -dare show face above parapet. I would rather undertake to conquer Thuron -with Roger Kent alone than with all the army of the Archbishops." - -"Let us be thankful therefore that he is elsewhere. You think then he is -not with the Archbishop?" - -"He has probably forgotten all about my going to Treves," replied the -archer, sorrowfully. "Roger is an absent-minded man, and a dreamer. He -is likely sitting on the bank of some stream, poetry making and watching -the drying of the papyrus he fabricates, for unless hunger overcame him -he would never think of accepting service with any, or of drawing bow. -It was his hope that some good peasant would take charge of him, and -feed him, allowing him to exchange poetry for what provender and lodging -he had, but he has never found such, for he wants a hut in a -picturesque spot, by a lake or near a waterfall, with hills or -mountains round about, where he may make papyrus and poetry." - -"What is the nature of this papyrus he manufactures, and what is its -purpose?" asked the Emperor. - -"He says the Egyptians produced it in ancient times. He macerates -certain reeds and grasses together between two stones, in flowing water, -and when he has compounded a substance like porridge, he spreads it -thinly on a flat stone which lies in the sun. It dries very white, and -is of light texture, like cloth, only more easily torn, and will last -you a long time if kept dry, but in water it dissolves again. He has -thus lost much good poetry, through lying in trenches during heavy -rains, the which causes him to dislike campaigns where the tents are -few. On his papyrus he indites with a sharp stylus his poems, and for -safe keeping places the sheets under his doublet when he sleeps; but he -rises, after a rainy night, encased in pulp, which he takes from various -parts of his apparel with tender care, attempting to dry the same again -in the sun. He tells me that even when successful in drying the -substance, the poetry is gone. Thus does he yearn for a warm hut of his -own, or any one's for that matter, who will let him use it. But there is -small chance of a peasant taking him up; few of them care for poetry, -and he never can save the money he earns; he was always a fool in that -respect, differing greatly from me; he gives away his money to the first -beggar that comes with a pitiful story." - -"I like your friend Roger from what you tell me of him, and if I ever -come near to him, God granting he has not bow in hand, I shall be -pleased to furnish him the hut he craves, if we can find one with stream -and waterfall in conjunction." - -"What! and thus rob Germany of the finest archer that ever bent yew -wood? Indeed, it is my hope that he shall find no such patron, but that -we may both take service under one commander, fighting side by side in -future battles, or perhaps instructing others in the use of the long -bow, and thus raising a company that will be of use in German warfare!" - -As day by day passed without motion in the camp, it came to be believed -in the castle that no further attack was contemplated until Bertrich had -so far recovered as to lead it. He alone knew the conformation of the -fortress, as he alone had been inside Thuron, so it was probable that -his knowledge was regarded by the Archbishop as necessary to an -attacking force. - -The nights were now moonless, and although watch was strictly kept, the -first intimation the garrison had of renewed hostilities was the -resounding crash of the battering ram against the closed gate. The Black -Count was instantly on the rampart above the gate with his stone -heavers, launching out huge boulders into the darkness, and calling in -his stentorian voice for torches, which seemed slow in coming. These -lighted brands were flung down on the besiegers, to be trampled out by -them at once, while the stone throwers, taking advantage of the -momentary gleams of light, thundered down granite on the heads of the -enemy. The gate did not yield as speedily as the assaulters expected, -and they, not knowing it was barricaded behind by tons of grain in -sacks, redoubled their efforts to gain quick entrance, for they were -unarmoured, and knew their existence depended on a sudden forcing of the -portal. - -Rodolph, leaving the defence of the gate entirely to the Black Count, -summoned his men to the long west battlement, fearing an attack there -with the ladders, for he could not conceal from himself the fact that -had the day attack been more intelligently conducted, with a -concentration of forces at any one point along the lengthy wall, it -would have come perilously near to success. He ordered a lavish supply -of unlit torches, which he placed in position along the outer edge of -the parapet, for their only hope lay in having plenty of light to deal -successfully with an onslaught. To light the torches prematurely would -be to lay the defenders open to a flight of bolts from crossbows, were -a brigade of bowmen in attendance, as was extremely probable. - -Shortly after the first sounds of battering at the gate aroused the -citadel, the attack on the west front began. The besiegers apparently -had not come up the hill as before, but swarmed round the corner of the -castle from the level ground opposite the entrance, and at first Rodolph -thought the assault on the gate had been abandoned and the attacking -party had come to try their fortunes against the comparatively low wall, -which it was his duty to protect, but the blows of oak on oak still -resounded, and now he saw he was face to face with a general attack -similar to the one they had formerly repulsed in daylight, the enemy -doubtless hoping to profit by the darkness, and perhaps thinking to take -the garrison by surprise. - -In spite of his eagerness and anxiety, the Emperor could not help -pausing for a moment to note the unexpected transformation which took -place in the valley and on all the hillsides round about. As soon as the -cheers from Thuron gave evidence that the attack was known and had been -met, a line of fire seemed to encircle the castle far below and up the -hills. Thousands of torches were lit, and the cheers of their holders -caused Rodolph to expect an instant onslaught by the entire strength of -the Archbishops. This, however, was not the intention, for those bearing -the torches marched and counter-marched in apparently aimless fashion, -weaving a thousand threads of fire into a glowing web that dazzled the -eyes of the onlookers, while cheer after cheer rent the air, as if to -encourage the actual besiegers. - -The amazing illumination had at first the effect intended. It bewildered -those who had to face it, while the assailants, with their backs to the -scintillating brilliancy, were helped rather than disturbed by the -universal glow, which faintly illumined the grey walls before them. -Rodolph had his torches lighted as rapidly as possible, for he knew that -light was absolutely necessary to a successful defence, and the long -train of flaming, smoking torches, which were here and there beaten down -by the ends of ladders, suggested an expedient to him. He had ample -help, for the whole force of the castle was now aroused, so he ordered -up his reserves to carry wood and build two bonfires, one at each end of -the stone terrace. With these roaring to the sky, the two great towers -of Thuron stood out in crimson relief, seeming to hang in the air, -resting on nothing, for their bases were hid in the darkness below. -Before the fires blazed out, however, several of the enemy had obtained -footing on the terrace, and fierce hand to hand fights were going on, -the climbers for the most part getting the worst of it, for even when a -man secures his footing on solid stone instead of ladder-round, he is -scarcely on equality with his foe who has had to expend no exertion, -merely waiting there until a head appears. - -When the two fires shot up to the sky the desultory cheering in the -valley gave place to one mighty simultaneous shout of triumph, while -torches were enthusiastically flung in the air. They were quite palpably -under the delusion that the castle had been carried and was already -burning. The fierce yell which came from Thuron was an answer they had -not expected, and now, as being of no further use, the torches below -were extinguished as rapidly as they had been lighted. The great castle -was self-illumined and must have presented a spectacle well worth -viewing from the plain below, as it stood out against the dark sky like -a glowing fortress of molten stone. With the sudden access of light, the -attack on the gate had proved no more practicable than on the two -previous occasions. The archer on the tower again cut down the -unprotected men, and again the attacking party fled panic stricken to -the forest or round to the west front, where matters were going little -better for their comrades. - -The besiegers, with a lively remembrance of their former repulse along -the same wall, became disheartened when they found themselves fighting -in a light as strong as that of day. They knew if they did not scale -the walls before the garrison became fully alive to what was taking -place, they would have no further chance after they were discovered. -Again they saw their ladders pulled up when those who climbed them had -been crushed by stones, shattered with battle-axe, or flung backwards by -a lighted torch being thrust in their faces, and now they saw the -ladders thrown on the fires to blaze up and illumine their discomfiture. - -Yet the fight while it lasted had been fiercer than during the previous -attack, and three of Count Heinrich's men had been slain. - -In spite of the victory, which wrought up the Black Count to a pitch of -frenzy, during which he paraded the long terrace between the two fires, -shaking a battle-axe above his head, and roaring defiance to the enemy, -Rodolph saw that if these attacks were continued the castle must -inevitably fall, for the Archbishops had more than a hundred men to -Heinrich's one, and the loss of two or three of the garrison on each -occasion would soon leave the castle without defenders. For the greater -part of the night the Emperor paced the walls, keeping watch with the -regular guard. The fires burned out, and as dawn approached he still -walked up and down with his cloak drawn round him, pondering on the -extraordinary situation, and wondering how it would end. He felt that he -was the Emperor in name only, as indeed many of his predecessors had -been without complaining, so long as they had money to spend and good -wine to drink. Here was war of the most sanguinary nature raging in the -centre of his dominion, his subjects not arrayed against a foreign foe, -but mercilessly slaughtering each other, and if the Emperor cried -"Stop," not even the most humble of the men-at-arms would heed the -command. How to remedy this amazing state of affairs he had not the -least idea. If he proclaimed himself to Heinrich that noble would, as -like as not, clap him into the deepest dungeon of Castle Thuron, and -look about to see what profit might be made of his notable prisoner. -Should he approach the Archbishops, a similar fate would probably await -him. He would have given much for an hour's conversation with Baron von -Brunfels, or even for the opportunity of letting his friend know where -he was, but either chance was alike impossible, girt round as he was by -hostile troops. The hill tops were lightening with coming dawn when -Rodolph sought his room in the south tower, and lay down wrapped in his -cloak to a troubled rest, his great problem still unsolved by his -night's vigil. - - - - -CHAPTER XXVII. - -THE TWO YEARS' SIEGE BEGINS. - - -What the Emperor feared the Archbishops would do, and what would have -been the proper thing to do from a military standpoint, was what the -warlike prelates did not do. Both were appalled at the loss of life -which had accompanied their efforts to capture Thuron. It is not to be -supposed that a man whose ambition it was to link his name with the -building of the greatest cathedral the world had yet seen, relished the -outlook which promised instead to give him the reputation of a Hannibal -or an Alexander, and that, too, without the compensating fame of a great -conqueror, for the Archbishop of Cologne saw that even if the castle -were captured, the feat would add few laurels to the brow of a commander -at the head of a comparatively overwhelming force. He felt he had been -tricked by his smooth-spoken colleague, who had persuaded him that the -mere appearance of this imposing body of men before the walls of Thuron -would in a manner cause them to imitate the walls of Jericho. In this -suspicion, however, he wronged his brother of Treves, who had not -intentionally misled him, but had actually hoped to prevent bloodshed by -employing a force so palpably irresistible that Heinrich would at once -come to terms. Arnold von Isenberg had no particular objection to the -shedding of blood, and had before now held down his enemies with a -strong hand, but results in this instance had been out of all proportion -to their cost. He had been led, more than he himself cared to admit, by -the impetuosity of his fiery follower, Count Bertrich, who now lay -raving with the fever resulting from his wound. As Arnold advanced in -years he was more prone to depend on diplomacy for his victories than on -actual force, but he liked to have the force in the background even if -he did not care to use it. - -There was a stormy scene between the two dignitaries on the morning -after the failure of the night attack. The dormant suspicions of von -Hochstaden were again roused. The assurance that the siege would be a -bloodless one had been so quickly belied, that he now saw in Bertrich's -first impetuous attack a determination to drag the forces of Cologne -into a struggle which Treves shrank from meeting alone, and now the -apparently frank answers of the culprit which at the time had satisfied -him, seemed but the deeper villainy, as having been probably rehearsed -beforehand. Thus the Archbishop of Cologne saw himself the easy dupe of -his crafty co-elector, from whose latent methods he had more than once -suffered, and whose cunning he had always feared. - -"You have deceived me," he cried angrily, when they were in the -conference tent alone together, saving only the presence of their two -secretaries. - -"I do not like your word 'deceived,'" replied von Isenberg, who remained -as calm as the other was agitated, "unless you apply it to me as well. I -have deceived you, perhaps, but I was myself deceived. If you accuse me -of miscalculation, I am willing to admit the truth of the charge." - -"You knew the character of this man Heinrich; I did not. You said we had -but to sit down before the castle, and it was ours. That was not true." - -"I have already admitted that I was mistaken," said Arnold, quietly. - -"You can do nothing but admit it," cried von Hochstaden, hotly; "the -facts disclaim all denial. What I hold is that you knew this before we -came, and have drawn me into a quarrel which is none of mine; that you -have forced on the fighting so that we are now apparently committed to a -course of which I entirely disapprove." - -"I assure you I did not expect to be compelled to fight." - -"That I do not believe." - -"My Lord, you are too angry now to discuss this question as it should be -discussed. You are overwrought, and naturally, at the loss of so many of -your men." - -"I would not give the life of one Rhine man for all the castles on the -Moselle!" exclaimed von Hochstaden, impetuously. - -"I was about to add that I, too, am deeply grieved that your men have -fallen, and also that so many of my own have been killed. I think it -right then that we postpone further discussion until we can approach -this grave situation with minds free from the emotions which now make -reasoning difficult. Are you willing that we leave decision until -to-morrow?" - -"With all my heart. Our talk cannot bring back to life the meanest of -our following. To-morrow you will be unembarrassed by any suggestions -from me." - -"Why, my Lord?" - -"Because the moment I leave this tent I shall give orders to my captains -to gather my men, when we shall together journey to Cologne." - -"Do you hold such determination to be fair to me?" - -"Have you been fair to me? You have deceived me from the first." - -"Twice you have said that, my Lord, and for the second time I give you -my earnest assurance that such is not the case. I counsel you as a -friend not to make the charge the third time." - -"Do you threaten me?" - -"Have you not threatened me with your desertion? If you say you do not -intend to withdraw, then we will lay plans together at a future time." - -"I am determined to return to Cologne." - -"To begin your cathedral?" - -"'Tis of more avail than dashing out the brains of my soldiers against a -Moselle rock." - -"Let me give you good advice in the rearing of it. Build your cathedral -like a fortress. You will need a stronghold presently in Cologne, -whether you need a church or not." - -"From threatening my person you threaten my city." - -"Frankly, I do," replied the Archbishop of Treves, without raising his -voice. "You have hitherto been in some measure the ally of Mayence. I -cannot remember the time when I feared you combined, but it suited me to -separate you. I have done so. I learn that our brother of Mayence is -both enraged and trembling. If you leave Thuron I shall instantly -propose alliance with him, who now thoroughly distrusts you, and he will -gladly join me, for I have never pretended to be his friend, and he has -ever feared me as an enemy. Why did I propose alliance with you?" - -"For your own purposes, as I now know too well." - -"Surely. But what suggested the thought that such an alliance might be -accepted by you? You cannot guess? Well, I will inform you. Because your -ally of Mayence sent secret emissaries to me proposing an alliance with -him. I saw there were differences between you, and instantly resolved to -make an ally of the stronger. Therefore my envoys went to you, while his -were dealing with me in Treves. When my men returned with your consent I -told the envoys from Mayence, with much regret, you had made the first -proposal to me, and that although I had sent to you begging to be -released from our compact, you had refused." - -"Which was a lie." - -"Say rather a whole series of them, my Lord, or call it diplomacy if you -wish to speak politely; but meanwhile do not neglect my advice to build -your cathedral in the form of a fortress, and make it a strong one." - -"How can you expect me to trust you after such a cynical confession?" - -"I do not expect you to trust me. I have dealt with strict honesty -towards you from the moment we joined together, yet you have displayed -distrust since the first day. I do not in the least object to that. But -as I cannot have the advantage of confidence I shall turn to the -advantage of perfect frankness. I shall keep to the letter the bargain I -have made with you. You shall keep to the letter the bargain you have -made with me." - -"You mean, then, to attempt to stop my withdrawal?" - -"No. You may withdraw to-morrow if you wish to do so, and my men will -form line and salute you as you pass. Then I shall divide my forces into -groups and attack Thuron night and day until there is not a man left to -defend it. That will not take many days, and it will give time for my -brother of Mayence to meet my victorious army at the junction of the -Rhine and the Moselle, when we will journey amicably together to make -some inquiries regarding the progress of your cathedral at Cologne." - -Konrad von Hochstaden walked the length of the tent several times with -knit brows, turning in his mind the problem that confronted him. Arnold -sat on the bench beside the long table which divided them, his face -impassive and inscrutable. Never during their colloquy had he raised his -voice to a higher key than was necessary to make it distinctly heard. -The two monks sat apart, downcast and silent, helpless spectators of a -quarrel which might have the most momentous consequences. - -At last von Hochstaden stopped in his walk, and stood regarding his ally -with bewildered indecision stamped on his countenance. He had spoken -heretofore in tones alternately tremulous with deep emotion and -quavering with the anger he had tried in vain to suppress. - -"I cannot stand here," he said, "and see my men uselessly slaughtered." - -"With your humanity I am in complete sympathy. It is no pleasure to me -to have soldiers killed, although sometimes the killing is necessary. -Were I alone I would, as I have said, throw force after force against -Castle Thuron until it succumbed, but I am acting with you and eager to -come to an understanding that will be satisfactory to you; but you have -made no proposal, only a threat of withdrawal. Now if it is your wish to -take the castle without risking the life of another of your followers, I -stand ready to make such arrangement." - -"Can such arrangement be made?" - -"Without doubt. We have come so suddenly on Count Heinrich that he has -had no opportunity of provisioning his stronghold. The peasants tell my -men that he has taken in nothing that will enable him to withstand a -prolonged siege. We can therefore environ him so closely that in a -comparatively short time hunger will compel him to sue for terms. This -may consume days, but not the lives of men. I stand ready to agree to -such a proposal willingly; in truth I will agree to anything you -suggest, short of your own desertion, or of requiring me to retire -defeated before the Black Man of Thuron." - -"How long, think you, will the siege last?" - -"There is the castle; there are our men. You can answer your question as -well as I. How many men has Heinrich within his fortress? I do not know. -What I do know is, that if no more grain enters the castle, the supply -therein will, in time, be consumed, and then grim famine allies itself -with the two Archbishops--a foe that cannot be fought with bow or -battle-axe. If we resolve to starve him out, then I shall proclaim to my -men that I will hang any who shortens the life of one of his. There will -thus be no more bloodshed, for he dare not sally forth to attack us, and -we will keep bow-shot distance from him. The conditions of the game are -all before us; you can form a conclusion as well as I, and if you prove -in the wrong, I shall not accuse you of cozening me." - -The Archbishop of Cologne stood with clouded brow, arms folded across -his breast, ruminating on what had been said by the other, who watched -him keenly from under his shaggy eyebrows. At last von Hochstaden spoke, -with the sigh of a man out-generalled. - -"I do not wish to spend the remainder of my days sitting before Thuron." - -"Nor do I. The plan of starving them out is yours, not mine. At least it -is my proposal as an alternative that may please you. With your -co-operation, I would fling force after force against Thuron, and so -reduce it." - -"No, no!" cried the Lord of Cologne, "no more bloodshed. We have had -enough of that." - -"Very well; therefore I modify my desires to meet yours. You may -withdraw as many of your men as are not necessary, retire yourself to -Cologne, and set them, with suitable prayers, to the building of your -cathedral. I will send an equal number of mine to Treves, and with what -remains of our united forces we will surround that thieving scoundrel -with an impregnable band of iron. All that I insist on is that the flags -of Cologne and Treves continue to fly together on this tent, and that we -encircle the castle with our allied troops." - -"Have it as you wish," cried Konrad, sorrowfully. "I defer to your -opinion." - -"Not so, my Lord," said von Isenberg. "It is I who give way to you. But -from this moment the plan is mine as well as yours, and I shall loyally -adhere to our agreement, come good or ill out of it." - -Thus began the celebrated investure of Thuron Castle, which lasted two -years, until famine did indeed spread its black wings over the fortress, -while during that time, historians tell us, the besiegers merrily drank -one thousand gallons of good Moselle wine each day. - - - - -CHAPTER XXVIII. - -THE SECOND ARCHER ANNOUNCES HIMSELF. - - -The first problem which the Archbishops set themselves to solve was the -estimating of the exact number of men required to surround the castle -effectually, and keep watch night and day, with proper reliefs. The -cordon was drawn closer round the castle. The axe-men hewed an avenue -through the forest in straight lines, so that no point should be out of -sight of two or more men who constantly paraded these woodland lanes. -The village itself was completely cut off from Thuron, and the living -line extended between the castle and the brook Thaurand, so as to make -the getting of water impossible, the besiegers not knowing the castle -itself possessed an inexhaustible well, and that all within were thus -free from the dreadful danger of thirst. A group of tents was placed at -the river end of the stoned-in passage that descended from the castle to -the Moselle. The besieging line of men ran up the deep valley of the -Thaurand, and so across the steep hill through the forest, and down -again into the valley of the river, where the links of the living chain -joined the line that extended south from the village. The guards were a -few yards apart, and the orders concerning their watch were as strict as -skilled officers could make them, for the Archbishop of Treves had -commanded that a net with meshes so minute that not the smallest fish -could penetrate, should be drawn round the doomed castle, and each -officer knew that neglect would be punished with ruthless severity. The -tents instead of being grouped together were placed along the outside of -this line, so that no guardsman need have far to travel to his rest, nor -any excuse to loiter in coming to his watch. A circle of fires -surrounded the castle at night, serving the double purpose of giving -light for seeing and heat for cooking. - -Those in the castle witnessed the tightening of the line around them, -and at first thought a new attack was meditated, but as time went on and -no attack was delivered, the true state of affairs began to dawn upon -them. The Emperor was amazed to find so little military skill or pluck -in the opposition camp, but he welcomed the change from activity to -quiescence. He supposed the Archbishops must know how well provisioned -the castle was, for it had been filled in the eye of all the country, -and he had heard Heinrich's order to the peasantry to save themselves by -giving any information they chose to the invaders; he was also cognizant -of the fact that the Black Count had ruled his district with a hand by -no means of the gentlest, so it never occurred to him that the besiegers -had got little news from the people. - -The archer, perhaps, would have rested more contented had he been -permitted to try his skill at long distance bowmanship on the environing -soldiery, but the Emperor thought it best to let sleeping dogs lie, and -bestowed positive instructions upon John Surrey to wing no shaft unless -he saw a determined advance on the part of the enemy. The archer was -most anxious to show how much superior his light instrument was to the -cumbrous catapult, which admittedly could not carry so far as the ring -around the castle, and he pleaded with Rodolph to be allowed to -dispatch, say, half a dozen shafts a day, by way of preventing the -coming of weariness upon the opposing camp. Nothing, he held, was so -demoralising to an army as a feeling of absolute security; and if there -was to be no sallying out against the Archbishops, those within the -castle owed it to the foe, if only from the dictates of common humanity, -to allow a few arrows to descend from tower to tent each day. Rodolph, -however, was proof against all arguments the archer could bring to bear -upon him, and John frequently sighed, and even murmured to himself a -wish that he had taken service with the irascible Heinrich rather than -with so peaceably minded a man as Rodolph. - -He consoled himself by sitting in the sun on the top of the southern -tower, with his back against the parapet, busily employed in the making -of arrows, the huge pile beside him bearing witness to his tireless -industry, while many more were stored in his room below, and to the safe -custody of this apartment he took down his day's manufacture each -evening, where they might become seasoned, free from the dampness of the -outside night air. In his occupation he was obsequiously waited upon by -his German dependent, who in despite of the archer's rough treatment of -him, looked up to his master with slavish admiration. Usually Conrad, -now rapidly recovering from his wounds, lay at full length on the warm -roof, saying little but thinking much of the absent Hilda. - -The archer disdained all armour with the exception of a steel cap, which -he wore to ward off battle-axe strokes, should he come into close -quarters with the wielders of that formidable weapon, and this helmet he -kept brightly polished till it shone like silver. It was somewhat hot to -wear in mid-summer, but the head was defended from the warmth of the -sun's rays by a lining of cloth which also made the cap more -comfortable, because more soft, in the wearing. The archer sat thus with -his pile of arrows by his side and the material for their making in -front of him, while his slave crouched near, ready to anticipate his -wants by promptly handing to him knife or scraping flint, or length of -wood, or feather, as the case might require. Surrey's steel cap -projected above the parapet and glistened like a mirror in the sun. He -was droning to himself a Saxon song, and was as well contented with the -world as a warrior may be who is not allowed, at the moment, to scatter -wounds and death among his fellow creatures. - -Suddenly he was startled by a blow on his steel helmet, which for an -instant caused him to think some one had struck him sharply, forgetting -that his position made such an act impossible, but this thought had -barely time to flash through his mind when he saw an arrow quivering -against the flag pole in front of him. He looked at it for a moment with -dropped jaw like a man dazed, then as Conrad and the other made motion -to rise he cried gruffly: - -"Lie down!" as though he spoke to a pair of dogs. The two, however, -promptly obeyed. - -"There seems to be an expert archer in the camp as well as in the -castle," said Conrad. John Surrey sat without moving and without -replying, gazing on the arrow which had come to rest in the flag pole. -At last he said to his dependent: - -"Gottlieb, rise cautiously and peer over the battlements, taking care to -show as little of your head as possible, and tell me if you see any one -in the camp who looks as if he had sped a shaft." - -"I see a tall man," began Gottlieb. - -"Yes!" cried the archer. - -"Who stands with his hand shading his eyes, looking up at this tower." - -"Yes, yes." - -"In the fist by his side I think he holds a bow like yours; but the -distance is too great for me to make sure what it is." - -"He has no cross-bow at least." - -"No, it is not a cross-bow." - -"I thought so. No cross-bow could have sent shaft like that. I doubt -also if archer living, save Roger Kent, could have----" - -"He seems to be placing another arrow on the string." - -"Then down, down with you. If he has caught sight of your head you are -doomed." - -An instant later another arrow struck the helmet, glanced over the -tower, and disappeared in the forest beyond. - -"Now come and sit beside me, Gottlieb," said Surrey, as he lifted the -helmet gently and moved away his head from beneath it, not shifting the -cap except slightly upwards from its position. "Get under this, and sit -steadily so that the target may not be displaced." - -Having thus crowned his dependent, Surrey crawled to his bow and -selected a well-finished arrow. - -"You are surely not going to use your weapon," said Conrad. "The Lord -Rodolph has forbidden it." - -"He has forbidden it unless I am attacked, and there is the arrow in the -pole to prove attack. Besides, I shoot not to kill." - -With much care Surrey, exposing himself as little as might be, drew bow -and let fly. The tall archer was seen to spring aside, then pause -regardless of his danger, stoop and pick up something which lay at his -feet, examining the object minutely. Surrey also, unthinking of danger, -stood up and watched the other, who, when his examination had been -concluded to his satisfaction, dropped the arrow, which was undoubtedly -what he had picked up, although the distance was too great for the -archer to be sure of that, and, doffing his cap, waved it wildly in the -air. Surrey himself gave utterance to a shout that might have aroused -even the Archbishops on the height, and danced round like one gone mad, -throwing his arms about as if he were an animated windmill. - -"It is Roger! It is Roger!" he cried. - -The Emperor, hearing the tumult, came hurriedly up the stairs, expecting -that an assault was in preparation, and, although relieved to find that -no onslaught was intended, seemed to think the archer's ecstacy more -vociferous than the occasion demanded. John pointed excitedly at his -far-off friend, and said he wished permission to visit him at once, to -learn what had befallen him since last they met. - -"That is impossible," replied Rodolph. "You would be taken prisoner, and -I have no wish to lose so good an archer merely because the opposition -camp has, according to your account, a better one." - -This obvious comment on his proposal dampened the enthusiasm of the -archer, who stood in deep thought regarding wistfully the distant form -of his friend. At last he said: - -"Would it not be possible then for Roger to visit me here in the -castle?" - -"I do not see how that may be accomplished. He cannot come here as our -friend, and he must not come as a spy. If he refused to give information -to his officers when they discovered he had been within the castle, they -would imprison him. If he asked their consent before coming, permission -would be given only because they expected to learn something from him on -his return. We could not receive him even as a deserter, for if -starvation be their game, we have enough mouths to feed as it is. And I -do not suppose he would desert, if he has taken service with the -Archbishop." - -"Alas, no," said Surrey, sadly; "he would no more think of deserting -than would I myself, having once taken fee for the campaign. It is a -blessing that he is a modest man and not given to vaunting his own -skill, in the which he differs somewhat from myself perhaps, and thus -his commander is little likely to learn his usefulness providing Roger -is left to the making of papyrus and poetry, for he alone might subdue -this strong castle. If he were set to it there would be no possibility -of keeping watch or guard, for he could easily kill any man who showed -head above parapet. Not finding me in the ranks of the Archbishop's men, -he must have surmised I was here, for fate has always enlisted us on -opposite sides, and he perhaps recognised the gleam of my helmet in the -sun, and only sent his arrow the more surely to discover my presence, -for there are guards on the battlements below whom he might readily have -slaughtered had there been deadly motive in his aiming." - -"He is about to shoot again," cried Conrad, in alarm. - -All looked towards the archer, and it was evident he was preparing -another shaft. Surrey waved at him and shouted a warning, but the -distance was too great for his voice to carry effectually. Roger Kent on -this occasion held the bow above his head and let fly at the arch of -heaven. No one on the tower could mark the flight of the arrow, but they -saw the sender of it stand and gaze upward after it. - -"It is a message of some sort," said Surrey. "Conrad and Gottlieb, get -you down to the room below, as you are unarmoured. It will not hurt my -Lord, who is in a suit of mail, and I wear my steel cap." - -The two obeyed the command with notable alacrity. - -"But it may strike you on the shoulder," protested Rodolph. - -"I shall watch for it," replied Surrey, "and will be elsewhere when it -falls. Do not look upward, I beg of you, my Lord, for thus was our Saxon -King, Harold, slain by a like shaft from one of Roger's ancestors. Stand -where you are, looking downward, or, better, retire below." - -Rodolph laughed. - -"I am surely as nimble as you are," he said, "and may thus escape like -you the falling shaft." - -As the Emperor spoke the arrow came in sight and swiftly descended, -speeding down alongside the flag pole so close as almost to touch it on -its way. The arrow shattered itself by impact on the stone, and thus -loosened a scroll that had been wrapped tightly round it, fastened at -each end. Surrey pounced upon this and found the message to be in -several sections, one being a letter, while on the others were verse, -regarding which the writer, in his communication, begged perusal and -criticism. The missive thus launched into the air had evidently been -prepared for some time in readiness to be sent when opportunity offered. -Surrey gave utterance to several impatient exclamations as he, with -considerable difficulty, conned the meaning of the script, and at last -he said: - -"Roger tells me nothing about how he came to be in the Archbishop's -army, nor does he give tidings of anything that should be of interest to -a reasonable being. It is all upon his poetry and the lessons to be -learned from a perusal of the same, which I think had been better put in -the poetry itself, for if it convey so little to the reader that it -needs must be explained 'twere as well not written." - -"That shows you to be no true poet, nor critic either," said the -Emperor. "But now that old friends are in correspondence with each -other, I shall leave them to the furtherance of it, merely reminding you -that if a message is sent similar to the one received, you will observe -like caution in not mentioning anything that relates to the castle or -its occupants." - -When the Emperor left him the archer laboured hard to transcribe his -thoughts on the back of a sheet containing one of the poems. He told -Roger he was not permitted to leave the castle, but that he had orders -to go on guard upon the western battlements at midnight to take up his -watch until daybreak, and if Roger could quit the camp at that hour and -climb the hill, keeping the north tower against the sky as his guide, -the writer would endeavour to meet him half-way, when they could talk -over their mutual adventures since parting. In case there was a -companion at his watch that night, and it was thus impossible for him to -desert the castle, the up-comer was to approach the wall under the -northern tower, giving the customary cry of the water-fowl, when the -friend on the wall and the one at the foot of it might have some -whispered communication between them. He added, however, that there was -little danger of a second man being on the battlements unless a new -alarm of some kind intervened. The leaf containing these instructions he -deftly fastened to the shaft of an arrow and so sped it to the feet of -his friend, who was himself on guard. - -When Roger had read what was sent he waved his hand in apparent token -that the arrangement suited him, and Surrey, so understanding the -signal, went to the room below and threw himself on his pallet of straw -to get the rest he needed before his watch began. Like all great -warriors he was instantly asleep, and knew no more until he felt -Gottlieb's hand on his shoulder announcing to him the beginning of his -vigil. Once on the ramparts, he relieved the man who had been there -during the earlier part of the night, and was pleased to note that -nothing had occurred to put an extra guard on the promenade. The camp -fires had gone out, and the valley lay in blackness. Surrey paced up and -down the battlements for a while to let the sleepy man he had relieved -get to his bed, then he looked about him for means of reaching the foot -of the wall outside. There was as yet no cry of the night bird, and he -began to fear that his friend had probably gone so soundly asleep that -daylight alone would awaken him. Surrey examined the wall with some -care. He might jump over without running great risk of injuring himself, -but he could not jump back again. At the remote end of the battlements -under the north tower, his foot struck an obstacle, and, stooping to -examine the obstruction, he found it one of the wooden missiles with a -rope attached to it which the besiegers had flung over the machicolated -parapet to enable them to climb the wall. The rope hung down outside, -and Surrey wondered that it had remained there all this time unnoticed, -certainly a grave menace to the safety of the garrison, for a whole -troop might have climbed up in the darkness with little chance of being -seen by the one sentinel on top, whose watch, now that all fear of -attack had left those in the castle, had become somewhat perfunctory. -However, this was just the thing the archer needed, and he marvelled why -he had not thought of such a plan before, for numbers of these ropes and -billets lay in the courtyard of the fortress. He slipped down the cord -and made his way cautiously through the vineyard towards the village, -pausing now and then to give the signal. About half-way down the hill, -he heard the breaking of twigs, and knew that his friend was coming up. -He crouched under the vines and waited; then as the other came opposite -him, he sprang up and gave him a vigorous slap on the shoulder. -Instantly the stranger grappled him, pinioning his arms at his side, and -the next thing the archer knew he had stumbled backwards and fallen, -with the assailant's knee on his breast and a strong grip at his throat, -shutting off the breath and making outcry impossible, even if it had -been politic. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIX. - -CONRAD VENTURES HIS LIFE FOR HIS LOVE. - - -Hilda had been given lodging in a house at the back of the village, and -from her window she could see the castle which had so inhospitably sent -her from its gates. But the girl had little time to mourn her fate, for -the attacks on the castle followed so swiftly one upon another that -Alken became speedily filled with wounded men, all the houses of the -place being transformed into hospitals for the time. In like manner the -women were requisitioned as nurses, and to their care many of the -stricken men owed life. Into this humane occupation Hilda threw herself -with a fervour that was not only admirable in itself, but which was -deeply appreciated by all those to whom she ministered. The other women -of the village were anxious to do their best, but they were for the most -part rude and ignorant peasants, knowing little of their new duties, and -their aid was at all times clumsy and often ineffectual. But Hilda -brought to bear upon her task an enlightened intelligence and a deftness -of hand, the product of long residence amidst civilised surroundings, -which quickly gave her, by right of dexterity, the command of the -nursing staff. She reduced the arrangements to cleanliness and order, -and her bright presence, not less than her winning beauty, seemed to do -more for the convalescent than the ointment of the physicians. She was -thoroughly womanly, and thus was in her element while having charge of -so many injured men, and every moment of her day being taken up with her -work of mercy, she had no time to brood over her own expulsion from the -castle, nor the severance from her lover and mistress; and so, in doing -good to others, she unconsciously bestowed great benefit upon herself. - -Once she had a fright that for the time almost deprived her of speech. -In the midst of her duties a breathless messenger brought news that the -Archbishops themselves were coming to visit the wounded. Hilda, pressing -her hand to her heart, stood pale and confounded, not knowing what to -do, for she feared the sharp eyes of Arnold von Isenberg, which had -before fallen upon her in Treves, might now recognise her. She hoped -that the comparative obscurity of the room would shield her from too -minute scrutiny, and, at first it seemed that this would be the case, -but the officers who accompanied the prelates spoke so enthusiastically -of her untiring efforts to ameliorate distress and pain, that Arnold -turned his keen eyes full upon her, slightly wrinkling his brow, as if -her appearance brought recollection to him that he had difficulty in -localising. The girl stood trembling before him, not daring to raise her -eyes to his. After a moment's pause, filled with deep anxiety on her -part, the dignified prelate stretched out his hand and rested it upon -her fair hair. - -"Blessed are those who do deeds of mercy, my child," he said, solemnly, -in sonorous voice. - -"Amen," responded the Archbishop of Cologne, with equal seriousness. - -"Remember," said von Isenberg, significantly, turning to his officers, -"that on her head rests the benediction of our Holy Church." - -All present bowed low and the stately cortege withdrew, leaving the girl -thankful that recognition had not followed the unlooked-for encounter, -for so little do the great take account of those who serve them, that no -suspicion crossed the Archbishop's mind that the one he commended had -been a member of his own household. - -Thus it came about that Hilda was a privileged person in Alken and its -environs, and there was not an officer or common soldier who would not -instantly have drawn weapon to protect her from insult or injury had -there been any in the camp inclined to transgress against her. - -Late one night a lad called at the house where Hilda lived and told her -a soldier had hurt his foot and could not walk. He was seated on the -river bank, the boy added, and asked the good nurse to come to him, as -he could not come to her. Hilda followed her conductor through the -darkness without question, and found the man sitting by the margin of -the stream. He gave a coin to the boy, who at once ran off to tell his -comrades of his good luck, leaving the two alone. Hilda, although -without fear, called after the boy, but he paid little heed to her; then -she turned to the man and said: - -"Where is your wound?" - -"In the heart, Hilda, and none save you can cure it," he answered in a -low voice. The girl gave a little cry of joy. - -"Conrad! Is it indeed you? Where have you come from?" - -"From the castle, where for many days I have lain wounded, but now I am -well again and yearn only for you. So to-night I took one of the scaling -ropes that the Archbishop's men used, and which Count Heinrich captured, -and, watching my opportunity when the sentinel was at the other end of -the battlements, I clambered down to the foot of the wall, descended the -hill, crawled through the lines unseen, and here I am. I was free from -danger the moment I reached the village, for there are so many men -hereabout that one more or less is not noticed, and luckily I am dressed -as Treves men dress. I looked to have trouble in finding where you -lived, but every one knew of the nurse Hilda, and spoke of her good -deeds, so, not wishing to come upon you without warning, I asked the lad -to bring you to a wounded soldier. It is not so long since I was one in -reality." - -"But you are not wounded now?" asked Hilda, anxiously. - -"No. I am as well as ever again." - -"And you have braved all this danger to see me?" - -"Indeed the danger is but slight, Hilda, and I do not even see you -plainly, but perhaps you will make amends for the darkness"; saying -which the young man placed his arm about her and kissed her tenderly, -and to this demonstration there was little opposition on the part of -Hilda. - -"Can you return unseen as you came?" she asked. - -"With less difficulty. The archer is on guard from midnight until dawn, -and even if he detected me, he would say nothing, for we are right good -friends. We are comrades, both serving Lord Rodolph, and not the Black -Count. I shall not return before midnight." - -"Oh, but I dare not remain here so long. They would search for me, and -you would be discovered." - -"You will stay as long as you can, will you not, Hilda? When you are -gone I shall make my way back through the lines and wait for the coming -of the archer on the battlements, unless there is good opportunity of -mounting before then." - -"I like not all these risks for my sake, Conrad." - -"I am more selfish than you think. It is for my own sake that I come." - -And again he proved the truth of his statement, although the girl -forbore to chide him for his levity of conduct. - -"Have you seen my Lady? How is she?" asked Hilda. - -"I see her but seldom, though she is well, I know." - -The two were so absorbed in their converse that neither noticed -gathering round them, stealthily enclosing them, a group of a dozen men -led by an officer. They were therefore startled when the officer cried: - -"Stand! Make no resistance. You are prisoner." - -The men instantly closed in on Conrad and had him pinioned before he -could think of escape. - -"Why do you seize him?" said Hilda to the leader, hiding her agitation -the better because of the darkness that surrounded them. - -"He is a spy, gentle nurse," answered the officer in kindly tone, "and -shall be hanged as one ere morning. His story of a wound is doubtless -false. He gave the boy a coin with the effigy of the Count Heinrich on -it, and one to whom the lad showed the coin sent warning to us. If this -man can tell us how he came by such a silver piece, and can show us a -wound got in honourable service under the Archbishop, then he will save -his neck, but not otherwise. What questions did he ask you, nurse? I -heard you talking together." - -"None but those I might answer with perfect safety to both Archbishops." - -"Ah, nurse, you know much of healing, but little of camp life, I fear. A -question that may appear trivial to you is like to seem important to his -Lordship. We give short trials to spies, which is the rule of war -everywhere, and always must be." - -"He is no spy," maintained Hilda stoutly. "If you hold him, I will go -myself to the Archbishop and claim his release. You must give me your -word that nothing shall be done until I return." - -"It is better to see the captain before troubling the Archbishop with so -small a matter." - -"A man's life is no small matter." - -"Indeed you will find the Archbishop attaches but little importance to -it. The case will go before the captain, and it will be well for you to -see him, for he may release the man if he wishes. I must hold him -prisoner in the square tower until I am told to let him go or to hang -him." - -With this the officer moved his men on, the silent prisoner in their -midst, to the square tower which stood over the centre street of the -place. Hilda followed, not knowing what to do. - -"I will see the captain," said the officer, evidently desiring to -befriend her, "and I will tell you what his decision is. Then you may -perhaps be able to give him good reason why the prisoner should be -released, or the man himself may be able to prove his innocence. In that -case your intervention will not be needed." - -The prisoner had been taken up the narrow stair that led to a room in -the tower above the arch that spanned the street. - -"I will await you here," said Hilda. She walked up and down in the -contracted street until the officer returned. - -"I am sorry to say," he began, "that the captain has gone to the -Archbishop's tent and no one knows when he will return." - -"What am I to do?" cried the girl. - -"It is better for you to go home, and when the captain comes I will let -you know." - -"But if he insists on executing the prisoner, then am I helpless. It -will be impossible for me to see the Archbishop until morning." - -"Has this man come from the castle?" - -"If I answer, what use will you make of what I say?" - -"I shall make no use of it, but will give you a hint." - -"I trust to your word then. He did come from the castle." - -"So I thought. Well, I am responsible for the spies. The captain is -responsible for the imperviousness of the line round the castle, and he -will be most loath for any one to tell the Archbishop that a man from -the castle has broken through the lines to be captured by me on the bank -of the river. If one man comes through why not all? will be the natural -thought of the Archbishop. This I dare not suggest to the captain, but -you may do so, if you find your resolution to see the Archbishop has no -effect on him." - -"I thank you," said Hilda, simply. - -The lieutenant took her hand and whispered: - -"What am I to get besides thanks for this valuable hint?" - -He tried to draw the girl towards him but she held back, and said -quietly: - -"I will give you a hint for a hint. I call to your remembrance the words -of the Archbishop concerning me. The benediction of our Holy Church -protected me, he said." - -The officer dropped her reluctant hand. - -"I will inform you when the captain comes," he replied, turning away -from her. - -It was nearly midnight when the captain returned, the girl anxiously -awaiting him. It was found, however, that her intercession was not -necessary. The Archbishop, it seemed, had given general instructions -that any one attempting to leave Thuron was to be sent back unharmed, on -giving his parole that he would not again desert the stronghold. The -shrewd prelate did not propose to help Heinrich indirectly by capturing -and executing his men, thus leaving him with fewer mouths to fill. His -object was to bring starvation to Thuron as speedily as possible, and it -was not likely he would allow either death or imprisonment to be an ally -of the Black Count. But a difficulty presented itself, for the prisoner, -undeterred by threats, obstinately refused to give his word that he -would not again attempt to break through the lines. In vain did the -captain sternly acquaint him with the invariable fate of the spy, -asserting that the clemency of the Archbishop arose through his -Lordship's noted kindness of heart; that the terms of his liberation -were simple and much more humane than any other commander in the world -would impose; nevertheless, Conrad stoutly maintained that he would -break through the lines whenever it pleased him to do so, and if they -caught him next time they were quite welcome to hang him. The captain -was nonplussed, for the prisoner asserted this with the rope actually -round his neck. The lieutenant whispered that the nurse Hilda seemed to -have wonderful influence over the man and proposed that she be called -and the case stated to her, whereupon she might persuade him to be more -reasonable, although all their threats had failed. Accordingly Hilda was -sent for, the lieutenant telling her on the way that the captain would -spare the prisoner's life if he but gave his word that he would not -again return to Alken, concealing, however, the fact that the captain -dare not execute the man. - -"If I may speak with him alone," she said, "I will try to convince him -that he should give the captain his word, and I know he will keep it -once it is given, otherwise he would have promised you anything to get -free." - -"Yes, the captain himself said as much, wondering why a man should so -hesitate in the face of certain death." - -They found Conrad standing bound, with a loop round his neck, the rope -being threaded through an iron ring in the ceiling, while two stout -men-at-arms held the loose end ready to pull him to destruction when -their officer gave the word. - -The captain, on hearing Hilda's proviso, ordered his men to withdraw, -and, following them himself with the lieutenant, left Hilda alone with -Conrad. - -The subordinate officer suggested to his chief that the girl might untie -the man and thus allow him to escape, as she seemed to have much -interest in his welfare. - -"Indeed," said the captain, with a shrug, "it is my devout hope that she -will do so, if he refuses to take parole, for I know not what to do with -the fool. If then you see him sneak away, in God's name let him go, and -we will search ineffectually for him when it is too late. We shall be -well rid of him." - -When all had gone, Hilda said to her lover: - -"You must promise, Conrad, not to come again to Alken. You run a double -risk; first from the officers here; second from your own master when you -return. Therefore give your word that you will attempt no such dangerous -task again." - -"How can I do that, Hilda? I must see you, otherwise life is unbearable -to me. If I should promise I could not hold to it." - -"It will be easy for us to meet, Conrad, without running such risks. I -can pass through the lines at any time unchallenged, so on mid-week -night I shall go up to the castle walls, and there we may be together -without scathe. If we are discovered and I am made prisoner in Thuron, -that will not matter. They will not harm me, and I shall then be where I -wish to be. But with you it is different; if they capture you again, it -will be impossible for me to save you, for they will believe you are a -spy. Let me then meet you under the safe walls of Thuron, for I am as -anxious to see you as you are to see me." - -"It delights me to hear you say so, Hilda, but I like not the thought of -you climbing this dark hill alone." - -"Pooh, that is nothing. I shall most willingly do it, and then we can -whisper to each other whatever seems of most interest, without fear of -being interrupted, the constant terror of which would haunt us in Alken. -The shadow of the frowning walls of Thuron makes an ideal lover's -trysting-place, therefore, Conrad, give the captain your promise, and -meet me under the north tower, two nights hence, at the same hour that -you sent for me in Alken." - -"It seems the only thing to do. I can come down the hill to meet you, so -that you----" - -"No, no. We will meet under the walls of Thuron; that is settled, and I -shall now call the captain and his men to unbind you. I suppose they -would not be pleased if I untied your cords." - -The impatient captain, to his amazement, was summoned, after he had -quite made up his mind that the girl would connive at the prisoner's -escape. Conrad then, in presence of the men, gave the captain his word -that he would not again attempt to pass the lines, and that he would -inform no one in the castle of anything he might chance to have seen or -heard while he was in Alken. He was then unbound and conducted through -the lines, and set his face towards the steep and dark hill as the deep -toned bell of the castle struck the hour of midnight. Although he had -not told Hilda so, he feared treachery from the captain and his men. He -had seen the captain's hesitancy regarding his threatened execution and -wondered why that officer contented himself with the simple word of a -captured underling, for Conrad knew how little dependence was placed -even on the oath of such as he. He believed that for some reason the -captain did not wish to hang him, but intended to have him set on in the -dark and there quietly made away with. So when he had mounted a few -steps he paused and listened intently, but could detect no indication of -followers. Further up he paused again, and this time he certainly heard -some one coming with apparent caution, yet, as if unfamiliar with the -ground, the follower stumbled now and again among the vines and bushes. -Conrad hurried up the slope and paused a third time, now being sure that -he was indeed tracked, for the man behind came on with less -circumspection and prudence. As Conrad, resolving to distance his -pursuer in the race, plunged onward and upwards, he was startled by a -man springing from the bushes in front who seized him by the shoulder. -Instantly Conrad sprang upon him, making no outcry and determined that -his antagonist should make none either, for he clutched the unknown -firmly by the throat, and bore him to the earth, squeezing all -possibility of sound from his windpipe. Kneeling thus above his -unexpected foe, he tried to reach his knife, to give quietus to the -under man before his accomplice could come up with them, for in spite of -the absence of cries the two combatants made much noise thrashing about -among the vines; but now the under man, who had been so easily pushed -backwards, seemed to gather both strength and courage, fighting with -such bravery of despair that Conrad had all he could do to keep him -down, using both hands instead of one. If he was to maintain his -position on top, the knife was out of the question, so he devoted his -efforts to the strangling of the man beneath him. In the midst of this -arduous occupation, the third man arrived on the scene. - - - - -CHAPTER XXX. - -THE STRUGGLE IN THE DARK. - - -"Hold!" cried the newcomer. "Which is for the Archbishop--under dog or -upper dog? A plague on this darkness which lets me see distinctly -neither one nor the other." - -Surrey underneath could not speak, and Conrad above thought it more -prudent not to speak. - -"Answer, upper dog," cried Roger Kent, peering at them, "or take your -fingers from the under dog's throat and let him answer, otherwise I will -run my knife into you on the chance that you are my enemy." - -"You are free," said Conrad, maintaining his hold, but conscious that he -had little chance against the two of them, "therefore declare yourself." - -"I have no shame in doing so. I fight for the Archbishop and the -Church." - -"Then stand aside and see whether Archbishop or Black Count wins." - -"Nay, that I will not do. You are no true follower of the Church or you -would call me to your aid. Release your hold of the other's throat, or I -will draw my knife across yours." - -Conrad, seeing that the game was up, and guessing also that the two were -not comrades and accomplices, as he had at first supposed, relaxed his -hold and stood up. The other lay gasping where he had fallen. - -"Now speak, fellow, an' enough breath has returned to you; are you for -the White Cross or the Black Count?" - -With some difficulty Surrey rose to a sitting posture, and said at last: - -"Indeed I think I must be the Black Count himself, for with the choking -I have had, my face, could any see it, more nearly resembles that of His -Swarthiness than it does the lilies of the field." - -"Is it you, archer?" asked Conrad in surprise, stepping forward. - -"Yes," answered Surrey and Kent simultaneously, then the former added, -shaking himself as he rose to his feet, "at least it was me before your -most unlooked for interference, but who I am now it is beyond me -accurately to tell. If you are Conrad, then what the devil do you here -out of the castle on the hillside after midnight, when all honest folk, -except those on watch, should be sleeping soundly on straw?" - -"If it comes to that," replied Conrad, "what do you here, honest -watchman, who at this moment are supposed to be faithfully guarding the -battlements of Castle Thuron?" - -"That in truth is a knotty question to answer, and I confess myself -grievously in the wrong, in thus breaking my watch, and feel the more -inclined to say, let us make a pact together, for if you inform not on -me, then is my mouth shut regarding your own flagrant delinquencies. -These I find hard to pardon, for a man owes it to his comrades during -besiegement to stand by them and not to be found coming up from the camp -of the enemy." - -"I am not on guard, and therefore have broken no oath. My desertion is -as white compared to thine as was my face to thine a few moments since." - -"True, true. There is much to be said on both sides of the question, and -if I had the judging in the matter we should each of us hang, that is, -did the cases come impartially before me, without personal consequences -affecting me in any way. And to think that I once had the privilege of -sending an arrow through you at three yards distance, was begged to -speed it, and neglected the opportunity! It serves me right well to be -choked for thus putting aside the gifts of Providence." - -"I am truly sorry I laid hands on you, but I was looking for an attack -by the Archbishop's men, and when you came suddenly upon me I did what -seemed best, for it is ill running up the hill, and I feared to run down -as I heard this fellow on my track." - -"I was journeying to meet my friend," said Roger, "and had no thought -that any was before me until I heard the struggle. We seem all three -equally foolish and equally guilty, therefore let us all forgive one -another, as becomes Christians." - -"I bear no malice," said Surrey; "but I will say that had he not taken -me unaware, as I was looking for a friend, the contest might have turned -out differently. Still it matters little, unless they have discovered my -absence in the castle and have sent Conrad in search of me, in the which -case I had better abandon bow and take to the camp of the Archbishops. -Were you looking for me, Conrad? If not, why are you here?" - -"I left the castle long before you did, most like. I went to the village -to find Hilda, who was with us on the voyage down from Treves." - -"Ah, that is the wench for whose sake you risked having an arrow hurtled -through your vitals at Zurlauben, and, learning nothing, stake your life -for her again. The folly of man!" - -"Judge him not harshly, John," murmured the poet. "Admire rather the -power wielded by true love. 'Tis the most beautiful thing on earth: the -noblest passion that inspires the human breast. That a man should gladly -venture his life on the chance of a few words with his beloved, shows us -this world is not the sordid, disputatious place we sometimes fancy it -to be. What other motive could so influence a man?" - -"Tush, Roger!" cried his friend, with some impatience. "Your head is -ever in the clouds, and you therefore see not what lies at your feet. -Thousands of men continually risk their lives, and lose them, for less -than threepence a day. No such motive as love! Nonsense! Friendship is -every whit as strong, and we stand here to prove it, who have both this -night risked our lives that we may but talk with one another. Out upon -rhapsodies." - -"Nay, John, if you were a true poet you would not speak in gross -ignorance as now you do. If you try to weave friendship into verse you -will find that it rouses not the warmth which the smaller word 'love' -calls forth. I say nothing against friendship, for I have tasted the -sweets of it, and I know nothing of love, having never myself -experienced a touch of it, but I find that in the making of poetry love -is the most useful of all the themes that a poet may play upon. Yet have -I but to-day accomplished a poem on the delights of friendship, which I -will now recite to you both, and which I think does justice to the -subject in a manner that has hitherto been withheld from all writers, -save perhaps Homer himself!" - -"I must be gone to the castle," said Conrad. - -"We will walk up the hill with you," rejoined Surrey, "and, Conrad, I -wish you would take my watch on the wall till I relieve you. I desire to -have converse with my friend here, and we will sit under the wall, where -you can give me timely warning if you hear any one approach from within, -although I think such interruption most unlikely. Was it on your rope I -descended, I wonder?" - -"I left a rope dangling at the north-west corner." - -"That was it. I marvelled how it came there, and thought it had been -flung up by the besiegers, remaining unseen by the garrison. Will you, -then, take my watch for a time, Conrad?" - -"Surely. 'Tis but slight recompense for the choking I----" - -"Yes, yes," interrupted the archer, hurriedly, "we will not speak of -that, for you took me by surprise. Mount to the battlements, and you -will find my pike lying on the top of the wall near the place of -descent." - -They had by this time reached the castle, and there they stood for a few -moments and listened, but everything was quiet, and Conrad, aided by the -hanging rope, ascended to the top, while the two archers sat down at -the foot of the northern tower. - -"The poem on 'Friendship,'--" began Roger. - -"Yes," broke in his friend, "we will come to it presently. How is it you -are fighting for the Archbishop?" - -"How is it you sent no word back to me as you promised to do?" - -"That is a long story. They would not even let me enter Treves, for -there was nothing of all this afoot when I was there. On finding service -at last, having journeyed to a hill-top within a league of this place, I -tried to send tidings to you by the young man who has just left us, but -he was baffled and turned back by the forces of the Archbishop, and -could no more get to Treves than I could enter it once I was at its -gates. We are all prisoners here, and until your arrow tapped my steel -cap I knew not where you were." - -"Hearing nothing I went to Treves in search of you, regretting I had not -accompanied you, but you know there were important poems that I wished -to complete when you left me--they are all finished now, and it would -have done you good to hear them, in fact, it was that which made me -follow you to Treves, for the consummation of a poem is the listening to -it. There is one set of verses on 'Sleep' that luckily I remember, and -can recite, if you will but harken." - -"What happened when you reached Treves?" - -"I made enquiry concerning you from all with whom I could gain speech, -but there was nothing save talk of war in the place, and nowhere could I -hear aught of you. One army had already left Treves, marching eastward, -and another was then filling its ranks. The officer I spoke with, who -was inducing all he could to join, offering great chances of plunder -when the castle was taken, said he remembered you well, and that you had -gone with the first army, leaving word that I was to join and follow -you." - -"The liar. I wonder the Archbishop retains the service of such, -although perhaps he does not know his officers hold the truth in -contempt." - -"It is strange you should refer so warmly to truth, for I esteem it the -choicest of all virtues, and have written a poem on 'Whiterobed Truth,' -which I hope remains in my memory, seeing it is so dark that no reading -may be done. It begins----" - -"You believed him, of course, and enlisted with him?" - -"Yes. He said we should find you here, and so indeed have I, but in the -opposite camp. I marched with them down the river, and when we arrived I -heard such wonderful stories of an infallible archer in the castle that -I knew he must be you." - -"Yes," cried John, rubbing his hands together in glee, "it was the most -heavenly opportunity ever bestowed upon a mortal man. I wish you had -been there to see. I was in the tower above the enemy, and I shot them -in the neck, stringing them one after another on the shafts, like -running skewers in a round of beef. Not one did I miss." - -"Oh, 'tis easily done," commented Roger, carelessly. "'Tis instinct, -largely; you glance at your mark, and next instant your arrow is there." - -"Roger Kent," replied the other, in a despondent tone, "I have on -various occasions passed favourable judgment on your poems; I think you -might, in return, admit that I am at least proficient in the rudiments -of archery." - -"John Surrey, I have more than once expressed the opinion, which I still -hold, that you will in time, with careful practice, become a creditable -archer. You would not have me say more and thus forswear myself." - -"No," admitted John; "I am well content when you say as much, and now if -it pleases you I will listen to as many of your verses as you can -conveniently remember." - -Surrey leaned back against the wall with a deep sigh, and the other, -his voice vibrant with enthusiasm said: - -"I will recite you first the poem on 'Friendship,' in honour of our -meeting, and then you shall hear the verses on 'Sleep,' which come the -more timely on an occasion when we both deprive ourselves of it, in -order to hear verse which you will be the first to admit is well worth -the sacrifice." - -The poet then delivered his lines in smooth and measured tones, to which -the other listened without comment. From poem to poem Roger Kent glided, -sometimes interlarding the pauses between with a few sentences -describing how the following effort came to maturity, thus cementing the -poems together with their history, as a skilful mason lays his mortar -between the stones. No literary enthusiast could have had a more patient -listener, and the night wore on to the tuneful cadence of the poet's -voice. At last he ceased. The steps of the patient Conrad on the -battlements echoed in the still night air. - -"Those are all the poems I can remember," he said, "and you see that I -have not misspent the time while you were journeying down the Moselle. I -do not know when I have had a more fruitful season. If I could but -deliver these verses to some monk who would inscribe them on lasting -parchment, for future ages to discuss and con over, I would be a happy -man. Alas, the monks care not to write of aught save the sayings of the -Fathers of the Church, and look askance at poems dealing with human -instincts and passions that are beyond the precincts of the cloister, -even though such poems tend to the future enrichment of literature, had -the holy men but the mind to appreciate them. Thus I fear my verse will -be lost to the world and that, in this deplorably contentious existence -which we lead, my span may be suddenly at an end, with none to put in -permanent form the work to which my life has been devoted. What poem, -think you, of all you have heard, is the most likely to live after we -are gone?" - -There was no reply, and in the silence that followed, the even -breathing of John Surrey brought to the mind of the poet the well nigh -incredible suspicion that his friend was asleep. This suspicion, -however, he dismissed as unworthy of either of them, and he shook his -comrade by the shoulder, repeating his question. - -"Eh? What?" cried John. "Take your hand from my throat, villain." - -"My hand is not on your throat but on your shoulder, and I misdoubt you -have for some time been asleep." - -"Asleep?" cried John, with honest indignation. "I was far from being -asleep. When you stopped reciting I had but let my mind wander for a -moment on the rough usage I had had from Conrad, who pretended he did -not know me. I'll wing a shaft by his ear so close that it will make him -jump a dozen yards, and for the space while he counts ten he will be -uncertain whether he is in this world or the next. I called him villain, -and I stick to it." - -"But what call you my poems?" - -"They are grand--all of them. You are getting better and better at -rhyming; I swear by the bow, you are. I never heard anything to equal -them." - -"Indeed," replied the poet, complacently, "a man should improve with -age, like good wine, if he have the right stuff in him, but though all -are so good, there is surely some poem better than the rest, as in a -company of men one must stand taller than his fellows. Which was it, -John?" - -"The last one you recited seemed to me the best," said John, scratching -his head dubiously, and then not having the sense to let well enough -alone, added, "the one on 'Sleep.'" - -The poet rose to his feet and spoke with justifiable indignation. - -"I have recited to you a score since that, you sluggard. You have indeed -been asleep." - -"I said not the last, but the first. I say the poem on 'Sleep' is the -best, and that I hold to." - -"The first was on 'Friendship,'" said the poet gloomily. - -"Nay, I count not the one on 'Friendship' as aught but the introduction. -'Twas given, you said, in honour of our meeting, therefore I regard the -one on 'Sleep' as the beginning, and although all are good, that seemed, -in my poor judgment, the best." - -"I had hoped you would have liked the one on 'Woman's Love,'" murmured -Roger, evidently mollified. - -"Ah, Roger, what can you expect of a hardened bachelor like me? There -was a time when I would have thrown up my cap and proclaimed that poem -master of them all, which doubtless it will be accounted in the -estimation of the world. Even I admit it was enough to make my old bones -burn again, and while you were reciting it, I was glad young Conrad was -not here, else he had straightway run to Alken in his own despite. That -poem will be the favourite of lovers all the world over; I am sure of -it." - -"Say you so, honest John?" cried Roger, with glee. "It is indeed my own -hope. You were the truest and wisest of critics, and no bowman in all -Germany can match you. Forgive me that I mistook your meditation for -slumber. And now, good night, old friend; we will meet again when I have -composed some others, although I doubt if I ever do anything as good as -that one." - -And thereupon the friends embraced and parted, each glowing with the -praise of the other. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXI. - -BRAVE NEWS OF THE EMPEROR. - - -As the days went by and the seasons changed, dull monotony settled down -upon the besieged castle, and all within felt more or less its -depressing effects. The Black Count chafed under it like a caged lion, -breaking out now and then into helpless rage, eager to do anything -rather than the one thing which had to be done, and that was to sit -quiet until the Archbishops tired of their task, or until some commotion -occurred elsewhere which would compel them to withdraw their troops. -Heinrich had wild schemes of breaking through the lines, marching on to -Treves, and there fomenting rebellion, so that Arnold might find -something to occupy him at home and be thus compelled to leave his -neighbour in peace. But the cool head in the garrison was that of -Rodolph, who pointed out calmly to his nominal chief the -impracticability of his plans. He knew more of Treves than did the -Count, and asserted that no man could stir up trouble in that town, -where all were but too well acquainted with the weight of the -Archbishop's iron hand. - -It was not to be expected that two men so differently constituted as the -Emperor and the Count, thus hemmed in together, should grow to love each -other; indeed, Heinrich took small pains to conceal the dislike he felt -for his enforced guest, although Rodolph was more politic, and always -treated his elder with grave respect. Only once during the two years' -siege did there come a conflict of authority between them, and this said -much for the forbearance of the Emperor. - -One morning Rodolph found the Count in the courtyard in full armour -vigorously superintending his men, who were removing from the gates the -bags of grain and casks of wine which were piled against them. - -"What is going forward?" asked Rodolph, quietly. - -"Something that concerns you not, and your assistance is neither asked -nor wanted," answered the Black Count, in his most surly manner. - -"Pardon me, if I venture to point out that anything which pertains to -the safety of the castle concerns me." - -"Whose castle is it?" roared the Count. - -"That is precisely the point now under dispute," replied the Emperor, -with the utmost gravity. "If you do some foolish thing the castle -doubtless will in a few hours belong to the Archbishops, for they are -probably counting on an act of folly which will bring them into -possession. I am anxious that the castle remain in your hands, therefore -I ask again, what are you proposing to do, and why are you taking away -the materials which so well supported the gates when they were -assaulted?" - -"I am commander here and not to be questioned." - -"That is hardly according to our compact, my Lord. Let us not, however, -discuss the matter before the men, but in the council chamber alone -together. I must know what you intend to do." - -"I have held my castle until now against all comers. I will continue to -keep it in my own way." - -"Your memory is short, my Lord. Your castle was saved in the first -assault by my archer. In the two following it was kept largely by my -generalship, if I may be so conceited as to claim as much. You did some -stentorian shouting, and some wondrous catapult practice, which, if it -killed any, wrought their death more by amazement at the work, than -through the accuracy of the machines. I came here a stranger, but am now -well known to the men, and they have confidence in me. If we must have -deplorable dissensions in their presence I will at once give command for -them to cease work, and you will see how many obey me. It is best not to -force me to this extremity, for if I am thus put to it, you will give -no more orders in this castle. Let it come to an open contest between -you and me, and you will be amazed to find that all who rally round you -are Steinmetz and one or two others, hirelings at best, whom you, -knowing nothing of men, have placed above the others, and even they will -at once desert you when they find you standing practically alone. -Therefore, my Lord, I ask you for the third time what you intend to do?" - -The cool and firm insistence of the Emperor had a quenching effect on -the other's anger. The Count began to doubt the wisdom of his hot-headed -resolve, for he had, in spite of himself, a growing confidence in -Rodolph's generalship, and his bluster was largely caused by the shame -he felt in placing his plans before the incisive criticism of his -comrade in arms. He turned brusquely away from Rodolph, and said, -curtly: - -"Very well. Let us to the council chamber." - -The Emperor followed him, and was in turn followed by the archer, who -always kept an eye on his master, unless definitely commanded not to do -so. The archer never pretended that he had the least belief in the good -faith of Count Heinrich, and it is likely that Rodolph, although he gave -no utterance to his distrust, had as little confidence, for he rarely -made objection to the watch John Surrey kept over him. Neither was their -vigilance relaxed on the tower. They constantly increased their store of -provisions, and allowed no one to come up the stair on any pretence -whatever. When the archer was not on watch in the tower, Conrad usually -took his place, and the possibility of their having to stand a siege -within a siege at any moment was rarely absent from the mind of the -Emperor. If the intentions of the Black Count were honest, there was no -harm in being ready for the reverse. - -When the Emperor and Count reached the council chamber the latter turned -sharply round and plunged at once into his explanation. - -"I am going to open the gates and sally forth at the head of my men. I -shall cut their line and, sparing none who oppose me, fight as long as -may be, then shall we return to the castle. In this way shall I harass -them day by day, until they are glad to raise the siege." - -"How many men do you intend to leave with me to protect the castle in -your absence?" - -"The castle needs no protection until I return to it. The Archbishops -will find enough to do without troubling Thuron. I shall take all my men -with me." - -"Have you made any computation regarding the number of soldiers the -Archbishops have under their banners?" - -"What has that to do with it? The men are scattered north, east, south, -and west of this place, and cannot be rallied in time to harm me." - -"I am, of course, not in the confidence of the Archbishops and cannot -tell how wisely or unwisely their plans are laid. Were I in their place -I should count on just such a sortie as you have proposed, caused either -by folly or desperation. It is a thing a famished commander might do, or -it might be done by one who knew no better. I should have it arranged -that a bugle call would cause all available men to march instantly over -the hills and cut you off from the gates before you could possibly -retreat. As the Archbishops have a hundred men and more to your one, -there can be no possible doubt regarding the termination of such a -venture as yours. You are as wise as a snail would be to leave his -shell, and, unarmed, fight a hawk in the open. The castle is your shell, -and remaining in it is your only salvation. I am astonished at the -futility of your proposal." - -"I cannot sit inactive." - -"You must. Otherwise the sane thing to do is to run up a white flag -after taking down your own, make terms with the Archbishops and deliver -your castle to them. Then you may get concessions, but to sally forth at -the head of your men is to deliver your castle at once into their hands, -and that without compensation, for then they take it and capture or -kill you. It is the project of a madman." - -The Count became fiercely enraged at this merciless criticism, and, -almost foaming at the mouth, smote his fist on the table, crying: - -"Our weakness is not that we are outnumbered a hundred to one. It is -that we are one too many in Thuron. No garrison can prosper under two -commanders." - -"Again you are mistaken. There are not two commanders, but one only. -There are two commanders with the besiegers, and that fact, in spite of -their army's strength, is probably the reason the castle has not been -taken long since. There is but one commander in Thuron, and I am he." - -"You lie!" yelled the Black Count. "I am master of Thuron, and will -remain so while a stone of it rests on another." - -"Prove yourself so. The weapons with which we previously fought on this -question still hang on the wall; only, take warning. I shall use the -edge of the sword, and not the flat of it, upon your person when next I -face you." - -"I shall not honour you by fighting with you, a nameless stranger, for -whose quality no one can vouch." - -"I bore the honour you formerly bestowed upon me modestly enough, and no -one has been told of our encounter. As for the quality of my fighting, -you made no complaint at the time." - -"I will imprison you as an insubordinate traitor." - -"I am even prepared for that, and have been ever since I took my -quarters in the tower. The moment you break your word with me I -constitute myself my own jailer, and will retire to the tower. There my -archer will kill your adherents one by one in the courtyard, or on the -battlements, or wherever you dare show yourselves. I will haul down your -banner and run up a flag of truce instead. Then, when the envoys of the -Archbishop come, I will shout to them from the tower that we are -commanded by a madman. I will make terms with them so far as the ladies -are concerned, and will tell them how to take the castle, as not one of -your men dare show face upon the walls, fearing my archer. I regret -being compelled to show you that you are both helpless and, at the same -time, a fool, but you would have it. Now, my Lord, what is to be done? -Are you content to hold command under my orders, or am I to be further -troubled with your petulance, so that I must humiliate you in the eyes -of your own men, depose you publicly, and perhaps imprison you in the -castle I would be only too glad to have you hold and keep? I must know -definitely and finally, for these discussions cannot continue." - -The Black Count rested his shaggy head in his hands, and for a long time -there was silence in the room. At last he raised his blood-shot eyes, -burning with hate, and shot a question at Rodolph. - -"Who are you?" - -"Your master. Take that for granted until this siege is ended, then you -may discover you have not been in error. If you attempt to fight me as -well as the Archbishops the contest will be a short one. In the fiend's -name, has your ill temper not left enough of sense in your brain to show -you, even in your anger, that it is better to have me fighting for you -than against you? Your persistent stupidity exhausts my patience." - -"What am I to tell the men whom I have ordered to clear the sacks from -the gate? They will think me indeed mad if I bid them reverse their -work." - -"They think it now, as does every one with whom you come in contact. -When the grain is all removed tell them to fill the empty sacks with -earth and stones from the cellars, and to place them in position against -the gates again. Have this done whenever a sack is emptied in future, so -that our consumption of corn will not interfere with the security of the -gates. If you have said to any one that you intended to sally forth, -tell him now that you have changed your mind." - -This was the last rebellion of Count Heinrich against the usurper within -his gates. The ladies, when all met together for the evening meal, did -not suspect that there had been any difference between the two men, for -Heinrich was invariably so gruff towards his women folk that his -demeanour could hardly be made worse by any check he had encountered -during the day, and Rodolph's manner was marked by a deferential -equanimity that was immutable. - -While they were seated at the evening repast Captain Steinmetz entered -and made announcement that a holy Palmer was before the gate asking -admittance, saying he had news for the master of the castle. - -"Where is he from? How did he get through the lines?" demanded the -Count. - -"I think he is from Palestine," replied Steinmetz, "and he came through -the lines by permission of the Archbishops. He says he bears news to you -of the Emperor." - -"Of the Emperor?" ejaculated Rodolph, in amazement. - -"Yes. His Majesty is fighting in the Holy Land, and I think the monk -comes from him with news of his battles." - -"Ah!" Rodolph looked closely at those who sat round the table, but said -nothing further. Tekla gazed with interest at the captain; the Count's -eyes were bent on the table, and his wife regarded his dark face -timorously. - -"We want no news of the Emperor's fighting," said the Count, gruffly, at -last. "What matters his fighting to us? A wise man goes not abroad to -deal his blows, when there are good knocks to be given in his own land. -Tell the Palmer we want none of his budget." - -"Not so, my uncle," cried Tekla, her eyes glowing with enthusiasm, "we -are all loyal subjects of his Majesty, I hope, and I confess I should -like to hear how he prospers. I beg you to admit the pious father." - -"He is most likely a pious spy, sent by the connivance of the -Archbishops, whose tool he is. Their Lordships desire to know how -matters stand within the fortress." - -"Even if that be the case," put in Rodolph, mildly, "I should be the -last to baulk their curiosity. It would give me pleasure to have them -know that the stout Count Heinrich is well, and has no fear of them, -either separate or united. It may comfort the Archbishops to learn that -we were faring generously when their envoy came upon us, and that -Heinrich of Thuron thought them of so small account that he permitted a -man coming from their camp and through their lines to enter his dining -hall." - -The Count's eye lit up for a moment as he glanced round his hall, then -the light died out, gloom came upon his brow, and once more he bent his -gaze on the table in silence. - -"I would suggest, however, that the Palmer be blindfolded before he is -taken up the ladder, and so conducted to the Count's presence. It may be -prudent to conceal from him how well the gates are barricaded. If he -actually comes from the Emperor, I confess, like the Countess here, I -think so much of his Majesty that I should dearly love to have news of -him. What say you, my lord Count?" - -"Have it as you will. There is no desire on my part to hear of his -Majesty, so question the Palmer as best pleases you. Admit the man, -Steinmetz, but blindfold him as has been suggested." - -A few minutes later the monk was led into the hall, advancing with -caution as a blind man does, gropingly uncertain regarding his -footsteps, placing one sandal tentatively before the other, as if he -feared a trap, although led by the captain, who at last removed the -bandage from his blinking eyes, thus bringing him suddenly from darkness -to light. The monk bowed low to each one present, then stood with -folded arms, awaiting permission to speak. If he were indeed a spy he -showed no indication of it: his face was calm and imperturbable, and -looked little like the countenance of a man in fear of the fate which -must quickly have followed conviction as an informant. - -"You come from the Holy Land, Father?" began Rodolph. - -"Not so, my Lord. I come from Frankfort, but there has recently arrived -from Palestine a messenger, who brought brave tidings from his noble -Majesty, the Emperor Rodolph of Germany." - -"Indeed. And who sends you forth, or do you come of your own accord?" - -"I am sent forth by the Baron von Brunfels, now in Frankfort, to relate -intelligence of the Emperor in all castles and camps and strongholds, to -those of noble birth, who are, I trust, loyal subjects of his Majesty." - -"That are we all here, holy father," cried Tekla with enthusiasm. - -The monk bowed low to the lady. - -"I trust that the Baron von Brunfels is well. He is a dear friend of -mine," said Rodolph. - -"He is well, my Lord, but somewhat haggard with the care of state which -has fallen upon him in his Majesty's absence. He is thought to be -over-anxious regarding his Majesty's welfare; but I surmise that the -news he has now received of him may bring more cheerfulness to his brow -than has been seen there of late." - -"Doubtless that will be the case," remarked Rudolph, with a deep sigh. -"Do you know to what particular part of the business of state Baron von -Brunfels bends his energies?" - -"Particularly to the army, my Lord. He has greatly increased it, drawing -men mainly from Southern Germany, and placing in command of them -officers who come from the Emperor's own part of the country. It is said -he is raising a company of archers, not armed with the cross-bow, but -with a thin weapon held in one hand, so marvellously inaccurate that -when the regiment practices near Frankfort the people round about fly to -their houses, saying there is little security for life while that -company is abroad, as no prophet can predict where their shafts will -alight. Prayers are offered that this company be disbanded, or that -Providence will confer greater blessings on their marksmanship than has -hitherto been vouchsafed." - -"Ah, it is a pity we cannot lend the Baron our good archer, who would do -more for the efficiency of the company than much devotion. Does rumour -give any reason for this increase of the army, or has Baron von Brunfels -said anything regarding its purpose?" - -"It is believed that a large reinforcement will presently be sent to the -Emperor in Palestine, when the men are more accustomed to their duties." - -"A most scandalous waste of human lives," cried the Black Count, -sternly. "German men should fight their enemies at home or on the -borders of German land. Of what benefit are the desert sands to us, even -should we win them?" - -The monk seemed shocked at this, and devoutly crossed himself, but made -no reply. Tekla flashed an indignant look at her uncle, but spoke -instead to Rodolph. - -"My Lord," she said, "you seem more interested in the Baron than in the -Emperor. I wish to hear of his Majesty's campaign in the Holy Land." - -"True, Countess, I had forgotten myself, and I beg you to pardon me. The -Baron is a very dear friend of mine, as I have said, but I will have -speech with our visitor later concerning him. Now, Father, what of the -Emperor?" - -"His Majesty, the Emperor, has proven himself a warrior not only of -great personal bravery, but one who is a redoubted general as well. He -has displayed marvellous knowledge of the arts of war, and has routed -the infidels, horse and foot, wherever he encountered them, scattering -them like chaff before the wind. Threescore of their bravest leaders has -he slain with his own hand, until now his very name spreads terror -throughout the land. When it is known he leads the Christian host, the -Saracens fly without giving battle, and cannot be lured into the field -to face him." - -"In God's name, then," cried the irate Count, "why doesn't he take -Palestine with his own hand, and return so that he may reduce at least -two of his truculent Princes to order and some respect for him? Germany -is languishing for a ruler of such prowess. Told you the Archbishops of -all this?" - -"I did, my Lord." - -"And what said they?" - -"They prayed that he might be long spared to perform such deeds in the -Holy Land, and are about to offer Mass in honour of his victories over -the heathen." - -"I can well believe it. If masses will keep him in the East he will -never return to Germany. I have no patience with such old wives' tales." - -The Count rose from his bench and strode from the room, saying to -Steinmetz as he departed: - -"See that this relator of fables is carefully deposited outside the -walls in the way he came, and allow no loitering in the courtyard." - -"My Lord," cried Rodolph as the Count approached the door, "I wish to -have some converse with the good Father alone, and I desire to offer him -refreshment before he departs from us. Have I your sanction?" - -The Black Count paused near the door and looked back at the assemblage -before answering. Then he said: - -"Captain Steinmetz, you will obey his Lordship's orders as faithfully as -if they came from me." - -With this command he withdrew from the room. The ladies also rose and -bent their heads to receive the blessing of the monk, thanking him for -what he had told them, and expressing a wish that this should not be -his last visit to the castle. - -Refreshments were placed on the table, to which the monk, on being -invited, devoted himself with right good will. Rodolph requested Captain -Steinmetz to leave them alone together. - -"Are you the only messenger Baron von Brunfels sends forth from -Frankfort?" asked Rodolph. - -"No, my Lord, there are many of us. One goes east, another west, and so -in all directions. It is the desire of Baron von Brunfels that the -people know as speedily as possible of the deeds done by their brave -Emperor." - -"A most loyal and laudable intention, which will be well carried out if -all the messengers are as faithful and competent as you are, Father. Do -you return instantly to Frankfort?" - -"No, my Lord. I go now up the Moselle to Treves, and so back in a -southerly direction to the capital." - -"I ask you, then, to change your plans, and return forthwith to -Frankfort." - -"'Twould be contrary to the orders of my Lord of Brunfels. I dare not -disobey him." - -"Nevertheless, I request you to do so, and I give you my assurance that -you will be the most welcome visitor the Baron has received this many a -day, and that he himself will tell you so, blessing you for your -disobedience." - -"If the news you have to send is so important to him, I might venture to -change my route, but as I shall have to suffer if a mistake is made, -while you are safe in this castle, I must judge of the importance of -your message by hearing it." - -"Friendship lends importance to tidings that may seem trivial to a -stranger. The Baron is my most intimate friend, therefore I ask of you -to remember carefully and relate accurately what I have to send him. -Tell him the silk merchant whom he accompanied to Treves is well, and is -now in Castle Thuron." - -"I carry not news of silk merchants, but of Emperors," cried the monk -resentfully, for, despite his calling, even his humility was offended by -the sudden descent from the highest to the lowest, in a country where -rank was so greatly esteemed. - -"Remember, Father, that the founder of our Holy Church was the son of a -carpenter." - -"He was the Son of God." - -"Most true, but reputed to be what I say, and his Apostles were poor -fishermen. Therefore it may well be that when you carry news of a silk -merchant you are no less ignoble a messenger than when you carry news of -an Emperor. Tell the Baron the silk merchant sends him greeting, and -asks him to persevere in the augmenting of the army, which the silk -merchant hopes will, from its very strength and efficiency, prove to be, -not an engine of war, but an assurance of peace. To be thus effective, -however, it must be undeniably stronger than any forces that may combine -against it. Say that the West and the North have combined, which fact he -probably already knows. The Baron is, therefore, not to interfere in any -struggle that may be going on, but rather to keep a close watch upon it, -and to have everything ready when a command is sent him. Have you given -strict heed to my message, good Father? Repeat it to me." - -"Baron von Brunfels is to be made aware that the silk merchant who -accompanied him to Treves is at present in Castle Thuron. The army is to -be increased and made more efficient. The West and the North have -combined, which I take to mean, that Europe is as one against the -Saracen, and that the Emperor's army is to be made stronger than the -combination, so that when he gives the command, he will be at the head -of a force superior to all others sent out, and may thus bring the war -to an end without further blood being shed, through the mere terror of -his name, supplemented by an army so redoubtable." - -"I beg you to colour not your message with your own explanations but to -attend more strictly to the exact words I give you. Say that when -further news of the Emperor comes to him, he is to send you again to -Castle Thuron, and he may give you instructions that will be for my ear -alone. You will, therefore, be careful, if you value the good opinion of -the Baron, to keep strictly apart the message for me and the general -intelligence which you recite to the Archbishops. Say that the silk -merchant is in safe quarters, and thinks it better to make no premature -attempt to leave Thuron. The main thing at present is to get together as -many troops as will outnumber two to one the forces of the West and the -North. All this is not done in a day. Do you go back to the -Archbishops?" - -"No, my Lord. I intended to journey up the Moselle." - -"Are you afoot?" - -"The Baron von Brunfels, wishing me speed, gave me a horse, to which I -am only now becoming accustomed. I left it at the village below in care -of a soldier, it being my intention to travel to-night to the valley of -the Brodenbach, and rest at the castle of Ehrenburg." - -"Ehrenburg can wait for its news of the Emperor. Go, therefore, up the -Brodenbach valley as was your first determination, but continue on past -the castle until you come to the Frankfort road. Rest then if you must, -but know that the sooner you reach Frankfort the better will you please -the Baron." - -Rodolph called to Steinmetz, who again blindfolded the monk, and -accompanied by Emperor and captain the Palmer was set once more outside -the walls, and disappeared in the night down the hill towards Alken. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXII. - -"FOR YOUR LOVE I WOULD DEFY FATE." - - -The Countess Tekla spent the greater portion of her time waiting upon -her aunt, who, never having known a true friend in her life before, -clung to the girl with a pathetic insistence, unhappy if Tekla was out -of her sight. The natural positions of the two seemed reversed; the -elder woman leaning dependently on the younger, and looking to her for -protection, as a child looks to its mother. When Tekla was busy in the -courtyard garden her aunt would sit on the balcony and watch her every -movement with a dumb, tender affection that was most touching. The elder -rarely spoke, and never smiled except when Tekla looked up to her with a -smile on her own pretty lips. - -Rodolph often wished the aunt were not quite so much the shadow of the -niece, but there was such love between the two women that he never -ventured to suggest to Tekla his hope that he might be permitted now and -then to enjoy her companionship unshared. He worked with her in the -garden, and often said that he expected to make horticulture his -occupation when the siege was over, so expert had he become under the -charming instruction of his fair teacher. - -When winter intervened, and the spring came again, Rodolph jokingly -suggested that they should plant grain instead of flowers, as there was -still no sign that the Archbishops were becoming tired of their -undertaking. The second winter passed, and a second spring found the -living line around the castle still intact, thus Rodolph's former jest -began to take a grimmer meaning, for provisions were indeed running low, -and the two years' supply, which seemed at first almost inexhaustible, -was now coming to an end, yet not a pound of wheat or a gallon of wine -had succeeded in getting through the cordon drawn by the stubborn -Archbishops. Rodolph had counted on a quarrel between the two commanders -ere this, but there was no indication of dissension in the opposing -camp. The bitter persistence of the siege he laid to the account of the -Archbishop of Treves, and in this he was right. There was, however, one -grain of consolation in its continuance; so long as the armies of the -Archbishops were encircling Thuron, they were out of mischief elsewhere, -and the rest of Germany was at peace. Rodolph could not help thinking -that if it came to a fight the troops would hardly be as warlike as they -had shown themselves two years before, when the siege began, for the -sound of revelry came up each night from the camp, and the idle men were -industriously drinking their thousand gallons of wine each day, which -tended more to hilarity than discipline. Nevertheless, they held tightly -to the castle, and there was no relaxing of the lines that surrounded -it. On several occasions attempts were made to get through by one or -other belonging to the garrison, but in each case without success. The -deserters were turned back, the officers refusing even to make prisoners -of them. - -Meanwhile the Emperor periodically received news from the capital, and -was compelled also to listen to long-winded mythical accounts of his own -bravery in the East, which did much credit to the fictional power of the -romancer in Frankfort who put the stories together. When at last it was -reported to him that the army centred in Frankfort, and at other points -within easy call of the capital, was fit to cope successfully with all -opposition, the Emperor resolved to quit the castle by stealth if -possible, and if that proved impracticable, to send word when next the -monk came, telling Brunfels to lead the army in person up the Moselle -and raise the siege of Thuron. His hope, however, was to get away from -the castle and himself give the command to the Archbishops to cease -their warfare. - -But another matter occupied his mind, almost to the exclusion of the -great affairs of state, which should perhaps have had his undivided -attention, because of their paramount importance. This interest held him -a willing prisoner in Thuron, and it may be some excuse for his -inaction--for his reluctance in showing himself a real and not a nominal -Emperor--that he was less than thirty years of age. Before he quitted -Thuron, therefore, he desired to know whether the Countess Tekla -regarded him as a dear friend or a dearer lover. It was his right to -come at the head of his army and demand the girl, for even if she had, -when sorely pressed, rebelled against being bestowed upon an equal in -rank and wealth in the person of Count Bertrich, yet, whatever her -personal inclinations might be, she could not deny the suit of the -Emperor, were he as ugly as Calaban, as old as Methuselah, and as wicked -as Beelzebub. Such a refusal would have been unheard of under the feudal -law, and would certainly not have been allowed by the upholders of it. -But Rodolph was in the mind to keep all prerogatives of his position for -other purposes, and trust to his own qualities in pursuing the course -that Cupid had marked out for him. If the girl cared nothing for him as -Lord Rodolph, he would not ask her to bestow her affection upon the -Emperor. - -The moon was shining brightly over the Moselle valley when he determined -to escape from the castle, and as he had resolved to take the archer and -Conrad with him, not only as a bodyguard, but in order that there might -be less demand on the almost empty larder of the castle, he had to wait -for a night when the moon was obscured, or until it grew older and rose -later. It would be impossible for the three of them to get away when -night was as light as day; indeed experience had proved the futility of -even one attempting to quit the stronghold; but the Emperor was imbued -with the belief that he could succeed where others had failed. The -archer had formulated a plan for their escape in conjunction with his -friend Roger Kent, who was now on guard at a portion of the line in the -Thaurand valley after midnight, and although Surrey had had as yet no -chance of consulting his friend, he surmised there would be little -difficulty in persuading him to turn a blind eye and a deaf ear up the -valley for a few minutes to accommodate an old comrade. - -Things were at this pass when, one afternoon, Rodolph was with the -Countess Tekla in the garden while the girl's aunt sat on the balcony -watching them. - -"My Lady," said Rodolph, in a low voice, "I have serious complaint to -make of you." - -"Of me, my Lord," asked the girl, in surprise, glancing swiftly up at -him. - -"Yes, Countess. While we have each, even to Count Heinrich himself, -taken turns in keeping watch and ward on the battlements, you have never -shouldered pike and marched up and down the promenade. Yet is there -reason for that. Your doing so would attract rather than repel the -enemy, so perhaps we were wise in allowing you to work in the garden -instead. Still, you should at least encourage those on guard, and as -this promises to be a beautiful night, and as I pace the battlements -until the stroke of twelve, I beg of you to come upon the parapet soon -after our evening meal and bear me company for an hour or so. I make it -a question of duty, if I cannot persuade you else." - -"I am not one to shirk from duty," said the Countess, brightly, "so upon -that basis will I assist you to repel the invaders. Besides, I wish to -see the valley bathed in the moonlight, and have long desired to venture -on the battlements, and would have done so before now had not my uncle -forbidden it. But that was long since, and perhaps he apprehends no -danger at this time." - -"The ramparts are as safe as the quietest street in Frankfort, and I do -assure you that the valley in the moonlight is most lovely and well -worth gazing upon. I may, then, look forward to your coming?" - -"Yes, unless my uncle or aunt object." - -"They will not object, especially if you do not ask their permission, -which I beg you not to do. Just make the venture, and I will guarantee -that no one will have aught to say against your presence on the platform -of the west wall." - -And thus it came about that the Countess Tekla, with a fleecy white -scarf thrown over her fair head, reaching down to her waist, looking as -if it had been woven from the moonbeams themselves, walked on the stone -terrace that night with Lord Rodolph of Hapsburg, and then was the time, -had the Archbishops been looking for a favourable opportunity of attack, -to charge upon the fortress, for never since the world began was watch -so carelessly kept in ancient stronghold, as when these two young people -guarded grim Castle Thuron. - -"This reminds me of another night," said Rodolph. "The moon shone as -brightly, and the river flowed on as peacefully under its mild radiance. -Does your recollection join with mine?" - -"Yes. It was the night we left Treves." - -"Together." - -Tekla looked up at him, then gently murmured a repetition of the word. - -"It was an idyllic voyage," he continued, "whose remembrance lingers as -does the fragrance of a precious flower. Its dangers seem to have faded -away, and only the charm remains. The recollection of it is like a -beautiful dream: a vision of Heaven rather than an actuality of earth." - -The Countess Tekla paused in her walk, and clasping her hands over her -breast, gazed up the valley at the winding ribbon of silver far below, -the glamour and soft witchery of the moonlight in the lustre of her -eyes. - -"There can be nothing more beautiful in the world than the Moselle," she -said, slowly. - -"It is indeed an enchanted river, but that night it looked upon a -beauty superior to its own." - -"I shall not pretend ignorance of your meaning, my Lord, and so take the -compliment to myself, undeserving of it though I may be. But my -treatment of you then was, I fear, a sad blemish on whatever of beauty I -may possess. I see you now standing on the rock by the margin of the -stream, to which my petulance and suspicion unwarrantably banished you. -I often think of my injustice, pain mingling with pleasure in the -remembrance, which is unaccountable, for I should dwell on the incident -with regret only, yet it passes my comprehension that I experience -felicity in conning it over. You looked like an indignant god of the -Moselle, standing there silent in the moonlight, and even although I -deeply distrusted you then--you must remember I had not seen you until -that moment--I felt as if I were a culprit, refusing to pay just toll as -I floated on the river you guarded." - -"Ah, Countess, payment deferred makes heavy demand when time for -settlement ultimately comes. The river god now asks for toll, with two -years' interest, compounded and compounded, due." - -"Alas!" cried the Countess, arching her eyebrows, and spreading out her -empty hands, accompanying the word with a little nervous laugh, "I fear -I am bankrupt. Should this siege succeed, as it seems like to do----" - -"What siege, my Lady?" - -"The siege of Castle Thuron," she answered, looking sideways at him. "Is -there another?" - -"I had another in my mind at the moment. I trust that it too will be -successful, or rather that it will be successful and the Archbishops' -effort fail. But if Thuron falls, what then, my Lady?" - -"Then am I bankrupt, for my lands will be confiscated and other grievous -things may happen. With lands and castles gone, how can I pay the river -god his fee, even were he generous to forego his rightful interest, -twice or thrice compounded?" - -"The gods, my Lady, traffic not in castles nor in lands. Were these -tendered, free of fee or vassalage, your river god would value them no -more than the lump of rock he stood upon, and would proclaim to all the -Moselle valley his charge was still unsatisfied." - -"Then he is no god, but a Frankfort usurer." - -"That he is indeed, my Lady; rapacious, exacting, demanding that to -which he has no rightful claim, yet still demanding. And worse than any -mortgage broker, because he knows no debt has been incurred, but the -reverse, for such slight service as he rendered was a pleasure to him, -and he knew himself deeply the debtor in that it was accepted of him. -And yet, my Lady, this confessed cozening knave implores recompense so -far above his merits, that there is this to say in his behalf: his -tongue, more modest than his thoughts, hesitates to formulate in words -his arrogant petition. I stand here landless and castleless, but I hope -a gentleman, and if any man question that I am as noble as the -Archbishop himself I will dispute his contention with my sword; brushing -aside all thought of the possessions that may come to you or to me, are -you content, my Lady Tekla, to place your hand in my empty palm and say, -'Rodolph, I take you for my future husband'?" - -He stood with both hands outstretched, and she a little distance from -him, her head bowed, once venturing to dart a swift glance at him, again -scrutinising the silent stones lying in the moonlight at her feet. Then -suddenly she placed both her hands in his, and cried breathlessly: - -"Rodolph, Rodolph, it were a foolish bargain for you, and I cannot have -it so. Wait, wait a little, till I know whether I have what should be -mine; whether I am to be as poor as any village maiden in Alken yonder; -then ask me, Rodolph. In either case ask me then, and I will answer -you." - -"No, Tekla, answer me now--now." - -"You are young, Rodolph. Oh, why must I be wise for two?--your way is to -make, and I must not retard your career. You join a tottering house: my -only relative cannot hold his own with his single sword. I feel disaster -hovering over us, and yet so shallow a maid am I, that I came joyously -forth to be with you on this promenade, unheeding of impending calamity. -Think what you do, my Lord: the powerful Archbishops are your enemies, -and there is no kin of mine to befriend you. Wait, wait, wait." - -"I have already waited--for two years have I waited; I want my answer -now, Tekla." - -"No, no. This madness is of the moonlight. They say the moon, when it -shines brightly--our talk of the river spirits has made us blind to -practical things, and so I seem to be myself one of the Rhine maidens -who lure men on to destruction. I will not be the Lorelei of the -Moselle. Let me go, my Lord: I should not have come here to the -battlements in the moonlight, for reason has fled from us. You shall not -blight your noble career for one so ill-fated as I. See what I have -already done. My uncle besieged this two years, and now certain of -defeat. You imprisoned here when you should have been making your way in -the East, or in Germany, where, with your bravery, your name would have -rung throughout the land. I will not embroil you with the Archbishops, -and perhaps with the Emperor himself. Go forth, Lord Rodolph, from this -doomed house, and come to me, if you still wish, when I shall not retard -you." - -"My career I shall look to with satisfied mind and heart, if first I -have assurance from you that all is well with my love. I have no fears -for my future. I willingly stayed my career at a single sight of you, -for I came to Treves to see the Archbishop, and not to look upon the -Countess Tekla. It seems to me amazing that there ever was a time when I -had to say to my comrade, 'Who is she?' yet such was indeed the case, -for when I should have been gazing at Arnold von Isenberg, my thoughts -and glances were all for the lady who rode by his side. My being in the -skiff was no accident, as you thought, but the result of careful -planning, with a craft worthy of Arnold himself. I came here willingly, -eagerly, and not through inadvertence, and Thuron never held so -complacent a prisoner, nor one who so welcomed captivity as I, less held -by its adamantine walls than by your silken bondage, if my glad -restraint merit so harsh a name. Tekla, I love you at dawn, at mid-day, -in darkness, or in moonlight; all's one to me. How is it with you, my -lady of the silver light?" - -"Oh, with me, with me, Rodolph, what need to answer that which all may -see so plainly? What need for you to ask, when every glance that fell -from my eyes upon you must have betrayed me? Oh, my knight of the -water-lapped rock, I loved you ever since first I saw you standing -there, flinging your abandoned sword at my feet, for the protection of -one so cruel and unjust. And now must my foolish fondness drag you down -with me into the torrent that may overwhelm us both? Rodolph, Rodolph, I -cry to you beware, for I cannot protest longer, and am so selfish that, -for your love, I would defy fate; so ungenerous that while my lips warn -you my heart hopes you will not heed. Oh, Rodolph, I have loved you -since the world began." - -The young man, suddenly releasing her imprisoned hands, clasped the girl -unresisting to him and on her trembling dewy lips pressed, long and -tenderly, their first kiss; she, with a deep sigh, closing her eyes, and -resigning herself to his tenderness. For him, no less than for her, the -moment was supreme, and it seemed as if the world had faded from them -and they stood alone in delirious space together. The tent of the -Archbishops, precursor of the great Cathedral, shone white in the -moonlight, looking in calm unconsciousness at the plans of its august -builders crumbling to pieces, through the action of a man and woman. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIII. - -A GRIM INTERRUPTION TO A LOVER'S MEETING. - - -Not on the battlements alone did lovers meet. At nearly the same hour of -the night after the ill-kept guard on the promenade, Conrad set forth to -greet Hilda, as had been his custom for many evenings during the past -two years. The girl stole quietly up among the sadly trampled grape -vines to a corner of the castle which the two had made their own. There -was an angle in the wall under the northern tower which was in darkness -whether the moon shone or no, and above this stone alcove, the -machicolated wall gave Conrad an opportunity for descent unseen, which -would not have been possible from the promenade itself, except on dark -nights. Here he placed his rope, and thus he slipped silently down to -meet the girl who crept up from the village for the pleasure of holding -whispered converse with him. When it had become evident that the castle -was to be starved into submission, there was no further talk of Hilda -returning to her old service. The girl would at least have plenty to eat -in the village, which could not be guaranteed to her in the castle, and -although Hilda would have run the risk of starving had she been allowed -to return, the Countess herself felt she could not, in justice to those -beleaguered with her, allow the tire woman to leave her present lodging. - -Of late, although they stood in the shadow, Hilda's sharp eyes noted the -ever-increasing gauntness of Conrad, who, like all within the castle, -except the two ladies, was placed on short rations, and at last the girl -brought up with her, without saving anything, cakes of her own baking -from the village, and although at first Conrad thought of sharing his -good fortune with his comrades, reflection showed him that this could -not be done without endangering the secret of their rendezvous. Thus -their retreat in the secluded embrasure of the silent walls had become a -nocturnal picnic, Hilda watching her lover with tender solicitude while -he ate, sure for one night at least he should not starve. She begged him -to let her come oftener, but he, fearing discovery, would not permit -this, for her passing through the lines too frequently might raise -suspicion in the camp, where the greatest precautions were taken to -permit no supplies to pass the cordon, in which task the besiegers were -amazingly successful. - -Their time of meeting was early in the evening, while the Count and his -household were at their last meal of the day, as at that hour there was -less chance of interruption, and there was also the advantage that Hilda -could return to Alken before it grew late. - -Conrad had finished his welcome repast and the two stood in the darkness -together, the gloom perhaps made the more intense because it contrasted -so strongly with the sloping hillside flooded with bright moonlight, -when Hilda's quick ear, ever on the alert for a sound on the wall above -or the earth beneath them, heard a stealthy step, and she whispered -suddenly: - -"Hush! Some one is approaching along the west side." - -They remained breathless a few moments listening, and Conrad was about -to say he heard nothing, when round the corner came a muffled stooped -figure, which, although it was in darkness itself, stood out like a -black silhouette against the moonlit hills opposite. With a thrill of -fear Conrad recognised the evil face of Captain Steinmetz, peering with -anxious eyes ahead of him, luckily not in their direction, but towards -the plantation that clothed the hillside where the vineyard ended. At -first he thought the captain had discovered something of the meeting in -the corner, but it was soon evident that officer had no suspicion, -thinking himself entirely alone. - -The two stood there in acute suspense, with Steinmetz before them, -almost within touching distance, did Conrad but reach out his hand. -While they trembled thus, scarce daring to breathe, they saw emerging -from the plantation, two figures, also cloaked, who paused at the edge -of the wood, and on the captain giving utterance to a low sibilant sound -like the soft hissing of a serpent, the two darted quickly across the -band of moonlight and stood beside the captain in the shadow of the -great north tower. - -"Have you brought the money?" were the first words of Steinmetz, spoken -under his breath, but as distinctly heard by Conrad and his companion as -by those to whom the remark was addressed. - -"We have brought three bags of it, Captain," said the foremost man. "The -rest will be given you when the castle is ours." - -"But that is not according to the bargain," protested Steinmetz. - -"It is according to the command of the Archbishop," replied the other, -with a shrug of his shoulders. "His Lordship is under the impression -that you can trust him with quite as much faith as he can trust you. If -you deal fair and honourably towards us, there will be no fear that you -will be cozened out of the rest of the money. If not--well, you will be -three weighty bags of gold to the good, but I warn you, there will be -little opportunity of enjoying it, for the Archbishop will exact stern -interest when the castle ultimately falls, as fall it must." - -"A bargain is a bargain," muttered Steinmetz, in no good humour. - -"The Archbishop will keep it, and if you stand by your word, the -remainder of the money will be paid you to-morrow night. So that is not -long to wait, for you will have but small chance of spending it in the -interval. Your hesitation gives colour to the Archbishop's suspicions -that you intend to play him false. I would I were so sure of as much -gold in so short a time, if you mean fair." - -"Oh, I mean fair enough, and will take the gold, but I like not this -distrust of a man's motives." - -"It is remarkable," replied the other, nonchalantly, "that the -Archbishop should be suspicious of you. I confess I do not understand it -myself, but I am simply the messenger, and merely lay down the orders of -my master. Do you take the money?" - -"Yes, unless you now say you have forgotten to bring it, and that I must -deliver up the castle for nothing, and whistle for payment." - -"No; the gold is here. You accept the Archbishop's terms, then?" - -"Yes, since it is his will to drive so cautious a bargain." - -The other turned to his fellow and took from him three well-filled bags, -each about half the size of a man's head, and these he passed to the -captain, who concealed them under his cloak. When the folds of the cloak -had fallen over and covered the treasure, the ambassador of the -Archbishop said: - -"What are your final instructions regarding the assault on the castle?" - -"I have caused to be removed from the gates the bags of sand and earth, -for I have had communication with the Black Count, telling him there is -no fear of an attack, and that we must hold ourselves in readiness, -before hunger too much weakens us, to open the gates and sally forth to -cut our way through the lines, and so escape. In this he agrees with me, -and even while I speak the gates are free, and may be opened by any one -from the inside. If you have your men in readiness to-morrow night when -the bell tolls twelve, taking care to keep them unseen and under cover -in the forest before the gates, until about an hour after midnight, when -the moon begins to throw the shadow of the wood nearly to the wall, you -can approach silently and with caution, when you will find the gates -push open at a touch. We change guard at midnight, and it may be half an -hour after that time before I will have opportunity to undo the bars -and bolts and leave the gates swinging freely. I shall give orders to -the sentinel to keep himself at the end of the battlements near this -tower, still it will be as well if you observe caution until you are in -the castle. I shall dispose the men-at-arms within so that you need not -fear much opposition, for they are at best half starved, and will have -little pluck to fight; but it is best to secure at once the body of the -Count, who may otherwise rally them and give you more trouble than you -look for. With reasonable luck, and all precaution, there need not be a -blow struck, but if you bungle and raise a premature alarm, you are like -to stir a hornet's nest, unless you secure at once Black Heinrich and -the young man Rodolph, who is his lieutenant, and who can fight like the -fiend himself. He it was who brought the Countess Tekla from Treves, and -I think the Archbishop will be glad to have hold of him, and should give -me extra pay for his capture." - -Conrad had stood with dropped jaw, listening to this black treachery so -calmly enunciated by the captain, whose oath laid it upon him to protect -the lives of those he was thus coolly selling for gold. Conrad remained -motionless until the reference to the capture of his master was made, -then, forgetting where he was and the great need of secrecy, he strode -forward before Hilda could restrain him and cried, his voice quivering -with anger: - -"You traitorous devil! Captain Judas!" - -The three men jumped as if the Black Count himself had unexpectedly -sprung upon them, each whipping out his sword. Hilda, with a moan, sank -almost senseless to the ground at the angle of the walls, where she lay -unnoticed. Conrad being unarmed, saw that he would have no chance -against three, whose swords were already at his throat, so he sprang -aside from the well swung blade of the captain, flung himself on one of -the Archbishop's men, and wrested his weapon from him, the other, -baffled by the darkness and bewildered by the suddenness of the crisis, -was thus unable to come to the assistance of his colleague. Defending -himself from the onslaught of Captain Steinmetz, Conrad raised his voice -and shouted: - -"Help! Turn out the guard! Treason! Treason!" - -Along the top of the battlements were heard the hurried footsteps of the -sentinel, who cried as he ran: - -"An attack! To arms; to arms!" - -The keen-witted captain saw that not a moment was to be lost, or -destruction would fall on him. He turned savagely to the envoys and -said: - -"Fly at once. Leave me to deal with this. You must not be seen." - -The ambassadors, nothing loth to be quit of a situation so unforeseen -and so dangerous, fled to the plantation and disappeared. Steinmetz -easily parried the blows of Conrad, who was unused to the handling of a -sword, and when the sentinel looked over the wall, the captain said, -sternly and authoritatively: - -"Cease your foolish shouting. Open the gates and send me here six armed -men as quickly as possible. Then come and stand on the wall at this -corner. I have other commands for you." - -"Shall I call his Lordship the Count?" - -"No. Obey at once, and attend strictly to what I have said to you." - -The sentinel departed, trailing his pike behind him. A few moments later -the six men with drawn swords came running along the western wall, to -the spot where their master was holding off the infuriated Conrad. - -"Seize this traitor," cried Steinmetz, "and gag him. Then conduct him to -the courtyard, where he is to be hanged forthwith. Sentinel, search the -battlements and find the ladder by which this rascal got out of the -fortress." - -The six men, with their gagged prisoner, now marched back the way they -had come, Captain Steinmetz, pleased with his own resourcefulness in a -difficult situation, striding after them. - -"Here is the rope dangling from the parapet," shouted the sentinel. - -"Then bring it with you to the courtyard. I have use for it," cried the -captain, over his shoulder. - -Hilda, moaning hysterically, yet fearful she would discover herself, -crouched along the wall in the shadow, following the cortége marching to -the open gates. She was shrewd enough to recognise the fact that if she -was to save her lover she must act quickly, and, if possible, get to the -Black Count himself, or failing him, to Rodolph. She knew there could be -no appeal to Captain Steinmetz, who must kill the witness of his -treachery, and that speedily, if he were to save his own head. She -slipped in behind the procession before the gates were closed, and kept -craftily in the rear of the excited throng who crowded round the -prisoner and their captain. She saw the sentinel coming down from the -battlements with the fatal rope in his hand, and heard as in a dream the -captain telling his indignant followers of their comrade's treachery. -Waiting to hear no more the girl ran like a hare, easily unseen, for all -attention was being paid to the captain's words, while curses were -muttered against the gagged and helpless man, to the main doorway and up -the stair, nearly upsetting Surrey, who came out of the great hall with -some trenchers in his hand. The Count sat moody at the head of the -table, with the others in their usual positions. To their surprise, -there burst in upon them a wild, dishevelled, frantic creature, whom, at -the moment, none of them recognised. - -"Oh, my Lord! My Lord!" she cried; "they are hanging Conrad in the -courtyard. Oh, my Lord, save him! Save him!" - -The Black Count started up in sudden anger, and roared with an oath: - -"What if they are? He deserves it, I doubt not. Get you gone. How dare -you come screeching here like a night owl? Take this beldame away to a -mad house!" he shouted to the archer, who had entered, anxious to learn -what exciting event was going forward. - -"It is Hilda! It is Hilda!" cried the Countess Tekla, springing to her -feet, and rushing to the frightened girl. "Hilda, what is it? Speak -calmly. You are safe here." - -"Oh, my Lady, it is Conrad who is in danger. Save him, save him. I -cannot talk or it will be too late. Steinmetz is hanging him. The -captain sold the castle to the Archbishop, and Conrad saw it done. -Therefore he is killing Conrad. Oh, make haste, my Lord." - -"What is that?" roared the Black Count. "Steinmetz a traitor? It is a -lie!" - -"Let us see to it at once, my Lord," said Rodolph, sternly, "The thing -does not seem to me so incredible." - -Count Heinrich grasped a naked sword, and with it in his hand, strode to -the door bareheaded as he was, his great shock of shaggy coal-black hair -seeming to bristle in anger. Rodolph, also picking up a sword, quickly -followed him. The Count jangled down the stone steps, and, emerging into -the courtyard, beheld a striking scene. Notwithstanding the bright -moonlight, part of the courtyard was in darkness, and men stood there -holding lighted torches above their heads, whose yellow flaring rays -mingled strangely with the pure white beams of the moon. The gates were -now shut, and the space within the walls was clamorous with excited men, -most of whom were gazing upward at a man astride a piece of timber that -projected from the castle wall, bidding him make haste. He had the rope -between his teeth, and was working his way to the end of the beam, -somewhat over-cautious, perhaps fearing a fall on the hard flags -beneath. Steinmetz, who shot forth curt commands, palpably nervous with -impatience, feeling the necessity for a regular execution before -witnesses, yet cursing the inevitable slowness of the proceedings, kept -an eye on the doorway, and was thus the first to see the coming of the -Black Count, whose mottled face in the glare of the torches looked like -a death's head. The captain started, and clenched and unclenched his -hands in an agony of anxiety, yet he knew his master could have no -suspicion of the real state of the case, and he counted on his impulse -to hang the man first and make inquiry after. It was not the Count's -coming he so much feared as that of the man who followed him, for he -knew the cool mastery of Lord Rodolph, who would perhaps insist on the -ungagging of the prisoner, and the hearing of his version. If then he -could get Conrad partly throttled while making explanations to his -master, all might yet be well, even were the gag removed, and so after -the first spasm of surprise at the unexpected coming of the Black Count, -he breathed easier, casting an evil eye on Rodolph, ready to resent his -interference, and to inflame the Count against him, if, as he rightly -surmised, there was not too great a liking between the two. Conrad -swayed slightly from side to side as he stood bound and gagged, the loop -of the rope round his neck. His face was ghastly in its pallor, and -looked as if life had already left it, the wanness of its appearance -being heightened by a trickle of blood which flowed down his chin from -the spot where the rude putting in of the gag had cut his lip. - -The tall nobleman came forward with martial stride, his men falling into -immediate silence as they noticed his presence among them. When he spoke -it was with a level calmness for which Rodolph was not prepared, after -the outburst that almost immediately preceded it in the hall. The Count -looked lowering at his officer, and said: - -"What have we here, Captain Steinmetz?" - -"A traitor, my Lord. I have, for some time, suspected him, and to-night -kept watch upon him. He slipped down the walls by this rope which the -sentinel but a few moments since found there. I came upon him -trafficking with two emissaries of the Archbishop, and when I called to -the sentinel, all three fell upon me. This man himself, when the guards -came to my rescue, was fighting with a sword belonging to the -Archbishop. My lieutenant here, who disarmed him, informs me that it is -a Treves blade, and he will tell you that he took it from him." - -"That is true, my Lord," said the lieutenant, when the Count darted a -piercing glance at him. - -"In what is this man a traitor, Captain Steinmetz?" next asked the Black -Count, still speaking with moderation. - -"I heard him agree to deliver up the castle to the Archbishop's troops, -letting them come over the wall by the same rope which he had used, -while he himself stood sentry, and delivered us up by giving no alarm." - -"Why this haste with his execution, Captain Steinmetz? Am I not still -Lord of Thuron, with the power of life and death over those within?" - -"Yes, my Lord, but if we are to be free from treachery, sharp punishment -should fall on the offender. I myself caught him red-handed, and my -lieutenant, as he has told you, took from him a traitorous sword of -Treves. For less than that, I cut off the head of a better man before -the siege began." - -"True, so you did. This man has sold us, then? Search him, and let us -see at how much we are valued by their august Lordships." - -Two men at a nod from the Count fell upon Conrad and brought forth all -there was to be found on him, a pitiful handful of small coins. These, -at the Count's command, the searchers poured into the huge open palm of -his Lordship, who looked closely at the pieces, demanding that a torch -be held near him, while he made the examination. - -When it was finished the inspector thrust forth his open hand toward the -captain, saying: - -"This is not traitorous money. Every coin has my own effigy on it, -which, if unlovely, is still honest? What say you to that, Captain -Steinmetz?" - -"My Lord, the money was not paid to him, but promised when the castle -was delivered." - -"Ah, Captain Steinmetz, there your own good heart deceives you. You know -so little of treachery that you think all men equally innocent. That is -not the way of the world, honest Steinmetz, for a traitor is ever a -suspicious villain, and demands not a few paltry pieces of silver, but -the yellow gold paid in hand. Strike a traitor, Captain Steinmetz, and -he jingles with gold." - -As the Black Count spoke his voice gradually rose to a tone of such -menace that more than one standing near him trembled, and a paleness of -apprehension swept over the captain's hardened face. Heinrich, with a -sweep of his hand, scattered the coins clattering to the stones, and -with the flat of his drawn sword struck the captain quickly, first on -one side, then the other. An intense stillness pervaded the courtyard; -every man seemed transformed into stone, and stood there motionless, -dimly perceiving that something ominous was in the air, yet not -understanding the drift of events. As each blow fell, a chink of coins -broke the silence. The captain half drew his own sword, and cast a quick -glance over his shoulder at the gates. - -"The gates are closed, Steinmetz," roared the Count, losing all control -of himself in his wild rage. "Lieutenant, see that they are securely -barred and guarded. Pikes here! Lower, and surround this traitor." - -The lancemen jumped alertly at the word of command, and instantly a -bristling array of levelled pikes circled the doomed captain, who, -seeing the game was up and escape impossible, folded his arms across his -breast and stood there making no outcry. - -"Unbind this man. Take the gag from his mouth and the rope from his -neck. Now, fellow, is it true that you were outside the walls? What were -you doing there?" - -Conrad stood speechless, apparently in a dazed condition, looking about -him like one in a dream, but when the Emperor spoke kindly to him, he -moistened his dry lips, and drew the back of his hand across his chin. - -"What did you say?" he asked, turning his eyes upon his master. - -"My Lord, the Count, wishes to know if it is true that you were outside -the walls, and asks why you were there." - -"I went to meet Hilda, who had come up from Alken." - -"Then you disobeyed orders, and have deserved the fright you got," broke -in the Count. "How came you with a Treves blade?" - -"I wrested it from one of the Archbishop's men when the captain fell on -me. I tried to defend myself and called for the guard, but when it came -it arrested and gagged me." - -"What is the truth of this selling of the castle?" - -"The captain was to unbar the gates an hour after guard-changing -to-morrow night, and the Archbishop's troops were to enter silently. He -told them to be certain to secure your Lordship first, otherwise you -might rally the men and defeat the soldiers, even though they got -inside." - -The Black Count almost smiled as he heard this compliment paid him, and -he cast a malignant glance at the silent captain. - -"Yes," he cried, "the opening of the gates seems more likely than the -climbing of the wall. Now search Steinmetz as you searched his prisoner, -and let us see what you discover. I think I heard the chime of coin in -his neighbourhood." - -Without resistance the searchers brought forth the three bags of gold, -one of which the Count tore open, pouring the yellow pieces into his -palm as he had done with Conrad's silver. His eyes lit up again with the -insane frenzy which now and then shone in them, as he gazed down at the -coins, on each of which was the head of his old enemy, Arnold von -Isenberg. Scattering the money from his hand as if it had suddenly -become red hot, he seized the three bags one after another and dashed -them in fury on the stones, where they burst, sending the gold like a -shower of sparks from a smith's anvil all over the courtyard. Men's eyes -glittered at the sight, but such was their terror of the Black Count -that no one moved a muscle as this wealth rolled at their feet. - -"Steinmetz," shouted the Count, "draw your sword and cast it on the -stones. No man can take it, for none amongst us is so low and vile but -he would be contaminated by the touch of it." - -Captain Steinmetz drew his sword and flung it ringing at his master's -feet. The Count stamped on it near the hilt and shattered the blade like -an icicle. Turning to the followers he cried: - -"You see this man has sold us. What should be the fate of such a -traitor?" - -With one voice the men shouted: - -"He should be hanged with the rope he designed for the other." - -The Count pondered a moment with lowering brows, then said, his face as -malignant as that of a demon: - -"Not so. My good brother of Treves has bought him, and I am too honest a -trader to cheat the holy Archbishop, God bless him, of his purchase. We -shall bind our worthy captain and straightway deliver him, as goods duly -bargained for, to his owner, von Isenberg. Tear off his cloak and bind -him, leaving his legs free that he may walk." - -Surprise and delight gleamed in the captain's eyes. Merely to be -delivered to the Archbishop of Treves, was getting well out of a -predicament he had come to look upon as fatal. In spite of their fear of -the master of Thuron, there were murmurs at this unexampled clemency, -and Rodolph gave voice to the general feeling. - -"I think, my Lord, that his treachery, not to speak of his usage of an -innocent man, is inadequately punished by simply handing him over to the -Archbishop, who assuredly will not molest him further." - -But the Count made no answer. When the elbows of the criminal were -securely bound, Heinrich said; - -"Lieutenant, select a dozen of your best catapult men as guard to the -prisoner. Bring with you the rope and take this Archbishop's man under -close watch to the top of the north tower. Let a torchbearer precede -us. Follow us, my Lord Rodolph, and you, fellow, who came so near to -hanging." - -When they reached the top of the north tower, Captain Steinmetz, with -sudden premonition of his fate, now for the first time cried aloud for -mercy, but the Count paid no heed to him. From this tower could best be -descried the awful depth of the Thaurand's chasm, made the more terrible -by the partial illumination of the moon adding a seeming vastness to the -gulf, which the clearer light of day dispelled. The profound and narrow -valley appeared gloomy and unfathomable, and on the opposite height -above it gleamed the great white tent of the Archbishops. - -"Bend back the catapult," commanded the Count. - -The stalwart men threw themselves on the levers, and slowly worked back -the tremendous arms of the engine, which bent grudgingly, groaning from -long disuse. At last the claw-like clutches which held the incurvated -beams in place until released by a jerk of the rope, snapped into -position, and the catapult men, rising and straightening their backs -from the levers, drew hand across perspiring brow. - -"Take up the rope," said the Count to Conrad, who with visible -reluctance lifted the release rope, and stood holding it. - -"Now force this traitor's head between his knees. Double up his legs, -and tie him into a ball. The Archbishop must not complain that we -deliver goods slovenly." - -Steinmetz screamed aloud, and cried that such punishment was inhuman; -even the guard hesitated, but an oath from the Black Count and a fierce -glare flung about him, put springs into their bodies, and they fell on -their late captain, smothering his cries, jamming down his head as they -had been directed to do, finally tying him into a bundle that looked -like nothing human. The wails of the doomed man in this constrained -position would have cried mercy to any less savage than the Count. - -"Place him on the catapult." - -Two men picked him up and flung him into the jaws of the waiting monster -with as little ceremony as if he were a sack of corn. - -"Pull the rope, fellow." - -Conrad stood motionless, gazing with horror at the furious Count. - -"Stop, stop," cried Rodolph. "I protest against this cruelty. It is -never your intention to launch him into eternity in such ghastly -fashion. This is fiendish torture, not justice." - -The Count, with the snarl of a wild beast, sprang forward, seized the -rope from Conrad's nerveless fingers, jerked the mechanism loose before -any could move to prevent him, and the great beams shot out like the -arms of a man swimming. The human bundle was hurled forth into space, -giving vent to a long continued shriek, that struck terror into every -heart but that of the man who stood with the rope in his hand, his -exultant face turned triumphantly upward in the moonlight. The shriek, -continually lessening, rose and fell as the victim's head revolved round -and round in its course through the air. - -The human projectile disappeared long before it reached the earth, and -every one stood motionless awaiting the crash which they thought would -come to them in the still night air across the valley, but the Count -sprang forward, and standing at the parapet, shook his clenched fist -toward the sky, filling the valley with a madman's laughter which came -echoing back to them from the opposite cliffs, as if there were in the -hills a cave full of malignant maniacs. - -"There, Arnold von Isenberg," he roared, "the gold is in my courtyard; -the merchandise is in your camp." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIV. - -THE BLACK COUNT'S DEFIANCE. - - -During the two years that the siege lasted, the Archbishops did not -remain in their camp on the heights as pertinaciously as their soldiers -had to cling to the line around the castle. Konrad von Hochstaden spent -much of his time at Cologne and Arnold von Isenberg in Treves. Frequent -messengers kept the latter aware that nothing in particular was -happening, but the former had no such interest in the progress of the -contest, and was content to visit the camp at widely infrequent -intervals. The Lord of Cologne became somewhat tired of being reminded -by his colleague that the siege, as then conducted, was following the -lines laid down by himself, and not those which would better have -pleased the more aggressive Lord of Treves. Whenever Konrad, grudging -the expense and inconvenience of keeping so many of his men in an -occupation so barren of results, grumbled at the fruitlessness of their -endeavours, the other called his attention to the fact that this -bloodless method of conquest originated not in Treves but in Cologne. -All this tended towards irritation, and the communications between the -two allies were marked by an acerbity that was as deplorable as it was -inevitable. - -In reply to the complaints of the Archbishop of Cologne, his friend of -Treves advised him to lay the corner-stone of his Cathedral, and -progress with its construction, leaving the conduct of the siege to -those more eager for war than for the building of churches, but Konrad -von Hochstaden held that he could not begin such an edifice while his -hands were imbrued with blood. Arnold replied cynically that in so far -as that was concerned his Lordship might go on with his architecture, -for the siege was as bloodless as a pilgrimage. When nearly two years -had been consumed in sitting before Thuron, the Archbishop of Cologne -declared his patience exhausted, and sent a message to Treves with the -announcement that he would appear in camp on a certain day and return to -Cologne with his men behind him. This message brought Arnold von -Isenberg from Treves to the camp some days in advance of his partner, -and as he was himself tiring of the contest, he opened negotiations with -Captain Steinmetz for the betrayal of the castle. The money was sent on -the day that his Lordship of Cologne arrived, and next night, or the -night after, at latest, the Archbishop of Treves expected to have the -Black Count at his mercy. - -The two Princes met that day at dinner, and greeted each other with -somewhat distant courtesy. As the meal went on, and the wine flagons -were emptied with greater frequency, conversation became less reserved -and more emphatic than during the earlier part of the feast. The wine, -so far from producing friendliness between the august confederates, had -rather an opposite effect, and, as the hum of conversation deepened into -one continuous roar, there was an undertone, acrid and ominous, of -enmity and distrust. At the long table there were perhaps thirty men on -each side. The chair at the head of the board was empty, for such was -the jealousy between the two dignitaries that neither would concede to -the other the right to sit there if both were present. When either the -Archbishop of Treves or his brother of Cologne was in camp alone, he sat -in the chair of state at the head of the table, but now one had his -place on the right hand side and the other sat facing him. Next to -Treves was Count Bertrich, after him the secretary of the Archbishop, -then down the table on that side were all the various officers of -Treves, according to their rank. In like manner the followers of the -Archbishop of Cologne were placed, and thus there were, fronting each -other, two hostile rows of drinking men, theoretically allies. As the -wine flowed freely, the assemblage resembled two lines of combatants, -who only waited the disappearance of the table from between them to fly -at each other's throats. Exception, however, must be made of Arnold von -Isenberg himself, whose attitude was coolly and scrupulously correct, -and in the heated throng he was the only one who maintained control over -voice and gesture; who answered questions quietly and put them with -careful moderation of speech. Yet it would have been difficult for an -unprejudiced observer to understand thoroughly the motives that actuated -the astute Archbishop of Treves, for while his own example had a -restraining effect on the impulses of his men, and as a matter of fact -on his opponents as well, he would, when matters seemed about to mend, -interject some sneering, cutting phrase, all the more unbearable because -it was peacefully uttered, sometimes with a glimmer of a smile about his -thin lips, that would once more put his brother of Cologne into a -towering rage, and thus, while apparently quenching the fire, he was in -reality adding fuel to it. When Konrad, goaded beyond endurance by some -taunt, gave forcible expression to his anger, Arnold would look across -the table at him with a pained and anxious expression, of which -child-like innocence seemed the distinguishing characteristic, as if he -could not understand what had so grievously disturbed his worthy -colleague. - -Konrad von Hochstaden drank more than was his custom. He had resolved -that night to withdraw his forces, a determination of which he had given -Treves full notice, in writing sent by special messenger, but Arnold -continued to ignore this communication, and when von Hochstaden -endeavoured to bring on a discussion with reference to their approaching -severance, the other jauntily waived the subject aside, treating it as -if it were a good-natured pleasantry which did not merit serious -consideration. Thus rebuffed, the Archbishop of Cologne drank deeply, -so that when the time for action came, he would have made up for his -natural deficiency of courage by a temporary bravery drawn from the -flagon. Arnold, as was his invariable custom, drank sparingly, sipping -the wine occasionally rather than drinking it, and thus the two nominal -friends, but actual foes, sat in contra-position to each other, the one -getting redder and redder in the face and louder and louder in the -voice, the other with firm hand on his appetites and even tones in his -speech. - -"Well," cried Konrad von Hochstaden, raising his flagon aloft, "here's -good luck and speedy success to the Archbishop of Treves, in the -reducing of the Black Count's castle, now that he is about to set -himself to the task alone." - -"Thank you," replied Arnold von Isenberg, "if I were indeed alone the -siege would soon be ended." - -"What mean you by that, my Lord?" asked Cologne, flushing with anger. -"Have I then hampered your attack? I wish to God you had said as much -two years ago. I was willing enough to withdraw." - -"I have never made complaint, my Lord, of your lack of energy in -retreat," replied Arnold with a smile and a bow, and a general air of -saying the most polite thing that could readily come to a man's tongue. - -Konrad, glaring menacingly at his foe, half rose in his place, and put -his right hand to the hilt of the sword by his side. - -"Now by the three Kings of Cologne--" he cried, but the other -interrupted him, saying with gentle suggestion: - -"And add the Holy Coat of Treves, in token of our amicable compact. When -I swear, which is seldom, so few occasions being worth the effort, I -always use the Coat and the Kings in conjunction, as tending towards -strength in their union, and as evidence of the loyalty of my -partnership with the guardian of the bones of the Magi, presented by -Frederick Barbarossa, God rest his soul, to Archbishop von Dassele of -Cologne, God rest _his_ soul also, something less than a century ago. -You will find great merit, my Lord, in swearing by the combination." - -"Our partnership, Arnold of Treves, is at an end, a fact of which I have -already formally given you intimation. It is at an end because of -continued deceit and treachery in the compact." - -"You grieve me deeply by your confession, my Lord, and I am loath to -credit anything to your disadvantage, even though the admission come -from your own lips. Had another made such charge against you, he should -have had to answer personally to me. I hold your honor as dearly as my -own." - -"I cannot pretend to follow your subtleties. I am an outspoken man, and -do not feign friendship where there is none. Confession? Charge against -me? I do not know what you mean." - -"There are but two to our compact, my Lord. You say there has been -treachery in it. There has been none on my part, therefore if truth -dwells in your statement, and--I am put in the invidious position of -being compelled to believe either that you have been treacherous or that -you speak falsely--the deceit must have been practised by you. So I -termed your remark a confession, and added in deep humility, that I was -slow to believe it. I know of no deceit on your part, as I know of none -on my own." - -The Archbishop of Cologne stood for a moment staring at his antagonist, -then thrusting his half-drawn sword back into its scabbard, he sank -again into his seat, and took a long draught from the flagon with -shaking hand. Many of his followers drank as deeply as himself, and were -clamorous, shouting boisterously when he spoke; but others looked with -anxiety towards their leader, fearing an outbreak, the consequences of -which no one could foretell. - -"You have used deceit, and not I," said the Archbishop of Cologne. "You -said this siege would last but a short time, while at the end of two -years we are no nearer the possession of the castle than when we began." - -"We are two years nearer," replied the Lord of Treves, calmly, "but I -made no predictions regarding the length of the siege when it began. The -bloodless environment of the castle was your plan, and not mine. I had -little belief in your method, and have less now, but I fell in with it -to please you, and I regret to find that after two years' constant -endeavour to meet your approval, I have apparently failed. But, although -I may have hopes of saintship being the reward of my life-long patience -and moderation, I have never pretended to the mantle of a prophet; -therefore, I hazarded no opinion with reference to the duration of the -siege." - -"You said Heinrich of Thuron was but imperfectly provisioned; that he -did not have time to fill his castle with grain. In that you must admit -you were wrong." - -"We are fallible creatures, my Lord, which statement I make in all -deference, willing instantly to withdraw it, if you object to being -placed in a category in which I am compelled to include myself. I formed -an opinion of the Black Count's resources from reports brought to me. -These reports apparently contained mis-statements; therefore my -deductions from them were wrong. In that there was error of judgment, -but you spoke of wilful deceit--an entirely different matter, and a -mistake on your part for which you are, doubtless, eagerly waiting -opportunity to apologise." - -"No apology is due from me. In spite of your verbal trickery, I have -been deluded and cozened from the first; that I say, and that I adhere -to. Still, of what avail is talk----" - -"True, true," murmured Arnold, gently. "You were ever a man of action, -my Lord." - -"I shall be a man of action now; I have been too long quiescent!" cried -von Hochstaden, again half-drawing his sword and springing to his feet -with a celerity that might not have been expected from one who had had -the flagon so constantly under tribute. "I shall now leave this camp and -bring with me every officer and man that is mine. They are as weary of -this business as I am, and will be glad to follow. You may then get -others to be your dupes." - -Count Bertrich, who had with difficulty kept his hot temper in hand -during this dialogue, now leaped upright, and flashing out the sword -that was by his side, smote the table with the hilt of it, as he -shouted: - -"My Lord of Cologne, twice you have made a feeble attempt to draw your -reluctant weapon; if you had kept your eyes on me you would have seen -how easily the trick is done. My over-lord does not choose to chastise -you for your insolence to him, but I would have you know there are good -blades here ready to meet those of your men, the moment he gives the -signal. If you want to appeal to the sword, in God's name have the -courage to draw it; if you rest on argument and reason, then keep your -seat and address my Lord of Treves with that respect which his position -as Prince of the Church demands." - -At this wild cheers burst from the men of Treves. Each warrior stood up, -and there was a bristling hedge of swords held in the air above their -heads. The men of Cologne rose also, but hesitatingly, not actuated by -the instantaneous impulse which brought such quick action into play on -the other side of the table. The Archbishop of Treves alone remained -seated, a cynical smile parting his lips. He raised his hand as if to -pronounce benediction, and by a slight motion of it, soothed and quelled -the disturbance in a manner almost magical. The swords, seemingly of -their own accord, returned to their scabbards, and one by one the -wearers seated themselves. - -"You see, my Lord," he said, in a low voice, "how quickly a bad example -influences those who look on. Your hand to the hilt brought steel into -view even before a good half of your own formidable weapon was visible. -My trusty captain has asked you, with all a soldier's bluntness, which a -champion like yourself will be first to excuse, to be seated. May I, in -the utmost humility, associate myself with his desire? The sword, alas, -has its uses, still it is but a cumbrous instrument at a dinner table. -You were speaking, I think, of withdrawing your men, but in the tumult, -I fear, I missed your peroration." - -Cologne thrust his weapon back into its scabbard, but he nevertheless -remained standing. - -"If the tongue were a weapon----" - -"It is, in a measure." - -"--I would grant that you are master of it," said von Hochstaden. - -"I thank you for the compliment, and its generosity gives me hope that -we are about to come to an amicable understanding." - -"We have already come to an understanding, and if you consider it -amicable, the better am I pleased. To-night I withdraw my troops." - -"And why?" - -"The reasons I have already set down in my communication to you at -Treves." - -"I do not recall them; at least my remembrance is, that on perusing them -they did not seem to me to justify a withdrawal. Would you, therefore, -for our present enlightenment, recount the most important clauses of -your letter?" - -"One reason will suffice. I cannot consent to have my troops longer -engaged in a futile enterprise." - -"Ah, yes. I recollect now that such an excuse for cowardice seemed -entirely indefensible." - -"For cowardice, my Lord?" - -"Call it what you will. I shall not quarrel about terms; withdrawal is, -I think, your favourite word. However, to please you, I acted instantly -in the matter, and will therefore be in possession of the castle -to-morrow night, or, making allowances for accidents, the night -following. Accordingly, my Lord, you shall not withdraw your troops, but -will enjoy the pleasures of conquest with me." - -"You will possess Thuron so soon?" - -"Of a surety." - -"If you are so certain of that, why did you not inform me of the -prospect, I being an ally of yours?" - -"It is not my custom to spread my plans abroad. You were in Cologne, -probably most devoutly occupied, and I hesitated to obtrude worldly -affairs on your attention. Had you been here, and had you expressed any -curiosity in the matter, I should have satisfied it, as I do now." - -"Frankly, my Lord, I do not believe you. This is but another of your -crafty tricks to keep my men at your beck and call. I have had enough of -such foolery, and am not to be again deluded. If this taking of Thuron -can be so speedily accomplished now, why was it not done six months or a -year ago?" - -"I shall charge to the potency of the wine the insinuation made against -my probity, and will therefore pass it by. Your method of siege, my -Lord, was a plant of slow growth. I have but grafted upon it a little -sprig of my own, which is now blossoming and will to-morrow bear fruit: -an exceedingly swift maturity. Six months ago, your slow growing stem -was not ready to receive a graft; now it is, and there all's said. I -therefore count confidently on your co-operation." - -"I shall not rob your Lordship of the full glory of success. You shall -have no co-operation from me." - -"You still do not believe what I say, perhaps?" - -"Perhaps." - -"I am not given to substantiating my statements, but in this instance, -such is my warm friendship for you, I will change an old habit and -shortly furnish you with proof. I am momentarily expecting the return of -my messengers, and you will hear from their lips that the castle has -been bought and paid for, and that it will be in our possession at a -given time, perhaps not more than twenty-four hours hence." - -"Your messengers will report to you alone, my Lord, for I shall not stay -to question them," cried von Hochstaden. "Up, men of Cologne, we have -waited here too long. To the North, to the North!" - -The Archbishop of Treves, seeing that a crisis had come, leaned -forward, and sharply hissed the word, - -"Swords!" - -The single syllable might have been an incantation, so quickly was it -acted upon. It was evidently a prearranged signal, for the moment it was -uttered, every man on the Treves side of the table whipped out his -blade, and placed its point at the throat of the man who sat opposite -him. None were so drunk as not to know that a single lunge forward on -the part of the assailants would cause the simultaneous deaths of the -followers of Cologne. Each, sobered by the sudden menace and the -presence of a grave danger, sat motionless as if turned to stone. His -Lordship of Cologne stood uncertainly, and cast a wavering eye down -along the bridge of steel that spanned the table. His serene Lordship of -Treves sat in his place, an ill-omened glitter in his piercing eye, -while his thin bloodless lips were compressed into a straight line. -After an interval of silence he spoke in silky tones: - -"I see, my Lord, that it is unnecessary for me to caution your men not -to move hand to hilt until some friendly arrangement is come to between -you and me. The air has been thick with threats for some time past; it -is well that definite action should clear it. How easy would it be for -me to give another brief signal and thus end the lives of all your -followers in this tent? With you a prisoner, word could be sent to the -camp, and your unsuspecting soldiers would be prisoners as well. Thus -might I act were I a bloody-minded warrior, but I thank my Maker, and -you may well join your thanks with mine, that I am ever a man of peace, -rarely using forceful measures except when compelled to do so. Perhaps -you will consent to reconsider your decision, my Lord." - -"Go on with your treacherous butchery, cut-throat of Treves, and see -what good you reap from it." - -"It is easy for you, my Lord, to say go on, when your throat is -unthreatened, but I grieve for those who must be victims of your -stubbornness. In case you may imagine that the cut-throat of Treves -will hesitate when it comes to your own august person, I beg to remind -your Lordship that an ancestor of mine slew a predecessor of yours." - -"Say murdered, and you will be nearer the mark." - -The Archbishop of Treves spread out his hands in conciliatory fashion -and, bowing slightly, replied, - -"Well, murdered then, if it please you. I am always willing to concede -to a disputant his own choice of words." - -Von Hochstaden's secretary, standing at his master's elbow, filled with -alarm at the threatening aspect of affairs, pleaded in whispers with him -to give way, but the prelate, with an angry motion of his hand, waved -the subordinate aside, bidding him hold his peace. - -The good Ambrose, with uplifted eyes and paled face, prayed that heaven -might send peace to that sorely divided camp. Heaven replied in its own -way, but in a manner which made the startled occupants of the tent -imagine that the prayer had been literally answered. The Archbishop of -Cologne was about to speak when there was an impact on the end of the -tent which first made it bulge suddenly in, then the cloth ripped with a -loud report, and there shot swiftly along the line of swords, sweeping -many of them jangling from the hands of their owners, a nondescript -bundle that sped hurtling down the table, coming to rest against the -heavy chair at the head, with a woeful groan like the rending of a soul -from a body; a groan that struck wild terror into every heart, so -supernatural did it seem, giving appalling indication that there was yet -life in the shapeless heap when it was hurled against the tent. Even the -Archbishop of Treves, for the first time that evening, sprang in quick -alarm to his feet, as the living projectile dropped from the end of the -table into the empty chair, and lay there motionless. The men of -Cologne, who had been seated breathless, with the sharp points of the -swords at their throats, now took swift advantage of the amazing -intervention, and, throwing themselves backwards, jumped upright, -plucked blade from scabbard, and stood at least on equal terms with -their foes, but having thus prepared themselves for defence, all -remained silent and motionless, awe-struck by the astounding -interruption. - -Through the tattered rent in the end of the tent came the sound of -distant laughter, like the laughter of some fiend suspended in the sky, -and then all distinctly heard the words: - -"There, Arnold von Isenberg! The gold is in my courtyard; the -merchandise is in your camp!" - - - - -CHAPTER XXXV. - -THE NIGHT ESCAPE OF THE EMPEROR. - - -When the Black Count had shouted his defiance to the tent of the -Archbishop, he stood there in the calm moonlight with his clenched fist -raised high above his head, while a deep silence held in thrall all who -were on the roof of the northern tower. Suddenly his upstretched hand -dropped to his side, and the wild exultation faded from his fiery eyes. -He turned, and curtly bidding the others to follow, clanked down the -circular stone stair, and presently entered the courtyard he had so -recently quitted. All his men there assembled stood motionless as he had -left them. The yellow bits of gold lay where they had fallen, no man -having had the courage to stoop and pick up a single coin. - -Heinrich flashed a contemptuous glance at the scattered metal, and said: - -"Lieutenant, see that this trash is gathered up. Give half of it to the -honest fellow who discovered the plot, and divide the rest among -yourselves. You will take temporary command until I have further -investigated this treachery." - -"My Lord," interrupted Rodolph, "Conrad is my man, and I will myself -undertake to compensate him for what he has undergone. I beg of you to -divide the Archbishop's gold entirely among those who have stood so -faithfully by the castle. If you give orders to that effect, I would be -glad to have a word with you in private." - -"What is done, is done," replied the Black Count, frowning. "There is -little good in further talk about it. I mean with regard to the sending -away of the traitor; that's past praying for; the dividing of the gold -shall be according to your wish." - -"What is done, is done, as you most truly say, and I have no comment to -make upon it. If a man is to be killed, and Steinmetz richly merited -death, I suppose it matters little how his taking off is accomplished so -that it be speedy, and none can complain that he was kept long in -suspense. I shall have the honour of following you to the council -chamber, my Lord." - -The Black Count strode up the stone steps and entered the now deserted -room, turning round upon his guest with some apprehension on his brow. - -"Well, my Lord," he said, and from his tones had departed all their -former truculence. - -"I have to ask your permission to leave the castle to-night. The time is -ripe for my departure, and I think during the commotion that will -inevitably ensue in the enemy's camp after the receipt of your startling -message, I may the more surely make my way through the lines. I shall, -with as little delay as need be, bring up my own men, and I imagine we -will have small difficulty in raising the siege, or at least in getting -through to you some necessary provender, if you can but hold out for a -few days longer." - -"How many men answer to your command?" - -"Enough to make their Lordships regret that my followers are thrown in -the scale against them." - -For a moment an elated gleam of hope lit up the dark eye of the Count, -but it soon died away as unbelief in the other's ability to do what he -had promised reasserted itself. - -"You have been here for two years: your men are now most likely -scattered, or may indeed be in the Archbishop's own camp. When the hand -of the master is withdrawn, his mercenaries look to themselves!" - -"True, my Lord; but I have been in constant communication with my trusty -lieutenant, and he now informs me that everything is ready." - -"How can you have been in communication with him?" - -"The good monk, my Lord, was my secret messenger." - -"Ah! That accounts for his frequent visits, then. Well, go, in God's -name, if you think you can benefit us. I trust you all the more because -I believe there is one within these walls whom you would wish to see -neither harmed nor starved. I am not blind, although I say little." - -"You are right, my Lord, and your observation has not misled you. But I -would like you to credit this; that even if there were none such, I -would gladly come to your aid, on your account as well. I propose to -take Conrad and the archer with me, for we may arrive at blows in the -getting away, and I wish two followers in whom I have confidence. -Besides, the departure of three will relieve, to that extent, the -slender resources of the castle. I hope I have your approval of my -project." - -"Surely, surely. May prosperity attend you, and may I meet you at my own -gate with your lancemen at your back. You will be most heartily -welcome." - -The two shook hands and parted with much cordiality. Rodolph made his -way to his room in the tower, followed by Conrad. There they found the -archer, seemingly in deep dejection. - -"Well," cried Rodolph, "are you returned already? What luck have you had -with the poet?" - -"Roger is as stubborn as a mule, my Lord, and insists that his oath to -the Archbishop will not allow him to let me pass through the lines. A -plague on his good principles. I never let my principles interfere with -the serving of a friend." - -"Is it so, honest John? You would, then, at the request of Roger, allow -me to be captured by the Archbishops?" - -"Oh, no, my Lord," replied the archer, in astonishment at the bare -suggestion. "Not for all the friends that were ever weaned in England -would I betray your Lordship." - -"I am sure of it. Therefore must we not be too severe on the poet if he -refuses to do for one friend what you would not do for a whole regiment -of them. Where is our faithful rhymester on guard?" - -"He stands in the valley of the Thaurand, in a most excellent position -for our escape, and that is the pity of it, curses on his stubbornness. -We could slip through to the stream and either up the opposite hill or -along the water course to the Moselle quite unmolested, once we were -past the lines. If your honour commands me to do it, I will send an -arrow through his unfriendly heart, although I must say I would loosen -string with grief and bitterness in my own; then we may pass unchecked." - -"No, no. Such a trial shall not be put upon you. The arrow is silent, -and if it be necessary we will send it through the heart of another on -the line, and step over his body. But it is best to attain our object -bloodlessly, if possible, for a man killed may cause the hue and cry to -be raised after us. Has Roger no poetry to recite to you? No new verses -or changes in the old, regarding which he wishes your sage opinions?" - -"Oh, he has plenty of new verse, curse him, but I told him I would not -wait to hear, saying I believed him no true poet at all, thus leaving -him in deep melancholy, leaning on his bow regardless of the strain upon -it, as I bent my way up the hill." - -"'Tis a pity author and critic should part in anger. Will you then make -your way to him again, taking your bow and a well-filled quiver with -you. Apologise for your remarks reflecting on his quality as poet; say -your bad temper made you speak, and not your critical judgment. Induce -him to recite all that is new in his composition, and also some of the -old verses, until you hear my signal on the other side of the valley. -Then break his bow so that he may not injure you, and fly to us. During -the recital we will steal through as silently as we can, trusting to the -poet's fervour of genius for our being unseen and unheard. Win to us -then if you can; should this be impossible, Conrad and I will have to -make our way down the Moselle without you. I will give you an hour to -make your peace with the offended Roger, then, when you hear the night -bird's cry, know that we are about to steal through the lines. Keep -Roger busily engaged without rest until the cry comes to you again from -the other side of the valley. If he discover us and is about to give the -alarm, I trust that you will let friendship fly to the winds for a short -time and promptly throttle him, escaping after, as best you may." - -"I will do all I can, even if I have to wring his long neck," said the -archer, buckling quiver to his back and taking up his bow. When he had -gone Rodolph turned to Conrad. - -"Hilda has had a somewhat exciting evening of it, and will be glad to -have assurance that you are unhurt. Seek her out, therefore, and bid her -farewell for a few days. Ask her, so that you may not be interrupted -during your parting, to deliver a message to the Countess Tekla from me. -Tell the Countess that I am on the battlements and beg of her indulgence -that she meet me there. I value you so highly, Conrad, that I will -myself engage the Countess in conversation, so that Hilda may not be -called upon by her Ladyship, until your conference is ended. Thus I hope -to merit the gratitude of both Hilda and yourself." - -"Thank you, my Lord," said Conrad, with a smile as he departed on his -mission. - -The young Emperor, his hands clasped behind him, paced up and down the -broad promenade in the moonlight. He was now at last on the eve of -achievement; about to return to his capital and take his rightful place -at the head of the State. An army awaited him, quietly accumulated and -efficiently drilled. This huge weapon was ready to his hand to be -wielded absolutely as pleased him, for the good or for the evil of his -country. The young man pondered gravely on the situation. What would be -the result? Bloodshed and civil war, or peace and prosperity in the -land? Would the Archbishops fight when he ordered the siege to be -raised, or would they obey his command? Only a few more moonlight nights -lay between him and this knowledge. As he meditated on his danger and -hopes, the white slender figure of the Countess came up the steps to the -promenade, and he rushed forward to meet her with both hands -outstretched. - -"Ah, Tekla," he said, "it is kind of you to come." - -The girl put her hands in his, but there was an expression of concern on -her face. - -"What has uncle done with Captain Steinmetz?" she asked. - -"He was a traitor," said Rodolph, sternly. - -"I know, I know, but for long he was in my uncle's service, and he has -been these two years one of our defenders. Perhaps, half starved, he -succumbed to the temptation of a moment. His years of good faith should -not be forgotten at this time. Is he in prison?" - -"No. The Black Count bound him and sent him, with a warlike message, to -the Archbishop of Treves." - -"Oh," cried the girl, much relieved, "I am glad that nothing more severe -was done. I feared my uncle, in his just anger, might have acted -harshly, but I think you have had a good influence on him, Rodolph. I -have noted, with gladness, how he defers to you." - -"I suppose we influence more or less all those with whom we come into -contact. I should be glad to believe that I had a benign effect upon his -conduct, but, before arriving at a definite conclusion in the matter, I -shall await further proof of his Lordship's leaning towards clemency and -softness of speech." - -"What further proof could you wish than the incident to-night? I assure -you, and you are yourself very well aware, that two years ago, yes, and -often since then, my uncle would have killed Steinmetz on evidence of -such treachery." - -"I think he would have deserved his fate, Tekla; and now I beg of you -dismiss the traitor for ever from your mind, and give your unworthy -lover some space in your thoughts. I am about to quit the castle, and I -ask your good wishes in my venture. I hope shortly to return at the head -of my own men, and have some influence on the siege if I have little -with your uncle." - -"To leave the castle? Does my uncle know?" - -"Yes, and he cordially approves my scheme. Furthermore, he has no doubts -about my loyalty, for he says he is cognizant of the fact that I leave -one within the castle to whom I shall be most eager to return, which is, -indeed, the case, my Tekla." - -"He knows that also, does he?" replied the girl, blushing, and hiding -her blushes on the shoulder of her lover. - -Rodolph, bending over and caressing her, undid a knot of ribbon at her -throat, kissing the white neck thus laid bare. - -"I shall wear your colours on my arm, Tekla, till I return, if you will -but tie them there and entangle your good wishes with the knot." - -The girl tied the shred of ribbon on his arm, daintily pressing her lips -to the knot when it was in place. - -"There," she cried, looking up at him with moist and glistening eyes, -"that will bring you safely to me; but, Rodolph, you will be careful and -not rash. Do not jeopardise your own safety for--for us. I fear your men -are but few, and if that is the case, do not, I beg of you, adventure -life in a hopeless enterprise. Let us rather surrender and throw -ourselves on the mercy of the Archbishop." - -"I should scarcely care to trust to his tender heart, but you may be -sure I shall use all caution. I think my men will be ample in number for -the task I shall set to them, and in any case we will be strong in the -justice of our cause and the prayers of our Lady. And now Tekla, I must -be gone and trust myself to the outcome of the night. I hear Conrad -approaching with a clumsy noisiness that betokens a desire to deal with -others as he would be dealt with himself. His coming shows that the -moment of parting is at hand, for another awaits us, and our success -depends on our being at our post in the valley at the exact time, so -kiss me, my Tekla, before the faithful head of Conrad appears above the -battlements." - -The kiss and others to supplement it were given and taken. - -"We shall always remember these battlements, Rodolph," she whispered to -him. - -When Conrad at last came, Rodolph and he disappeared over the wall -together: Tekla, leaning against the parapet, little as she imagined it, -bade farewell for ever to her Knight of the Moselle. It was destined -that the next lover she was to meet would be no unknown Lord, but the -Emperor of Germany himself. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVI. - -THE FIVE BILLETLESS ARROWS. - - -The bowman, with characteristic caution, stole down the hill until he -neared the line, wound so tightly round the castle. Here his -circumspection redoubled, and, trailing his bow after him, he crawled on -hands and knees towards his friend, Roger Kent, who, with bowed head, -marched to and fro along his accustomed beat. The poet seemed in a state -of blank despondency, but whether on account of the slanders of an -unsympathetic world, or for the reason that he had parted in discordant -terms from his comrade, John Surrey could not tell. A warble from the -forest caused the sentinel to raise his head and peer into the denseness -of the thicket. The moon showed his face to be alert and expectant, -expressions which changed into a look of joy when the warble was -repeated and he saw emerge from the plantation the rotund figure of his -friend and critic. The latter motioned him to come out of the moonlight -into the shadow, and the unsuspicious Roger, casting a glance round him, -seeing the coast clear, approached until the gloom of the wood fell over -him, then stood, realising that, after all, the insult had not been of -his bestowal, and that etiquette at least demanded from John some verbal -amends for his former verbal buffets, if there was to be peace between -them. - -"Roger," said John, "I could not sleep until I had told you how sorry I -am that my roughness of speech gave you good cause for offence, and I -beg you to think no more of my words." - -"What you said," replied Roger, dolefully, "was no doubt true enough. I -have been thinking over your estimate of my poems, and I fear I have, -in my enthusiasm, at various times given you the idea that I held them -in high esteem myself; but alas, no one knows better than I what poor -trash they are, and I recited them to you that I might profit by your -criticism. I cannot find fault with an honest opinion." - -"It was not an honest opinion," cried John, fervently. "I was -disappointed that you refused to pleasure my master by allowing him to -get free of the castle, but he has said that you were quite right to -stand by your oath and showed me that, in your place, I would have done -the same. Ah, he has a high opinion of poets, my master." - -"Has he so? Then am I the more unfortunate that I cannot aid him to -escape. I would I had taken the oath with him instead of under the -Archbishop, whom I have never seen, but such are the fortunes of war, -and one of the many blessings of peace is that then a man is at liberty -to do what he will for a friend, as I think I have well set forth in a -verse conned over in my mind since you left me, which I shall entitle, -'Peace boweth to Friendship.'" - -"Let me hear it, Roger, in token of your forgiveness, for what I said to -you a while since was but the reflex of my disappointment, and in no -wise an indication of my true mind." - -"The verse is but a trivial one at best," said Roger, in a tone of great -complacency that rather belied his words, "and is, you must remember, -not yet polished as it will be when I indite it on papyrus; still I have -to admit that even in its present unfinished shape it contains the germ -of what may be an epic. It runs thus----" - -And here he repeated the lines sonorously, while his comrade listened -with rapt attention beaming on his upturned countenance. - -After this felicitous introduction the two sat down together, the -sentinel rising now and then to cast a look about him, resolved that -even the delights of a discussion upon poesy should not make him -neglect the business he had in hand, but the night was still, with the -castle and camp wrapped in equal silence. At last John's quick ear -caught the low signal that told him Rodolph and Conrad were waiting to -make good their way through the line, broken at this point by a literary -conference. John looked sharply at his friend, wondering whether or no -he also had heard the sound, but the other babbled serenely on. - -"You remember the poems you delivered that night at the foot of the wall -long ago, when you so unjustly charged me with being asleep, because, I -suppose, your first verses were on 'Sleep?' Recite them again in the -order you then arranged them, if you can, and I will tell you whether -you have improved the lines or not." - -The author rapturously began, and he had no complaint to make regarding -his listener's lack of attention. John seemed fascinated, and fixed his -eyes on the speaker with a keen inquiry that was most flattering. Never -had reciter so absorbed an audience, and the poet went on like one -inspired. He glowed with the enthusiasm of his varying themes, and his -voice was at times thrilled with the pathos or the tenderness of his -changing subjects. Once, indeed, he stopped abruptly in the middle of a -quatrain, and whispered, alarmed: - -"What was that? A twig snapped; I am sure of it. Did you hear nothing?" - -"Nothing, Roger, but the most marvellous lines that ever man was -privileged to listen to. Go on, for God's sake, and do not keep me thus -deprived of the remainder. What follows: what follows, Roger?" - -"Ah, John," cried the poet, beaming upon him, "you have the true feeling -for poesy; why was the gift of expression denied you?" - -"It is a question I cannot answer, but if I fail to make an arrow, I can -judge it rightly when it is made. Perhaps if I were a poet myself I -could not so well appreciate the verses with which you delight the -world." - -"True. I have met other versifiers who were so lacking in all valuation -of genius that instead of listening to some of my best efforts they -would insist on disturbing me with their own poor doggerel, which was -entirely devoid of any just reason for existence. You would hear more of -this poem, then?" - -"I would not lose a word of it for all the wine between here and Treves. -Go on, I beg you, for I never before heard the like of it." - -The syllables of the poet flowed like the sweet purling of a stream, and -finally, through it all, John's straining ears caught again the signal, -but this time from the opposite side of the moonlit Thaurand valley, -high up on the hill, which intimated to him that his comrades were at -last safe, and that they were making their way across the rocky headland -which jutted out between the Thaurand and the Moselle to the north of -the spot where the talker and the listener sat, and thus Rodolph and -Conrad had avoided the danger of going down the valley and past the end -of the village, which was thronged with the Archbishop's men. John -Surrey still sat there until he thought his comrades had had time to -reach the bank of the river, knowing that then if he were captured or -killed, they, at least, would be free from molestation, for it had been -arranged that they were to wait but a short time for him, and, on the -first symptom of alarm, make the best of their way down the Moselle, -with such speed as was possible. Two more poems were recited, and at the -end of the last, John Surrey rose and placed his hands on Roger's -shoulder, his friend, the poet, rising also. - -"If it should so chance, Roger, that I do not live to tell you this -again, mark well my last words. The verse you have rhymed to me will -live long after our two heads are low, if you can but get them on -parchment so that others may read them when we are gone. This is my true -belief, for there is something in them that touches me, although I -cannot explain why or what it is. I do not think I understand them, yet -am I pleased and soothed to listen to them, for the words run smoothly, -the one into the other, like music. This, Roger, is my firm opinion, and -perhaps my last, so remember it, and forget my petulance earlier in the -night. How many arrows have you, Roger?" - -"Arrows? The saints save us! What have arrows to do with poetry, John? I -carry five with me each night on guard, but have never yet had use for -any. But respecting that last poem, did you notice----" - -"Roger, old friend, good-bye." - -Saying this with trembling voice, John Surrey leaped down the hillside -towards the stream, his stout body ill adapted to the recklessness of -his descent, leaving the other standing open-mouthed in amazement, -chagrin coming over him with the surmise that all this listening to his -verse had been a mere cheat; yet John's last words of praise rang -persistently and deliciously convincing in his ears. For a moment he -stood thus, then a realisation of his duty burst upon him, and he seized -bow, automatically placing an arrow accurately on the string. - -Headlong the rotund John plunged downwards, expecting a command to stop, -but no cry came. He splashed through the little stream, and knew that in -his slow ascent up the steep crumbling hill, the moon would be shining -full on his broad back, making him a target that would delight the heart -of any archer who ever drew string to ear. He shivered in spite of his -courage, in fear of the sudden pang which he himself had so often and so -light-heartedly dealt, but the shiver was because his back was toward -the danger, and he told himself that he would have faced certain death -with equanimity could he but see the missile that was to slay him. He -toiled panting up the hill, the ground crumbling under his feet and -making progress doubly slow and tiresome, wondering why the shaft did -not come. At last there was a swift hum at his right ear like the sharp -baritone of an enraged wasp. Into the earth, on a level with his nose, -an arrow buried itself up to the feather on its shank. He almost -fancied he felt the sting of it, and his hand went up to his ear without -thought on his part. He turned round for one brief moment, and waved his -hand to the tall man across the valley, then struggled up as before. The -second arrow came as close to his left ear, struck a ledge of rock and -glanced out of sight. Still John laboured on and up. After a similar -interval had passed and the distant bowman saw he did not intend to -stop, the third arrow passed his side, grazing his doublet on a level -with his panting heart. The hill seemed steeper and steeper, and John -breathed as if his breast would burst, the breath coming hot as steam -from his parched throat. He seemed intuitively to know when the next -arrow would come, and it came exactly on the moment, not passing him as -the others had done, but tearing his doublet and hanging there between -the skin and the cloth, yet so far as John could tell in the excitement -of the moment not cutting his flesh. He paused, turned, and lying back -against the hill, gasped: - -"Lord, Roger, what a marksman you are!" - -Even his lack of breath could not disguise the admiration in his tone. -The tall archer on the further side leaned forward as he saw the other -apparently fall, but he made no outcry. There was still one arrow left, -and he held it notched on the string. The fugitive lay where he had sunk -to the ground, and closed his eyes as he rested, drawing in long -draughts of air while his heart beat like the drumming of a partridge's -wing. It was but a short distance now to the crest of the ridge, and -once over that he was safe, but he was under no delusion that he could -reach shelter if the other cared to use his remaining shaft. The belief -became fixed in his mind that he would be killed at the last moment, -just as he reached the apex, for he knew Roger would not have the heart -to slay him sooner. He rose slowly, waved his hand, and set himself -resolutely to the remainder of the task. The time passed at which the -last arrow should have come, but still the bowman seemed to hesitate. So -exhausted was the climber that he struggled up the last few yards of -the terrible ascent on his hands and knees, grovelling like some wild -beast, the sweat from his forehead drenching his eyes and blinding him. -With a final effort he stood on the ridge, turned round, and in a panic -of rapidly accumulated fear was about to precipitate himself down the -opposite slope when he was saved the trouble of the effort, for the last -arrow rang against his glittering steel cap, the impact flinging him on -the loose rubble, half stunned by the blow. Through his brain rang the -thought, repeated and repeated: - -"Roger has preferred his friend to his oath." - -After a time he began to fear he was really slain, and to convince -himself that life was still in him, rose slowly, standing at last on the -crest of the ridge, waving his arms. Roger had remained like a statue -after his last shaft had sped, his gaze fixed on the spot where his -friend had fallen. When he saw that Surrey was indeed alive, he sat down -and buried his face in his hands. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVII. - -THE TRAITOR AND HIS PRICE. - - -Of all those gathered in the large tent, the Archbishop of Treves was -the first to realise that the bundle which had so unexpectedly dropped -down upon them, as it were, from the skies, was a man. The dismal groan -of agony which had marked the sweep of the strange missile along the -table, followed by the distant words from the direction of the castle, -caused von Isenberg to fear that his envoy had been captured by the -Black Count, probably betrayed by the captain, and had thus been flung -back defiantly to his master by means of the tower catapult. Whilst the -others stood horrified and amazed, crossing themselves devoutly, the -Archbishop gave a quick command to Bertrich. - -"It is a man, inhumanly bound, and thrown thus to his death. Cut the -cords that imprison him. Call hither a physician, although I fear -nothing can be done for him." - -Two of Bertrich's men lifted the bundle from the chair and placed it on -the table. Bertrich himself, drawing a dagger, at once severed the -ropes, and the body, of its own accord, relaxed and straightened out, -the limbs falling into a natural position after their constraint. To all -appearances the man was dead. They turned him over, his ghastly purple -face appearing uppermost in view of those who craned their necks to see. - -"It is Steinmetz, captain of the castle," said Bertrich, who recognised -him. - -"The man we bought?" - -"Yes, my Lord." - -"Ah." The Archbishop's interjection was long drawn out. "That explains -the words we heard. The mission has been bungled, and probably the -envoys are prisoners." - -But as he spoke the physician entered, followed by the envoys -themselves, who had just arrived up the hill from their interrupted -conference. The physician announced that the man was not dead, but he -gave little hope of his recovery after such frightful usage. He did -recover, nevertheless, and lived to build the chapel on the Bladenburg, -standing exactly where the great tent stood, to mark the spot where he -had fallen and had been so miraculously saved, his descent being broken -by the tent itself. The Archbishop enriched the traitor, as he enriched -all those who served him, whether they were successful or the reverse, -and part of this ill-gotten gold Steinmetz expended in the erection of -the stone chapel, thus showing gratitude to the saint who had intervened -on his behalf in the hour of his direst strait. - -The chief of the two envoys told von Isenberg how their meeting with the -captain under the walls of the castle had been interrupted. The gold had -been given to Steinmetz, they said, and this the Archbishop believed, -because he had heard the wild cry of the Black Count. - -The Archbishop of Treves turned to his colleague of Cologne, and said: - -"This unlooked-for incident may make an entire change in my plans. I -must have further information before deciding what I shall do. If -Steinmetz lives, and is in his right mind, we shall, for the first time, -have accurate tidings of the state of things in the interior of Thuron. -It may be that the Count has supplies we know not of; if such is the -case, and if you still hold it well to raise the siege, we will then -leave this place together, you for Cologne, I for Treves. I trust, my -Lord, that you will agree to do nothing definite until we have further -consultation with each other." - -"I will so agree," replied the Archbishop of Cologne. - -With this the high dignitaries parted for the night, to meet next -morning in the conference tent. Day had broken before the unfortunate -Steinmetz was able to speak. All his former truculence had departed, and -although his bones were whole, thanks to the intercepting tent, his -nervous system was shattered, and he seemed but a wreck of the bold -soldier he had once been. When brought before the two Archbishops, -supported by a man on either side of him, there was alarmed apprehension -in his roving eyes, and he started at the slightest sound. - -The Archbishop of Treves questioned him gently, speaking in a soothing -monotone. - -"I surmise that you were thrown hither from the catapult on the north -tower. Was that the case?" - -The captain bowed and shuddered, making no audible reply. - -"Your master, then, discovered that you intended surrendering the castle -to me. How did this knowledge come to him?" - -Captain Steinmetz moistened his lips and in halting words related what -had occurred in the courtyard of the castle. - -"The money sent by me has therefore been lost to you?" said the -Archbishop, when the recital was finished. - -"Yes, my Lord." - -"I would like to say that I make the loss mine, and will pay to you the -whole sum originally agreed upon, as I am convinced you have done your -best to terminate a struggle which, so far as Count Heinrich is -concerned, was hopeless from the first. I have some curiosity to know -how near starvation is to those within the castle." - -Captain Steinmetz hesitated. - -"There are two reasons why you may be loath to answer truthfully. The -first is loyalty to your late master, but circumstances have caused me -to apprehend that this consideration does not press heavily upon you. -The second is that if starvation is within measurable distance, you may -imagine that I repent paying good gold for a place shortly to be mine -for nothing. It was to remove this impression that I stated to you a -moment ago that the stipulated amount will be paid in full, not -deducting the coins scattered in the castle yard. Therefore, answer -truly; how stands Thuron as regards famine?" - -"Famine is now there, my Lord." - -"You mean they are already on short rations?" - -"We have been on short rations for a long time past. I mean there is not -enough food to keep the garrison alive for another ten days." - -"You are sure of that?" - -"Absolutely sure, my Lord." - -"Were you never able to get into the castle even a scant supply from -outside our lines?" - -"We tried it often enough, but never succeeded." - -"Ah," ejaculated the Archbishop with satisfaction; then turning to his -Lordship of Cologne, he added: - -"That is a compliment to our united forces, my Lord. I like to see a -thing well done, when it is attempted, although I confess a more active -campaign would have pleased me better. This close blockade, therefore, I -look upon as a triumph more personal to yourself, perhaps, than to me." - -"I trust my natural humility of mind will keep me from being too proud -of it," replied his Lordship of Cologne, in dubious tones. - -"You think, then, that Thuron cannot hold out many days longer?" -continued Treves, again addressing Steinmetz. - -"If the surrounding line is held as tightly as it has been," answered -the captain, "Count Heinrich must surrender or starve." - -"I see you are exhausted and will question you no more. You may retire." - -Captain Steinmetz, assisted by his two supporters, left the Archbishops -together. Arnold von Isenberg sat silent in his place, making no comment -on the cross-examination. Conrad von Hochstaden walked up and down the -tent with bowed head, absorbed in thought. He was apparently waiting for -the Lord of Treves to speak first, but the other sat motionless and -speechless, narrowly watching the movements of his reluctant ally. - -"I suppose," said von Hochstaden at last, pausing in his promenade, -"that you now expect me to remain in co-operation with you until the -castle falls." - -"I am not sure that I expect anything. I am waiting to hear your views, -as all the circumstances of the case are now before you. I admit that I -am disappointed over the failure of my latest plan; still, such is the -risk all must run who attempt anything. The man who never fails is the -man who never tries." - -"If I could be sure this fellow speaks the truth----" - -"He does speak the truth." - -"How can you know?" - -"Because it is not to his interest to tell a lie. He has placed the -period of proving his words too near at hand to make dealing with -fiction entirely safe. A prophet who sets a day for the fulfilment of -his prediction must be either a true seer or a fool. Steinmetz is no -fool." - -"You think, perhaps, that I should be a fool to stand by you for two -years and withdraw when the task is within ten days of completion." - -The Archbishop of Treves spread out his hands deprecatingly, and -slightly shrugged his shoulders. - -"I should hesitate before I ventured to express an opinion in terms so -strong as those you have suggested: I wait rather to hear your own -judgment, hoping the verdict will be one with which I can cordially and -conscientiously agree." - -"Very well. It would be an act of folly to withdraw now that we are -apparently within sight of the goal. I will, therefore, double the time -held to be required, and will remain your faithful ally for twenty days -longer. If, at the end of that period, the castle is not in your -possession, you will place no obstacle in the way of my retirement to -Cologne. If that does not meet with your approval, then make a proposal -to me." - -"I agree, and would have agreed had you placed the limit at ten days, so -confident am I that the garrison of Thuron are at this moment in the -direst straits. If unforeseen circumstances make it necessary for you to -retire at the end of twenty days, I also will retire at the same time, -and thus we will share defeat as we would have shared victory. -Meanwhile, I suggest that until the twenty days have expired, it is -necessary for both you and me to remain in this camp, for the castle may -fall at any moment, and I desire that we march through its gates -together, and raise the flag of Cologne on one tower and the flag of -Treves on the other. I trust there is nothing impending that will make -your return to Cologne, during this time, imperative?" - -"No. It is not necessary for me to be in Cologne until the middle of -August. I have set the fourteenth of that month as the day on which the -corner stone of my cathedral is to be laid, and I wish to have my hands -free of blood and myself free from feud before then, so that God's -blessing may rest on the edifice." - -"Such a condition is most exemplary and most necessary," said the -Archbishop of Treves, with some suspicion of a sneer in his tone. "I -make no doubt but your cathedral will be a beautiful building, and -thrice blessed in the admitted sanctity of its founder. Well; we shall -have ample time for the cleansing of hands before the fourteenth, not -that there has been much blood to smear them for the past two years, but -if your mind is ill at ease, I shall be happy, in the interests of good -architecture, to be your confessor, and send you to the laying of the -foundation stone fully absolved. It is then agreed that for twenty days -we remain partners." - -Thus the two Archbishops concluded their bargain, thinking perhaps of -many events that might intervene between their hope and its -realisation, but giving no thought to the real thunder-cloud that had -been gathering so long to the south of them, and having no knowledge of -a young man at that moment making his way through the forest to the east -of the Rhine, his face set direct for Frankfort. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVIII. - -THE INCOGNITO FALLS. - - -John Surrey, the archer, stumbled wearily down the crumbling shale of -the steep hill, guided by the low signal cry that sounded at intervals -from the edge of the Moselle. He found, on arriving breathless at the -river, that Conrad had secured a boat, which, pole in hand, he held -against the bank while Rodolph stood on shore impatiently awaiting the -coming of his henchman. They were too near Alken for any conversation to -take place, and the moment Surrey arrived, the Emperor stepped into the -skiff, motioning the archer to follow. Conrad pushed the boat away from -the bank, and standing upright, poled it down stream, keeping close to -the southern shore, so as to be in the deep shadow of the hills. There -was, however, little need for extreme caution. The whole attention of -the besieging forces was concentrated in keeping intact the line around -the castle, and no thought was given to what was passing outside that -circle. The contest had been going on so long that the country had come -to look upon it as the natural condition of the locality, and ordinary -traffic up and down the river went to and fro as usual. Three men were -therefore unlikely to attract much attention merely because they were -floating along the stream to that great thoroughfare of commerce, the -lordly Rhine. The distance to Coblentz being slightly more than four -leagues, and the current tolerably swift, the Emperor expected to reach -the larger river before the day dawned, short as the nights were, and in -this he was not disappointed. The expedition passed unchallenged into -the Rhine, and continued across that river, coming to land opposite -Coblentz. Here the archer, who had slept soundly during the voyage, set -out to forage for food, while Conrad, his pouch well filled with the -gold of the Archbishop of Treves, a quantity of the coin having been -taken for use while they were within his Lordship's sphere of influence, -began his search for three riding horses that would carry the party to -Frankfort. The purchase was speedily effected, for there was a depot on -each side of the river for the sale or hiring of steeds, merchants from -Treves going by one bank to Mayence or along the other to Frankfort -being the chief customers of these horse dealers. Conrad was instructed -to proclaim himself an emissary of the Archbishop of Treves, should he -be questioned, and the Emperor rightly anticipated that no one would -undertake to molest the minion of so powerful and haughty a Prince. But -Rodolph, not being certain what state of feeling existed between the -Archbishop of Mayence and his proud brother of Treves, now in active -alliance with Cologne, was not so sure that a proclamation of dependence -on Treves would serve to protect them further up the river, and so -resolved to avoid the Rhine route, striking instead across the country -direct to Frankfort, taking as his path the hypotenuse of that huge -triangle, at the three extreme points of which stood Frankfort, Mayence, -and Coblentz. The distance as the crow flies is scarcely more than -seventeen leagues, but Rodolph knew the way would be rough, up hill and -down, with numerous streams to ford, and finally the Taurus range to -cross, but the course seemed safer than risking detention by the -Archbishop of Mayence, or by some stupid, obstinate robber Baron along -the banks of the Rhine. - -The early dawn was just breaking as, having finished the -hastily-prepared meal--the first satisfactory and full repast the archer -or Rodolph had enjoyed for some days--the three set off up the Rhine -until the Lahn was crossed; then they struck into the pathless forest. -At various points they engaged woodmen or charcoal burners to guide -them, dismissing a man when he came to the limit of his local knowledge, -and securing another when another was to be found. The legend of that -journey remained in the district for many a long day, for each guide, -instead of being cast aside with a blow for his trouble, as was the -custom of the country, was given a bright gold coin with the effigy of -the Archbishop upon it, each piece representing untold wealth to the -happy possessor. It came ultimately to be rumoured that it was the -Emperor himself who made this golden pilgrimage, and how such rumour had -its origin no one can rightly surmise; but, although the tale is -devoutly believed by the peasantry, careful historians have proved -conclusively that it is a myth, for they show that the Emperor was then -returning triumphantly from the Holy Land, and consequently must have -approached Frankfort from the east, and not from the north. - -When the sun was at its highest altitude the party halted and rested for -two hours or more in a rude hamlet on the borders of a stream in the -depths of the forest; there they had their second meal, afterwards -proceeding on their journey. Having secured a guide in the village, -Rodolph was anxious to reach the foot of the Taurus mountains before -night, for there he was confident they would come on the Roman road that -led over the range directly into Frankfort. This they accomplished, and -once they were on the road all fear of losing their way left them. It -had now become merely a question of endurance so far as the horses were -concerned. Conrad made no complaint, doing all that was required of him -without grumbling, apparently untouched by fatigue; but the two years of -inactivity in the castle had left the stout archer, never a good -horseman, entirely unprepared for such exercise. He besought his master -to rest for the night at the foot of the Taurus and continue their -expedition in the morning. - -"I know something of cities, my Lord," he said, "and have been present -at the taking of many. We will not be allowed within the gates to-night -even if we reach the walls. Therefore will it be useless for us to -proceed further, for our horses are well nigh exhausted as it is, and no -wonder, for the poor brutes have come through more to-day than any -animal should be called upon to endure in such space of time. Besides, -as I have said, the gates will be closed and you could not get in were -you the Archbishop himself." - -"We shall be the readier to enter in the morning," answered Rodolph -sleepily, drowsing by the fire on which their supper was being prepared. - -"But, my Lord, outside the walls there are usually gathered rough -characters,--Egyptians and cut throats, who, for the sake of one of our -gold pieces, will murder us all without compunction and with but small -chance of being punished for it, not that punishment would matter to us -who lay there robbed with our throats sundered. Here we may sleep safe, -but a man's life is not worth a broken arrow outside the walls of -Frankfort in the night time with the gates closed." - -"I know Frankfort well, having being a resident of the city, so it is -unlikely you can give me information regarding it. You must not forget -that while we eat freely here our comrades in Thuron starve; therefore, -we reach Frankfort sometime between now and dawn, the sooner to dispatch -sustenance and help to our friends, if it prove to be in our power to -send them aid." - -"Oh, I am as anxious as any can be to send help to Thuron, and food as -well, but nothing can be done in a sleeping city, and, if we are -ourselves killed in our hurry, that will be small comfort to the Black -Count and those with him. I am for making haste with caution." - -"If you are tired, my good archer, have the courage to admit it, and -then rest you here, to follow when your convenience suits." - -"I am not tired, at least not more so than a man may without shame -confess, who has come such a heathenish journey; but I see not the use -of such eagerness to reach a city that will be sound asleep when we get -there." - -"Then we will awaken it, and so we may consider the discussion ended." - -With many groans the archer got him on his patient horse again, and -during the journey tried various devices to make travelling easier for -himself. He sat sideways on the animal, with his feet dangling now on -the right and now on the left. Then he tried to lie down but nearly fell -off; then he sat with face to the rear, but this brought no -amelioration. At last he rolled himself to the ground and swore he would -walk the rest of the distance; indeed it was easy to keep pace with the -jaded beasts who were now mounting the steep acclivity that leads to the -heights of the range. At the summit the moon shone full on the wide -plain below, and the Emperor almost persuaded himself that he saw the -ancient city of Frankfort. They passed, with some caution, the -stronghold of Konigstein, frowning down upon them in the moonlight, -looking like a castle of white marble, and the Emperor breathed a sigh -of relief when it was well in the rear with the trio still unmolested. - -When at length the north gate of the capital was reached they found it -in truth barred against them, as the archer had so confidently -predicted. Rodolph rapped thrice upon it with the hilt of his sword. - -"You might as well try to hammer down the wall," said a figure that rose -out of the shadow. "They will not open. We have tried it." - -"It is folly to open to any chance comer in a fortified town," grumbled -the archer. "I knew well how it would be." - -But as he spoke three raps were heard on the inner side of the gate, -which Rodolph immediately answered with two, whereupon a small door at -the side was opened slightly, and a voice asked: - -"Who knocks?" - -"The silk merchant," answered Rodolph. - -"Travelling from where?" - -"Travelling from Treves." - -At once the small gate was closed and the bolts drawn from the larger -leaves, which were then slowly swung apart. - -A crowd had rapidly gathered at the sound of the blows on the gate, and -now tried to press through, but two soldiers with pikes beat them back. -When Conrad and the archer had followed their master, the gates were -closed and barred again. The three horsemen found themselves under a -dark echoing archway of stone, from the black mouth of which was given a -view of a narrow moonlit street. - -"You have a guide here for me?" said Rodolph. - -"Yes, my Lord. He is to take you to the Golden Flagon." - -"That is right. Let him lead on at once, for we have had a long -journey." - -A soldier stepped out into the light and the three followed him. He led -them through the narrow winding streets of the city, flanked by tall -houses whose overhanging gables caused the thoroughfares to seem more -cramped than they actually were. At last he came to a street so much -wider than the others that it might have been termed a square, and on -one side of it stood the hostelry, from whose front the golden flagon -swung in token of the good wine to be had within. Here all was silent, -and the three horsemen sat where they were, while the soldier hammered -with the end of his pike against a door. When it was opened there was a -whispered colloquy, and then some sleepy stable boys were roused to take -charge of the horses of the belated guests, while the landlord himself -invited them to enter. - -Rodolph swung himself from his exhausted steed, the others following his -example; the archer, who had ridden from the summit of the Taurus, -descending with painful slowness and extreme care. - -"Take supper here," said Rodolph to his men, "and then to rest. I am -sure you need it. Do not leave this house until I come or send for you. -And now good-night." - -"Are you not coming in also, my Lord?" asked Conrad, in surprise. - -"No. My night's work is just beginning." - -"Then I shall go with you, my Lord." - -"No. Rest now, for I may need you early in the morning. Soldier, you are -to be my guide for a short distance farther." - -The soldier bowed and apparently needed no further instruction, for he -led Rodolph through his capital until at length they came to a small -portal at the rear of the Emperor's palace. - -"This is the place, my Lord," he said, resting pike on butt and standing -in attitude of attention. - -Rodolph knocked thrice against the door, which signal was answered as it -had been at the gate. Again he announced himself as the silk merchant -from Treves, and so was admitted. Dismissing the soldier, Rodolph -proceeded along a narrow passage and then up a stair into a wider hall. -He was now on familiar ground, and walked briskly without hesitation -until he approached a wide entrance, outside which two soldiers stood on -guard. - -The Emperor drew his enveloping cloak more closely about him, for his -worn costume was not in such condition as befitted a monarch, but the -ample cloak covered it's defects. The soldiers saluted and Rodolph -passed between them into a large ante-chamber, in which, late as it was, -a number of officers and messengers sat on benches round the walls, -while a group of the higher ranks stood talking together in low tones. -The room of Baron von Brunfels was beyond, and at the communication -between the two apartments heavy crimson curtains of great thickness -hung, their tasseled fringes spreading over the floor. Here two soldiers -also stood, fully armed. On the entrance of the Emperor all who were -seated sprang instantly to their feet, making low obeisance, which his -Majesty acknowledged with an inclination of the head. - -"Is Baron von Brunfels within?" asked Rodolph, addressing the senior -General. - -"Yes, your Majesty." - -"Alone?" - -"Yes, your Majesty." - -"I will enter unannounced." - -The heavy curtain was held back for him, and the Emperor passed through. -So thick were the walls that the recess between the outer and inner -curtains might almost itself be termed a small apartment. Motioning away -the attendant, who would have drawn back the inner curtains also, the -Emperor himself drew them aside and entered. - -At a large table, littered with documents and lit by a small Roman lamp, -sat a haggard, careworn man, at whom Rodolph had to look twice or thrice -before he recognised his faithful servitor and firm and loyal friend, -Baron von Brunfels. His dark hair had become sprinkled with grey since -Rodolph last saw him, and as the Emperor stood motionless with his back -against the crimson hangings the great love he felt for the man lit up -his eyes, while remembrance of the anxiety he must have caused the Baron -by an abrupt and long unexplained disappearance gave Rodolph a thrill of -pain. He had never before realised what that disappearance had meant for -Baron von Brunfels. Although there was no sound in the room, the Baron -looked suddenly up, craned forward and peered across the table, gazing -with startled anxiety into the comparative darkness at the other end of -the room. The Emperor, with clanking spurs, took a rapid step or two -forward. - -"Rodolph!" cried Brunfels, in a husky undertone, springing to his feet. -He seemed about to advance, but something failed within him, and he -leaned heavily against the table, crying, with a sob in his voice: - -"I thank God! I thank God!" - -The young Emperor strode quickly to his friend, his hands upraised, and -brought them down on the shoulders of the Baron, whom he drew towards -him in a cordial embrace. - -"My old friend," he said, repressing with difficulty the emotion that -threatened to overmaster him. "My dear old friend, you are not more glad -to see me than I am to see you. But I have brought an insistent -personage with me other than Rodolph, and he clamours for attention." - -"He! Whom?" replied the Baron, looking about him with apprehension, -fearing that his friendly greeting might have had a witness, and that -thus unwittingly he had embarrassed his sovereign. - -"The Emperor is here, Brunfels, with weighty matters on his mind that -will permit of no delay. The Emperor has at last arrived; I doubt if you -have ever met him before." - -"He will have most cordial welcome and support from me." - -"He counts upon you, as on no other in the world. How many men have you -encamped on the Rhine?" - -"Forty thousand, your Majesty." - -"Above or below Mayence?" - -"Above. I thought it well not to pass Mayence until I received your -Majesty's definite order." - -"You were right. They are in divisions of ten thousand men, competently -commanded, if I accurately understood your message. Detach ten thousand -at once under the commander in whom you have most confidence, and send -them along the Roman road to Treves. My officer will announce to -whomsoever he finds in command there that I am about to pay a visit of -state to his Lordship of Treves, and that my men are to enter and occupy -the town until my arrival." - -"If they meet opposition are they to attack Treves and capture it?" - -"They will not be opposed. They go in the name of the Emperor, the -overlord of the Archbishop. If the Archbishop himself is there he will -not be so foolish as to oppose the entrance of my troops; if he is not -there I doubt if any subordinate will have the courage to embroil him -with his sovereign in his absence. However, if the unexpected happens -and my troops are refused admittance, let them encamp quietly on the -plain between Treves and Zurlauben until I arrive, not giving battle -unless they are themselves attacked. In that case they are to take -Treves if they can. Send a horseman at once with these orders, and see -that this detachment is away before daybreak if possible. The other -three battalions are to proceed immediately down the Rhine to Coblentz. -No one on the road will dispute the passage of thirty thousand men, but -if opposition takes shape they are to go through to Coblentz at all -cost. Reaching Coblentz ten thousand men are to march to Cologne on -exactly the same terms as the division that has gone to Treves. The -remaining twenty thousand are to halt at Coblentz until we come up with -them, although it is likely we shall overtake them before they reach -there. Have you a thousand well-mounted men?" - -"Five thousand, your Majesty, and more if you need them." - -"In the morning, draw up across the square opposite the Palace a -thousand picked men. They are to be my bodyguard, and with them I shall -ride to Coblentz. I shall ride my best white charger, and I trust my -silver armour has not been allowed to rust. I confess, Brunfels, that I -am resolved to undertake this initial state journey through my empire -with something more of pomp than has been my custom, for although I care -as little for the trappings of imperial power as any monk in my realm, -yet display is not without its effect on the minds of many, and I have -set to myself the task of not only overmastering the two Archbishops but -out-dazzling them in splendour as well. We have brute force on our side, -which is an argument they have used so often themselves that they will -have no difficulty in understanding it when they find it opposed to -them; let us have, then, in addition to that, the gorgeousness which -gives decorative effect to power." - -Baron von Brunfels glanced shrewdly at his master, a slight smile -parting his lips, the first that had come to them for nigh upon two -years. - -"The splendour has been provided as well as the force, your Majesty. Am -I to take it as a fact that the Countess Tekla is within the fortress of -Thuron, as has been rumoured? You made no mention of the lady in your -messages, and I could only guess that such was the case, because the -monk who carried our despatches reported that a lady of marvellous -beauty sat at your table." - -The Emperor's eye twinkled as he answered. - -"The Countess Tekla is within the walls of Thuron, and before many days, -old Brunfels, the Empress Tekla will be within the walls of Frankfort. -You will shortly see such a wedding, Baron, in this stately city, that I -am sure it will shake your firm resolution to remain a bachelor. She is -the divinest maid, Siegfried, that ever trod this earth, and for her -sake I will be Emperor in fact as well as in name." - -"The Empress shall command, as she fully merits, our utmost devotion, -your Majesty." - -"That is right, old warrior; get your courtly phrases in train, for I -expect we shall have little fighting to interfere with their use. -Indeed, I confidently look for the assistance of all three Archbishops -at the ceremony, and the especial blessing of the high prelate of -Treves. And now, my good Brunfels, see that these orders are carried -through without a moment's delay. Give out that the Emperor has returned -triumphant from the Holy Land; this news, once set on its way, will soon -spread faster than we can travel. I will now to bed, for I wish to be -early on the road to-morrow." - -Baron von Brunfels led the Emperor to a room not far from his own, in -which stood a luxuriantly appointed couch, and Rodolph waited no -formality, but threw himself on the rich coverlet, booted and spurred as -he was. Before his friend could turn away to give effect to the commands -bestowed upon him, the Emperor was sound asleep. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIX. - -THE EMPEROR AT THE HEAD OF HIS ARMY. - - -Tired as John Surrey was when Rodolph left him with Conrad, the archer -ordered a meal to be served to them, for he was ever ready to eat -heartily. From the table the two travellers went to their well-earned -rest, and slumber came to them speedily. - -When they awoke in the morning they found the inn in a commotion, and at -breakfast the ever-curious archer inquired the cause. The innkeeper -himself waited upon them, imagining their quality to be of no common -order, in spite of their tattered apparel, for his commands regarding -the care he was to take of whomsoever the soldier brought to him in the -night or in the day had come from the Palace itself. - -"Oh, there is brave news," cried the elated host. "The Emperor is -returned from the East, and the town has put on all its finery to -welcome him. Flags are flying everywhere, and the whole population is -afoot. A great body of horsemen, such as we have never seen in Frankfort -before, is drawn up in the Palace Square, and even they are not -sufficient to keep the people back. One of my men, who went mad, like -all the rest of the town, has just come back from the square and he saw -the Emperor himself, and so could not wait, but hurried here to tell us -about it. The people made such acclamation that the Emperor came out on -the platform which runs along the facade of the Palace, and stood before -them. Gottlieb says his Majesty, Heaven shower its blessings upon him, -was clad from head to foot in silver armour, and looked like a statue of -a stalwart war god. There is a scarlet cross on his breast, which, I -doubt not, has wrought terror in the heart of many a heathen, and there -is a purple cloak hanging from his shoulders. Gottlieb says that no man -in all Germany may be compared with him, so grand and kinglike he looks. -The horsemen, in spite of all discipline, waved their swords in the air, -and roared at the top of their voices, while the people raised one -continuous shout that we heard plainly where I stand. I hope he has -given the Saracen such a thrashing he will not have to turn eastward -again in years to come, as trade is ever dull when the Emperor is away. -For two years there has been little coming and going, and the Court at -Frankfort has been as quiet as if the monarch were dead and they had not -elected his successor." - -"It must be a gallant show," said the archer, "and if I were not -commanded to wait here till my orders come, I would go and see it. Dare -we risk it, think you, Conrad?" - -"I was told to stay here, and here I stay," answered Conrad, stoutly. - -"'Tis a good military resolve, and would be commended by all the -authorities, but nevertheless I should dearly like to see the Emperor." - -"So should I; but unless his Majesty comes to us I see not how we are to -go to him." - -"There is nothing easier," said their host. "It is said that his Majesty -marches shortly through the western gate to review his troops now on the -Rhine, for there has lately been a great gathering of them by the river, -and his way thither is through this square and past this door. They are -even now clearing the road and lining it with armed men. The officer in -front has just said that my guests are to be specially favoured, and -that a space will be open at my door where you may stand, with none to -obstruct your view. I am myself thought much of at Court, although it -may sound like boasting to proclaim the fact; nevertheless, when -distinguished strangers like yourselves arrive, I have before now -received orders to attend to their wants when it is not convenient, -through reasons of state, into which I have no right to inquire, to -lodge them at the Palace. And thus I wait upon you myself, which is far -from being my custom, though you might think otherwise did I not make -the reason plain. I have asked no question of you further than how you -like your food prepared and served; but I take you to be men of -importance, and, without flattery, I may say of myself that I know a man -of quality when I see him, even though his clothes be somewhat the worse -for wear." - -"In this instance, good host, I fear your shrewdness does you a -dis-service if you take us to be aught but what we are--plain, common -folk, having no connection either with King or with Court." - -"It is, of course, not for me to inquire closely regarding your affairs -or your standing in the empire, but what you say to me goes no further, -for I am one who meddles not in the doings of others, so long as bills -for lodging and eating are duly paid, and, in addition, I am no -gossiper, being indeed a man of few words." - -"I am but an indifferent talker myself," admitted the archer, "and would -have been of more account in the world had I a better conceit of my own -merits and possessed the words with which to convey some knowledge of -the same to others. But if a belief that we are more worthy of -consideration lead you to provide so well for us, as far as meat and -drink are concerned, this wine being the best I ever set lips to, in -heaven's name, then, persons of quality we are, and so shall we remain -while guests of yours." - -The landlord chuckled and nodded his head sagely. - -"A droop of the eyelids is as good as a wag of the tongue with me, and I -fully understand you, though it please you to speak lightly of your own -worth. I had no doubt of it from the first, for I knew that common folk -are not let through a Frankfort gate at midnight, if their coming is -unwelcome to the Court." - -"By my favourite Saint," cried the archer, as if an unaccustomed idea -had penetrated his not too alert mind, "there is something in that, -Conrad, though it had not occurred to me before. You remember how I -dreaded the closed gate, and how the others at the foot of the walls -said they could not get through, yet three raps from my Lord's hilt sent -bolts flying as if he held a wizard's wand. 'Tis most like my Lord is -well known at Court, aye, and well thought of, too." - -"That is no news," replied Conrad, quietly. "You yourself heard him tell -the Black Count he knew the Emperor." - -"True. So I did, but I did not believe it until now." - -The increasing shouts had drawn the incurious landlord from the room, -and he now returned in high excitement. - -"The Emperor comes at the head of his horsemen. There is not a moment to -lose, and you will have as good a view of him as though you were one of -his followers; better, indeed, than if you were among the troop of -horse. But come at once." - -Conrad immediately sprang to his feet, but the archer hung back a moment -to take another huge mouthful of the black bread and to drain his flagon -to the dregs. Then, drawing the back of his hand across his mouth, he -followed the others, hastily gulping down his food as he went. - -The city had indeed undergone a sudden transformation that well deserved -all the landlord's eulogies. - -From every window and from every projection of the many-gabled street -hung rainbow-coloured lengths of silk or more common cloth. Flags flew -from every staff, and cheering men clung perilously to the roofs and -eaves of the buildings, or wherever precarious foothold could be found. -Opposite the Golden Flagon a dense crowd was massed, but the cleared way -led directly past the door of the inn and gave colour to the assertion -of the landlord that his hostelry was indeed favoured by the Court. A -continuous line of pikemen, standing shoulder to shoulder, kept back -the jubilant throng, whose volleys of acclamation rang upwards and -joined the cheers from the house-tops. - -The most inspiriting sight was the advance of the cavalry, a superb body -of men splendidly mounted, who came two and two because of the -narrowness of some of the streets, but who, with military precision that -betokened accurate drilling, deployed on entering the square, until they -marched in ranks of six, the sun glittering on their polished -breast-plates, and touching with fire the points of their lances. In -front of them came the Emperor and suite, Baron von Brunfels riding by -his sovereign's side. The Emperor was mounted on a snow-white charger, -and his noble bearing quite justified the unbounded enthusiasm of the -people. As the imposing cavalcade approached, the archer with a low cry -of amazement clutched the arm of his comrade, while Conrad stared with -open mouth at the resplendent monarch. - -"My God!" cried John Surrey. "It is Lord Rodolph. How has he dared to -impersonate the absent Emperor and befool all these people?" - -Conrad was so filled with astonishment at the remarkable spectacle that -for the moment he was speechless. - -"Can it be he?" continued the more voluble archer, "or has that good -wine affected our sight, as it sometimes does. He casts no glance -towards us, and seems more stern than ever I saw him, except when he -fought the Black Count?" - -"Fought the Black Count?" said Conrad, turning to his friend. "When did -he do that?" - -"Oh, I have gone mad and am talking at random. Can my Lord Rodolph have -been really the Emperor, and does that explain the quick opening of the -gates and the babble of the landlord? It is as likely as that Lord -Rodolph should rashly masquerade as the Emperor in a town where the -Emperor must be well known. No. We are dreaming, Conrad, or more drunk -than ever before." - -"I am neither drunk nor asleep. Lord Rodolph is indeed the Emperor. -There beside him is the Baron von Brunfels, my former master in Treves, -who asked you to send an arrow through me, and all know the Baron is the -Emperor's closest friend." - -"I did not recognise him, but then I had no such cause to remember as -you had." - -An officer rode up to the two and cried out: - -"Who are you, fellows, to stand covered when your Emperor passes?" - -"E' God, he is no Emperor of mine. I am an Englishman," said the archer, -defiantly; but he nevertheless removed his steel cap and stood -uncovered, as did Conrad. - -The Emperor paused before them, and the procession behind him came to an -instant stand. Rodolph with difficulty repressed a smile as he looked -down upon his former followers. The officer was about to lay hold of the -archer for his truculent reply and his disrespectful behaviour, but -Rodolph held up his hand and the other fell back. - -"I think," said Rodolph, doubtfully, "I have seen you before." - -"In truth, my Lord--that is, your Majesty," replied Surrey, scratching -his bare, perplexed head, while he held his steel cap upturned under his -other arm, "I am less certain that I ever met your Lordship--again I -mean, your Majesty,--before." - -"It may be I am mistaken, but you seem to me a silent man, not prone to -talk, especially of the affairs of others, and I take you to be an -archer from the packet of arrows on your back. I have need of a skilful, -modest man, and I possess a regiment of archers awaiting your -instruction. Having hoped to meet you again I gave certain commands -concerning you, one of which is that my treasurer fill with gold your -head piece, which you hold so awkwardly and invitingly; so, see to it -that they give you good measure; if they do not, make complaint to me -when I return. Still, I give you fair choice, and should you prefer to -ride with me for several days to come, you shall have your wish, if you -but give it utterance." - -A rueful grimace came over the archer's face at the mention of -horsemanship. - -"I am well content, my Majesty--I mean your Lord--I will give the -regiment the instruction they perhaps need, your Majesty." - -"This is the skilful fellow I told you of. Take charge of him and see -that he has no cause to be dissatisfied with his change of position." - -To Conrad, Baron von Brunfels spoke: - -"There is a led horse for you in the baggage train. Mount it and follow -us. Come to my tent to-night when we encamp, and you will be fitted with -apparel more suited to your new station. I hear a good account of you, -and understand it is his Majesty's pleasure that you are to meet great -advancement." - -Conrad bowed low without reply, and took his place behind the troop, -which now without further halt marched through the western gate and thus -rapidly on its way, overtaking the foot soldiers of the army before -nightfall. - - - - -CHAPTER XL. - -THE ARCHBISHOPS ENVIRONED WITH A RING OF IRON. - - -It would perhaps be wrong to censure the two Archbishops for military -neglect in failing to take note of anything that was happening except in -the very limited space which was encircled by their combined forces. The -siege had gone on for so long that it had become largely a matter for -routine. The Emperor was supposed to be in the far East, and their -Lordships had been kept continually informed of his valorous doings in -that distant region, but even if he had been in his capital it is little -likely that the august prelates would have paid much heed to his -vicinity, for it had been a long time since the powerful princes who -ruled in Treves and Cologne had taken account of the commands, much less -the desires, of their nominal overlord at Frankfort. It may seem strange -that the news of a largely increased force at the capital had not -reached them, but news at best travelled slowly, even when specially -sent, and in this case it had to pass through the territory of the -Archbishop of Mayence, and he, if he knew what was going on at -Frankfort, would not have felt it his duty to communicate the -intelligence to one who had been his open enemy, or to the other who had -deserted him. - -Thus, then, it came about that the first intimation the Archbishops had -of impending calamity from outside was the appearance of the soldiers of -the Emperor on the plain at the edge of which their camp was set, while -other troops were seen marching up the valley of the Moselle. The -progress of the newcomers was so rapid that simultaneous tidings of -their approach came from several quarters at once, and before the fourth -messenger had told his tale, a final one came from Alken, saying a -company had gone up the valley of the Thaurand, and had cut off -communication between the camp of their Lordships and the force which -was besieging the castle. While the Archbishop of Cologne was listening -in wonder to this account of the entirely unexpected advent of an -outside army, his more astute brother of Treves at once saw that the -camp was surrounded, and remembered that, although his own forces around -Thuron might be strong enough to repel the invaders, yet there was no -officer among them with sufficient authority to command his troops to -fight, unless he had orders to that effect from the Archbishop himself. -This situation lent seriousness to the position of their Lordships, who -might thus be taken prisoners while their own armies lay idle, almost -within calling distance. - -"What does this incursion mean?" asked the Archbishop of Cologne, "and -what is to be done in the face of it?" - -"Neither of these questions can I answer at this moment. It cannot be -that his Lordship of Mayence has made common cause with Heinrich of -Thuron, and has had the temerity to put this small force against ours, -yet our long futile lingering here may have given him a scant respect -for us, which is not without a basis of reason." - -They were together in the large tent, and before Konrad von Hochstaden -could reply, word was brought that Baron von Brunfels, accompanied by a -strong escort, had ridden into camp and demanded audience. - -"Ay!" cried the Prince of Treves, "it is Brunfels, then, whom we have to -thank for this surprise. The Emperor's long absence has encouraged him -to strike a blow on his own account. He will not be difficult to deal -with, for he has no show of right in attacking nobles of higher station -than his own, unless by the Emperor's direct command, and he himself -would be the first to counsel his Majesty against so grave a blunder." - -"Perhaps the Emperor has sent him such permission." - -"It may be, but I doubt it. I remember now that when Brunfels was last -in Treves I refused to see him, yet, if he resented that as a rebuff, he -has taken long to bring his anger to a heat. He is a cautious man, and a -dangerous one. I would much rather meet your friend of Mayence. We will -admit him and set conjecture at rest." - -When Baron von Brunfels entered, he bowed low to each of the prelates, -who returned his salutation with dignified courtesy. - -"Your Lordships will pardon me if I plunge at once into my mission -without introduction, as the matter with which I am charged is urgent. I -am commanded by his Majesty, Rodolph of Hapsburg, Emperor of Germany, to -see that an immediate injunction is placed upon the commander of the -besieging forces around Thuron, ordering him to permit the passing of -food and wine through the lines for the consumption of those in the -beleaguered stronghold. The laden horses will presently reach Alken, and -it is his Majesty's wish that they proceed to the castle without -interruption." - -"It is most remarkable that the Emperor should have found occasion to -send from the Holy Land instructions so minute regarding the -re-victualling of a castle on the Moselle," said the Archbishop of -Treves, in his most icy tone. "Am I at fault if I infer that the -imperial message has been coloured somewhat during transmission?" - -"My Lord, you are evidently not aware that his Majesty is now encamped -within less than half a league of this spot. May I urge upon your -consideration that there is danger in delay." - -"Danger? To whom?" - -"I am a plain spoken man, my Lord and I find a difficulty in impressing -upon you the seriousness of the situation, in terms suitable for me to -use in addressing you. His Majesty is at the head of a force which, -compared with that under your joint command, is overwhelming. Your camp -is at this moment surrounded, and the messenger you send will be -compelled to carry a passport from his Majesty before he gets word with -your general. I therefore counsel you to make haste in forwarding the -message, for, if the convoy reaches your lines before the messenger, it -will force its way through to the castle gates, and thus we may have -unnecessary bloodshed to deplore." - -"Let us have no bloodshed," said the Archbishop of Cologne, speaking for -the first time. "If the situation stands as Baron von Brunfels describes -it, resistance is useless." - -"I assure you such is the case, my Lord of Cologne, and I thank you for -your suggestion. I again implore you to give the order I ask for." - -"Softly, softly," said the Archbishop of Treves, in his smoothest -manner. "This haste appears to me more suspicious than convincing. I -must ask to see the Emperor before I can believe so readily that he has -returned at a moment so critical." - -"The moment is so critical, my Lord, that I ignore your reflection on my -truthfulness, and, as regards seeing His Majesty, my next office is to -command the immediate attendance of both your Lordships to make -explanation satisfactory to him regarding this siege." - -"If the Emperor desires explanation from me he may come to my city of -Treves and ask for it." - -"My Lord, I deeply regret my inability to convince you of the peril in -which you stand, and which you insist, to my sorrow, upon augmenting. I -would his Majesty had sent one more skilful in the use of words. It is -no part of my duty to inform you that Treves is at this moment in the -possession of the imperial troops, as also is the city of Cologne. It -seems you cannot understand that, for the first time since Frederick -Barbarossa, Germany has an emperor. Your angry sovereign I have with -difficulty constrained to give you a hearing, and now my mission has -failed. Your camp is surrounded, your troops are outnumbered, your -cities are taken, yet you stand here wasting the few moments allowed you -to show some inclination of obedience, and thus give your friends an -opportunity of interceding on your behalf with his Majesty." - -"Treves taken?" murmured von Isenberg, like a man speaking in a dream. - -"I bid you farewell," continued the emissary of the Emperor, "and return -to his Majesty to report the lack of success which has attended my -mission." - -"Stop! Stop!" cried von Hochstaden. "I will accompany you to the -Emperor's headquarters. The siege has been carried on against my will; -indeed I should never have engaged in it were it not that I was assured -the castle would be delivered to us when we sat down in force before it, -and even then I assisted merely to uphold the feudal law which had been -violated by Black Heinrich. His Majesty was absent, and I held it but -the bare duty of a good vassal to make a stand for rightful authority, -when the Emperor was not here to assert his privileges." - -The Archbishop of Treves cast one malignant glance of intense hatred at -his timorous ally, who was so palpably eager to save himself at the -expense of his partner. He scorned, however, to make reply, and remained -silent while von Brunfels spoke. - -"Such is not the understanding his Majesty has of the beginning of the -contest. He is informed that Count Heinrich appealed to his Emperor and -yours, yet you immediately attacked the Count, and I, acting for the -Emperor in his absence, have received no notice of the appeal, nor have -I had any communication with either of you regarding this siege during -the two years it has been in progress. I trust you will be able to -convince his Majesty that his present view of the case is based on -inaccurate information." - -"I admit----" began the trembling Archbishop of Cologne, but his -colleague interrupted him. - -"We admit nothing. We shall wait upon the Emperor together, for in this -matter my doughty auxiliary and I stand or fall in company. What has -been done has been done after mutual consultations, and with the consent -of both. If then we are to be threatened, I ask you to inform his -Majesty that we shall appeal direct to the Pope, and I think the young -Emperor will be ill-advised to bring on a contest between himself and -the Holy Church, for such conflicts have resulted disastrously for -monarchs before now, even when they were more firmly seated on their -thrones than Rodolph of Hapsburg is on his." - -"My Lord, I am dismayed to find that what I have said has been construed -into a threat. Such was not my intention, and I beg you to believe that -anything approaching a menace would bring censure on me from his -Majesty, and in the launching of it I should be gravely exceeding my -commission. Nevertheless, I cannot be blind to the fact that your words -bear distinct defiance against his Majesty the Emperor, but as I have -myself so far fallen short of my purpose, which was not to intimidate, -but to impress upon you the plight in which you stand, I shall forget -your words and consider them unsaid, extending to you that merciful -construction of your language which I hope you, in turn, will kindly -bestow upon me." - -"I ask no consideration from you, my Lord of Brunfels. What I have said, -I have said. I shall appeal to the Pope and place myself under his -august protection. Any action taken against me is an action against the -Holy Church, and the consequences must fall on whose head they may, be -it that of Baron or that of Emperor." - -"I the more deeply regret this decision that I have already had -communication with his Holiness the Pope upon the matter in question." - -"Ha! With what result?" - -"When the siege was begun, I considered it my duty, in the interest of -the absent Emperor, to obtain some decision from the Pope that might be -an aid to his Majesty on his return. I sent an envoy to Rome and -acquainted his Holiness with the cause of the quarrel, in so far as it -was understood by me, informing him that the siege had been entered -upon, asking him whether or not the Emperor was to believe that the -conduct of your Lordships had the sanction and support of his Holiness. -The reply to my message stated that it was impossible for his Holiness -to judge who was in the right or who was in the wrong, as he had heard -nothing of your Lordships' side of the matter." - -"A most just and admirable decision." - -"Commendable and cautious, as I thought at the time, but still erring, -if anything, on the side of vagueness." - -"I cannot permit you to criticise the message of his Holiness in my -presence, Baron von Brunfels. The answer was clarity itself." - -"The second message undoubtedly was, and perhaps its receipt made me -place less than true value on the first. When the siege had continued a -year and a half without visible result, I thought it my duty to send -another message to the Pope giving him a brief outline of the situation. -I said that Count Heinrich apparently held you both powerless. I feared -that if you could do nothing against one of the humblest of your -vassals, there was little to be expected were you suddenly confronted -with the power of the empire. I informed his Holiness that there was now -collected in and near the capital a well-drilled force of nearly a -hundred thousand men, all animated by the wildest enthusiasm for their -Emperor, to whose return they were most impatiently looking forward. I -implored his Holiness to give me his view of the case, so that I might -be properly equipped for advising his Majesty upon his arrival, saying -that I feared the gravest complications, because war had been waged in -his Majesty's dominions without his consent, adding that his Majesty -might decide you were rebels caught red-handed, and might, alas, treat -you as such." - -"Your account did not lack a spice of partizanship and exaggeration." - -"I endeavoured to adhere strictly to the truth. The army at Frankfort -was larger than I stated, and its numbers were being continually -increased. My prediction regarding his Majesty's opinion of the siege -has been more than fulfilled." - -"No matter. What said his Holiness the Pope?" - -"His answer was a marvel of close and accurate reasoning. He said he -divided your authority under two heads, namely, the spiritual and the -temporal. In one section he assumed responsibility; in the other he -disclaimed it. What you did as Archbishop of the Church was his concern; -your acts as an elector of the Empire you must answer for to his -Majesty, to whom he sent his blessing. He had made inquiry regarding -your quarrel with Count Heinrich, and so far as he understood it, no -question affecting the Church had arisen. Count Heinrich had been -charged with a violation of the Feudal Law, and had therefore appealed -to the Emperor, and not to the Pope, as would have been the case had the -dispute been ecclesiastical. His Holiness regarded your alliance as a -military union between the electors of Treves and Cologne, and not as a -spiritual conjunction of the Archbishops of those two cities. The duty -then devolved upon the Emperor to deal with the two electors, and if the -result unfortunately caused a vacancy in the Archbishoprics of Treves -and Cologne, his Holiness would be pleased to appoint to those august -offices two prelates who would be _personæ gratæ_ to his Majesty." - -The Archbishop of Treves remained silent, a deep frown on his brow, his -thin lips tightly compressed. During the interesting recital, he glanced -darkly and suspiciously at the narrator several times, but he evidently -saw no reason to doubt the accuracy of the report, in fact the account -bore internal evidence of its correctness, for he knew the cautious -nature of the Pontiff, and was well aware that His Holiness desired to -have on the side of the Church the strong and winning hand. - -The Archbishop of Cologne, however, was voluble in his praise of the -pontifical decision. - -"A most able exposition," he cried. "Would that I had heard it when it -was delivered. I have been misled and deceived from the first. It was -not my wish to continue the siege, and I am here now under coercion. -That I can prove to his Majesty, and I beg your intercession, Baron von -Brunfels, explaining to his Majesty that I am here, and have been here, -against my will. If I had known that his Holiness, the Pope, had given -such a decision--an admirable and most excellent laying down of the -law--I would at once have withdrawn my men, even if we had to cut our -way through all opposition. Pray so inform his Majesty. Why did you not -place before us the expression from his Holiness, Baron; then all this -difficulty might have been avoided?" - -"I had not the honour to serve your Lordships. I acted throughout in the -interests of his Majesty, the Emperor, whose vassal I am. May I now for -the last time ask you to give me the order I previously requested from -you?" - -"Surely, surely," cried von Hochstaden, "and that at once. My Lord of -Treves, it is your men who compose the line near the village, therefore -I beseech you to give the order. I would immediately give it myself," he -added, turning to von Brunfels, "but I have little authority in the -camp, and I might not be obeyed. If your laden horses will approach the -castle from the other side, I will bestow instruction upon my Captain -there to permit them to pass." - -The Archbishop of Treves looked on in sullen silence and made no -observation, but neither did he take the action required of him. A -messenger entered breathless with the news that a force flying the -imperial flag had broken the line near the village, and that a convoy of -burdened animals was now mounting the slope towards the gates of the -castle. The Archbishop of Cologne wrung his hands, and, almost on the -verge of tears, bemoaned the unfortunate occurrence, calling on Heaven -and all present to witness that he was not the cause of it. The -impassive mask of the Archbishop of Treves gave no indication regarding -the nature of the thoughts that were passing through his mind. - -"My Lords," said von Brunfels impressively, "whoever is to blame, the -action I feared has taken place, while we were wasting precious moments -in useless talk. The second part of my mission is still to be -accomplished, and I wish it a better ending than that which has attended -the first. I command you, in the name of the Emperor, to appear together -before him at high noon in the royal tent now erected on this plain. You -will come prepared to answer truthfully all questions put to you, and -his Majesty will listen patiently to whatever explanation you are -pleased to offer for your grave infraction of the Feudal Law. I entreat -you to believe that nothing but instant and abject submission will be of -avail." - -"His Majesty shall have it from me," earnestly alleged the Archbishop of -Cologne. - -The Archbishop of Treves made no comment, but gravely inclined his head, -as the envoy of the Emperor took his departure. - - - - -CHAPTER XLI. - -"WHY HAVE YOU DARED TO LEVY WAR?" - - -Large as was the tent of the Archbishops, it could not compare in size -or splendour with the imperial pavilion. This canopy was not square like -the shelter of their august Lordships, but oval in shape, and over its -peaked roof flew the great standard which signified not only that the -erection stood on imperial soil, but also indicated the personal -presence of the Emperor under its folds. For the time being, that -pavilion was the capital of the land. In it were collected the head of -the State and his favoured councillors. - -At each of the numerous stakes which held in place the many ropes -supporting the roof, stood a soldier, his tall weapon perpendicular -beside him, and these lances, on whose glittering points the high sun -sparkled, formed a palisade around the tent. Approach to the royal -pavilion was only possible down a long avenue composed of mounted men, -who sat impassive in two extended lines under the hot sun. - -The interior of the great tent was hung with priceless tapestries and -rich stuffs from the East, which softened the light that came from the -sides and roof. At the further end from the entrance was a semi-circular -dais, rendered accessible by three steps, and on this platform had been -placed, under an awning of purple, a throne, on the apex of the high -carved back of which rested a golden crown, a beautiful specimen of the -skilled craftsmanship of Nuremburg, where it had been made for the -Emperor Henry IV. during his residence in that famous city of the -empire. The hard ground which formed the floor of the tent was covered -by soft rugs, making noiseless the footfalls of those within. The -Emperor, seated on his throne, had on either hand those high nobles of -the realm who had flocked to his standard when the news of his return -had spread like wildfire, and who, perhaps because he did not need their -help, had made lavish proffers to him of all the forces at their -command. These offers he had received with a graciousness that charmed -all the would-be givers, and although he declined assistance, he somehow -managed to make it felt that this prompt support was most gratifying to -him. The nobles were delighted with the reception accorded them, and saw -that they had in the Emperor a liege who appreciated their worth; so -held themselves proudly, as was their right, for most of them at one -time or another had been treated with haughty scorn by those proud and -powerful Prelates who for generations had been the real rulers of the -country. At the immediate right of the Emperor stood Baron von Brunfels, -a man universally esteemed by all who knew him, a stickler for the -privileges of his order, and yet the last in the empire who would -infringe on the rights of others. During the march down the Rhine, -nobles had joined the imperial forces at various points, coming from all -quarters, for what purpose they themselves only knew, but apparently -with the sole intention of being of service to his Majesty in whatever -expedition he was undertaking, the cause of which they could but guess. -So much at least was to be gathered from their warm expressions of -loyalty, which did not diminish on their viewing the formidable force -which his Majesty commanded. - -At the Emperor's left hand stood the Archbishop of Mayence, who, on -hearing that his Majesty was to pass down the Rhine, had hastily -collected his army, and as hastily disbanded it when there marched -through his town thirty thousand men, to be followed shortly by the -Emperor himself, accompanied by a regiment of horse that alone -outnumbered the little company which the Archbishop was able to assemble -at the moment. - -Thus it was that the Archbishop contented himself by greeting his -Sovereign with merely a group of his clergy behind him, humbly placing -the good city of Mayence unreservedly at the disposal of the Emperor, -and begging permission to extend his benediction upon the expedition -that had swung so jauntily along the stoned-paved river-front of the -town, asking no one's leave, and making the air ring with patriotic -songs. The Emperor had dismounted, standing with bowed head to receive -the Prelate's blessing, and afterwards extended a cordial invitation to -his Lordship to accompany him, which overture was gratefully accepted. -Thus the Prelate stood on the Emperor's left, and the nobles were -pleased to note that this position seemed to indicate that, while his -Majesty welcomed the co-operation of the Church, still it would not be -paramount in his counsels, as one of their own order occupied the first -place. - -Some rumour of what was about to occur had gone forth, and as the moment -approached at which the Archbishops were to appear before the throne, to -plead perhaps for their lives, the face of his Lordship of Mayence was a -study that might have afforded satisfaction to a physiognomist. He -endeavoured to assume that air of superior righteousness which so well -becomes a somewhat expansive and benign countenance. Occasionally a -smirk of satisfaction appeared, only to be smoothed instantly away, -giving place to an expression of that deep resignation which is -frequently bestowed, like a benediction, on a good man called upon to -endure a sight of the humiliation of his enemies. He clasped his fat -fingers before him--he was rather corpulent, and his hands had thus a -resting place--essaying to compose his placid features into an unctuous -semblance that betokened dim knowledge of the wickedness which is -rampant in this world, and a solemn grief for the same, mitigated by a -subdued confidence that virtue has other rewards than the mere -satisfaction of possession. - -On the dais and on its steps, and along each wall, nobles were grouped -according to their degree, while in the centre, between the dais and the -entrance to the tent, a wide space was left vacant until their Lordships -of Treves and Cologne should arrive, which they did promptly at the hour -named. They came in unattended, save by their two secretaries, the large -escort which accompanied them from their camp being, by order of von -Brunfels, halted outside the pavilion. - -The Archbishop of Treves turned an unflinching look upon his sovereign, -whom he now beheld for the first time, but the Prelate of Cologne took -time by the forelock, and, without waiting to be addressed, flung -himself prostrate on the lower steps of the dais, crying: - -"Your Gracious Majesty, I implore your pardon. I have been deeply to -blame, and bitterly do I regret my fault. Had I known that my action was -contrary to your Majesty's will, I would have abandoned all my offices -and honours, retiring humbly to the poorest monastery in my -Archbishopric rather than have offended your Majesty." - -Rodolph seemed taken aback by the unexpected and abject impetuosity of -his Lordship of Cologne, and for a moment he sat silent, gazing with -compassion in his glance upon the grovelling figure of the man at his -feet. When at last he spoke, his accent was kindly. - -"My Lord, I ask you to arise. We are all prone to error, and a man can -but say, 'I am culpable, and I regret it.' If he make amends in after -conduct there is little to be said against him, and I have small -inclination to enact the implacable judge, hoping myself for mercy -rather than for justice, as our Holy Church gives us assurance to -expect. Rise, therefore, my Lord, and make answer to some questions I -wish now to propound to you. Are you content to return to your fair city -of Cologne and there busy yourself with what pertains to your office of -Archbishop, leaving me to deal with such nobles as Count Heinrich, -should their punishment become necessary?" - -"I am more than content, your Majesty," replied the Archbishop -fervently, once again upon his feet, although, with bowed head, he held -himself most contritely. - -"Are you content to permit the men in your command, now under arms -around Thuron, to join my army and renounce allegiance to you?" - -"Yes, your Majesty, and also those in Cologne, if such is your Majesty's -pleasure." - -"I have sent to Cologne ten thousand men, who are there to do fitting -honour to your high office, and you will thus be saved the trouble of -supporting a larger force than is necessary for your personal -requirements. You have no objection to this arrangement, I trust?" - -"None in the least, your Majesty, and as I take this to mean that your -gracious clemency is about to be extended to me, I most loyally and -gratefully thank your Majesty." - -"Then there is no more to be said, my Lord. Will you take your place at -my left, in company with your brother of Mayence, who is, I see, eager -to give you a cordial welcome." - -The Archbishop von Hochstaden took station beside the Archbishop of -Mayence, but such admirable control did the Prelate of the Upper Rhine -possess over his emotions, that no one would have suspected him of undue -delectation in receiving a penitent sinner back into the circle of the -righteous. - -"My Lord of Treves," said the Emperor, "you have heard the terms on -which I have consented to overlook the transgression against my rightful -authority committed by your friend and ally. This knowledge will, I -hope, make our conference brief. I therefore grant you a hearing." - -"I have to thank your Majesty for the privilege, but I am somewhat at a -loss to know what use to make of it. I was called hither for the purpose -of answering certain questions which I was led to understand your -Majesty would ask, and the unnecessary caution was given me that I -should make truthful rejoinder. If, then, your Majesty will further -favour me with the questions, I shall reply to the best of my poor -ability." - -"Oh, stands the case so, my Lord? You shall not be kept waiting. Why -have you dared to levy war in my dominion with my permission neither -asked nor received?" - -"I acted strictly within my rights. Heinrich of Thuron is my vassal. He -connived at the escape or abduction of my ward, the Countess Tekla, who, -flying from my strictly lawful control, sought refuge in Thuron. My -demand for her restoration was illegally refused, therefore I besieged -the castle, and it would long since have been a heap of ruins had I not -been fool enough to link myself with the craven coward to whom you have -just given place by your imperial side." - -"Was demand for restoration made of the Count before you attacked him?" - -"Yes, your Majesty; made and refused." - -"Am I right in stating that when such demand was made and refused, the -Count appealed to his Sovereign and yours?" - -"I heard nothing of such an appeal." - -"Who was your envoy?" - -"Count Bertrich." - -"Where is Count Bertrich now?" - -"He is at the head of my escort, outside this tent, having been refused -admission." - -"Let him be called." - -An intense silence had reigned during this colloquy between the Emperor -and the Archbishop. All eyes were now turned toward the entrance, and -presently Count Bertrich, accompanied by the messenger sent for him, -came in, and took his place before the dais near the spot where his -master stood. The Count blinked for a few moments, coming as he did from -the brilliant sunshine outside into the comparative obscurity of the -tent. At last he glanced about him, seeing many there whom he knew, all -standing silent as if something ominous had happened or was expected to -happen; finally his eye rested on the Emperor, and a look of amazed -incredulity came into his face on beholding before him the young man -whose life he had attempted. Ruddy as he was, the colour partially left -his cheeks, and he stared, open-eyed, at his Sovereign, receiving, -however, no glance of recognition in return. The Emperor sat -imperturbable, his face stern and inscrutable, giving the warrior time -to collect himself, then he spoke calmly. - -"I am told you are the envoy who carried the ultimatum of his Lordship -of Treves to Heinrich, Count of Thuron." - -"I was the envoy, your Majesty." - -"Is it a fact that the Count, in refusing the demand to give up his -castle to his Lordship, appealed to the Emperor?" - -"Yes, your Majesty." - -"Is it true that you claimed for your master special authority from the -Emperor, and that Count Heinrich said he would deliver up his stronghold -on the production of that authority?" - -"Yes, your Majesty." - -"Of course you acquainted your master with such important incidents?" - -"No, your Majesty. I immediately attacked the castle in defiance of the -wishes of my Lord of Treves, and entirely without his sanction. I alone -am to blame for the beginning of hostilities, from which, once begun, my -Lord could not withdraw without loss of prestige." - -"You did not then inform him of Count Heinrich's appeal until after your -unsuccessful assault?" - -"I have no remembrance of ever so informing him, your Majesty. Shortly -after the first attack I was wounded in the mouth and could not speak -for many days." - -"You have entirely recovered, I am pleased to see, and no doubt your -present speaking is much to the liking of the Archbishop. You -shamelessly admit, then, that you deceived your master, and at the same -time gravely wronged Count Heinrich of Thuron by neglecting to report -his appeal." - -"I fully admit it, your Majesty, and am prepared to suffer for my -crime." - -"Arrest this man, and see to it that he has no communication with any, -until sentence is passed upon him." - -The Archbishop of Treves, who had been visibly uneasy during the latter -part of this cross-examination, now intervened. - -"Your Majesty, permit me to mend an answer I gave to you. When I replied -that I knew nothing of such an appeal as Heinrich of Thuron is said to -have made----" - -"Said to have made, my Lord? The appeal is proven through the mouth of -your own envoy. It seems that the caution to speak the truth, of which -you complained, has been more than justified. I warn you, my Lord, that -you are treading on dangerous ground in thus attempting to juggle with -me." - -"I beg to say, your Majesty, that two years have passed since the events -under discussion took place, and men's memories are sometimes at fault -when even shorter periods are in question. For instance, my trusty ally, -who leaped so quickly into your Majesty's favour, doubtless forgets that -a few brief days since he bound himself solemnly to stand or fall with -me, whereas he has fallen alone--at your Majesty's feet." - -"I was coerced," explained Von Hochstaden. - -"There also your remembrance fails you, my valourous Lord. It was your -own proposition. But all this has nothing to do with the point in -argument, and it may be that Count Bertrich's loyalty has clouded his -memory, while it is possible that my own recollection has not been of -the best in dealing with doings long past, these doings having -connection with so unscrupulous a man as Heinrich of Thuron. His appeal -I did not consider as anything but a ruse to gain time. He well knew -that your Majesty was thousands of leagues away and that it would be -long before his petition could be heard; in truth, for two years, as -has been shown by your present return. Therefore, I paid no heed to an -invocation that was on the face of it dishonest. When Count Bertrich -says he acted without my orders he speaks the technical truth, but -everything he did had my most cordial approval, then and now; and, as I -have said before, if we had not been harnessed with a poltroon, we -should have had the castle within five days. It is futile, then, to -punish this underling, and let the chief culprit go, if my action be -adjudged censurable." - -"Your action is adjudged a crime." - -"Then I plead that, in justice, Count Bertrich should not suffer, being -under my command." - -"Your Lordship is not logical. Count Bertrich has himself confessed that -he acted without your sanction. Your crime is that you approved of an -illegal action, not that you gave illegal orders, which, it seems, you -did not." - -What motion the proud Prelate might have made at this juncture which -would have led to his inevitable destruction, can only be surmised, but, -happily for him, he cast a glance at his brethren of Cologne and -Mayence, and detected on their faces ill-concealed looks of triumph. It -meant much to them that the Lion of Treves should accomplish his own -ruin, and the stern face of the Emperor indicated that unqualified -submission must be made to him, if, indeed, such submission were not -already too long delayed. That brief gleam of triumph on the face of his -late ally saved von Isenberg. His manner instantly changed. - -"Your Majesty," he said in a penitential tone, "I am compelled to -confess that I am illogical, and that the case against me is but too -clear, looking at it from your Majesty's higher point of view, -unburdened by the prejudice, and, perhaps I should add with shame, the -hatred which has enveloped me. I have no excuse to offer, and there is -nothing left for me to hope, except that the clemency which you so -generously bestowed on others you may extend to--Count Bertrich." - -The Emperor's face lightened, and something almost approaching a smile -touched his lips as he saw that the haughty Archbishop, in spite of his -evident intention to sue for favour when he began, could not bring -himself to beg for any save a friend. The Emperor ignored his lack of -pleading for himself, and said: - -"Are you content to return to Treves and accept the protection which my -soldiers will deem it an honour to supply?" - -"I am content, your Majesty." - -"Are you content to allow your men now gathered round Thuron to join -those under my standard?" - -"I am content, your Majesty." - -"Are you content to give up the guardianship of the Countess Tekla?" - -"It has brought me little profit and some loss of prestige, so I am well -rid of it. I am content, your Majesty." - -The Emperor rose from his throne and descended the steps of the dais, -extending his hand. - -"My Lord Archbishop," he said, "I hope from this day forward to count -you one of my friends." - -"In truth, your Majesty," replied von Isenberg dryly, "I would rather -have you my friend than my enemy." - -"It is a sentiment which finds an echo in my own breast," responded the -Emperor with undeniable amity, and casting a sharp glance on Count -Bertrich, he added: "Is that defective memory of yours local or general, -my Lord Count?" - -"It is universal, your Majesty. Men whom I have met two years ago I -could not recognise to-day." - -"Ah! Such misfortunes, deplorable as they may seem, are not without -their compensation, my Lord." - -Saying this, the Emperor mounted the dais, and in a few brief sentences -made congratulatory reference to the peaceable adjustment, thus -dismissing the assemblage. - - - - -CHAPTER XLII. - -TEKLA REPLENISHES HER WARDROBE. - - -The Countess Tekla leaned long over the parapet of Castle Thuron, gazing -sadly into the night. The brilliant moonlight seemed a mockery of former -happiness, now that she stood bathed in it alone. Into the darkness of -the forest, into the uncertainty of the future, her lover had gone, -confident that his single arm would bring rescue to the besieged; and -the girl, melancholy as she was at the parting, felt as assured of his -success as if it were already accomplished. He had been compelled to -steal away in the shadow of the trees, as cautiously and secretly as if -he were on a mission of death, but she was sure he would return openly -and triumphantly as a champion of life. Her dreamy eyes lost sight of -the dark wood, and she saw in imagination her hero at the head of his -men break through the iron cordon which had so long encompassed the -castle, bringing, with ringing cheers, succour to the oppressed. At -last, with dimmed eyes and a deep sigh, the girl turned and beheld the -ghost-like vision of Hilda standing there, silently weeping. - -"Oh, Hilda, how you startled me. Why are you sorrowing?" - -"So many terrible things have happened to-night, my Lady, that I am -filled with fear. I weep because I have lost my lover," said Hilda, -simply. - -"Yes, Hilda, the cruel wood has hidden him, but he will soon return, so -have no fears. And, Hilda, listen. We are two women alone together, and -I think women are alike whatever their station; lady or serf, what can -they do but weep when their lovers leave them? My own eyes are wet, -Hilda, because my lover went with yours!" - -"The Lord Rodolph, my Lady?" exclaimed Hilda, her curiosity and -match-making instinct mastering her emotion. - -"The Lord Rodolph, Hilda." - -"Oh, my Lady, I am glad." - -"Are you, Hilda?" cried the girl, embracing her. "So am I. Now let us -forget our mutual grief in our mutual joy. Walk with me along this -promenade, here in the moonlight, and tell me about it. Where did you -meet, and what did he say to you? Do lovers talk the same language all -the world over? I believe they do; a language understood only by -themselves, and untranslatable to others. What did he tell you, Hilda?" - -"I do not remember, my Lady," said Hilda, as they walked together up and -down; Hilda with drooping head. "We met, and were with each other, and -seemed to want nothing more, and the words did not matter. Sometimes he -said the moon shone brightly, or, in the darkness, that the stars -twinkled, and yet I knew he was speaking of me and not of the moon or -the stars, and that I was thinking of him!" - -"Yes," said Tekla, with a sigh, "the moon shines and the stars twinkle -and we think how beautiful they are, but that is because he is here, for -now the moon shines as brightly for others, perhaps, but not for us, -because he is absent, and we see none of the former beauty in the -shining, but only the brilliant loneliness; the empty night." - -Hilda glanced timorously about her when her lady spoke of the night, for -the events of the evening had so unnerved her that even the thought of -her rescued lover could not turn her mind from the dangers which -surrounded them. Everything seemed peaceful, but everything had seemed -peaceful when Conrad was suddenly pounced upon, and all but hanged. She -shuddered and said tremblingly: - -"Is it safe for us to walk thus conspicuously on the battlements? Is it -not dangerous?" - -"Dangerous?" cried the Countess, clasping her hands, and gazing with -rapture along the promenade. "It is the most dangerous spot on earth, -Hilda, and the most delicious." - -"Then let us leave it, my Lady. An archer might mark us out, for the -enemy are doubtless lingering near, although unseen by us." - -"It is too late, Hilda. An archer has already marked me out and has shot -me through the heart, all on these battlements, yet I cared little, for -I had been mortally wounded before." - -Hilda looked with dismay at the Countess standing there oblivious to her -surroundings, forgetting even that she had a companion, the moonlight -enfolding her in its gentle radiance. From this wild talk of archers and -wounding, Hilda feared that reason had fled from her beloved mistress, -but the Countess, guessing her thought, turned suddenly toward her and -laughed. - -"Yes, Hilda, reason has deserted me, and I have before now on this spot -acted directly contrary to its teachings, and yet am I without regret. -But we must talk no more of lovers and the moonlight, nor even of the -subdued twinkling of the stars, and to show you how practical I am, I -will tell you what we are to do these coming few days, so that we may -think of nothing but that we have in hand. I have not yet told you, -Hilda, how glad I am that you are with me again, and how much I missed -you all these long months. I am so helpless without you, and these hands -are as useless--as useless----" - -"They are most beautiful, my Lady." - -"Yes, he said that, and it therefore must be true," murmured the -Countess, looking down at her fair hands as impartially as if they -belonged to someone else, as indeed they did. "What could he see in me, -Hilda, to wish for me? I am obstinate and unruly. I left my guardian in -a most unmaidenly manner; I am often defiant to all rightful authority, -and have rebelled when my uncle has commanded. He knows all this, for -he aided me in my flight, and he has seen me face my uncle in anger, and -yet--and yet--Why is it, Hilda?" - -"You are the most lovely lady on this earth, Countess Tekla." - -"That cannot be, for I have heard there are the fairest ladies in -Frankfort, at the Court, that man has ever looked upon, yet he came from -Frankfort, and from the Emperor's Court, and must have seen them. Even -were it true what you say, I would not have him love me for that alone. -I care for him, not because he is the noblest and best in all the land, -but because he is Rodolph, and he--perhaps he cares for me because I am -Tekla. It is all a mystery which I cannot fathom. I left my guardian -knowing nothing of Rodolph, and now it seems as if I must always have -known him, and that he was waiting for me, as in truth he was. But here -am I talking of him again, after saying I would think no more until he -returned. Oh yes, I remember now what I wished to tell you, when your -flattery about my hands set me off on the familiar path. Hilda, in this -castle I have made a wonderful discovery. Ah, I have made more than one -unlooked-for discovery since I inhabited Thuron, for nothing is more -wonderful or more entrancing than that I should have discovered his--Oh, -Hilda, shall I ever talk sanely again? I doubt it." - -"What discovery in the castle, my Lady?" - -"Oh, that there is here a veritable robber's cave, such as the minstrels -sing about." - -"Indeed, such is what they call the castle itself down in Alken." - -"Do they? I wonder why. Hilda, there is in Thuron an enchanted room; I -know it is enchanted, for the light is dim, and the ghosts of bygone -ladies haunt it continually." - -"Oh, my Lady," cried Hilda, horror-stricken. "You have not been near it, -I hope." - -"How could I keep out of it, or how blame the poor ghosts for wandering -through it? The room is filled with the most wonderful webs of cloth, of -every dye, some filmy as spider's weaving, some thick as armour. Had one -the art to fashion it into women's garments, there is enough within that -room to clothe most richly all the ladies of the Court at Frankfort. How -came my uncle by this cloth, or what use can he have for it, I cannot -imagine, but I am sure the ghosts of all the ladies for whom the webs -were intended must haunt the place, sorrowful that they had never an -opportunity of wearing the unmade apparel. When I enter the room I wave -my hand and bid the ghosts begone, and then, being sorry for my cruelty, -I spread out the cloth so that they may see how beautiful it is and of -what rare texture, for the poor ghosts cannot do this by themselves. -Come with me, Hilda, and I will show you the room." - -"Oh no, no, my Lady. I dare not venture in it. I would rather face all -the Archbishop's troops than those dead ghosts." - -"Nonsense, child. There is really nothing there to fright you, and if I -can enter the room often and often alone, surely you will not hang back -when I am with you. You shall devise most lovely costumes for us both, -so that when our lovers return we shall enslave them anew, and in the -making of our robes we shall have something more practical to think of -than the glamour of the moonlight. Why did you not teach me to sew, -Hilda? I never knew what a useless creature I was until I stood among -all that rare assortment, enough to delight any woman's eye, and had no -skill in the fashioning of the smallest piece of it. Then did I sit down -and selfishly weep because you were not with me. And I have selected one -web of quiet hue, but rich in texture, finely spun, which you shall make -for my aunt, poor lady, who has never had anything to wear that she -might be proud of. Come, Hilda, bring a lamp to ward off the darkness, -and I shall keep the ghosts away from you." - -Hilda, encouraged by the presence of the Countess, ventured into the -silken store-room, containing the unwilling tribute of many a merchant -to the potentate of Thuron, and once within the haunted chamber, was -soon so much absorbed in the cutting of the material selected, and the -fitting of it on the lovely model who posed before her, that all fear of -spiritual onlookers fled, and so deft was the fair seamstress in the -passion of her occupation that she would have measured and fitted even a -ghost if the apparition had presented itself before her with a -sepulchral request for a garment. When the attire of the Countess was -completed, the lady then began to wonder, not without an admixture of -apprehension, what her turbulent uncle would say when this mutilation of -his goods came to his knowledge, and so resolved to settle the question -once for all before Rodolph returned. Tekla entered the great dining -hall, arrayed in all her splendour, her heart fluttering with anxiety -regarding her reception, yet she was in a measure sustained by that -feeling of confidence which comes to those who know they are handsomely -attired. Heinrich's wife was so startled that she gasped in terror and -cast an apprehensive glance at her husband, as his niece glided with -apparent composure into the room. The Black Count himself looked up, but -noticing no difference, merely grumbled that Tekla was late and went on -with his scanty meal. - - - - -CHAPTER XLIII. - -THE COUNTESS AND THE EMPEROR. - - -One morning word came hurriedly to the Count that there was a commotion -near Alken, an attack being feared. Heinrich ascended to the battlements -without haste and without enthusiasm. If an assault came he would repel -it if he could, but he had little heart in the prospect of a fight, and -as little hope of ultimate success. He had welcomed the departure of -Rodolph and his two companions, largely because their going left three -mouths less to feed, but he had such small faith in Rodolph's proffer of -rescue that all thought of the young man had already gone from his mind. - -Reaching the battlements, he saw on the plain to the south of the -village evidence of something unusual in progress. Bugles were blowing, -and men from the tents and the lines were hurriedly concentrating at a -point where they seemed called upon to oppose some unexpected force. A -man on horseback was listening to the protests of an officer of the -Archbishop, who gesticulated violently, and apparently all answer the -horseman made was to point to the flag which waved above him. What the -flag was that lazily floated above its staff, Heinrich could not make -out, but presently the horseman gave a signal to one of his buglers, and -a trumpet call rang along the valley, and was echoed mockingly from the -rocks opposite Alken. In a short space of time there came out from the -shelter of the village, along the river street, soldiers marching four -abreast, one line following another so closely that they seemed to tread -on each other's heels, quartette after quartette, as if the village -were some huge reservoir of men, and was belching them forth in such -numbers that there was little wonder the Archbishop's officers stood -helpless before this display of military power. At last the movement -stopped, and the soldiers were halted four deep, standing at ease with -their formidable array of lances bristling above them. Again the mounted -man seemed to prefer his request or command, and this time heed was -given it. The Archbishop's troops parted, leaving an open space, and -through this came, not the soldiers who had the moment before exhibited -their numbers, but laden animals with attendants, led by the officer on -horseback. The procession came up the zig-zag path that ended at the -castle gates, and every man of Thuron's garrison, who now clustered on -the walls, raised a simultaneous cheer. They recognised the move as a -break in the Archbishop's cordon, and vociferously acclaimed that help -and food were coming to them. - -Count Heinrich, however, was no optimist. His naturally suspicious mind -caused him to imagine that here was merely another trick of his enemy of -Treves, and he stood silent and grim, with arms folded across his -breast, watching distrustfully the ascending cavalcade; and thus he -remained until the trumpeter summoned the gate. - -The mounted officer rode boldly forward as if he feared no rebuff. -"Count Heinrich of Thuron," he cried to the motionless figure that stood -like a lowering statue on the platform above the gate. "I greet you in -the name of his Majesty, the Emperor, and am commanded by him to deliver -to you food and wine, which I bring with me. I await your orders -regarding their bestowal within your castle." - -"How am I to know that you come from the Emperor, his Majesty being at -this moment in Palestine." - -"The Emperor Rodolph has returned, my Lord, and is now at the head of -his army, gathered on the plain to the east of Thuron. His troops have -surrounded the camp of the Archbishops, and it is his Majesty's will -that this siege be immediately raised. My orders were to force a passage -through to your gates if resistance were offered, but that was not -necessary, as the Archbishops' officers made way for us when they found -themselves confronted by overwhelming opposition; besides, they lacked -orders from the Archbishops, who are now themselves besieged and cannot -communicate with their captains." - -A fierce fire lit up the eyes of the Black Count, and he glanced over -his shoulder in the direction of the Archbishops' camp to see if there -were any sign of the environment of which the imperial messenger spoke. -A low murmur, not unlike a growl, broke from his own men, impatient at -the delay. The animal was hungry and scented its food. - -"Open the gates," cried Heinrich, and the growl changed into a cheer -again. The Count knew that if this were a trap he had no option but to -fall into it, for they could not hold out longer. The gates were thrown -open and relief entered. - -Willing hands speedily unpacked the hampers. Many of the meats were -already prepared for the table, well cooked and temptingly garnished. It -required all the terror of the Count's eye to prevent his men from -rushing forward and helping themselves. The master of Thuron appreciated -the tension and saw that this was no time for delay or the display of -undue authority. "Make the parapets your table," he shouted, "and the -battlements your dining hall. You shall feast in sight of the -Archbishops, if they care to look on. Fall to, and wait no ceremony." - -Never was even Count Heinrich's command obeyed more promptly. The -Emperor had been thoughtful and had sent a staff of cooks, with the -material for their manipulation, and this was the more welcome when -Count Heinrich heard, with something like consternation, that it was the -Emperor's intention to visit Castle Thuron that day and dine with its -master. This was an honour for which Count Heinrich felt himself in no -way prepared, nor was it a distinction which he coveted. He paced the -large room gloomily when the envoy had left him, pondering over his -predicament, for he was not accustomed to the etiquette of courts, and -had little practice in the bending of the knee. Upon his dilemma there -suddenly intruded the radiant presence of his niece, aglow with -excitement. He glared moodily at her approach. - -"Is it true," she cried, "that the Emperor is to visit us?" - -"I fear so," growled the Count. - -"Fear so, Uncle? I am ashamed of you. How can you say you fear, when the -moment he returned from the East he came to your rescue, no doubt as -soon as my Lord Rodolph acquainted him with your position." - -"It is not likely Lord Rodolph had anything to do with it. I have heard -nothing of Lord Rodolph." - -"Nevertheless, you will soon hear of him, and he it was who caused this -quick rescue to be brought about. Rodolph will come to the castle by the -side of the Emperor, and I will not have him ashamed of us." - -"It matters not to me what Lord Rodolph thinks; if he has indeed had a -hand in this, I wish him well for it." - -"But the Emperor is coming! The Emperor is coming. Everything else gives -way to that. We shall see him and speak with him, and he shall know that -here are his most loyal subjects assembled. We must receive him -royally." - -"What can we do? He comes--well, let him come. He has sent his dinner -and the cooks to prepare it, so in God's name we will allow him to eat -it, since it belongs to him, but what further can we do? I can say -good-day to him, but if you expect me to bow and kneel and scrape to -him, by the Holy Coat, I will leave the castle first." - -"You shall do nothing of the kind. You shall put under my orders every -man you have; there is work enough for them all to do. Hilda, come -here." - -Hilda, who had been standing at the door, came forward. - -"Hilda, throw open the ghost room and tell a dozen of the men to carry -down bales of cloth: the crimson silk to this room, the purple and blue -and scarlet webs to the courtyard." - -"What?" roared the Black Count. "What do you know of those bales?" - -"Everything, my Lord Uncle. I have rummaged all corners of the room and -am thoroughly conversant with what it contains. And, Hilda, tell them to -bring here the crimson silk first and I will show them how to festoon -it." - -"You are mad," cried her uncle, wrathfully, but standing before her -uncertain what to do. - -"Yes, with joy. I am to see the Emperor, and my Lord Rodolph, for I know -they come in company. And now, what can I do with you? Your armour -should be scoured, and--no, you are hopeless. I cannot festoon you with -red silk, my Uncle, so I shall not attempt to improve you. You look like -a great bear, and such indeed you are, but the Emperor, who is a fighter -himself, will esteem valour in whatever shape it presents itself. He may -have seen rougher men in the East, although I doubt it. Now go and tell -your garrison that I have taken charge of the castle until the Emperor -arrives, and wear just such a scowl as is now on your face when you -order them to obey me." - -The helpless man laughed scornfully, but nevertheless made no objection, -feeling that he had reached a situation which was beyond him, and that -possibly his confident niece would retrieve the honour of his house. - -In a marvellously short time, under Tekla's crisp direction, the -appearance of the castle was completely changed, and old Thuron would -not have known itself, so bravely was it decked with silk and bunting, -to the great depletion of his Lordship's stores. The Black Count made no -attempt to smarten himself and thus follow the example of his castle, -but wandered impatiently about, accoutred as he was and always had -been, not knowing what to do with himself, manifestly ill at ease, -alternately frowning and grimacing at the preparations and decorating -going on around him. Once there arose a cry that the Emperor was in -sight, and Tekla, in despair, wrung her hands that he came so soon, but -it was a false alarm, and Heinrich, going to the battlements, saw with a -savage joy that the cause of the commotion was the striking of the tents -belonging to the Archbishop's army. The two years' siege was at last -raised. The Black Count lifted his clenched fist towards the unoffending -sky and hoarsely cursed the departing legion. - -From her fear that his Majesty would come too soon, the Countess began -to apprehend that he would not come at all. The improvised carpet had -been laid between the castle doorway and the gates; broad red cloth -flanked by two webs of blue. Purple was looped over the archway, and -gaudy streamers floated from the walls. - -At last the detachment which had marched through the village began to -ascend the slope, and soon from castle gate to river bank they lined -each side of the way, forming an avenue of erect lances. Ringing cheers -sounded from the village, marking the imperial progress, for the whole -population of the country roundabout had turned out: even the opposite -banks of the Moselle were thronged by thousands who could not get -across. - -The Countess Tekla, accompanied by her aunt, stood on the battlements to -get thus the first view of the Emperor, although she had commanded her -uncle to be in readiness, the moment his Majesty appeared below, to take -his place at the open gate, where, supported by his two women folk, he -was to offer his Sovereign the castle and the devotion of all within it. -Presently horsemen appeared advancing past the southern end of the -village, numbering, perhaps, two score, then there was an interval, and -all onlookers knew at once it was the Emperor in his glittering armour -who rode the prancing white horse, with but one attendant by his side. -Following him came another troop of horse, and thus ascended to Castle -Thuron the Emperor Rodolph, who but a short time before had slipped away -from it, a fugitive in the night. - -Those manning the walls of the castle raised a great cheer when they saw -his Majesty, and Tekla could scarce refrain from clapping her hands at -the brave spectacle. The Black Count looked at the cavalcade with the -sombre discontent of one surveying a funeral procession, and Hilda -sighed when she saw but a single attendant accompanying the Emperor. - -"Uncle, if you will lead us down, we will now take our places at the -gate," said Tekla, her voice quavering with conflicting emotions. - -The Count obeyed in silence, and stood awkwardly, muttering low -maledictions at this mummery, yet knowing there was nothing before him -but endurance. His wife took up her position, trembling, at his right -and his niece at his left. - -The foremost horsemen ranged themselves on each side of the gate, their -evolutions, for the moment, concealing the chief personage from the view -of those standing in the portal. When the Emperor rode forward with -Conrad at his side, Tekla cried out as one in fear, then for a moment -leaned against her uncle for support. Heinrich looked at her white face, -not knowing what ailed her, and was about to speak roughly, as was his -custom, when she gasped hurriedly under her breath: - -"Uncle, uncle, look. Who is the Emperor?" - -The Black Count turned his gaze once more to the front and cried: - -"By my sins, it is no Emperor at all, but Lord Rodolph." - -Tekla, quicker of comprehension, whispered, holding bravely off the -faintness that had suddenly come upon her: - -"Lord Rodolph is the Emperor." - -Rodolph swung himself lightly from the horse before Conrad could put -hand to stirrup, and advanced quickly towards them, the cavalry coming -to a halt behind him. - -"My Lord Count," he cried, "you see how easy it is to take your castle -when a real warrior comes against it." - -The Count, having no answer at hand, made none, being troubled in his -mind whether or no he should kneel, but if this neglect to bend the knee -was a breach of Court etiquette, he was pleased to note that the Emperor -was little likely to take heed of it. His Majesty had eyes for none but -the Countess Tekla, who appeared indeed a queen in the stately robes -that became her so well. Rodolph seemed suddenly stricken dumb by her -beauty, for all the colour had fled from her face, leaving it like -chiselled marble, as she stood demurely with her eyes bent on the -ground. - -"Tekla," he murmured, taking her hand with deep reverence, and raising -it to his lips, "is the Prince who returns as welcome as the unknown -Lord would have been?" - -"Yes----your Majesty," whispered Tekla, casting a swift glance at him, -the colour again touching her cheeks. - -"And is Countess Tekla willing to become Empress Tekla?" - -"The delight of a loyal subject is to obey the imperial command," she -said, a smile coming at last to her lips. - -Again the Emperor raised her hand and kissed it. - -"I suppose," growled the Black Count, gruffly, "there is no further need -of my standing here like a fool." - -The Emperor laughed heartily, and the Countess Tekla joined him. The -tensity of the situation was at once relieved by the unmannerly remark -of the master of Thuron. - -"No, my Lord, no. What the Countess and I have to say to each other may -be very well said without listeners, and it is a pity a man should not -enter his own house without asking permission. Ah, Hilda," he continued -on seeing the girl, "I have made Conrad a Lord, and he tells me that in -spite of his nobility, he loves a maid of low degree, and so we shall -soon all be noble who once ventured our for tunes in a slight skiff on -the Moselle Tekla," he whispered, as they entered the castle together, -"you have now no guardian, for his Lordship of Treves willingly resigns -control over so rebellious a vassal. Peace reigneth in the land, and -there will be no fewer than three Archbishops at our marriage." - - - - -_No Field Collection is Complete Without this Book_ - - -A LITTLE BOOK _of_ TRIBUNE VERSE - -_By_ EUGENE FIELD - -Compiled and edited by JOSEPH G. 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You may copy it, give it away or -re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included -with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license - - -Title: Tekla - A Romance of Love and War - -Author: Robert Barr - -Release Date: April 10, 2016 [EBook #51717] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK TEKLA *** - - - - -Produced by Martin Pettit and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images generously made available by The -Internet Archive) - - - - - - -</pre> - - -<div class = "mynote"><p class="center">Transcriber's Note:<br /><br /> -Obvious typographic errors have been corrected.<br /></p></div> - -<hr /> - -<div class="center"><a name="cover.jpg" id="cover.jpg"></a><img src="images/cover.jpg" alt="cover" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p class="bold2">TEKLA</p> - -<hr /> - -<div class="center"><img src="images/titlepage.jpg" alt="title page" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<h1>TEKLA</h1> - -<p class="bold2">A ROMANCE OF LOVE AND WAR</p> - -<p class="bold">BY</p> - -<p class="bold2">ROBERT BARR</p> - -<p class="bold">Author of "A CHICAGO PRINCESS," "THE<br />MUTABLE MANY," Etc.</p> - -<div class="center space-above"><img src="images/dec.jpg" alt="decoration" /></div> - -<p class="bold space-above">GROSSET & DUNLAP<br /> -PUBLISHERS :: :: NEW YORK</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Copyright</span>, 1898<br /> -<span class="smcap">By</span> ROBERT BARR</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="center">TO</p> - -<p class="center">THE COUNTESS LAURA</p> - -<hr /> - -<h2>CONTENTS.</h2> - -<hr class="smler" /> - -<table summary="CONTENTS"> - <tr> - <td colspan="2" class="left"><span class="smaller">CHAPTER</span></td> - <td><span class="smaller">PAGE</span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>I.</td> - <td class="left"> THE EMPEROR ENTERS TREVES</td> - <td><a href="#Page_1">1</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>II.</td> - <td class="left"> THE ARCHER INTRODUCES HIMSELF</td> - <td><a href="#Page_13">13</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>III.</td> - <td class="left"> LISTENERS HEAR LITTLE GOOD OF THEMSELVES</td> - <td><a href="#Page_28">28</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>IV.</td> - <td class="left"> THE EMPEROR DISAPPEARS</td> - <td><a href="#Page_42">42</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>V.</td> - <td class="left"> LOVE LEADS THE WAY</td> - <td><a href="#Page_55">55</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>VI.</td> - <td class="left"> AN UNWISHED-FOR MARRIAGE DAY</td> - <td><a href="#Page_62">62</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>VII.</td> - <td class="left"> THE FLIGHT OF THE COUNTESS</td> - <td><a href="#Page_69">69</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>VIII.</td> - <td class="left"> THE RAPIER AND THE BROADSWORD</td> - <td><a href="#Page_80">80</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>IX.</td> - <td class="left"> A PALATIAL PRISON</td> - <td><a href="#Page_92">92</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>X.</td> - <td class="left"> THE INTERCEPTED FUGITIVES</td> - <td><a href="#Page_99">99</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XI.</td> - <td class="left"> IN QUEST OF A WIFE WITH A TROOP OF HORSE</td> - <td><a href="#Page_112">112</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XII.</td> - <td class="left"> CUPID'S BOW GIVES PLACE TO THE ARCHER'S</td> - <td><a href="#Page_123">123</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XIII.</td> - <td class="left"> THE BLACK COUNT IS PERSUADED NOT TO HANG HIS EMPEROR</td> - <td><a href="#Page_134">134</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XIV.</td> - <td class="left"> A RELUCTANT WELCOME</td> - <td><a href="#Page_148">148</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XV.</td> - <td class="left"> CASTLE THURON MAKES A FULL MEAL</td> - <td><a href="#Page_158">158</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XVI.</td> - <td class="left"> THE COUNTESS TRIES TO TAME THE BEAR</td> - <td><a href="#Page_174">174</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XVII.</td> - <td class="left"> THE ENVOY'S DISASTROUS RETURN</td> - <td><a href="#Page_184">184</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XVIII.</td> - <td class="left"> A TWO-HANDED SWORD TEACHES DEPORTMENT</td> - <td><a href="#Page_198">198</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XIX.</td> - <td class="left"> A MAN AND A WOMAN MEET BY TORCHLIGHT</td> - <td><a href="#Page_209">209</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XX.</td> - <td class="left"> A BREAKFAST ON THE TOP OF THE SOUTH TOWER</td> - <td><a href="#Page_217">217</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXI.</td> - <td class="left"> AN EXPERIMENT IN DIPLOMACY</td> - <td><a href="#Page_228">228</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXII.</td> - <td class="left"> THE FIRST ATTACK ON CASTLE THURON</td> - <td><a href="#Page_234">234</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXIII.</td> - <td class="left"> THE TWO ARCHBISHOPS FALL OUT</td> - <td><a href="#Page_245">245</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXIV.</td> - <td class="left"> COUNT BERTRICH EXPLAINS HIS FAILURE</td> - <td><a href="#Page_256">256</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXV.</td> - <td class="left"> THE SECOND ASSAULT ON THE CASTLE</td> - <td><a href="#Page_260">260</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXVI.</td> - <td class="left"> AN ILLUMINATED NIGHT ATTACK ON THURON</td> - <td><a href="#Page_269">269</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXVII.</td> - <td class="left"> THE TWO YEARS' SIEGE BEGINS</td> - <td><a href="#Page_277">277</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXVIII.</td> - <td class="left"> THE SECOND ARCHER ANNOUNCES HIMSELF</td> - <td><a href="#Page_284">284</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXIX.</td> - <td class="left"> CONRAD VENTURES HIS LIFE FOR HIS LOVE</td> - <td><a href="#Page_294">294</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXX.</td> - <td class="left"> THE STRUGGLE IN THE DARK</td> - <td><a href="#Page_304">304</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXI.</td> - <td class="left"> BRAVE NEWS OF THE EMPEROR</td> - <td><a href="#Page_313">313</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXII.</td> - <td class="left"> "FOR YOUR LOVE I WOULD DEFY FATE."</td> - <td><a href="#Page_327">327</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXIII.</td> - <td class="left"> A GRIM INTERRUPTION TO A LOVERS' MEETING</td> - <td><a href="#Page_336">336</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXIV.</td> - <td class="left"> THE BLACK COUNT'S DEFIANCE</td> - <td><a href="#Page_351">351</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXV.</td> - <td class="left"> THE NIGHT ESCAPE OF THE EMPEROR</td> - <td><a href="#Page_363">363</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXVI.</td> - <td class="left"> THE FIVE BILLETLESS ARROWS</td> - <td><a href="#Page_371">371</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXVII.</td> - <td class="left"> THE TRAITOR AND HIS PRICE</td> - <td><a href="#Page_378">378</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXVIII.</td> - <td class="left"> THE INCOGNITO FALLS</td> - <td><a href="#Page_385">385</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXIX.</td> - <td class="left"> THE EMPEROR AT THE HEAD OF HIS ARMY</td> - <td><a href="#Page_396">396</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XL.</td> - <td class="left"> THE ARCHBISHOPS ENVIRONED WITH A RING OF IRON</td> - <td><a href="#Page_403">403</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XLI.</td> - <td class="left"> "WHY HAVE YOU DARED TO LEVY WAR?"</td> - <td><a href="#Page_413">413</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XLII.</td> - <td class="left"> TEKLA REPLENISHES HER WARDROBE</td> - <td><a href="#Page_423">423</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XLIII.</td> - <td class="left"> THE COUNTESS AND THE EMPEROR</td> - <td><a href="#Page_429">429</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[Pg 1]</a></span></p> - -<p class="bold2">TEKLA.</p> - -<hr class="smler" /> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER I.</span> <span class="smaller">THE EMPEROR ENTERS TREVES.</span></h2> - -<p>The Romans had long since departed, but their handiwork remained—a thin -line laid like a whiplash across the broad country—a road. It extended -northwestward from Frankfort and passed, as straight as might be, -through the almost trackless forest that lay to the south of Moselle; -for the great highway-builders had little patience with time-consuming -curves; thus the road ranged over hill and down dale without shirking -whatever came before it. Nearing the western terminus, it passed along -high lands, through a level unbroken forest. A wayfarer, after -travelling many monotonous leagues, came suddenly to an opening in the -timber, and found himself on the brow of a hill, confronted with a scene -amazing in extent, well calculated to arrest his progress and cause him -to regard with admiration, the wide spread landscape beneath and beyond. -The scene was the more startling that it burst unexpectedly on the view, -after miles of trees that seemed innumerable, hemming in, with their -unvarying cloak of green, the outlook of the traveller.</p> - -<p>At the brow of the hill there had paused two men, excellently mounted, -who now, with slackened rein, allowed their evidently exhausted horses -to stand, while they gazed upon this prospect. The younger man was -slightly in advance of his comrade, and sat easily on his horse, with -hand on hip; while the other, an arm extended, was pointing to the city<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[Pg 2]</a></span> -lying far below. The age of the former might have been anything between -twenty-five and thirty-five: he was, in truth, twenty-eight years old at -the time he first came within sight of this western city. He wore the -dress of a young gallant of that period, with a light rapier by his -side, but was otherwise unarmed. His costume indicated no special -distinction, and would not have prepared a listener for the manner in -which his fellow-traveller addressed him.</p> - -<p>"That, your Majesty," he said, "is the ancient town of Treves."</p> - -<p>The young Emperor turned his eyes from the city to his companion.</p> - -<p>"It may be well to remember, Siegfried," he said, speaking slowly, "that -his Majesty is now far from here on his way to the Holy Land, and that -he who has, for the first time, looked upon Treves, is plain Rodolph the -traveller, abroad to see something of the land the Emperor is supposed -to rule, and which his loyal subjects, the Archbishops of Treves and -Cologne, intend to rule for him."</p> - -<p>Siegfried bowed low and said, "I will remember," checking himself barely -in time from repeating again the title of his listener.</p> - -<p>"A trifle less deference, I beg of you, Siegfried. An erect head and a -tongue not too civil may make my way easier in the fair city of Treves. -Where flows the Moselle?"</p> - -<p>"Between that cliff and the city. You may see it yonder to the right, -below the town, and again along the plain in the distance above it."</p> - -<p>"Is that the Archbishop's palace in the wall?"</p> - -<p>"No, it is the Black Gate of the Romans. The palace of the Archbishop -lies to the south by the Roman Basilica yonder. The cathedral whose -spire you see, stands midway between the Porta Nigra and the palace."</p> - -<p>"Think you we may be questioned narrowly when we enter?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span></p><p>"Oh, no. Many come because of the Archbishop's Court, which is said to -outshine the Emperor's at Frankfort."</p> - -<p>"Ah, that is better, Siegfried. Now is the Emperor indeed well on his -way to meet the infidel Saracen when we talk freely of him in his -absence. Shall we then pass unchallenged through the gate?"</p> - -<p>"Without doubt. There is also much traffic of trade between Frankfort -and Treves, and interchange of visitors."</p> - -<p>"We met but few on the road, Siegfried."</p> - -<p>"True. The traffic is mainly by the river. Merchants frequent the boats -going down, but many traverse the road from Frankfort. Had we been -journeying eastward we should have met more travellers."</p> - -<p>"That sounds like a riddle, Siegfried. There must be a glut of Frankfort -horses in Treves, if all their riders return by boat."</p> - -<p>"The horses go by boat as well to Coblentz, then are ridden along the -Rhine to Frankfort."</p> - -<p>"Ah, that is the solution, is it? Well, let us get on to Treves, and try -our fortune at cozening the guards if we are questioned."</p> - -<p>Downward rode the two, toward the ancient city, the horses refreshed by -the halt at the top of the hill. The great cliff by the side of the -unseen Moselle seemed to rise higher and higher into the sky as they -descended, until it stood like a huge rampart over the walled town. -Reaching level ground again, the riders took a westerly direction, -bending their course so that they might enter the city by the northern -gate. As they approached, it became evident that a throng was gathered -on each side of the port, the way in the centre being kept clear by -mounted soldiery.</p> - -<p>"You are versed in the manners of Treves," said the Emperor, "knowing -all of note within its walls—what think you then is going forward at -the gate? Is it well for us to attempt entrance now, or are we more -likely to pass unnoticed in the press?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span></p><p>"It is probable that the Archbishop and his train are about to pass -outward to his villa or water palace, as some call it. He travels in -state, and there are always many onlookers."</p> - -<p>"Where is his water palace?"</p> - -<p>"On the Moselle, near Zurlauben, a short half-hour's ride from the -gate."</p> - -<p>"This then gives us excellent opportunity of seeing Arnold von Isenberg, -Archbishop of Treves, ourselves unseen in the throng. Shall we wait his -coming outside or inside the gate?"</p> - -<p>"We were better outside, I think, for then we may enter unquestioned -with the press of people when the show is over."</p> - -<p>Thus the two horsemen ranged themselves by the side of the road with -others also on horseback, merchants, travellers, messengers and the -like, while the crowd on foot shifted here and there to find standing -room that commanded a view. Mounted men-at-arms rode hither and thither, -roughly keeping the way clear and the mob in check, buffeting with their -pike-handles those who were either reluctant or slow to move. The -clattering of horses' shod hoofs on the stone-paved narrow street within -the gate announced the coming of the cortège.</p> - -<p>"Off with your hat, fellow," cried one of the men-at-arms, raising his -pike. "His Lordship, the Archbishop, comes."</p> - -<p>Rodolph's quick hand sought his sword-hilt, but a touch on his arm from -his comrade recalled him to a sense of his position. He changed the -downward motion of his hand to an upward one, and speedily doffed his -cap, seeing now that every one else was uncovered, for the haughty -Archbishop allowed no disrespect abroad when he took an airing.</p> - -<p>First came a troop of landsknecht, numbering perhaps a score, then, with -an interval between, the Archbishop and his train, followed at a slight -distance by another score of horsemen.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span></p><p>Arnold von Isenberg sat upright on his black charger, looking much more -the soldier than the churchman. On the further side of him rode a -middle-aged nobleman, with whom the Archbishop now and then exchanged a -word. Count Bertrich never could have been handsome, and the red scar -from a sabre cut over his nose had in no way added to his personal -attractions, but his fame throughout the land as a fighter of both skill -and courage, caused him to be reckoned a favourite with the electoral -prelate, who had usually more need of warriors round him than of the -numerous court gallants who followed in his train, and were now -conversing in low tones with the ladies who accompanied them. But -whether the softness of their words was caused by the tender import of -them, or whether they feared to intrude their voices on the conversation -or the meditations of the Archbishop, the onlooking but unnoticed -Emperor could not have guessed, had his curiosity been aroused to -inquire. Rumour had it that the Archbishop intended to bestow on Count -Bertrich the hand, and incidentally, the broad lands of his ward, who -rode at his right hand, and if this were true the girl showed little -pleasure over it, to judge by the small heed she gave either to the -crowd that lined the road on each side or to those who accompanied her -in the august procession. She seemed neither to see nor to hear aught -that went on around her, but with eyes looking straight forward, and a -slight frown on her fair brow, rode onward in silence, a marked contrast -to the prattling train which followed her. Meanwhile, von Isenberg spoke -with the Count, who bent his head deferentially to listen, and perhaps -while doing so, to glance across the charger's mane at the proud and -beautiful girl, who rode on the other side of the Archbishop, heedless -of glance or conversation.</p> - -<p>When the procession had passed, the young Emperor sat looking after it, -bonnet still in hand, with an absorbed expression on his face. And well -might he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span> gaze long at the iron Archbishop, for he had come on a weary -journey to see that potentate, and judge for himself what manner of man -he might be who was reported to have remarked to his brother Archbishop -of Cologne, when he cast the vote which helped to make Rodolph an -emperor, that the young man was said to be a romantic fool, who would be -the more easily led by their Lordships of Treves and Cologne, than any -older and more seasoned noble. Therefore had it been given out that the -new Emperor was gone to smite the Saracen, whereas he had merely -journeyed from Frankfort to Treves in disguise, to look upon a man who -might prove more formidable to his peace than the fiercest Saracen -roaming the plains of the East. Siegfried, who, though so much older, -was Rodolph's confidential friend, seemed anxious to know the estimate -the Emperor had formed of his probable adversary.</p> - -<p>"A hard, stern face," said Siegfried. "A cold friend and an implacable -enemy, to judge by the glance I got of him. What think you?"</p> - -<p>"An adorable face," murmured the young man, absently, still gazing after -the rapidly disappearing cortège. "A face to dream over; to die for. Who -is she, Siegfried?"</p> - -<p>"The Countess Tekla," answered Siegfried, somewhat briefly and grimly, -for here their expedition, not without peril, undertaken against his -strongly urged advice, was turned from its purpose, at this critical -moment, by a passing glimpse of a pretty face. Perhaps, after all, the -Archbishop had made the remark attributed to him, and Rodolph seemed -determined on the most inopportune occasion, to give colour to it.</p> - -<p>"But who is she?" demanded the Emperor, covering again.</p> - -<p>"The Countess Tekla is the ward of the Archbishop. Her father died in -his service and is said to have been the only man Arnold von Isenberg -ever had any <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span>affection for. The sole living relative she has, so far as -known to me, is Count Heinrich, surnamed the Black, of Castle Thuron, -near Coblentz. Her mother was sister to the Black Count."</p> - -<p>"That marauder! No wonder she was not left his ward."</p> - -<p>"There was little love lost between her father and her uncle. 'Tis said -Heinrich tried to get possession of Tekla and has even had the temerity -to threaten an attack upon the Archbishop because of her, but he is -hardly likely to do more than bluster, for, however much the Count may -lack common honesty, he is not devoid of common sense, and well knows -that Arnold could crush him in his castle as a snail is crushed in its -shell under an iron heel."</p> - -<p>"The Countess Tekla," murmured the Emperor, more to himself than to his -companion. "She is the most beautiful vision that ever floated before -the eyes of man."</p> - -<p>"She is betrothed to Count Bertrich, who rode at the Archbishop's left -hand," said Siegfried, coldly.</p> - -<p>"What! To that florid image carved with a broadsword? I cannot believe -it. 'Twould be sacrilege."</p> - -<p>"Rodolph, since you allow me to call you so," replied Siegfried, -solemnly, "I have also heard that you yourself are hardly free."</p> - -<p>"It is false," cried the young man, hotly. "I am pledged to none. Such -thought is utterly baseless. The Princess herself would be the first to -disclaim it."</p> - -<p>"I mentioned no one."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps not. 'Tis false nevertheless."</p> - -<p>Two pikes, crossed, barred their entrance under the archway of the gate.</p> - -<p>"Where from?"</p> - -<p>"Frankfort."</p> - -<p>"Your purpose in Treves?"</p> - -<p>"We are two silk merchants."</p> - -<p>"Your papers."</p> - -<p>Siegfried handed down the documents to the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span> officer who demanded them. -He scrutinised them closely, and, apparently satisfied, returned them.</p> - -<p>"What news from Frankfort? How fares our new Emperor?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"He has betaken himself to the Holy Wars," answered Siegfried.</p> - -<p>"By the Coat then, and are there not blows enough for him in Germany -without going abroad for them? I heard he was more gallant than -soldier."</p> - -<p>"It is not true," said Siegfried, with some sternness.</p> - -<p>"Soldier and gallant too, my friend," interjected Rodolph, fearing that -Siegfried's loyalty might lead him to indulge in censure which might -prove impolitic on the part of those seeking entrance, to those who were -the guardians of a gate. "Surely the two trades have gone hand in hand -before now?"</p> - -<p>"Aye, and will again," laughed the officer, twirling his moustache.</p> - -<p>Baron Siegfried von Brunfels now led the way through a narrow street, -riding confidently, like a man well acquainted with his direction. -Avoiding the main thoroughfare which led to the north gate, he turned -into what seemed little more than a lane, and now the horsemen were -compelled to travel in file, as the way was not broad enough for two -horses conveniently to walk abreast. Neither were there houses on each -side, as was the case with the street they had just left, but instead, -blank walls, such as might surround convents or monasteries, as indeed -they did. So high were these enclosing barriers, that Rodolph on his -horse could not see over them, and he had the feeling of a man making -his way along the deep bottom of a huge ditch, which impression was -intensified by the gathering gloom of approaching night. The lane, -continually bending toward the right of the riders, came at last to what -was quite evidently the city wall, and on this abutted the lesser wall -of the monastery grounds on the right, while that on the left ran for -some distance parallel to the more lofty ring of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span> stout masonry which -encircled the city, leaving a narrow space between. The ringing sound of -the iron-shod hoofs on the stone causeway echoed from the ramparts in -the deep stillness. In the distance a large mansion built against the -city wall, stood across the way and ended the lane. The windows were -shuttered and heavily barred with iron, giving the building a -forbidding, prison-like appearance. The lane terminated at a strong -arched gate, with heavy double doors of oak, iron-bolted, in one leaf of -which was a shuttered grating that, being lifted, enabled those within -to see all who approached. The bastion to the left ended against the -side of this sinister house.</p> - -<p>"By the gods, Baron," cried the Emperor, "it is well I have confidence -in you, for never was man guided along a more death-trap road to such a -sepulchre-looking ending. What fortress have we here, Siegfried? This is -no inn, surely."</p> - -<p>The Baron half turned in his saddle, and spoke in a voice so low that -its tone alone was a hint against unnecessary conversation.</p> - -<p>"It is my house," he said. "You will be better served and less spied -upon than at an inn."</p> - -<p>A moment later the Baron, stopping at the archway, but without -dismounting, reached out his hand and pulled an iron rod which had a -loop lower down for the convenience of one on foot. The faint clanging -of a bell, jangling far within, could be heard. After the echoes died -away there was a perceptible interval, then the shutter behind the -grating was noiselessly lifted with some caution, and a pair of eyes -appeared and disappeared at the iron network. Instantly the gates were -flung open and were as speedily closed when the horsemen had ridden into -a courtyard.</p> - -<p>Having parted with their tired steeds, host and guest, hardly less weary -with their ride, mounted one broad stairway and two narrower ones, then -walked along a passage that led them to a door, on opening which, -Siegfried conducted the Emperor into a large<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span> square apartment lighted -by two windows heavily barred outside. The inside shutters were open, -and Rodolph looked over an extensive landscape bounded by red cliffs and -green hills, at the foot of which flowed the rapid Moselle. Although the -sun had gone down and the view was growing indistinct in the twilight, -Rodolph went to one of the windows and gazed admiringly upon the -prospect. The moon, nearly at the full, had risen, and was already -flooding the scene with her silvery light.</p> - -<p>"You have a pleasant outlook here, Siegfried," said the Emperor.</p> - -<p>"Yes, and a safe one."</p> - -<p>"A safe one?" echoed Rodolph, inquiringly.</p> - -<p>"You see this house is a story higher than the city wall. A rope flung -from that window gives a hurried man safe conduct to the open country -without the necessity of passing through a gate."</p> - -<p>"True," said the Emperor, with a smile; "but your hurried man would lose -some valuable time in filing through these stout bars. He would be a -ghost indeed to pass between them."</p> - -<p>"Not if he knew their secret."</p> - -<p>Saying this, Siegfried laid hold of an iron stanchion, one of two that -stood perpendicular on either side of the window-aperture from top to -ledge, pressed against the thick stone wall. The stanchion left the -stone under Siegfried's efforts, and proved to be shaped like an -elongated letter E, with three bolts of equal length that fitted into -three holes drilled in the side of the window-opening, one at top and -bottom, and the third in the middle. The Baron pushed outward the heavy -iron grating, which swung on hinges, pulling from the wall three bars -with round loops at the end of each, into which the three bolts had -interlocked when the grating was closed, and the E-like stanchion placed -in position.</p> - -<p>"A most ingenious arrangement," cried the Emperor, "lacking only the -rope."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span></p><p>"A rope lies there," said Siegfried, kicking the coil with his foot, -where it rested on the floor and had escaped notice in the gathering -darkness. "It is fastened to a ring in the wall."</p> - -<p>"What a device for a lover!" exclaimed Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"It is intended for a man's safety rather than his danger," said -Siegfried, with the slightest possible touch of austerity in his voice.</p> - -<p>The Emperor laughed.</p> - -<p>"Nevertheless," he said, "had I my lady-love in this house, I would -prefer that she knew not the secret of this window. But why all these -precautions, Baron? They have not been put here because I am your -visitor, for I think the grate moved rustily upon its hinges."</p> - -<p>"No, the window has been as you see it these many years. I do not know -its history. I suspect that my father found it convenient sometimes to -slip out of Treves without much ado, for I know he felt safer on -occasion in our strong Rhine castle than in this sometimes turbulent -city. I have not interfered with the device, although I have seldom had -need of it. I even keep up an old custom of our house, disliking change -as all my forefathers have done, although I have never profited by it."</p> - -<p>"What old custom?"</p> - -<p>"The stationing of a sentinel night and day in a small room above where -we stand. When he sees a light in yonder house by the river, or hears by -night or day the cry of a waterfowl that frequents the upper Rhine, but -which is unknown on the Moselle, he instantly comes down to this room, -throws open the casement and flings out the rope. Although as I said, I -have never had actual need of this method of exit or entrance, I have, -nevertheless, tested the vigilance of my servants, and have climbed in -hand over hand."</p> - -<p>"Another question, Baron, and forgive my curiosity. How is it that you, -a noble and a householder<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span> in Treves, enter the gates as a silk merchant -unchallenged? Surely the Archbishop keeps slack guard."</p> - -<p>"Although I know many of those about the Archbishop's Court, I am myself -practically unknown. I attend once a year, perhaps, a formal function in -Treves, but it is generally supposed I am in my castle on the Rhine, or -at Frankfort, which is indeed the case. My house attracts no attention, -for it has belonged to my family for centuries. And now, your Majesty, -the room adjoining this, and connected with it, I design for your -sleeping apartment, and I trust you will rest well there."</p> - -<p>"One more question, Siegfried, in punishment for the title you have -bestowed upon me; that house by the river—is it also yours?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. A small place, but in some respects the complement of this. I keep -there a fast horse, and a swift skiff, so that the man in a hurry, of -whom I spoke, may betake himself either to the road or the river as best -falls in with his humour or necessity."</p> - -<p>"By the gods, Baron, and should we find it necessary to enter into a -conspiracy against the great Arnold von Isenberg, we are reasonably well -provided for any emergency."</p> - -<p>"It is said there is nothing entirely useless in this world, Rodolph," -answered the other, drily.</p> - -<p>The Baron drew in the grating, replaced the three-bolted stanchion, and -finally closed the inside shutters. A servant announced dinner, and -Rodolph betook himself to his room to prepare for it.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER II.</span> <span class="smaller">THE ARCHER INTRODUCES HIMSELF.</span></h2> - -<p>The Emperor, having removed the stains of travel, followed his host -downstairs to the banquet that had been prepared for him, and both fell -to with an appetite sharpened by a long journey. The white wines of the -Moselle, supplemented by the vintage of the Saar, speedily drove away -all remembrance of the day's fatigue.</p> - -<p>After the meal, the Baron, with a re-filled flagon at his elbow, -stretched out his legs and enjoyed to the full the consciousness that he -had been well fed and was comfortably housed, with nothing more arduous -in prospect than an honestly earned night's repose. The young Emperor -looked across at this picture of contentment with a twinkle in his eye.</p> - -<p>"Siegfried," he said, "I have a fancy for a moonlight stroll."</p> - -<p>The Baron drew in his feet and sat bolt upright, an expression of dismay -coming into his face. The sigh that followed, truly indicated what he -perhaps hesitated to express, that he wished people knew when they were -well off. The Emperor laughed heartily and added, "You may not have -noticed that the moon was nearly full."</p> - -<p>"If I had," said the Baron, "I should merely have thanked heaven for it, -resolved to stay indoors and follow her most excellent example. The wine -flagon has more attraction for me than the fullest of moons, and I have -some rare Rhenish in my cellars regarding which I was about to invite -your criticism—a more potent vintage than this of the Saar."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span></p><p>"The Rhenish will be still older when we return, Siegfried."</p> - -<p>"Indeed, and that is true, Rodolph. It may have aged so much that our -heirs shall have the enjoyment of drinking it. The man who leaves a -secure door in Treves to stroll by moonlight has no surety of ever -reaching it again. A slit throat is an ill conduit for sound Rhenish."</p> - -<p>"Is Treves, then, so turbulent? I thought the Archbishop kept strict -rule."</p> - -<p>"Much goes on in Treves that the Archbishop knows nothing of, as our own -presence here is witness. The town is full of soldiers and bravos. There -are many outbreaks in the streets, and a brawl might be fatal to your -plans. We should assuredly be stopped and questioned, and we might have -to trust to our swords."</p> - -<p>"You think then, a jaunt in the country would be safer than a moonlight -stroll in the city?"</p> - -<p>"I do indeed."</p> - -<p>"That tallies exactly with my purpose. Never say again that I disregard -your advice, for it is not your secure door I would leave, but your -insecure window, trusting to find the rope dangling there when we -return. I am anxious to test your ingenious device of exit and entrance. -We shall walk to the river, and you will make me free of your boat and -your fleet horse. It is well that your servants at that small house on -the Moselle should know me, for if I enact the part of your man in a -hurry, it would avail me little to scramble down the city wall, while -you bravely kept the outer door with your sword against the minions of -Arnold, if your own minions by the river refused further means of -escape."</p> - -<p>"That is true, but we are safe here for the night and may we not without -prejudice put off further action until to-morrow?"</p> - -<p>"There speaks the comforting flagon, Baron. You are too well versed in -siege and surprise not to know<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span> that every precaution should be taken, -and that no moment is too soon for doing what reconnoitering there is to -be accomplished. I would not ask you to accompany me, were it not that I -need your introduction in the house by the river."</p> - -<p>This brought Siegfried instantly to his feet.</p> - -<p>"Where you go, I go, introduction or none. Let us then to the window -before the night grows older."</p> - -<p>They mounted the stairs again, and unbolted the swinging window-grate. -The Baron going first, slid swiftly down the rope, and a moment after he -reached the ground, the Emperor followed. Directly under the wall, they -were in the shadow, but the broad plain before them, and the cliffs -beyond, lay distinct in the moonlight. The small riverside hamlet, -towards which they bent their steps, showed here and there a few -twinkling lights, to guide them. The plain was uncultivated, covered -with thick rank grass, which seemed to betoken a marshy nature of the -soil, but the ground was nevertheless firm underfoot. The Baron, as best -knowing the way, took the lead, wading knee-deep in the thick grass, and -was silent, thinking rather of the luxury of bench and wine-laden table -than of the expedition in hand.</p> - -<p>The night was very quiet, the stillness being broken, now and then, by -the far-away cry of some sentinel on the wall proclaiming that all was -well, and that peace reigned over Treves, invoking piously a blessing on -the sleeping city—which Christian benediction was a duty resting on all -who kept watch and guard for that Prince of the Church, the Archbishop.</p> - -<p>The pair walked in silence as had been arranged, and the first to -violate the compact was the Baron, who stumbling over something, pitched -head-foremost, uttering a good round Rhenish oath as he did so. The -laugh on the Emperor's lips was checked by the sudden springing up, as -if from out the earth, of a man apparently fully armed, who instantly -put himself in a posture of defence. Simultaneously the swords<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span> of -Rodolph and Siegfried flashed from their scabbards, and the Baron, -finding the stranger had leaped up between him and his friend, rapidly -executed a semi-circular retreat, and stood at the side of the Emperor, -while the unexpected third, moving as on a pivot, faced Siegfried, with -a stout sword in his hand, making, however, no motion of attack.</p> - -<p>"If you propose to fight me together," said the stranger, quietly, -"permit me to stoop unscathed for my pike, but if you are content to -fall upon me one at a time, I shall be happy to meet you as I am, -although you have the advantage of the longer blade."</p> - -<p>"What need to fight at all?" asked the Emperor. "We are no enemies of -thine."</p> - -<p>"If, as I take it, you are marauders seeking gain from belated -wayfarers, it is but honest to tell you that, in case of victory, which -is doubtful, seeing you are but two and Germans at that, there is little -to be picked from me but hard knocks, or, given a proper distance, a -well-placed shaft which you would find harder to digest than anything -you have taken inwardly this some time past. I say this but in the way -of fair dealing as between man and man, to prevent after disappointment, -and not as prejudicing a fair encounter should your inclination tend in -that direction."</p> - -<p>"Fellow, we are no marauders, but peaceable merchants from Treves."</p> - -<p>"Then the merchandise you deal in must pertain to combat, for you came -more deftly by your blades than any yard-stick-handler I have met with -in all my wanderings. I know a well-hung weapon when I see it, ready for -thrust or parry, yet carried with seeming carelessness, as if nothing -were further from your minds than either assault or defence."</p> - -<p>"You are a shrewd fellow," said the Emperor. "Why lie you here in -ambush?"</p> - -<p>"It is no ambush other than one to capture sleep, which I had in thrall -when your comrade trod on my<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span> stomach and straightway rescued and put to -flight my drowsy prisoner."</p> - -<p>"And can a man of your ability provide yourself with no better bed than -one in the high grass by the side of the Moselle?"</p> - -<p>"There is little to complain of in the bed, my Lord, for I take you to -be no merchant, but a person of quality. A bed is but a place in which -to sleep, and where slumber comes, the bed has served its purpose. I -have before now laid down my head within walls and under roof in -circumstances of such uncertainty that a man slept at the risk of a slit -throat, while here the bed is wide with no danger of falling out, having -good fighting ground, if one is molested, and ample space for flight -should opposition over-match me. There is small fault to find with such -a resting-place."</p> - -<p>"You are easily contented, but surely you should have a cloak to ward -off, partly at least, the dews of night."</p> - -<p>"A cloak, my Lord, although I admit its comfort, hampers a man suddenly -awakened; still I should doubtless succumb to its temptations did I not -need it for the protection of a weapon that I love even more than the -pampering of my own body."</p> - -<p>Saying this, the man stooped and lifted from the ground a cloak which he -unfolded drawing from cover an unstrung bow somewhat longer than -himself. Resting one end on the ground against his foot, and bending the -upper part over his shoulder, he deftly slipped the loop of the cord -into its notch, and twanged the string, making it give forth a musical -note that vibrated melodiously in the still air.</p> - -<p>"There, my Lord, is a one-stringed harp, which sings of sudden death and -nothing else. Were it as good at arm's length as it is at stone's throw, -I should cumber myself with no other weapon; but it is as delicate and -capricious as a woman, and must be taken care of. So in the dampness of -the river valley I wrap it in my cloak to keep the moisture from it."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span></p><p>"I should think so tender a weapon would be of little use in the rough -and tumble of actual war."</p> - -<p>"There speaks the unenlightened German! A slender shaft like this, two -hundred years ago, killed a king and lost my country to the Normans. The -German swine are as gross in their killing as in their eating. They -appreciate not delicacy in death, but must needs mutilate the image of -their Creator, slicing him with huge two-handed swords, or battering his -head with battle-axe, but a gentle arrow, truly sped, passing daintily -through an enemy, dipping its fleecy wing in the red core of his heart, -leaving little mark to attest its passage, and furnishing thereby a -corpse that is a delight to look upon, gives no pleasure to this -uncivilised people."</p> - -<p>"You forget, fellow, that you are speaking to Germans, and also that we -have had the cross-bow for centuries, as well as instruments not -dissimilar to thine," cried the Baron, with natural indignation at the -bowman's strictures.</p> - -<p>"Hush, Siegfried," whispered the Emperor, "let him babble on. Surely the -conceit of the rascal shows he comes from England."</p> - -<p>"I am a free man," continued the archer, calmly, "and am used to speak -my mind, but I seek not to shirk responsibility for my words. If any, -hearing me, take just offence at the tenour of my expressions, I shall -not deny him opportunity for satisfaction, under the equitable rule that -the victor enter into possession, not thereafter to be disputed, of the -belongings of the conquered. On these terms therefore I shall be pleased -to uphold against you, sir, the truth of my remarks about the German -people, your friend seeing fair combat betwixt us."</p> - -<p>"I cannot demean myself by fighting with a fellow of your quality."</p> - -<p>"Those are high words to be spoken by an honest merchant, the progeny of -a yard-stick, a class over which we men-at-arms hold ourselves the -superior. In<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span> a fair field all men, bearing arms, willing to submit to -the arbitration thereof, are considered equal. King William, perhaps -with some justice surnamed the Conqueror, questioned not the quality of -a yeoman who hotly beset him at the battle of Hastings, but honoured the -man by cleaving him to the midriff with his battle-axe, the which is -held in high esteem by the yeoman's descendants to this day. But -touching the use of the long bow, I grant that you may well make some -demur regarding unproven statements, if you have seen no better examples -of its merits than is shown by your German archers, who lazily prefer -the cumbrous cross-bow with a stake upright in the ground to steady it, -necessitating thus a clumsy equipment hardly more portable than a -catapult itself, whereas this fibrous length of toughened yew can be -held lightly in the outstretched left hand, and given but the skill -behind it, will nip you off a dozen men while the cross-bow villain is -planting his marvellous engine. But let the arrow sing its own praises. -You see yonder sentinel pacing back and forth in the moonlight on the -wall near the gate. I will wing you a shaft through him, and he will -never know whence comes the summons to a less contentious world."</p> - -<p>Saying this, the bowman placed an arrow on the string with much -deliberation and was about to raise his weapon when Rodolph and -Siegfried, with simultaneous movement, sprang between the unconscious -victim and the foreigner.</p> - -<p>"Good Heavens! What are you setting out to do?" cried the Emperor. -"Would you slay an innocent man, and bring a hornet's nest unnecessarily -about our ears?"</p> - -<p>"The hornets would not know whither to fly. The man would drop inside -the wall most likely, or outside perchance, but no one could tell from -which direction the shaft had sped, or whether it was let loose from -city or country. I hold no malice against the sentinel, but merely -offered this example in proof of what I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span> spoke. Indeed I myself would be -the only one put to inconvenience by the shot, for you carry no bow and -it is likely they would see by the shaft when they got it, that it -differs from those in use hereabouts, for the Germans have small skill -in arrow-making; besides I did myself twice these last two days -endeavour to gain entrance to that stupid city, hoping to win -appointment to the Archbishop's train, and may have mentioned something -to the guardsmen at the gate of my own merit with the bow-string, but -they, on both occasions, refused admission unless I were provided with -passports, the which, of course, I could not show."</p> - -<p>"Why do you travel, or expect admittance to a walled town without papers -of identification?"</p> - -<p>"You have asked me many questions and answered none, excepting that -about your occupation, which I take to be devoid of truth,—nay, no -offence is meant, for I hold it each man's privilege to lie to any -chance wayfarer as may suit his purpose, and I myself never cling to -truth longer than my necessity serves. Are you then adherents of the -Archbishop and have you any influence with his Lordship such as might -bend him to look with favour on my desire for employment?"</p> - -<p>"We are not known to the Archbishop, therefore have no influence with -him. I come from Frankfort and my friend from the Rhine. We are but -visitors here, and so in some measure similar to yourself."</p> - -<p>"I take that to be well and truly answered. I shall deal with you in -equal honesty. My papers would be small recommendation to Arnold von -Isenberg, for they truly show that in his last campaign I fought -manfully against him. But peace being unfortunately declared, I am now -in want of occupation. Know you of any noble in need of an unerring bow -and a courageous heart at threepence a day, with victualling, and such -lodgment as a man, who cares not where he sleeps, may require?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span></p><p>"I have no need of such a warrior," replied the Baron, "but a man, -expert at ridding the world of his fellow-creatures, would find more to -do in the turbulent valley of the Rhine than in the more peaceful vale -of the Moselle. Here the nobles are awed by the Archbishop, and when he -is not in arms, the country rests, but on the Rhine the Barons are at -continual feud and there is no strong hand to restrain them."</p> - -<p>"You forget the Emperor," said Rodolph, in a tone of mild reproach.</p> - -<p>"He, alas! has gone to fight the Saracens," answered the Baron, with -calm mendacity.</p> - -<p>"Ah, would he had taken me with him," sighed the archer. "I have heard -that Eastern bowmen have much skill in the art, and I would like to have -tried conclusions with some of them. In truth, I had thought of going to -Frankfort when I heard some rumour of the Emperor's departure. As there -is little use in knocking at the door of Treves I will on the morrow set -my face down the Moselle toward the Rhine, in hope of falling among a -less peaceably inclined people. And now, my Lords, as it seems we can be -of little use to each other, I will, if it please you, go once more to -my interrupted sleep and allow you to proceed on your interrupted -journey."</p> - -<p>The archer, as he said this, unstrung his bow, and carefully wrapped it -once more in his cloak. With little ceremony he prepared to lie down on -the grassy couch from which he had risen.</p> - -<p>"If I cannot give you employment," began the Baron, "I can at least -offer you a more comfortable sleeping-place than the one in which I have -been the means of disturbing you. We are going to my house on the river, -and I think my servant can provide you with a heap of straw where you -will have a roof over your head. Then you can proceed on your way down -the river unmolested in the morning."</p> - -<p>"Indeed," answered the bowman, indifferently, "in so far as the roof and -the straw are concerned I would<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span> not travel a shaft's flight to secure -them. I can sleep refreshingly wherever my head touches pillow, be it -earth, stone, or straw, but if your generosity advances itself so far as -to include a yard of beef and a stoup of wine I will not say I shall -altogether and in spite of proper persuasions, refuse."</p> - -<p>"I am unacquainted with the present condition of my servant's larder, -but as he looks to his own provender at my expense, I doubt not he will -be well provided, and the chance may strike you as worth the risk of a -brief walk."</p> - -<p>For answer the archer thrust his short hanger into the leathern sheath -prepared for it, which hung at his belt, lifted his cloak-enveloped bow, -and also a long pike, and thus accoutred signified his readiness to -follow them.</p> - -<p>They marched in file, the Baron leading and the archer bringing up the -rear, reaching without further adventure the margin of the swift flowing -Moselle, then proceeded along its bank until they came to the first -house in the small hamlet of Zurlauben, where the procession paused, and -its leader rapped lightly at the door of the dark dwelling. The only -response was the baying of a hound within, and the low neigh of a horse -in the adjoining outhouse. A louder knock merely resulted in a deeper -bay from the hound.</p> - -<p>"He is perhaps asleep," said the Baron. "The rascal keeps early hours."</p> - -<p>"More likely he is absent," suggested the Emperor.</p> - -<p>The two went partly round the house, which was built with half of it -resting on the river bank, while the other half was supported by piles -rising from the water. This lower portion was enclosed, and had a door -that allowed the skiff to be taken in or out. The Baron, noticing that -the water door was ajar, pushed it further open with his sword, and -bending over, endeavoured to peer inside, as well as the darkness would -allow him.</p> - -<p>"The boat is gone," he said; "the fellow evidently<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span> fancies a moonlight -row. I shall hold some account with him when he returns."</p> - -<p>"I think he owes you an explanation," replied Rodolph. "It would be -somewhat inconvenient were the Archbishop's troops after us, and we -desired to escape by the water."</p> - -<p>The Baron said nothing, but his black looks boded ill for the absent -menial.</p> - -<p>"Some apology is due to the archer for a postponed supper," continued -Rodolph. "Let us quit this muddy spot and discharge that duty, in the -hope that his conversation may strengthen our patience while we wait."</p> - -<p>They climbed up the bank and came again to the front of the house, where -they found the bowman fully accoutred, sitting with his back against the -wall, his head inclined on one shoulder, sound asleep. The moonlight -shone upon him, and he snored gently.</p> - -<p>"His peaceful slumber is certainly a mark of confidence in his host. -Blessed is he who can sleep when he wills," said the Emperor, looking -down upon him. "If the fellow's skill at all equals his boasting, I -might do worse than send him to Frankfort, to instruct a band of archers -that would give good account of themselves in time of trouble."</p> - -<p>"To whom in Frankfort could you send him, and whom should the bowman -name as his sponsor when he arrived there? If he said he was sent by a -worthy merchant in Treves, I doubt if he would receive much attention -when his journey was completed."</p> - -<p>"That is true," returned Rodolph. "I fear I must part company with him -when we have fed him. Still I should like to see some sample of his -skill before we dismiss him."</p> - -<p>"That is easily tested if he does not shrink from the trial. On the -other side of the river I see rising and flying further up first one -heron, and then another, from which I surmise that my rascal is working -his way homeward in the skiff along the further shore, where the current -is slackest. He seems to be <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span>disturbing the birds and so this some time -back I have noted his slow progress. If our archer can wing you one of -these long-legged fowls, we may well believe he could have surprised the -sentinel."</p> - -<p>"Hey, bowman," continued the Baron, stirring up the sleeper with his -foot, "I hear my servant coming and we will be in presently. But first -we would like to hear the hum of your bow-string, if your skill has not -deserted you since you had sinister designs on the sentinel above the -gate."</p> - -<p>The archer had sprung to his feet, wide-awake, the moment he felt a -touch upon his body.</p> - -<p>"You can hardly expect me to bring down a man on Treves' wall from -here," he said, casting his eye toward the city. "My shaft does not live -in the air longer than one may slowly count a score. Nevertheless I am -willing to try, although I cannot guarantee a pleasurable result."</p> - -<p>"We set no such impossibility before the strength of your weapon; what -we desire——"</p> - -<p>"Nay, I spoke not of impossibility, but of surety," interrupted the -archer. "I can throw you an arrow high in the air and can guarantee that -it will fall within Treves or not far short of it, but to say definitely -that it will hit such and such a button in a man's doublet at that -distance, would be wild prophecy, for you cannot predict the home-coming -of a descending shaft, from which, as it were, the life and vigour of it -has departed, as you can the unerringness of an arrow sped horizontally, -retaining the message given to it by thumb and fingers until it reaches -the person to whom admonition is thus forwarded through its agency."</p> - -<p>While he spoke the archer had unwound the cloak from the bow and now he -strung the weapon with anxious care, after which he plucked a shaft from -the quiver that hung at his back.</p> - -<p>"There are herons rising ever and anon from yonder bank. The darkness of -the cliff somewhat obscures them, and they hang not out against the sky -like your<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span> soldier on the wall. Nevertheless the moon shines fairly on -them and the distance is less, so I beg of you to show us your skill -upon the body of the next that comes between us and the rocks."</p> - -<p>"Now the Fiend fry me on his gridiron," cried the archer, glancing at -the opposite cliffs, "I would rather shoot you ten soldiers than one -bird flapping through the air, for that asks of a bowman the measuring -of the distance the heron will advance from the time the arrow leaves -the string until it coincides with its quarry, the which renders -necessary also the nice adjustment by the eye of the space between -myself and the bird, a difficult enough task in broad day, causing such -a venture in the night to mix more blind chance with marksmanship than -any one not versed in necromancy should be called upon to endure."</p> - -<p>"So this is the outcome of your bragging!" cried the Baron, already -angered by the absence of his servant. "You well knew we would allow no -shots at a soldier and so you boasted safely. When a fair mark is -offered you, then come excuses and the making of conditions. I have a -mind, braggart, to lay my sword across your back, or rather a stout -cudgel which would better accord with your condition."</p> - -<p>The archer stepped rapidly away from them at this threat and said, with -arrow still notched on the string:</p> - -<p>"If you meditate any such breach of a hospitality which I accepted at -your proffer, and not of my own seeking, I would tell you first that I -am a free man, formal engagement having been refused by you, so keep -your cudgels for your laggard who deserves them, as standing thus by his -delay between a hungry man and his meat; while secondly I would inform -you that on the attempt at my chastisement, seeing the same is -unmerited, I would first put this shaft through you and then its mate -into the middle of your comrade, before he could lift foot to help you, -and neither of you would complain of any inaccuracy of aim,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span> swift as -the shafts would follow each other. So advance one or both at your -peril."</p> - -<p>"Tush, tush," cried the Emperor, "no one will molest you. While you -chatter the heron escapes. There is one rising even now and will vanish -like his companions unscathed."</p> - -<p>The archer turned quickly to the north, his bow hanging almost -horizontally in his left hand. He seemed in no hurry to shoot, but -watched the bird beating the air heavily with its huge wings, its long -legs trailing behind, making seemingly slow and laborious motion across -the moonlit face of the opposite cliff. Suddenly the archer, having to -his satisfaction measured the distance with his eye, straightened -himself, lifted his bow to the perpendicular, drew back the string to -his right ear, and apparently taking no aim, let fly the shaft into the -night. He leaned forward, trying to watch its flight, but none saw the -arrow after it left the bow. The heron, however, with a cry of affright, -plunged downward, and whirled over and over until it struck the water -with a splash.</p> - -<p>"Nevertheless," said the archer, in a dissatisfied tone, "'tis no fair -test, and is, like enough, pure accident."</p> - -<p>"It is a marvellous shot," cried the Emperor, with enthusiasm, "and such -art is wondrous cheap at threepence a day."</p> - -<p>"With lodgment and provender," added the archer, once more unstringing -his bow.</p> - -<p>"Here, if your pouch has no hole in the bottom of it, is three months' -pay, which will not come amiss in your journey down the Moselle."</p> - -<p>"I thank your Lordship," said the man, taking the money with great -readiness, "this is more to my liking than offers of cudgelling."</p> - -<p>"And when you hear that the Emperor has returned to Frankfort I would -strongly advise you to go thither, for he is a lover of good qualities -wherever found. As for the offer of cudgelling, 'twas but a jest, or at -most the outcome of the delay of our custodian."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span></p><p>"Here he is," said the Baron. "I think he will speedily regret his -absence."</p> - -<p>Across the moonlit river, in a small boat that drifted sideways rapidly -in the swift current, a man rowed with sturdy strokes. The two who -awaited him stood silently on the bank and watched his approach. The -archer had already seated himself with his back to the wall, and was -snatching a moment's repose.</p> - -<p>As the boatman ceased rowing and allowed his craft to float down to its -harbour, the Baron said sternly:</p> - -<p>"Get inside as speedily as you may and undo the door. Then I will have a -word with you."</p> - -<p>A few moments later there was a rattle of chains and bolts, the door was -thrown open, and gave the visitors a glimpse of a young man with white -face and trembling limbs.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER III.</span> <span class="smaller">LISTENERS HEAR LITTLE GOOD OF THEMSELVES.</span></h2> - -<p>"Come, archer," said the Baron, "arouse yourself. I have work for you to -do."</p> - -<p>"Not before the meal, I hope," objected the man, rising to his feet.</p> - -<p>"Yes; but it will not detain you long, and the supper shall be spread -before your sight, to quicken your hand."</p> - -<p>They entered a lower room, long and narrow, meagrely furnished, -containing a rough table thrust against the wall next the river, with -two benches, on one of which the Emperor seated himself. The trap-door -by which the man had ascended was still open and the gurgling sound of -flowing water came up. The hound crouched in a corner, and eyed the -visitors with lips drawn back from his teeth, uttering a low growl, as -if he did not like the situation so suddenly presented to him. The man -who was the cause of it all, liked it even less, and stood dumb, as one -paralysed with fright.</p> - -<p>"Close the trap-door," said the Baron, shortly. The man obeyed the -order.</p> - -<p>"Set a light in the upper window toward Treves."</p> - -<p>The servant disappeared up a ladder, set the light, and returned.</p> - -<p>"Place on the table supper for one, and a large flagon of wine."</p> - -<p>When this was accomplished, the servant, who had throughout spoken no -word, moving mechanically to and fro like one walking in a dream, stood -once more before his angry master.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span></p><p>"Take your place with your back against that wall."</p> - -<p>The man, breathing hard, but still silent, stood up at the end of the -room, his wide eyes fastened in a hypnotism of fear on his master.</p> - -<p>"Now, archer, I am ready. Notch a shaft on your string and pin me this -deserter though the heart to the wall."</p> - -<p>The archer, whose eyes had been riveted on the viands set on the table, -impatiently waiting the word to set to, withdrew them with reluctance -and turned them towards the victim who stood dumb and motionless at the -other end of the room.</p> - -<p>"I am as loath to keep good victuals waiting as any man in the -Archbishopric, but, my Lord, I have failed to make plain to you the -nature of my calling. I am no executioner, but a soldier. If you give -yonder fellow a blade in his hand to protect himself, I will be glad to -carve him into as many pieces as may please your Lordship, but to draw -bow on an unarmed man at ten paces is a misuse of a noble weapon, and -the request to do so, were it not that this good flagon yearns for lips -to meet it, I would construe it into an insult to myself, warranting a -hostile encounter."</p> - -<p>"You were not so choice when you proposed to slaughter an innocent man -on the walls. Here stands a traitor, who has deserted his post and -richly earned his death, yet you——"</p> - -<p>"The man on the wall, my Lord, was a soldier, at that moment bearing -arms and enjoying pay for the risks he ran. When I myself mount guard I -make no objection to your German cross-bowmen practising at my body with -their bolts, taking whatever chance cares to offer, and holding it -commendable that they should thus industriously attempt to perfect their -marksmanship, but to send a shaft through a poor devil standing -weaponless at arm's length, as one might say, is no work for an English -archer, the which I will maintain, though you order this most tempting -food back into the larder again."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span></p><p>The Baron scowled at the bowman, who returned his whole regard to the -table. The Emperor looked at his friend with a half quizzical smile on -his lips, while the speechless victim gazed helplessly at his master.</p> - -<p>"Siegfried, a word with you," said the Emperor, pointing to the bench -beside him. The Baron crossed over and sat down.</p> - -<p>"It is not your intention to have this young man executed, is it?"</p> - -<p>"Most assuredly; nothing but an order from the Emperor will save his -deservedly forfeited life."</p> - -<p>"Then God help him," said Rodolph, "for the Emperor is far away. If, -however, my own poor word can avail him, I would gladly see him spared, -and this without in any way underrating the heinousness of his crime."</p> - -<p>"His desertion might have cost either of us our lives, as you yourself -admitted but a short while since. I can forgive anything rather than -absence from the post of duty."</p> - -<p>"I grant you that if he were not alone here his offence would be -unpardonable, if but for the effect on others, but there is none other -to make a precedent of leniency. Then there is this to be said, he has -had a stern lesson, for if ever man read death in the eye of another he -saw it in yours a moment ago, although at first I thought you were -jesting. If you spare him, he will therefore be the truer in future and -will not soon forget this night, while another who takes his place will -still have the lesson to learn. May I question him?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly. He is yours, as I am."</p> - -<p>"Hark ye, fellow, were you ever out with that boat before?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"You see it is not the first offence. I beg you to let me execute -justice upon him," said the Baron.</p> - -<p>"A worse man would have denied it," responded<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span> Rodolph, eagerly. "He -speaks the truth when he knows it prejudices his case. I like the -fellow, although he is so badly frightened. Where do you voyage, -sirrah?"</p> - -<p>"To the Archbishop's palace, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"To the Archbishop's palace?" echoed both Rodolph and Siegfried, in a -breath. "In the Fiend's name what have you to do with the Archbishop or -his Palace?"</p> - -<p>The young fellow cleared his throat, and some colour mounted to his pale -face.</p> - -<p>"My Lord," he stammered, "a maid, who is named Hilda——"</p> - -<p>"I could have sworn it," cried the Emperor. "Now we have the woman, the -riddle unravels itself. What of Hilda, my young gallant?"</p> - -<p>"She is tirewoman of the Countess Tekla——"</p> - -<p>"Ha!" ejaculated the Emperor, a sudden interest coming into his face, -while the Baron's frown grew blacker. "You met with Hilda then -to-night?"</p> - -<p>"Not so, my Lord. I was on my way to meet her when, in the still night, -I heard a knock, and fearing it might be at this door I hurried back; -alas! that I kept your Lordship waiting."</p> - -<p>"Then if I understand you aright, Hilda has now accepted our late -<i>rôle</i>."</p> - -<p>The man looked at the ground, evidently not comprehending the last -remark.</p> - -<p>"Hilda is at this moment waiting for you, then," explained Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord."</p> - -<p>The Emperor turned his frank smiling face upon the Baron, who sat with -his chin in his hand, grimly regarding the servant, who, now that there -seemed hope of rescue, kept his eyes fixed on the floor.</p> - -<p>"You see," said Rodolph, "'tis but a simple lover's meeting, and I have -known great affairs of State put aside for such. What wonder that the -boy forgot his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span> duty and stole away in your skiff to have a few sweet -words with the doubtless charming Hilda."</p> - -<p>"I distrust him," said the Baron, in a low voice. "I like not this -traffic with the Archbishop's Palace. Arnold von Isenberg is a -suspicious man, and has little scruple regarding the means he uses to -satisfy either his curiosity or his resentment. This young fool may be -innocent, but I doubt it. He made no protest against my judgment just -now, but stood silent, like one who knew his doom was merited. The -Archbishop may have heard something from his spies about this shuttered -house, and its mysterious horse, never taken out save for exercise. This -young fellow is practically a stranger to me. He is not one of my -hereditary servants, for I wished to have a man here who knew no one in -my house at Treves, and my servants there know nothing of this place at -the river, except the man on guard, who unbars the window and throws -down the rope when a light is displayed here, and he knows no more than -that. As for this fellow here and his glib love story I mistrust him -thoroughly."</p> - -<p>"I think you do him wrong. If ever I saw an honest face, it is his. -Besides, what harm can he do, since he knows nothing?"</p> - -<p>"The mystery of the house, and even his lack of knowledge might lead to -an investigation. Ordinarily I should care little for that, but now you -are here, I wish to move with all caution."</p> - -<p>"Then his truth is easily put to the test. I would vouch for the fellow -from his looks alone, but, as you say, much depends on his fidelity. He -cannot complain that his absence has aroused suspicion, so we will -insist that a second absence shall allay it. We will go with him in the -boat to meet this waiting girl and hear what comes of their -conversation. He will have no chance of warning her, and if there is -fair love-talk between them you will then be satisfied."</p> - -<p>"We cannot go with him unseen."</p> - -<p>"Why not? We shall be in the shadow of the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span>Palace and in the bottom of -the skiff with our cloaks around us. It will not be a dignified -position, but anything is better than a slumbering distrust of one's -underlings, and then our situation will be heavenly compared with his in -any case. If he is a traitor he will assuredly betray himself by trying -to warn his confederate: if he is merely a lover it will be somewhat -embarrassing to uphold this character when he knows he has an audience. -But a man will do much to save his neck, and he will doubtless come -passably off with his rehearsal. If it is a woman who waits for him, and -if she proves ardent in her affections, we may have some ado to keep -from laughter, but even then our position will be enviable compared with -his."</p> - -<p>The conversation at this point was broken in upon by a doleful voice -which came from the patient archer.</p> - -<p>"I have met much hospitality of varying kinds, in different parts of the -world," he said, mournfully; "but never anything bearing resemblance to -this. I have heard that in savage lands they place food before a hungry -prisoner, the which he is unable to reach, although the sight of it -feasts his eyes and the aroma therefrom tickles his nostrils. But to -think that in a Christian land, where——"</p> - -<p>"In God's name, good fellow, are you still hungering?" cried the Baron. -"I thought when everything was prepared you would not need a formal -invitation. Fall to, fall to, without further delay, and prove yourself -as good a trencherman as you are excellent in archery."</p> - -<p>The bowman, losing no further time in talk, at once began his long -postponed repast, and continued the same with such absorption that the -Emperor and the Baron went on with their conversation in no fear of -interruption from him. Siegfried, with some reluctance, agreed to the -plan proposed by Rodolph. The latter beckoned to the man standing by the -wall, awaiting knowledge of his fate with that extreme<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span> anxiety which -the uncertain tenure whereby he held his life was sure to occasion.</p> - -<p>"You know, doubtless," began the Emperor, "that the late desertion of -the post entrusted to you has forfeited your life to your justly -incensed master?"</p> - -<p>The young man made a motion of assent to this proposition.</p> - -<p>"Having found you false in one thing, it is but natural that your master -should distrust you in all, and therefore he disbelieves the tale you -have told of meeting with a maid, attributing other motives to your -visit to the Palace."</p> - -<p>"What other motive could I have?"</p> - -<p>"That remains to be seen. Are you willing, then, that we should put your -fidelity to the test?"</p> - -<p>"I am willing."</p> - -<p>"Remember that you gain your life thereby. Where is it that you meet -this maid?"</p> - -<p>"On the river balcony of the Palace, at the corner nearest here."</p> - -<p>"How high is this balcony from the water?"</p> - -<p>"Less than a man's height. Standing in the boat the floor is level with -my shoulders."</p> - -<p>"Is it your custom to ascend upon the balcony?"</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord. I stand there holding the rope in my hand, which coming -from the prow of the skiff passes round one of the balustrades. Thus, in -case of interruption, I can instantly release my hold, sit down, and -float away unseen."</p> - -<p>The Emperor glanced at Siegfried with a look that plainly said, "This -man speaks the truth." But the Baron, with perplexed brows, showed that -he thought all the worse of him. Thus do the same words produce -differing effects on different minds.</p> - -<p>"Now, hark ye, fellow," said the Emperor, with more severity in his tone -than he had yet used, "and give good heed to what I say, for much -depends on it, especially to you. We will accompany you in the boat to -this tryst upon the water, but will so bestow<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span> ourselves that we shall -be unseen by whoever there awaits you. Now, mark this: you are to -proceed thither silently; you are to give neither sign nor signal. If -you so much as cough, your neck shall suffer for it. If you attempt to -whisper, or say aught that is inaudible to us, as we lie in your boat, -we will adjudge you a traitor. If it is but innocent love traffic that -calls you to the balcony, you will carry on your flirtation as if we -were not within hearing distance, and I will hold you unscathed for -anything you may say. Are you honest with this girl?"</p> - -<p>"As honest as I am with you, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Ah! that is somewhat in doubt at the moment, but if you are honest then -will I give your Hilda a handsome dowry when she weds with the boatman -of the Moselle. Are you content with the trial?"</p> - -<p>"I am content, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Then get ready the boat, so that we may not keep the maiden waiting."</p> - -<p>The young man raised the trap-door and disappeared down the steps.</p> - -<p>"I hope he will prove himself a true man," said the Baron, evidently -somewhat shaken in his suspicions by the straightforward answers and -actions of the person accused.</p> - -<p>"By the Holy Coat," cried the Emperor, with a laugh, "it is well for us -if he does so."</p> - -<p>"Well for <i>us</i>?" echoed the Baron; "well for him you mean surely."</p> - -<p>"Not so. Look you in what plight he has us should he be a traitor. We -are wrapped in our cloaks, lying in the bottom of the skiff. The young -man steers us to this balcony, springs nimbly upon it, the rope in his -hand, deftly with his foot upsetting the boat, as, like my countryman, -William Tell, he leaps from it. He cries aloud, 'Treason! treason -against my Lord, the Archbishop!' The guards rush out, we are fished -dripping from the water, and dragged before Archbishop Arnold to explain -to him who we are and what<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span> we did cruising round his Moselle palace. If -he is false, being a quick-witted man he sees his doom is fixed should -he refuse the test, while by accepting our proposal we at once deliver -ourselves shackled into his hands. I should ask nothing better than to -have two fools, who were my enemies, placed thus at my disposal."</p> - -<p>The Baron sprang to his feet with an oath. "We shall go on no such -hare-brained excursion," he cried.</p> - -<p>"Pardon," said the Emperor, calmly, "but I shall go, most assuredly. I -am not the man to propose a test and then shrink from it. But it would -be wiser for you to remain here, ready to stand sponsor for me with the -Archbishop, should I be captured. I assure you, good Siegfried, your -testimony will have much greater weight if you come to the Palace dry, -than if you are a dripping accomplice, rescued by his men-at-arms."</p> - -<p>"Where you go, I go," answered the Baron, nonplussed.</p> - -<p>The boatman put his head up through the trap-door and announced that the -skiff was ready. The Emperor laughed as he flung his cloak over his -shoulders; the Baron did likewise, but there was disquietude on his -brow.</p> - -<p>"There is like to be enough of meat," said the archer, seeing they were -about to depart, "but if you are to be long absent I would fain be put -into communication with the hogshead from which this most excellent -flagon is accustomed to be replenished. Wine, when a man is eating, -makes fair escort for good food down the throat, but one is scarcely -able thus to judge satisfactorily of its quality, missing the aroma -which the more leisurely drinking allows the palate to become acquainted -with. I hold that the proper time for doing justice to a good wine is -when hunger has been so thoroughly appeased that——"</p> - -<p>"The barrel is in the adjoining room," replied Siegfried, as he -disappeared down the trap-door.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span></p><p>The boatman, sitting in the stern and using a paddle, propelled the -skiff through the water-doorway and out upon the broad bosom of the -river. His two passengers reclined near the prow and thus they floated -down with the current, passing the numerous small buildings, all dark, -which composed the little hamlet of Zurlauben. The huge square bulk of -the Archbishop's Palace rose in the moonlight at the further end of the -village, showing some lights in the upper rooms. The man in the stern of -the boat sat silent as a statue of Death, and almost as motionless. He -allowed the boat to drift with the current, making no effort to -accelerate its progress by use of the paddle that trailed in the water -behind, contenting himself by giving it a slight deflection to right or -left and thus direct the impetus of the craft this way or that. The tall -pointed windows of the large hall of the Palace, which, filled with -stained glass, gave a semi-ecclesiastical appearance to the river front -of the edifice, glowed softly with coloured light, like jewelled -pictures against the dark wall, showing that the room within was still -illuminated. The two passengers now reclined with heads towards the -prow, their cloaks entirely concealing their persons, and in the silence -and the darkness, with the mute figure upright in the stern, the weird -craft looked as if Charon were its master, ferrying two lost souls over -the Styx.</p> - -<p>As the boat floated noiselessly as a leaf on the surface of the water -into the great shadow which the Palace threw upon the river, the -stillness was broken by a woman's voice. She hissed out the one word—</p> - -<p>"Laggard!"</p> - -<p>"I am not to blame," answered the boatman, rising, taking the rope in -his hand and flinging the loop of it upon the balcony, where it caught -upon some projection, and swung the skiff gently round till the prow -pointed up stream.</p> - -<p>"I assure you, Hilda, I am not to blame. My <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span>master had commands for me -which I could not dispose of sooner."</p> - -<p>"I wish I could see thy face," answered the girl, "then I would know -whether you speak the truth or not. It is like that you have been to -Treves to meet some wench more complaisant than I. Oh, I know of old how -well you can arrange meetings in the city, and if with me why not with -another?"</p> - -<p>"It is hard to be accused twice in one night of lying. I was on my way -to meet you when my master came, and he would not believe what I said. I -know not how to convince you of my truth unless you ask him whether or -no he stopped me from coming earlier."</p> - -<p>"Bring thy master to me instead, Conrad, and I will vouch thou art truth -teller except where women are concerned, and of that I have my doubts. -What hast thou in thy boat, Conrad? I saw the bulk of a burden when I -peered my eyes out watching for thy slow coming."</p> - -<p>"'Tis but dressed calves that I must deliver safe and sound at a house -in the village further up the river. I came direct to thee before doing -so."</p> - -<p>"Who is thy master then, that asks such strange service from his man?"</p> - -<p>"He is a butcher who delights in the killing."</p> - -<p>The prone Emperor nudged his companion and whispered, "The adage is -true, Siegfried; you are like to hear little that will flatter you."</p> - -<p>"Conrad, tell me you have not been to Treves."</p> - -<p>"I swear to you I have not."</p> - -<p>"And that you love none other than me?"</p> - -<p>"I love you only, and would stand against wall to be pierced through the -heart for thy sake."</p> - -<p>"Oh, Conrad!" cried the girl, kneeling and taking his head in her arms. -"No such test of thy love shall ever be required of thee, but I dearly -yearn to hear thee tell me so. Wilt thou come earlier to-morrow night; -for when the light dims in the great hall windows I must away, and I -feared to-night they<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span> would be dark ere I saw the boat. Say thou wilt -come earlier, then no time will be lost in chiding thee."</p> - -<p>"Hilda, it must be as my master wills. He is a strict man, and hard. If -he knows of my coming I cannot tell what may happen."</p> - -<p>"But why serve the butcher? If you quit him I will speak to my Lady, who -will surely get you a place in the household of his Lordship."</p> - -<p>"Advancement may be more certain with a hard master where there are few -servants than with one like the Archbishop, who has hundreds at his -command. I will answer you to-morrow. If my master is just and regards -truthful service he may look with favour on me."</p> - -<p>"But you said you knew little of him."</p> - -<p>"I know more of him now that he has returned. Hilda, I pray you cast -your memory back and tell me what I proposed to do when next I saw him."</p> - -<p>"You mean the telling him about our love and betrothal?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"Then you have told him? What did he say!"</p> - -<p>"I have told him. I shall know to-morrow what he says."</p> - -<p>As he spoke the lights in the great windows dimmed and went out.</p> - -<p>"Alas! alas!" cried the girl, "our time is spent. Come earlier to-morrow -night. And now get thee back to thy butcher."</p> - -<p>"In truth, Hilda, he came nearer than you wot of, to the justifying of -your term to-night. Farewell."</p> - -<p>There was the smacking sound of several kisses hurriedly bestowed, then -the young man pulled the prow end of the rope toward him, and sat down -again in the stern. The boat floated along under the shadow of the -Palace, but the steersman with vigorous but silent strokes of the paddle -prevented it from drifting into the moonlight, shooting the craft -rapidly across the river until it reached the comparatively<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span> still water -near the opposite bank. The two in the prow now sat up but remained -silent, making no comment on the events of the evening in the hearing of -the person most interested, who applied himself strenuously to the work -in hand, and proved not only his strength, but his mastery of the -waterman's art. The moonlight falling on the Emperor's face, showed a -resolute effort on the part of his Majesty to keep from laughter, while -the Baron's countenance exhibited a settled gloom. When well above the -village, the boatman, with a few quick, well-placed strokes, sped the -skiff across the river, and timed his efforts so accurately that it -floated into the open doorway under the house.</p> - -<p>Rodolph and Siegfried mounted the steps and found the archer with his -head resting on his arms spread out over the table, sound asleep, and -audibly enjoying his rest.</p> - -<p>"Speaking for myself, I like Hilda," said the Emperor, with a laugh. -"How does your more experienced judgment approve of the girl, -Siegfried?"</p> - -<p>But the Baron did not answer the question. He said instead, with some -indignation, "A butcher, indeed! I shall give the fellow his life, -because I passed my word, but he is no longer servant of mine. I shall -take instead this honest archer, who has passed the time of life when -balcony work is attractive."</p> - -<p>"My lord Baron, you will do nothing so foolish. The young man is a -jewel. He is a proven man, while you know little of this stranger, who -is a foreigner, and, by his own account, a mere hireling. If I am ever -to make my escape from this place on horse, or in boat, I want this -young fellow here to help me. I feel I can depend on him in an -emergency."</p> - -<p>"In that case he remains."</p> - -<p>At this point Conrad himself appeared, and closing down the trap-door, -stood waiting orders.</p> - -<p>"You have proven yourself a true man," said the Emperor, "and I will -make my promise good to <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span>provide your Hilda with a suitable dowry. For -the time being your duty lies here, and I beg you to remember that a -shut mouth will lead to an open purse. Your master will tell you that -you are, for the present, to obey me as you would him, and should I -reach here without him, you are to be at my orders. Meanwhile, no word -to any of what happened to-night, least of all to Hilda herself, who -will not thank you, believe me, for providing witnesses able to give -testimony regarding her undoubted affection for you. I shall add to your -pay an amount equal to what my friend allows you. Are you satisfied?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"You will give this archer breakfast in the morning," added the Baron, -"and then bid him God-speed. Satisfy his hunger and thirst, but not his -curiosity. And finally remember well that you are to hold yourself at -all times under the special commands of this gentleman, to whom to-night -you owe your life, for had I been alone I would undoubtedly have made -good my title of your butcher."</p> - -<p>Conrad bowed and remained silent.</p> - -<p>The Emperor and the Baron departed, and made their way across the plain -to Treves, where they found the dangling rope awaiting them, by the aid -of which they reached their rooms, unimpeded by further adventure.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER IV.</span> <span class="smaller">THE EMPEROR DISAPPEARS.</span></h2> - -<p>For three days the Emperor and Siegfried wandered about Treves and saw -much to interest and instruct them. Among other things they noted that -the city was more efficiently garrisoned than was Frankfort, the -capital. Soldiers swarmed everywhere, insolent and overbearing. One -would imagine that no such person as the Emperor existed, for all -authority seemed vested in the Archbishop. The talk was of what the -Archbishop would do or would not do. Whatever nominal authority the -Emperor might possess in Treves, the Archbishop was the holder of actual -power, and his wishes were law without appeal.</p> - -<p>"I think," said Rodolph, "that when I return from the Holy Land I shall -get together an army and pay a visit of State to this Arnold. It would -be some gratification for me to know that a few good people in this city -were at least aware of my existence."</p> - -<p>Once or twice the two were stopped and questioned with an arrogance that -was particularly galling to both Emperor and Baron. On these occasions -Siegfried's suave diplomacy succeeded in avoiding disaster, but he was -in continual fear that the anger of the Emperor himself might be aroused -and that something would be said resulting in peril. On the third day -the crisis came, and then not through any indiscretion on the part of -the Emperor, but rather from the action of Siegfried himself. As they -approached the market-square on the evening of the third day, <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span>homeward -bent, a truculent officer, with feet spread wide apart, opposed their -passage.</p> - -<p>"Hold, my fine fellow," he cried, placing his hand rudely on Rodolph's -shoulder. "Are you military or civil?"</p> - -<p>"Let me pass," said the Emperor, quietly. "I am a peaceable merchant."</p> - -<p>"Then by what right do you wear a sword at your hip?"</p> - -<p>"By what right do you question me?"</p> - -<p>"I question you in the name of his high and mighty Lordship, the -Archbishop of Treves."</p> - -<p>"Then I answer that I wear this sword by permission of the Emperor -Rodolph, being a citizen of Frankfort."</p> - -<p>"The Emperor Rodolph is a Swiss, and no true German."</p> - -<p>"You lie!" cried Siegfried, whipping out his blade. "The Emperor is a -better German than you or any other Treves cut-throat, and he is -overlord of Arnold von Isenberg, whose menial you are. Doff your cap to -the name of the Emperor, or I will smite your head to the pavement, cap -and all."</p> - -<p>"Treason, treason!" shouted the officer, springing back and unsheathing -his sword. "Treason to the Archbishop! Treason!"</p> - -<p>The cry brought instantly all the military, both officers and men, -within hearing distance, to the spot, and caused, at the same time, the -few civilians of the neighbourhood to escape as quickly as possible. The -civil population well knew that in a military disturbance they were -safer in their own houses.</p> - -<p>Rodolph had also drawn his sword, ready to stand by the Baron should an -onslaught be made, yet he saw in a moment that resistance would be vain, -surrounded as they now were by an angry well-armed-mob.</p> - -<p>"Arrest those dogs," cried the infuriated officer, "who have dared to -question the authority of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span> Archbishop in his own town of Treves, and -have insulted him by drawing blade on one of his officers."</p> - -<p>Several soldiers moved forward to execute this command, when Siegfried, -holding his sword aloft in the air, shouted:</p> - -<p>"Have a care what you do! I am Baron Siegfried von Brunfels, a resident -and a householder in Treves, as noble as the Archbishop himself, which -his Lordship would be the first to allow. If there is to be an arrest, -let the proper authority take into custody this brawling officer, who -disgraces the uniform he wears by attempted mishandling of his -superiors. By the gods, his Lordship will be surprised to learn of the -manners that prevail in his good city of Treves during his absence, and -he barely outside the walls."</p> - -<p>Those around the Baron instantly fell back upon the proclamation of his -quality. Another officer pressed forward with outstretched hand.</p> - -<p>"Welcome to Treves, my Lord," he said. "I thought you were in -Frankfort."</p> - -<p>"I am but newly arrived," replied Siegfried, taking the proffered hand -of his acquaintance, "and come only to meet insult for myself and my -guest."</p> - -<p>"I knew not his condition," pleaded the originator of the disturbance, -in the most abject manner. "I crave your pardon, my Lord, and that of -your comrade."</p> - -<p>The Baron made no reply, but turned his back upon the suppliant. With -his anger rapidly cooling he began to realise the possible consequences -of his revelation of identity. He would now be compelled to pay formal -court to the Archbishop, and give some plausible reason for his -unexpected visit to Treves. If any word reached the suspicious ear of -the Archbishop that he had been in the city secretly for several days, -his already embarrassing situation would be rendered all the more -difficult, and he might speedily find himself an inhabitant of the -prison, where it was notorious that entrance was more easy than exit.</p> - -<p>He bade good-bye to the officer who had recognised<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span> him, pleaded fatigue -from his journey in excuse for his refusal of hospitality that night at -the officer's quarters, and departed with his guest, looked after -somewhat curiously by all who remained.</p> - -<p>He knew that they would now hear his opponent's version of the beginning -of the mêlée and that all would wonder why a noble of the Baron's rank -should be wandering through Treves with a man who announced himself a -merchant. The mystery would deepen the more it was discussed, and the -Baron felt increased uneasiness regarding his forthcoming interview with -Arnold von Isenberg. Yet what troubled him most was the future action of -the Emperor himself. He was resolved that Rodolph should forthwith quit -Treves and hie him back to Frankfort, leaving his friend to stand the -brunt of whatever explanation might be forthcoming. In this lay -difficulty. The Emperor was so loyal to his friendships that he might -refuse to leave Treves. Siegfried well knew that when Rodolph made up -his mind to a certain course of action, neither persuasion nor threats -could swerve him from it. Their coming had been but a foolhardy -expedition at the best, and a most dangerous one as well. The Emperor -himself had given out that he had departed for the Holy Land. None but -Siegfried knew that such departure had not taken place. Let but the -crafty Arnold get an inkling of the fact that the Emperor was in Treves -secretly, and disguised as a merchant, and he would instantly surround -the house with troops, convey both Emperor and Baron to the secret -prison he possessed, and there hold them until it suited his purpose to -let them go. No friend of either Emperor or Baron would have the -slightest suspicion of their fate, for each had elaborately perfected -the fiction that they had gone to the East, which fiction now seemed -like to be their own undoing, more to be feared than the wrath of the -Archbishop himself. How the crafty Arnold would chuckle at the trap they -had laid for themselves!</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span></p><p>"Baron," said the Emperor, as they walked silently homeward, "I am -sorry to disturb your most uncompanionable meditations, but I think we -are followed."</p> - -<p>"Followed!" echoed Siegfried in alarm, casting a look over his shoulder. -He saw in the distance behind them an officer and two soldiers, who -seemed anxious to escape observation and who slunk under an archway when -they saw the Baron turn his head.</p> - -<p>"Their suspicion is aroused then," said Siegfried. "What can they expect -to discover but that I go to my own house accompanied by my guest."</p> - -<p>"I thought, my valiant Baron, you would propose to double on them and -lead them a dance through the narrow streets of Treves. There would be -at least a little excitement in such a course."</p> - -<p>"It would merely confirm them in their evident belief that I have -something to conceal. No. Our wisest plan is to go directly to my house -and let them report that we have done so. But I am convinced that you -must leave Treves, and that as soon as possible. I propose, therefore, -that we ride through the gates to-morrow, and, if questioned, say we are -about to pay a formal visit to the Archbishop. We will then ride to -Zurlauben, where Conrad shall mount my fleet horse and accompany you to -Frankfort."</p> - -<p>"And you?"</p> - -<p>"I shall wait upon the Archbishop, and answer any question he is pleased -to ask."</p> - -<p>"My good Siegfried, no. I can scarcely desert you after having led you -into what you were pleased to term a piece of folly. We go together, or -we stay together."</p> - -<p>"But I must now wait upon the Archbishop. This night's work makes that -imperative. Believe me, were I sure you were well on the road to -Frankfort, I would meet his Lordship with an easy conscience."</p> - -<p>"Well, we will discuss the project further to-morrow, and, as I am alone -to blame, you will not find me obdurate. I shall fall in with any plan -you think is to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span> our advantage, for I see you are anxious regarding my -welfare."</p> - -<p>The Baron von Brunfels was pleased to think that he had gained so easy -and complete a victory.</p> - -<p>They had now reached the arched doorway, and were speedily admitted. -After dinner the Emperor retired early, as had been his custom ever -since he reached Treves, excepting on the first night of their visit. -Before von Brunfels followed his guest's example he looked out upon the -moonlit narrow street, and was somewhat alarmed to notice two soldiers -on watch, although they were at such a distance that they probably hoped -to escape observation. On the other side of the house he also saw two -armed men. It was evident the dwelling was surrounded, and that all exit -was now impossible, save by passing the guards or by slipping out of the -barred window over the city wall.</p> - -<p>The distance at which the sentinels were posted seemed to indicate that -this was not done by the Archbishop's authority, but was a measure -adopted by some of his officers, who might if necessary disclaim any -intention of restricting the liberty of a noble so highly placed as -Baron von Brunfels, yet who were determined that no one should leave or -enter the house without their cognisance. The Baron's first thought was -to put the question to the test by himself passing through the cordon -and seeing whether any dare question him, but remembering that the -Emperor was in his charge, he hesitated about further jeopardising his -safety. He thought it better to consult the Emperor himself, and if -possible persuade him to escape by rope over the wall, make speed to the -house by the river, and take horse from there instantly for Frankfort.</p> - -<p>With this intent the Baron ascended the stair and tried the door of the -large apartment which communicated with the smaller room in which the -Emperor slept. The door was bolted fast on the inside. He rapped at -first lightly, then more loudly, but there was no<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span> response. Hesitating -to break the Emperor's slumber for what he might regard as a trivial -cause, von Brunfels returned to a lower floor and again reconnoitered, -but now saw nothing of the guards on either side of the house. -Perplexed, thinking that he had perhaps jumped too hastily to a -conclusion; that after all the house might not be invested by the -Archbishop's troops; that his own disquiet was the probable cause of his -aroused suspicions; he determined not to awaken Rodolph until there was -more pressing reason for doing so, but to remain himself on guard until -daylight. He asked a servant to put out all lights except that in the -dining-room, where he sat with a re-filled flagon at his elbow, ears -alert for any unaccustomed sound. Toward midnight he again thought he -saw soldiers move silently in the narrow street, as if guard were being -changed, but although the moon shone with midsummer brightness, the -depth of the shadows cast by the walls made it impossible for any -definite judgment to be formed regarding what was taking place on the -street below.</p> - -<p>When day began to break grayly, the Baron watched the departing shadows, -eager to learn whether or not their lifting would reveal anything of the -guard he was convinced had been set on his house, but the clear light of -morning showed the streets deserted and silent. Breathing more freely, -he threw himself on a bench with his cloak around him and was soon in a -deep sleep.</p> - -<p>It was late when he awoke. Calling a servant, he asked why he had not -been informed when his guest had breakfasted, and learned with renewed -alarm that the Emperor had not yet made his appearance. Springing to his -feet he strode hastily up the stair to find the door still bolted. With -ever-increasing uneasiness he mounted another stair to the small room in -which his sentinel sat, whose duty it was to watch for the light in the -river house, and to unbar the window below and throw down the rope. This -room <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span>communicated with the Emperor's apartments below by means of a -secret circular stair. The guard seemed surprised to see the Baron, and -what was said did not serve to reassure his Lordship.</p> - -<p>"The light by the river has been burning all night. When morning broke I -pulled up the rope and closed the window. Nobody came in."</p> - -<p>"Why did you not inform me before daybreak?"</p> - -<p>"I thought it was your Lordship who was out. You came in betimes these -three nights past."</p> - -<p>"Three nights?" cried the Baron. "Has the rope been in use for three -nights?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord. But, until last night, entry was made long before -cock-crow."</p> - -<p>The Baron, stopping to make no further inquiry, went down the circular -stair, and after rapping at the bedroom door, opened it. The room was -empty, and the bed had not been slept in. Cursing his own -thoughtlessness in allowing the night to pass before finding this out, -the Baron unbolted the door, went downstairs, and ordered his horse to -be saddled. It was evident that for three nights the Emperor had been -engaged in nocturnal rambles of some sort, and it was also plain that he -had intended to return on the third night as usual, otherwise the light -would not have burned till day-dawn in the window. What, then, had -prevented his return? Into what trap had he fallen while the Baron was -uselessly guarding an empty house? Had the suspected traitor at the -river house informed the Palace authorities of the advent of a -mysterious visitor, and had they learned who that visitor was? These -reflections tortured Baron von Brunfels as he paced the stone-paved -court impatiently waiting for his horse. He resolved to ride at once to -the house by the river and extort full confession from Conrad at the -point of his sword, slaying him with his own hand if there was the -slightest suspicion of treachery.</p> - -<p>He sprang into the saddle, when the horse was led<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span> out, and roused the -echoes of the silent narrow street as he galloped toward the North Gate. -He was permitted to pass through without question, and now proceeded -more slowly toward the river, not desiring to show unusual haste. The -light still burned in the upper window, and a few moments' investigation -served to show that the house was untenanted and the boat gone. -Thoroughly convinced now that Conrad was a traitor, he realised the -futility of expecting to find him, as he would doubtless be well -protected from vengeance by the Archbishop. The Baron bitterly regretted -that he had not placed one of his own true and tried servants in charge -of the river house. In his heart he had no fault to find with the young -Emperor for engaging, unknown to his host, in these hazardous midnight -expeditions. Rather he blamed himself for his reluctance in accompanying -Rodolph on the first stroll that they took to the river, and thought -this reluctance the probable cause of the Emperor's subsequent secrecy.</p> - -<p>Having at last succeeded in forcing an entrance, Siegfried unbolted the -stable door and placed the horse he had ridden beside the one standing -there. In the large room he found an iron lamp dimly burning, and the -trap-door raised. Everything tended to show that the Emperor fully -expected to return, as he had returned before. Von Brunfels sat down on -a bench and buried his face in his hands. He had not the slightest idea -what to do, hampered as he was on every side. He could not go into the -streets of Treves and cry that the Emperor was missing. He could not go -to the Archbishop and seek assistance, as he might have done were the -lost man any one else on earth than the Emperor Rodolph. He could not -return to Frankfort and raise an army to come to the assistance of a man -all supposed to be in the Holy Land. He might go to Frankfort and await -developments, but Rodolph at that moment probably needed the aid of his -good sword, a few hundred yards<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span> from where he sat. Every avenue seemed -closed to him. Rodolph, in whatever prison he lay, was not more helpless -than his friend outside.</p> - -<p>As the Baron sat there, in a state bordering on despair, his ear caught -the sound of a bugle, giving out an imperative note from the direction -of the Archbishop's Palace. This was answered faintly from the town. The -Archbishop was likely going to Treves. Siegfried sprang to his feet, and -determined to present himself to Arnold von Isenberg, as he had need to -do that day in any case, and by noting every look and expression of his -Lordship, endeavour to form some conclusion regarding Rodolph's fate. -Once more outside, he found that, during his brief withdrawal, many -things had happened. A troop of horse was drawn up in front of the -Palace. Mounted men were hurrying to and fro between Treves and -Zurlauben. From the North Gate of the city another body of cavalry was -issuing. Bugle notes came over the plains from Treves, and it was only -too evident to the Baron that something unusual was afoot. As may be -imagined, these hasty military preparations did not tend to soothe his -apprehensions. His first thought that the Archbishop intended to proceed -from Zurlauben to Treves seemed erroneous, because of the magnitude of -the movement going forward. Arnold marched in state when he went abroad, -but he did not throw the whole military force at his disposal into -commotion by doing so. The Baron's practised eye, and his knowledge of -life in Treves at once told him that some unexpected event had led to -the sudden rally of troops round the summer palace. He walked his horse -slowly towards the body of cavalry, and as he approached was saluted by -the officer in charge, whom he recognised as the friend who had come to -his rescue the evening before.</p> - -<p>"You have chosen an inopportune time, my lord Baron, for your visit to -the Archbishop, if such is your purpose," said the officer, in a low -voice, when the Baron came up with him. "I doubt if you will have -audience with his Lordship to-day."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span></p><p>"I came with that design," answered Siegfried, with a scarcely -perceptible falter in his voice. "What has happened since I last saw -you, for there appears to be some commotion of more than usual -significance?"</p> - -<p>"Ah, that I do not know," replied the officer. "There is something -important in the wind that was not thought of last night. War, I hope. -My instructions—there is nothing secret about them—is to take the road -to Frankfort with all speed. I merely wait the coming of one who is now -with his Lordship receiving final directions. Count Bertrich was in -Treves this morning when, it seems, the Archbishop thought he should -have been at hand. I spoke with the Count two hours ago, and I'll swear -he had no idea that there was anything extraordinary afoot. A company -has already gone westward with all haste, and five messengers have been -despatched, one after another, to Treves for the Count. So impatient is -the Archbishop that no sooner does one mounted man disappear through the -North Gate than another is sent off. Here comes the Count now on the -gallop at the head of his troop."</p> - -<p>As he spoke the party which Siegfried had seen leaving the city came -racing up in a cloud of dust. Count Bertrich flung himself from his -horse and strode into the Palace, unheeding the salutations he received -on all sides. At the same moment a man, booted and spurred, but not in -armour, equipped rather for swift riding than for combat, came hurriedly -down the steps, sprang on his horse and shouted "Forward."</p> - -<p>The officer at once gave the word to his men, and the troop started off -at a trot for the Frankfort Road.</p> - -<p>Baron von Brunfels sat on his horse, doubtful what next to do. As he -hesitated, Count Bertrich came out of the Palace, with pale face and set -lips, mounted the horse he had left but a few moments before, gave a -curt word of command, and galloped at the head of his company down the -river road. Whatever <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span>communication he had had with the Archbishop must -have been of the shortest, and the cloud on the Count's brow showed it -had been at least unpleasant. The Baron determined to see the Archbishop -at all hazards, hoping that some chance word would give him a key to -these swift and mysterious movements. He dismounted, left his horse in -charge of one of the numerous retainers standing about, went up the -steps and entered the large hall, which he found filled with officers -and nobles, all speaking low to each other; all, quite palpably, in a -state of anxiety and unsatisfied curiosity. The Baron walked through -this throng to a smaller ante-chamber into which he was admitted by the -officer on guard, on mentioning his rank, and once there he sent his -name to the Archbishop. After a time the Archbishop's monkish secretary -came out, and bowing low said:</p> - -<p>"My Lord, the Archbishop sends greeting to Baron Siegfried von Brunfels, -and deeply regrets that it is impossible for his Lordship to receive -even the Emperor to-day, were he to honour Treves with his presence."</p> - -<p>"Even the Emperor!" repeated Siegfried, slowly, looking with keen -apprehension at the secretary-monk, who had delivered so singular a -message.</p> - -<p>"Those were his Lordship's words," replied the monk, again bowing -deferentially, which assurance did little to diminish the Baron's -anxiety.</p> - -<p>"I trust," said Siegfried, "that nothing untoward has happened to cause -his Lordship apprehension."</p> - -<p>"I devoutly trust not," answered the monk, with non-committal -obsequiousness, and after this remark he gravely took his leave.</p> - -<p>Baron von Brunfels again passed through the crowded hall, pausing to -converse briefly with one or two acquaintances, but he learned nothing; -on the contrary, he found those who knew him, expecting enlightenment -themselves because he had just come from the ante-chamber.</p> - -<p>The Baron mounted his horse and rode slowly back<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span> to Treves, pondering -on the exciting events of the day. These events had convinced him that -if Rodolph had been captured in the night, he had evidently escaped in -the morning, and that this was the meaning of the hurried scouring of -the country. There seemed nothing left but to return to his house in -Treves, for he thought that if Rodolph could remain in hiding until -nightfall he would probably attempt to re-enter the house by the way he -had departed from it, knowing as he must, the anxiety his continued -absence would cause his friend. Besides it must undoubtedly occur to him -that, while the search lasted, the safest place in which to hide was -Treves itself, for the Archbishop would most likely imagine that the -fugitive Emperor had made for Frankfort with all the speed he could -command.</p> - -<p>Reasoning thus, the Baron passed again unchallenged through the gate to -his house, which he found just as he had left it. He sent one of his -servants to the cottage by the river with strict instructions not to -quit the place until he was relieved, and to show two lights in the -window if, for any reason, help was needed.</p> - -<p>Then the Baron threw himself down on a couch to get some rest, and await -the coming of night.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER V.</span> <span class="smaller">LOVE LEADS THE WAY.</span></h2> - -<p>On the night after his adventure in the boat with the Baron, the Emperor -retired early, bolted his door, threw open the window, flung down the -rope, and so descended to the plain outside the wall. He made his way -across the plateau, pausing for some moments to look at the lighted -windows of the Palace, but hesitating to approach near, fearing to be -challenged by the sentinels who marched up and down in front of the huge -building. Finally he proceeded to the upper part of the village, knocked -at the door of his friend's châlet, and was admitted by the young man in -charge.</p> - -<p>"Well, Conrad," he said, "has our eloquent and skilful archer left you -yet?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord. He went away this morning after he had breakfasted."</p> - -<p>"Most heartily, I warrant?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord!"</p> - -<p>"And whither went he?"</p> - -<p>"He said he thought of marching to the Rhine, my master having advised -him that he would there find employment."</p> - -<p>"I doubt not he will obtain it. They were ever a turbulent crew on the -lordly Rhine. We are quit of the archer then. Have you seen Hilda since -last night?"</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord," said the young man, casting his eyes on the floor.</p> - -<p>"Ah, there I stand your friend. I am come to hold guard until you return -from the balcony. But hark<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span> ye, Conrad, we are all selfish in this -world, and I demand due recompense for my watch and ward. Will you make -bargain then to requite good deed with good deed?"</p> - -<p>"So far as deed of mine may repay you, my Lord, not only for what you -offer, but because of that you have already done on my behalf, you are -welcome to any service of mine you are pleased to accept. I hold my life -at your hands."</p> - -<p>"Then we begin fair, and I see I may make for myself a most favourable -compact with you. We are both of an age, and although it may seem heresy -to say so under the feudal law, there might be some difficulty, if each -were stripped of his trappings, to proclaim which of us was noble and -which plebeian. The valiant archer, who was your guest, said quite -truly, that under arms the best wielder of his weapon was ever the best -man, be he titled or nameless, and I think the same holds true where -such archery as that of Cupid comes in question. To be plain with you, -Conrad, as lover to lover, there exists a maid in yonder palace with -whom I would fain hold balcony discourse—but, alas! she waits not for -me, listening to the ripple of the river or for the splash of my paddle. -In truth, my friend, she, like many in this district, knows not of my -existence, and of the fact that I live and adore her I should dearly -love to make her aware."</p> - -<p>"You mean the Countess Tekla, my Lord?"</p> - -<p>"Conrad, 'tis easy to see that you have learned the craft of the arrow, -not from our stupid archer, but under the tutelage of the god of love -himself. Your first shaft shot straight home. Has Hilda ever spoken of -her?"</p> - -<p>"Sometimes, my Lord. The Countess is most unhappy, she says, because she -is to wed the mighty war-lord Bertrich, whom she loves not."</p> - -<p>"Then are we laggards indeed, did we stand idly by and offer no aid to -the lady. Now, Conrad, what<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span> I wish you to do is this: discover for me -whether the Countess walks in the garden attended only by Hilda, and at -what hour. Get such particulars as you can regarding means of access to -the spot, and beseech Hilda, as she hopes her own love shall prosper, to -be my friend should I seek speech with the Countess."</p> - -<p>"My Lord, there is a better way than that. Hilda told me when last the -Court was at the river palace, that I was to hold myself in readiness -with my boat, so that her ladyship might come secretly and be rowed by -me upon the water. Nothing has since been said of this excursion, but I -will ask Hilda to-night if it has been abandoned. I will ask her also to -urge her ladyship to come, for Hilda has a persuasive tongue, and the -Countess Tekla thinks much of her. Then I shall tell them that I must -have a comrade to help me to manage the boat because of the strength of -the current."</p> - -<p>"Now the gods stand our friends, but that is a most happy conceit of -yours, Conrad! Cupid should be the god of liars as of lovers. Therefore -get thee with haste to thy balcony. I see we will manage this most -skilfully together. See that Hilda be ready to say a soothing word -should the Countess take alarm at my addressing her. Urge thou the water -trip; dilate on the beauty of the full moon, the quickness with which it -waneth, and the softness of the summer night. Plead eloquently, Conrad, -and let Hilda think your anxiety rises from your desire to sit near her -in the skiff, which will indeed be the truth."</p> - -<p>"I shall do my best, my Lord," said Conrad, as he departed.</p> - -<p>The Emperor strode up and down, humming to himself a song of the Swiss -mountains that told of dangers dared for the sake of a lady. He kept his -watch, half-expecting that at any moment his friend Siegfried might -knock at the door; but no one came until he heard again the bump of the -boat's prow underneath the house. A few moments later Conrad appeared -through the trap-door.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span></p><p>"Well, what news?" cried the impatient guard.</p> - -<p>"None, as yet. The Countess has not of late spoken of the boating -project, but Hilda will suggest it and let me know the result to-morrow -night."</p> - -<p>"Then with that we must be content. To-morrow—at the same hour—I shall -be here, and will again keep watch for you. Meanwhile take this and -present it to Hilda to wear for my sake. I should have given it to you -before you went to see her to-night, but became so interested in your -plans that I forgot. Set the light in the upper window, and so good -night."</p> - -<p>He handed to the young man a jewelled necklace, and was gone.</p> - -<p>At the same hour on the second night the Emperor was admitted by Conrad.</p> - -<p>"Now away to your tryst," cried Rodolph, as soon as the door was barred. -"I am impatient to hear the result of your oratory regarding the -pleasures of boating in the moonlight."</p> - -<p>The young man hesitated, then took from his bosom the necklace that had -been given him the night before.</p> - -<p>"I fear, my Lord, that this gift is too costly for me to present or -Hilda to wear. I beg of you——"</p> - -<p>"Tush, tush! Do not stand there chattering about trifles. I promised -Hilda a dowry: it is in those jewels if I never give her more. This is -an uncertain world, Conrad, and few of us know how long we may remain in -it. When you and Hilda are married who knows where I may be? I may -become Emperor, or may be a beggar; so in one case I should forget, -while in the other there would be little gear in my remembering. Always -take the good the gods send, when they send it. 'Tis unsafe to wait a -second offer. And now begone, begone. Tell Hilda to conceal the necklace -until such time as she can wear it safely or transmute the stones into -gold. Away, away!"</p> - -<p>Conrad descended to his boat without further ado, and again Rodolph -paced up and down the room with<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span> even more impatience than he had shown -the previous night. It seemed hours before he heard the lover returning, -and when the young man appeared—</p> - -<p>"Well, well, well?" cried the waiting Emperor, "when do they come, when -do they come?"</p> - -<p>"That I cannot yet tell, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Good heavens! May not a conclusion be more speedily reached on a -subject so trivial? What did Hilda say?"</p> - -<p>"She asked the Countess whether it was her will or no to go out in the -boat, as had been formerly proposed. Her ladyship seemed strangely moved -by so simple a question. She wrung her hands, Hilda said, and wept a -little, crying that she knew not what to do. Hilda assured her I held -myself in readiness, upon which the Countess walked up and down the room -in agitation, and asked Hilda to beg me not to fail her, if she called -upon me."</p> - -<p>"There is more in this than appears on the surface. Go on, go on."</p> - -<p>"She asked Hilda to inquire particularly where I lived, and where the -boat was kept; whether any one else was in the house with me, and the -like. Then she said she might go to-morrow night, but would let me know. -She said she must see the Archbishop first."</p> - -<p>"The Archbishop!" cried Rodolph. "In God's name, did she say why? Is she -a prisoner?"</p> - -<p>"Hilda thinks she wishes to get his permission."</p> - -<p>"A thousand terrors! This is most awkward. It will mean guards, a -retinue, and what not. Why did you not urge Hilda to beg her to come -without such ceremony?"</p> - -<p>"I did, my Lord, right earnestly. Hilda has promised to do so, and let -me know the result to-morrow night."</p> - -<p>"Another postponement! I like not the thought of the Archbishop mixing -in this matter; but, come what will, we are ready to face it. To-morrow, -then,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span> and may it arrive speedily. I give you good-night, Conrad. I will -be here at the same hour to-morrow night, or earlier."</p> - -<p>When the Emperor arrived on the third night the events happening in -Treves, that evening, increased his fear that something would prevent -his meeting with the Countess. He felt that he was entangling his feet -in a skein that might at any time tighten and overthrow him. He well -knew that these three nights' work would meet the strong disapproval of -Siegfried, who had reluctantly enough given his consent to the project -when its objects were strictly political—the measuring of the -Archbishop's military strength and personal power—but now that Mars had -given way to Cupid, Rodolph dreaded the opinion of his friend, should he -get inkling of the change of purpose. Siegfried's hope was to see -Rodolph not only become a real Emperor, but a great one, reducing his -powerful and haughty subjects, the Archbishops, for instance, to their -proper relation to the Imperial Throne. The Emperor had been inspired -with enthusiasm when he left Frankfort, resolving to fulfil his destiny, -but now he could not conceal from himself that all political visions had -dissolved for the moment because of one fleeting glance at a handsome -woman. He knew he was jeopardising his brilliant future, and perhaps -life itself, for the mere chance of speaking to her, and sitting near -her. But he was twenty-eight, and he never even thought of turning back.</p> - -<p>Conrad had nothing new to tell him when Rodolph entered the house by the -river, and the Emperor hurried him away, begging him to make his visit -at the balcony as brief as possible. The visit was indeed brief, for the -Emperor, impatient as he was, had hardly imagined Conrad at the Palace -when the bumping of the boat underneath the house announced his return. -Conrad came up through the trap-door.</p> - -<p>"Hilda is not there, my Lord," he said.</p> - -<p>"Not there? Why did you not wait? My anxiety<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span> has brought me here early, -yet I could have sworn I arrived later than on either of the other -nights."</p> - -<p>"It is later; therefore I wonder what has detained her. I did not wait, -my Lord, but thought it best to return and let you know. I can go -instantly back."</p> - -<p>"Do so, Conrad, do so. She may be waiting for you now."</p> - -<p>As Conrad was about to depart there came a distinct knock at the door. -The two men looked at each other, Conrad in alarm, Rodolph with an -expression of annoyance in his face. Much as he loved his friend, the -Baron was the last person on earth whose presence he desired at that -moment. Not even the Archbishop would be more unwelcome.</p> - -<p>The knock was repeated with some emphasis.</p> - -<p>"Is there any place from which you can see who knocks? The moon shines -full on the front of the house," whispered Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"Yes; through the shutters of that bow-shot window."</p> - -<p>"Then move cautiously to reconnoitre. We will decide how to act when we -know who is there."</p> - -<p>Conrad tip-toed to the window, peered through, and drew back with a -suppressed exclamation.</p> - -<p>"It is the Countess Tekla herself," he cried.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER VI.</span> <span class="smaller">AN UNWISHED-FOR MARRIAGE DAY.</span></h2> - -<p>The Countess Tekla having dismissed her waiting-maid, sat long in her -boudoir over-looking the Moselle, and thought deeply upon the question -that the girl had brought uppermost, by asking if the Countess had -abandoned all purpose of making an excursion on the river. Such indeed -had once been her intention if the iron Archbishop, her unrelenting -guardian, persisted in forcing his will upon her. His last word had been -given her the day the Court left Treves, and it was to the effect that -she should hold herself in readiness to wed Count Bertrich at the -Cathedral when the Court returned. The time for preparation was short, -and once inside the walls of that grim city, all chance of escape would -be cut off. Could she but reach Castle Thuron, the lofty stronghold of -her uncle Count Heinrich the Black, on the Lower Moselle, she felt that, -for the sake of kinship, if not for her broad lands, he would refuse to -give her up again to the Archbishop and to this abhorred union with a -middle-aged ruffian, who, rumour said, had murdered his first wife.</p> - -<p>The stern Black Count, her uncle, she had never seen, and what she had -heard of him was disquieting enough. His mailed hand was heavy, and it -came down with crushing force on all who opposed his will; but he could -not make for her a more detested match than that which the Archbishop -insisted upon; and then he was her mother's brother; if any trace of -softness was concealed in his adamantine nature his niece might perhaps -touch it, for he had no children of his own.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span></p><p>Yet the Countess felt that in setting up her own will against that of -her guardian she was doing an unheard of, unmaidenly act. All women were -thus disposed of. How came it that rebellion against just authority -arose in her heart? She could not herself account for this strange -anomaly, and she feared that evil lurked somewhere in her nature. She -had confessed this feeling to her spiritual adviser, and he had mildly, -reproachfully censured her for it, placing her under penance that she -willingly endured, hoping it would bring about a change; but it had not, -and she shuddered every time the battle-scarred face of Count Bertrich -leered upon her. The Countess knelt before the image of her patron saint -and implored help; help to decide; help to oppose; help to submit; but -the placid saint had sent, as yet, no solution of the problem.</p> - -<p>When last the Archbishop spoke, he spoke as one giving final decision -and he permitted neither reply nor comment. The days by the river were -slipping away and none knew how soon the Archbishop might suddenly make -up his mind to return to Treves. Then the Cathedral, and the wedding -procession! Why had Hilda spoken of the river and the skiff; that wild -project which she had prayed for help to put out of her mind? Was this -then an indication that her saint had come to a decision and that too in -her favour? It certainly seemed so.</p> - -<p>She resolved to seek her guardian, throw herself at his feet and implore -him by the love he had once held for her father, who had lost his life -in the Archbishop's service, to release her from this loathed union. She -would give up her lands willingly, if that were required, and would -retire to a convent in Treves, or to any other place of refuge that -might be appointed.</p> - -<p>Arnold von Isenberg sat in a chair that was with difficulty to be -distinguished from a throne. The back rose high above his head, and at -the top was carved in gilded relief the arms of the Electorate. The tall -pointed coloured windows by the river, cast<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span> a subdued radiance of many -hues on the smooth surface of the polished oaken floor. The lofty -timbered roof of the large room gave the apartment the appearance of a -chapel, which effect was heightened by an altar at one end, where -several high wax candles burned unceasingly.</p> - -<p>Near the Archbishop, by a table, sat the monkish secretary, who wrote at -his Lordship's slow dictation, orders pertaining to business both -ecclesiastical and military. At the door of the room, which was -concealed by a heavy crimson curtain, stood two fully-mailed -men-at-arms, with tall pikes upright, whose ends rested on the polished -floor. Near them, out of hearing of the Archbishop's low voice, stood, -cap in hand, a courier equipped for riding, evidently awaiting the -despatches which the monk was writing. Deep silence pervaded the great -room and each person within it was motionless, save only the monk, who -now was tying the despatches into bundles and sealing them at the small -candle which burned on the table beside him.</p> - -<p>The heavy drapery over the door parted, and a retainer entered softly, -standing with his back to the curtain until a scarcely perceptible -motion of the Archbishop's head permitted him to advance. Dropping on -one knee before the seated monarch, he said:</p> - -<p>"My Lord Archbishop, the Countess Tekla begs to be admitted."</p> - -<p>The Archbishop made no reply, and the messenger remained on his knee. -The despatches were given to the waiting courier, who departed. Then his -Lordship said curtly, "Admit her."</p> - -<p>The messenger, rising, went to the door, held back the curtains, and a -moment later there glided into the room the Countess Tekla, who stood -pale against the crimson background. The Archbishop regarded her with a -dark and menacing look, but gave no other greeting. Seeing no motion -which invited her to approach, the girl, after standing a moment or<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span> two -in hesitation, moved swiftly forward and sank down before the throne.</p> - -<p>"My Lord," she murmured; then agitation seemed to choke her utterance.</p> - -<p>"If you come here to kneel," said the Archbishop, in low, deep tones, -"kneel at the altar yonder and not to me. While you are there, pray that -the saints bestow upon you a contrite spirit."</p> - -<p>"My Lord," she cried, "I beg of you to take my lands, and graciously -permit me to retire to a convent that you may be pleased to appoint for -me."</p> - -<p>"Your lands are mine, as your person is mine, to dispose of at my will, -unquestioned."</p> - -<p>"My Lord, when my father gave my guardianship to you——"</p> - -<p>"I hold my guardianship, not by your father's will, but through the -reading of the feudal law. Your father, in dutifully testifying that his -wish ran parallel with the law, set an example which his daughter may -profitably follow."</p> - -<p>"I wish to follow his example. I wish to render up to you all lands that -were his. I wish to devote my poor services to Mother Church."</p> - -<p>"Your poor services shall be given where I bestow them. Betake yourself -to your apartments, and come not here again until you bring with you a -bending will and an unrebellious spirit."</p> - -<p>"My lord guardian, I do beseech you to hear me."</p> - -<p>"I have heard enough and too much," said the Archbishop sternly. -"Write," he added to the secretary: "'To Count Bertrich. Hold yourself -in readiness to wed the Countess Tekla in the chapel of our summer -palace two days hence—on Friday at mid-day.'"</p> - -<p>The Countess rose to her feet, the colour mounting to her cheek and -brow.</p> - -<p>"My Lord," she cried, a ring of indignation in her voice, "add to that a -request that the Count disclose to you the cause of his first wife's -death, so that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span> you may judge whether he is a fit person to entrust with -a second."</p> - -<p>"You may question him regarding that after marriage. I have ever -understood that a man will grant information to his bride which he risks -peril of his soul by concealing from his confessor. To your apartments, -obstinate woman; there is but brief space to prepare for the -festivities."</p> - -<p>"My Lord, my Lord, I bid you beware. It is feudal law that you may -dispose of my hand as you will; but by feudal law I also have the right -to make choice instead of a convent and forfeiture of my lands."</p> - -<p>"Despatch that message to Count Bertrich," said the Elector to his -secretary.</p> - -<p>"My Lord Archbishop, I will appeal to our Holy Father, the Pope, and to -the Emperor."</p> - -<p>"Do so. We will marry you first, and should we have made a mistake our -Holy Father hath ample power to remedy it. And now, madame, your -audience is ended."</p> - -<p>The Countess retired to her apartments, knelt before the image of her -saint and prayed for guidance. She was in some doubt that the harsh old -man would insist on the carrying out of his threat, and she had hope -that he would send for her to tell her so, but no message came from him. -Tekla slept little that night, and going down to early mass she saw the -chapel already decorated for the dreaded ceremony, the workmen having -evidently spent the night in preparing it.</p> - -<p>The floral wreaths, the loops of white flowers breathing sweetness and -perfume, typical of love, joy and happiness, seemed in such ghastly -contrast to the reality, that their simple presence did more to decide -the girl than all the other influences which, on that eventful day, -helped to shape her conduct.</p> - -<p>She resolved to escape from the thraldom of the Archbishop; seek refuge -in the castle of her uncle, and from that haven send an appeal to the -Pope and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span> also to the Emperor. The only question was now that of means. -Castle Thuron was on the Moselle; the river was swift; she knew little -of the geography of the country, but she was aware that the roads by the -stream were bad, and she doubted if they extended all or even the -greater part of the way to the Rhine. Could she once get several hours -start, on that rapid current, the chances of being overtaken were -slight.</p> - -<p>While the Countess had full confidence in her maid Hilda, she thought it -better not to confide her plans to any one. Hilda would be sure to tell -her lover, and that young man might at the very outset refuse to -undertake so perilous a voyage.</p> - -<p>Then if Hilda were cross-questioned and became frightened, she could not -confess what she did not know. In the case of failure Tekla wished to -face all the results of her rebellion alone, and leave herself the right -to say that none other knew of her purpose. Questioning Hilda, and -finding she had learned where Conrad lived, the Countess, with the -natural craft of her sex, made preparations calculated to baffle her -pursuers, temporarily at least. When darkness set in, she requested -Hilda to lay out for her the costume she usually wore. This costume she -astonished Hilda by asking her to put on. When the tire-woman had thus -arrayed herself the two looked like sisters, and Hilda laughed merrily -at the transformation, which caused even the Countess, anxious as she -was, to smile.</p> - -<p>"Now listen attentively, Hilda, and act with circumspection. I have -reason for wishing you to be mistaken for me to-night. You will put on -this heavy veil so that none may see your face. Go quietly through the -Palace and pass the guards without speaking to any or looking at any. -Avoid meeting three persons at all hazards; return at once if you see -one or other of them, and hie forth again as soon as danger is past. -These three are the Archbishop, Count Bertrich, and the monk who is his -Lordship's secretary. The<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span> guards will not stop you nor speak to you, -thinking it is I who pass. Once outside, see that you are not followed, -then get you to Conrad's house and bid him instantly to take you in his -boat to the watersteps of the Palace, where I will await you."</p> - -<p>"Conrad spoke of another to help him with the boat; should he be absent -shall Conrad search for him, my Lady?"</p> - -<p>"No. If he is there, bring him; if he is not, come instantly without. -But first you must come with me to the water-door and bolt the door when -I am out upon the steps."</p> - -<p>"But how shall we return, my Lady?"</p> - -<p>"I will tell thee more regarding our return when we are in the boat."</p> - -<p>Hilda barred her lady out, which seemed a strange proceeding, then, -safely reached without question or following, the door of Baron -Siegfried, where she knocked twice.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER VII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE FLIGHT OF THE COUNTESS.</span></h2> - -<p>"It is the Countess Tekla herself," cried Conrad, at the window.</p> - -<p>"Then unbar at once and do not keep her waiting," commanded the Emperor, -eagerly.</p> - -<p>The bolts were instantly drawn back and the door thrown open.</p> - -<p>"Oh, Conrad," whispered Hilda, flinging the veil over her shoulder, thus -disclosing her face. She paused in the midst of her speech when she saw -a stranger standing there.</p> - -<p>"It is Hilda," said Conrad, to the Emperor. "Why do you masquerade as -the Countess, Hilda?"</p> - -<p>"It was her ladyship's wish. You are to take me in the boat with you -immediately. The Countess awaits us at the watersteps."</p> - -<p>The trap-door was open, and the Emperor descended, saying, hastily, -"Come, Conrad."</p> - -<p>"He is no boatman," whispered Hilda, holding back in alarm. "Who is——"</p> - -<p>"Hush!" breathed Conrad, "trust to me and come."</p> - -<p>An instant later the boat was pushed out with its three passengers, -moving swiftly and silently down the stream, propelled by the lusty but -noiseless strokes of Conrad's paddle. As they approached the watersteps -it seemed at first that no one was there, but as Conrad with -outstretched arm placed hand on the stone stairway and brought the boat -to a stand, the shadowy form of the Countess came away from the closed -door and a whisper breathed the name of Hilda. Hilda responded -reassuringly, and the Countess came down the steps, Rodolph standing and -handing her into the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span> boat with a deference that the lady was too much -agitated to notice. Her small hand, lightly touching his as she stepped -into the boat, sent a thrill through him such as he had never -experienced before. The Countess sat down with her back toward him, -facing Hilda and Conrad.</p> - -<p>"Now, good rowers," she said, breathing quickly, "keep within the shadow -of the bank until we are sure to have escaped espionage, then I shall -have further instructions, and remember that if you work well and -silently I shall reward you beyond your hopes."</p> - -<p>"May that prove true in my case," said Rodolph to himself.</p> - -<p>The huge Palace seemed to float to the west; the moon shone brightly, -but there was shadow enough thrown by the low bank to conceal the -voyagers not only from chance wayfarers, should there be any, which was -unlikely, but also from each other. The summer night was warm, and not a -breath of wind rippled the surface of the river. Now and then some -waterfowl, disturbed by their approach, plashed two or three times, -beating wing against water, until it rose with a cry and soared away -into the night.</p> - -<p>They had made down the river for nearly an hour when Conrad began -murmuring to Hilda, who sat next him.</p> - -<p>"The Countess does not know how swift this river is," he said. "We will -not get back in a week if we go much further. If it had been up the -stream time would matter little, but down——"</p> - -<p>"What does he say?" asked the Countess.</p> - -<p>"He fears we cannot return betimes if we go further. The current is -fleet to row against."</p> - -<p>"Conrad," said the Countess, bending towards him, "we go not back, but -forward. Seek the speediest part of the river, and guide the boat into -it. I am on my way to Castle Thuron near the Rhine."</p> - -<p>Both Hilda and Conrad gave utterance to exclamations of astonishment and -alarm.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span></p><p>"But the Archbishop?" cried Hilda.</p> - -<p>"But my master!" groaned Conrad.</p> - -<p>"The Archbishop will follow us in hot haste when he finds us gone, -Hilda, which will be some time before noontide to-morrow, therefore must -Conrad persuade the swift stream to aid his stout arms."</p> - -<p>"The boat is not mine," said Conrad, "and I have left my master without -his sanction."</p> - -<p>"I will amply reward your master for the losing of his boat, and you for -the guiding of it. Both you and your comrade will I take into my employ, -and neither shall lose by the transfer."</p> - -<p>"Will you stand for me against my master as you did before, my Lord," -cried Conrad, in great alarm at the possible consequences of his -desertion from a master who brooked no excuse.</p> - -<p>"My Lord!" cried the Countess, half-rising and looking round for the -first time at the second boatman, on whom the moonlight now fell, -showing that he had removed his cap, and was bowing to her.</p> - -<p>"I pray you, madame, do not stand, for this boat is but unsteady at -best. I beg you not to be alarmed, for I shall be as faithful to your -behests as Conrad here, and no man can give himself higher warrant."</p> - -<p>"What lord are you, or are you one?"</p> - -<p>"Conrad, in his excitement, gives me title to which I make no claim, -exaggerating my importance because of some influence I have exerted on -his behalf with his master."</p> - -<p>"What is your name and quality, for I see you are no waterman?"</p> - -<p>"I am sorely disappointed to hear you say so, madame, for I hoped to -make good my reputation as waterman by my work to-night. My name is -Rodolph, and none who know me will deny I am a gentleman."</p> - -<p>"Are you German?"</p> - -<p>"As German as the Emperor and a fellow-countryman of his."</p> - -<p>"You are a Swiss adventurer, then?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span></p><p>"All men have a touch of the adventurer about them: I not more than -others, I hope."</p> - -<p>"Why are you here disguised as a boatman?"</p> - -<p>"I am not disguised, but in my ordinary dress—the costume in which I -have appeared these few days past in Treves. The house by the river, of -which Conrad is caretaker, belongs to my friend, who is Conrad's master. -It happened that I was there when your tire-woman came in real disguise, -and when I heard that you awaited the boat on the watersteps of the -Palace I felt sure something more serious than an excursion by moonlight -was intended, although Conrad suspected nothing. I came, therefore, -thinking you might perhaps need the help of a good sword, and that sword -I now lay at your feet."</p> - -<p>"I need a swift paddle rather than the best of swords. My safety lies in -flight, and not in fighting."</p> - -<p>"My services as oarsman are also at your disposal, madame. I trust that -in your presence there will be no need for swordsmanship; but should -such necessity arise a stout blade is not to be despised."</p> - -<p>The Countess mused for some moments in silence, evidently disquieted by -the intrusion of a stranger, yet well aware that if he proved true and -staunch his help might be invaluable. It was impossible for her to -question Conrad about him in his presence, for she saw he was a -gentleman, as he had asserted, but a fear arose that he might be some -adherent of the Archbishop, intent on furthering his own interests by -delivering her into the hands of his Lordship's minions. She knew that -at various posts along the river, companies of the Archbishop's troops -were stationed—at Bruttig, at Cochem, and elsewhere; he could, at the -moment of passing any one of these places, give the alarm which would -result in her immediate capture. He was armed and Conrad was not, -therefore there might be some difficulty in disposing of him even if no -help were at hand. Still anything was better than uncertainty, and she -resolved to act at once. The river<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span> now ran between high hills, densely -wooded from top to water's edge. If he could be put off it were better -to disembark him in a wilderness like this, than at some settlement -where he had opportunity of raising the hue and cry of pursuit. Yet she -did not wish to leave him to starve or be torn in pieces by wild boars -roaming an almost unlimited forest. The perplexing part of the problem -lay in the fact that if he were a spy and a traitor he might refuse to -land, while if he were a true man he would rid them of his company when -he saw that it was not wanted.</p> - -<p>The Countess leaned forward and spoke to Conrad.</p> - -<p>"Do you know this river?"</p> - -<p>"I know it as far as Cochem, my lady."</p> - -<p>"Where are we now, think you?"</p> - -<p>"We are some two leagues above the ancient Roman town of Boveris."</p> - -<p>Turning to Rodolph, she said:</p> - -<p>"Is the Archbishop your over-lord?"</p> - -<p>"No, madame. I am a free man, owing allegiance to none."</p> - -<p>"Not to the Emperor?"</p> - -<p>"To the Emperor, of course, but to none other."</p> - -<p>"Where did you come from, and how long have you been in Treves?"</p> - -<p>"I came from Frankfort some three or four days since, and never saw -Treves before."</p> - -<p>"You came to seek service with the Archbishop perhaps?"</p> - -<p>"No, madame. I am a student as well as soldier. I came merely to inform -myself regarding the manners and customs of so celebrated and ancient a -city as Treves."</p> - -<p>"Know you who I am?"</p> - -<p>"You are the Countess Tekla, ward of the Archbishop of Treves and niece -of Count Heinrich, to whose Castle of Thuron you are now betaking -yourself."</p> - -<p>"You are well informed. For what object did you gather this knowledge?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span></p><p>"I sat on horseback outside the North Gate, having just arrived from -Frankfort, when the Archbishop and his train passed through on their way -to the summer palace. I saw you riding by his side, and discovered who -you were."</p> - -<p>"Were you similarly inquisitive regarding the other ladies of the -Court?"</p> - -<p>"I saw no others, madame."</p> - -<p>The Countess seemed taken aback by this reply and remained silent for a -few moments. At last she said, with deep displeasure in her voice:</p> - -<p>"I distrust you, sir. If you are a gentleman, as you say, you are aware -that none such thrusts himself uninvited into a lady's presence. I ask -you, therefore, to leave us."</p> - -<p>"I am truly grieved, madame, to refuse your slightest request, but I -will not leave you until I see you safely at the gate of Castle Thuron."</p> - -<p>This refusal at once confirmed all the fears the Countess had -entertained. With rising anger she cried:</p> - -<p>"Not to the gates of Thuron will you deliver me, but to the Archbishop's -troops at Bruttig, and then return to Treves for your reward."</p> - -<p>Having said this she did what any girl of nineteen might have been -expected to do—she buried her face in her hands and wept.</p> - -<p>"Madame," said Rodolph, "forgive me. I may have overrated my ability to -serve you in the future, but I see there is no doubt I cause you present -distress. I will at once do as you desire. Conrad, draw the boat toward -the northern shore."</p> - -<p>When the craft touched the bank Rodolph sprang on a rock that jutted -into the stream. Before leaving the skiff he slipped his cloak from his -shoulders and allowed it to remain where he had been seated. On landing -he drew his sword from its scabbard and flung it to Conrad, saying, "Use -that only when you are compelled to do so, but trust, unless something -<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span>unforeseen occurs, to the paddle. Keep the boat in the swiftest part of -the current and stop question for none. And now, away with all speed, -getting as far down the river as possible before daybreak."</p> - -<p>Conrad looked stupidly from the sword lying at the bottom of the boat, -up to its owner standing on the rock, not comprehending at first what -had happened or was about to happen. When the situation broke upon him -he cried:</p> - -<p>"You are surely not going to desert us, my Lord?"</p> - -<p>Rodolph gave no answer, but the Countess, drying her tears, made reply -to him.</p> - -<p>"It is my wish that he leave us, Conrad."</p> - -<p>"If that be the case," said Conrad, stoutly, "I return to Treves. I have -put my neck in a halter only on the assurance of his Lordship that the -rope be not pulled. If my surety is gone, then will the halter tighten. -Not an inch further down the Moselle do I go; in truth, we are much too -far already, and God knows what time we shall see Treves again, against -this current."</p> - -<p>"Tell your fellow," said the Countess, imperiously, to Hilda, "that he -must complete the task he has begun. He will obey you, even though he -refuse orders from me, and I will protect him at the journey's end."</p> - -<p>"Indeed, indeed, my Lady," cried Hilda, in despair, torn between love -for her lover and loyalty to her mistress, "why cannot we go on as we -began? What needs this lord to be sent thus adrift in the forest, -weaponless?"</p> - -<p>"We want not his weapon; our safety, as he himself says, is in flight. -Give back the sword, Conrad. I will protect you."</p> - -<p>"Pardon me, my Lady," replied Conrad, with sullen stubbornness, "but how -you can protect me when you are flying for your own safety I cannot -comprehend. The one who can protect me and who has done so, stands on -the bank, and either he comes again into the boat, or I go back to -Treves. The fewer words that are spoken the less time there is lost."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span></p><p>The Countess Tekla was quick in her decisions. She turned to the young -man standing silent in the moonlight upon the rock. She could not but -see what a handsome manly fellow he was, and at the sight of him her -fears regarding his loyalty diminished, in spite of herself, although -she strove in her own mind to justify her action.</p> - -<p>"My Lord, as they persist in calling you, in derision of your -disclaimer, you see my crew has mutinied on your account. I beg of you, -therefore, to return to your place."</p> - -<p>"Countess," answered Rodolph, "more great enterprises have been wrecked -through mutiny within the ranks, than because of the enemy without. It -is unpleasant to be looked upon as a traitor by one we are proud to -serve freely, therefore, as a condition of returning I must ask you to -withdraw the imputation you cast upon me."</p> - -<p>"I do withdraw it. Have you further terms to make now that you see me -helpless?"</p> - -<p>"I shall take advantage of your helplessness to impose one more -condition. I am to be captain of this expedition, my power being -absolute and unquestioned. You, not less than they, are to be under my -orders, which must be obeyed promptly and implicitly. Do you agree?"</p> - -<p>"Having no choice, I agree."</p> - -<p>"Countess, as you will, when your expedition succeeds, make generous -amends for the present ungraciousness of your acceptance, I am content -to wait for commendation until then. Conrad, give me the sword. Hilda, -sit in the bottom of the boat, and Conrad will fling his cloak about -your shoulders. Countess, my cloak will form but an inefficient carpet, -still 'tis better than naught. Lay your head in Hilda's lap, and your -own cloak shall be your coverlet. So. Now to sleep. Conrad, strike out -for mid-stream."</p> - -<p>Propelled by the sturdy strokes of both, the boat shot out from under -cover of the land and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span>re-commenced its rapid voyage down the river. Now -and then a sleeping village was passed, and once disaster was narrowly -averted when Conrad's quick eye recognised the floating logs which -upheld the linked loops of chain that stretched across the river below a -robber castle.</p> - -<p>This obstruction was intended to stop boats of deeper draught than the -light skiff, and compel their owners to pay reluctant tribute to the -lord of the castle. The skiff passed midway between two of the logs and -floated over the submerged chain in safety.</p> - -<p>The banks on either hand were high, almost mountainous, and those on the -northern side were clothed with vines nearly to the summit.</p> - -<p>The moon sank behind the hills and for a time the darkness was intense, -rendering navigation a matter of some skill and alertness, not without a -spice of danger. Both the Countess and Hilda slept peacefully and -neither man spoke. Only an infrequent plash of paddle, or the lonely cry -of a disturbed waterfowl, or night-bird, broke the stillness.</p> - -<p>At last the short summer night gave token of ending. The lightening -surface of the water first heralded the approach of dawn, then the stars -began to dim over the eastern hills, and a faint, ever-spreading -suggestion of grey crept up the sky beyond.</p> - -<p>Rodolph ventured on a sigh of relief and weariness as the light -increased and the difficulties of the task lessened, but he soon saw -they were merely exchanging danger of one kind for danger of another, as -an early man-at-arms on the right bank espying him, loudly commanded -them to draw in and explain themselves, which command, being unheeded, -he forthwith planted stake in ground, strung his cross-bow and launched -a bolt at them in such hurry that it fell uselessly short and was a good -bolt lost. By the time the second was ready, the skiff and its occupants -were hopelessly out of range.</p> - -<p>But the cry of the challenger had awakened the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span> Countess, who sat up to -see the red rim of the sun breaking out above the hills and flooding the -valley with golden light.</p> - -<p>"Are we nearly there?" she asked.</p> - -<p>"I think not," answered Rodolph. "In truth, I know not where we are. Is -it still far to Thuron, Conrad?"</p> - -<p>"We are not yet half-way. It is, I judge, but seven hours since we left -Treves, and if, with this current and our own work, we have sped two -leagues an hour we have done well. That gives us fourteen leagues -accomplished. From Treves to Thuron is somewhere about thirty-four -leagues, so there must be twenty at least before us."</p> - -<p>The Countess gave a cry of despair. "Is it then so far? I thought we -would reach the castle by daybreak. Have we passed the Archbishop's -palace at Cochem?"</p> - -<p>"No, my lady. Cochem is but six short leagues from Thuron."</p> - -<p>"Is it your wish, madame, to stop at Cochem?" asked Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"Oh no, no. Anywhere but there. I am well known to all about the -palace."</p> - -<p>"But none would have the right to detain you."</p> - -<p>"Not the right perhaps, but the power. To see me travel thus, without -fitting escort, would be sure to arouse suspicion, and the custodian of -the palace might well take it upon himself to hold me there until he -knew the Archbishop's pleasure."</p> - -<p>"We must have food. Conrad, know you of any inn further on?"</p> - -<p>"There are no inns along the Moselle except at Bruttig and Cochem; I -think there is a house at each place where soldiers drink and boatmen -eat and lodge."</p> - -<p>"How far is Bruttig from here?"</p> - -<p>"About ten leagues, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"That is five hours at this going. What soldiers are at Bruttig?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span></p><p>"The followers of Count Winneburg, those of the Count of Beilstein, and -soldiers of the Archbishop."</p> - -<p>"If the Archbishop's soldiers are there I beg that you will not stop," -said the Countess.</p> - -<p>"I am not sure but protection lies in the very fact that they are there. -Your flight, in all likelihood, has not yet been discovered in Treves; -we have many hours the start of pursuit, and are not likely to be -overtaken. Still we shall not stop there, if food can be procured -elsewhere."</p> - -<p>When the sun was two hours high, they drew in at a village on the -northern bank, nestling at the foot of the vineyard-covered hill. Here -they rested for an hour and broke their fast in a fashion. Nothing but -the coarsest of black bread could be obtained, with some flagons of -inferior white wine. The river was now broader and the current less -swift, so that progress was more slow than had been the case during the -night. In addition, they had frequently to creep close to the bank on -one side or the other to escape observation, and this delayed them. -Consequently the sun was well past meridian when Bruttig, with the -Castle above it came into sight, and all in the boat were ravenously -hungry.</p> - -<p>"We will halt here and dine," said Rodolph. "I think there is nothing to -fear. I have a passport, and I am a merchant from Frankfort, journeying -from Treves to Coblentz. You, madame, are my—my sister, and these two -are our servants. It is well to remember this if we are questioned -separately. You, Conrad, will wait by the boat, and I will have food and -wine sent to you. Countess, I shall escort you to the inn and Hilda will -wait upon you. Much depends on acting naturally and showing no anxiety."</p> - -<p>The Countess made no objection to this arrangement, and Conrad, with a -stroke of his paddle, turned his boat towards the sloping beach that ran -along the river in front of the little town.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER VIII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE RAPIER AND THE BROADSWORD.</span></h2> - -<p>Bruttig consisted of a row of houses facing the river, some few hundred -feet back from it. In the centre of the row, near the landing, which was -rudely paved with round stones, stood the inn, a sufficiently -forbidding-looking square structure, with an arched gateway in front, -apparently leading to a courtyard. The gates could be closed at night, -and doubtless were, so that, in a way, the inn might be successfully -defended from assault should necessity arise, as was often the case in -those troublous times.</p> - -<p>The bewildering mixed jurisdiction of the place, governed as it was by -no less than three over-lords, the Count of Winneburg, the Archbishop of -Treves, and the Count of Beilstein, was shown by the different uniforms -of the men-at-arms who now, in groups or singly, watched the landing of -the party from the skiff.</p> - -<p>The three Captains, who represented the three over-lords of Bruttig, -were lounging round the doorway of the inn, watching the landing of the -mysterious boatload. Such a frail craft coming down the Moselle was an -unusual sight, and naturally attracted the attention of the three -officers, who were, as a rule, excellent friends, except when a fight -was in progress, and some question of jurisdiction came up that had to -be argued on the spot with two-handed swords. They referred to each -other by the titles of their chiefs, each man, being spoken to by his -comrades as the Archbishop, Beilstein, or Winneburg.</p> - -<p>"What have we here, Elector?" asked the Captain who commanded the forces -of Count Winneburg.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p><p>"That is for our comrade Beilstein to answer; this motley crew belongs -to him. You had the last boat-load to exact tribute from, and I the one -before. I am glad that it falls upon Beilstein to deal with women, for -such traffic befits not the Church," replied the Captain of Treves. The -Captain of Beilstein, a tall, powerful, swarthy man in full armour, -twirled his black moustache, which spread across his cheeks like a pair -of ravens' wings, and gazed down at the landing party.</p> - -<p>"There is this to be said, they give us little trouble in bringing them -ashore, but are, apparently, about to walk confidently into the lion's -mouth," remarked Beilstein, "which seems to argue that they are -waterfowl, little worth the plucking."</p> - -<p>"Rather that they know not whither they are bound," suggested the -Elector. "The young spark hands my lady from the boat with something of -an air about him that was not caught in trading booths, and the girl -stepped daintily out upon the cobbles in a manner that suggests the -Court. If she improves on closer inspection, Beilstein, you are in luck. -Would there were three women instead of two."</p> - -<p>"They are sufficient as it is," said Winneburg, with a chuckle, "for the -Church has just disclaimed all desire for such merchandise."</p> - -<p>"Ho, within there, Host," cried Beilstein, through the gateway. "Here -comes gentle custom for thine inn, and you are not by to welcome it."</p> - -<p>In response to his call a short burly sullen-looking man, with bullet -head, came out and stood under the arch, looking at the group ascending -from the river, but as there was little pleasure in his gaze he probably -expected small profit from their approach.</p> - -<p>Rodolph cast a rapid glance at the four men, bowed slightly to the three -officers, who took no notice of his salutation, and addressing the host, -said:</p> - -<p>"This lady desires a room where she may rest unmolested after her -journey. Let such refreshment as<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span> you have be instantly prepared. The -lady will lunch in her room, and I will eat wherever pleases you. Send -as speedily as possible, food and wine to my servant, who remains with -my boat by the landing."</p> - -<p>The host made no reply, but turned his lowering look upon the officers, -as if waiting for word from one or all of them.</p> - -<p>"You hear his Lordship's commands, I hope," roared Beilstein, "the best -in the house for the lady and that without delay. The gentleman will -doubtless wish to remain here and make the acquaintance of three good -fellows."</p> - -<p>The innkeeper, telling the Countess briefly to follow him, led the way -within. Rodolph was about to enter the court-yard, when the stalwart -Captain blocked his way, standing with feet set wide apart before him.</p> - -<p>"Friend," began the Captain, genially, "we fall on turbulent times, when -each man is suspicious of his neighbour. You have little objection, -doubtless, to inform us who you are and why you travel."</p> - -<p>"None at all," replied Rodolph. "I am a merchant of Frankfort; I -journeyed to Treves, transacted there my business and am now returning -to Frankfort by way of Coblentz."</p> - -<p>"And the lady?"</p> - -<p>"The lady is my sister. The two with us are our servants."</p> - -<p>"You have little room in your craft for merchandise."</p> - -<p>"We came to Treves on horseback by the Roman road, the merchandise -carried by mules. It is now sold and thus I return empty-handed."</p> - -<p>"Not entirely empty-handed, I trust, for you must have received -something by way of honest recompense for honest merchandise. If you -sent your gold back to Frankfort by the way the goods came, and now -journey down the Moselle with barely enough to pay the innkeeper here -for what you have of him, that, I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span> fear, will be looked on by the -virtuous barons as a slight upon their probity, and some may hold you to -ransom merely to show all future travellers that the noble river is not -to be thus lightly dealt with. But, as I before proclaimed to you, we -live in a suspicious time, and you, probably do not expect your bare -word to be taken regarding your quality. I need hardly ask you if there -is in your possession some slight document having reference to your -occupation."</p> - -<p>"I have a passport, which I shall be pleased to exhibit on being assured -of the right of any questioner to demand it."</p> - -<p>"I am Captain of the forces here, stationed to serve my Lord, the Count -of Beilstein, one of the three over-lords of Bruttig. By consent of my -two colleagues of Treves and Winneburg I am Captain of the Day, -responsible to my master and to them that no traitors come within our -precincts. If further warrant of my right to question is required, then -my good two-handed sword stands sponsor to me, dealing forth argument -that few care to controvert. Is it your pleasure that I call upon it to -set any doubts at rest concerning my authority?"</p> - -<p>"Not so. The word of an officer is at all times sufficient for me. I -merely desired to know to whom I should have the honour of submitting -this document for inspection," saying which Rodolph handed to the -officer his passport, although it was evident a moment later that the -worthy man, brave soldier as he might be, could not read it. He turned -it over and over in his hand, then glanced at the Captain of the -Elector, who watched him with a smile.</p> - -<p>"This seems in proper form," said Beilstein, shrugging his shoulders, -"but you soldiers of the Church are on terms of acquaintance with these -characters, which are denied to us who are more practised at arms than -with the pen. Construe for us the sheet, Elector." The Captain of the -Elector took the parchment and cast his eye over it.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span></p><p>"There is nothing here of a sister, merchant," he said, looking at -Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"It is not customary in Frankfort," replied Rodolph, "to take much -account of our women. They come and go as they please, providing they -are accompanied by a relative or guardian who possesses a proper -passport."</p> - -<p>"Frankfort customs hold not on the banks of the Moselle," said -Beilstein, menacingly.</p> - -<p>"Did your sister enter and leave Treves under this passport?" asked the -Elector.</p> - -<p>"Freely."</p> - -<p>"Unquestioned?"</p> - -<p>"Absolutely unquestioned."</p> - -<p>"Did the Archbishop know of her presence?"</p> - -<p>"She had the honour of appearing at the Archbishop's Court."</p> - -<p>"Hum!" ejaculated the Captain of the Elector, doubtingly, lowering at -the polite stranger suspiciously from under his bushy eyebrows. "The -manners of his Lordship's Court must have changed since I knew aught of -them, if Arnold von Isenberg invites Frankfort merchants to his circle."</p> - -<p>"We have the privilege of being vouched for by Baron Siegfried von -Brunfels, now in Treves. I may also add that although I engage in -traffic, there is no plebeian blood in my veins."</p> - -<p>The Elector's Captain handed the passport back to Beilstein, saying in -an undertone, "I should not meddle with these people were I in your -stead. 'Tis likely what he says may be true."</p> - -<p>"And what is that to me?" cried Beilstein, angrily. "Bruttig is not -under the jurisdiction of Arnold von Isenberg alone, nor will Winneburg -or Beilstein suffer sole jurisdiction to be claimed by him under any -pretence whatever. Speak I not true, Winneburg?"</p> - -<p>"Aye," agreed Winneburg's Captain cordially, "and this party falls to -you by fair agreement previously made."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span></p><p>"I have put forward no claim to special jurisdiction," said the -Elector. "I gave a hint to a friend that it is ill meddling with any pet -of the Lion of Treves. You may act on it or not, as pleases you. I shall -not interfere unless the merchant here brings me written message from -Arnold von Isenberg. Have you any such, sir? If so, give it to me before -mistakes are made."</p> - -<p>The trend of the discussion showed Rodolph that he was in danger of some -kind, which might require all his craft to avoid, for if it came to -blows he stood no chance whatever. He also realised that hope lay in -winning to his side the good will of the Archbishop's Captain, and, if -possible, in gaining some assurance of the neutrality of Winneburg's -man. He imagined, however, that he saw a disposition on the part of the -two local authorities to stand together against the Archbishop, and a -reluctance on the part of the Archbishop's delegate to force matters to -an issue. It was, all in all, a most difficult position.</p> - -<p>"I have a message from the Archbishop to you, but it will please him -better if I am not compelled to deliver it. We are peaceful travellers -in his lordship's domains, and have a right to pass on our way without -hindrance."</p> - -<p>The surly host at this moment came out and announced that the meal was -prepared. A lad passed through with a loaf and a measure of wine for -Conrad. Rodolph, bowing to the three officers, followed the host.</p> - -<p>"What do you propose to do?" asked Winneburg.</p> - -<p>"I can tell you better when I have had a glimpse of the maiden. If she -suits my fancy I shall have a broadsword bout with the brother, by way -of introducing myself amicably to the family."</p> - -<p>"Not the best method, perhaps, of commending yourself to the lady, -whether victor or vanquished."</p> - -<p>"The strong hand, Winneburg, is ever the surest, whether it grasps girl -or gold."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span></p><p>The officer of the Archbishop remained silent, while the other two -discussed the question. Something in the manner of Rodolph impressed him -with the belief that the young man spoke as one having authority, and he -knew that if a mistake were made, Arnold von Isenberg was one to punish -first and weigh excuses after. He knew that if he opposed Beilstein, or -even tendered advice, the obstinate officer would the more surely -persist in whatever course he had marked out for himself, so he resolved -to maintain silence and keep a watchful eye, governing his actions by -whatever might befall. With a scarcely perceptible signal to his -lieutenant, he conveyed a message to him that seemed to be instantly -understood, for the subordinate at once set himself quietly to the -gathering of his men, who grouped themselves round in an apparently -casual manner, and remained within call.</p> - -<p>While Beilstein and Winneburg were conversing Rodolph reappeared, with -the Countess and her maid accompanying him. The sun had already begun to -decline far in the west, and the cloudless sky gave promise of a fine -summer evening. Beilstein strode forward.</p> - -<p>"I have questioned your brother, my girl," he said, "and now, by your -leave, I would have a word or two with you. But first draw aside your -veil that we may all see whom we have had the pleasure of entertaining -in our poor town of Bruttig."</p> - -<p>The Countess shrank timidly from him without speaking, and Rodolph at -once stepped between her and the officer.</p> - -<p>"Sir," he said, gravely, "I have answered all your questions fairly and -fully. If you have more to ask, propound them, I beg of you, to me, and -I shall again reply until you are satisfied."</p> - -<p>"Merchant," cried the officer, working himself into an anger, "your -passport makes no mention of this lady. I must therefore look upon her -face and judge if there is any sisterly likeness that may give colour -of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span> truth to your words. Madame, remove your veil, and put me not to the -disagreeable duty of tearing it from your face."</p> - -<p>"Is it possible, gentlemen," said Rodolph to the other two, "that a lady -is to be thus insulted in your presence, and am I to take it that we can -look for no protection from you?"</p> - -<p>"It is none of my affair," said Winneburg, impartially.</p> - -<p>"I can act only on the written authority of the Archbishop or on the -spoken word of a superior officer, whom I personally know," replied the -Archbishop's man, with a keen glance at Rodolph, which said as plainly -as words, "If you have such authority, in God's name, produce it."</p> - -<p>Rodolph, turning to the Countess, whispered, "Slip away to the boat -while I hold this fellow in check. Get in and tell Conrad to push out -into mid-stream. Float down the river and if I do not overtake you along -the bank, hurry on alone to your journey's end."</p> - -<p>"Sir," he said to the officer, "if you do not wish your own master to -curse your interference, you will allow me to go my way without further -question."</p> - -<p>"Then you shall explain to my master who you are. Come back!" he cried -to the Countess, who was hurrying down the slope, and he would have -followed after her, but Rodolph, whipping out his slender rapier, stood -squarely in the way.</p> - -<p>"Ho, there, men of Beilstein!" shouted the officer, "stop those women. -Tie me up that fellow at the boat, and cast the boat adrift. Now my fine -merchant you have at last found your toy weapon. Is it your purpose to -stand against me with that shivering reed?"</p> - -<p>"I will do my best, if you insist on an encounter, which I beg of you -and your comrades to note I have tried my utmost to avoid. But in -fairness allow my sister to go, and wreak your vengeance on me alone. -When did you men of the Moselle begin to war on women?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span></p><p>"The woman shall be the prize of the contest," said the officer, -confidently.</p> - -<p>The other two looked on in amazement. The rapier was entirely unknown -throughout Germany and had only recently come into use in Italy, where -Rodolph, dwelling as he did, on the borders of that country, had learned -its deadly use. The giant swung his two-handed sword once or twice round -his head, and in a loud voice asked his antagonist if he were ready. -Rodolph answered nothing, but threw away his cloak, which he would have -used as an article of defence had he been opposed to one similarly armed -to himself, knowing that in this encounter he must depend on his agility -for his safety, and to the cumbrous nature of his opponent's blade, for -his chance of attack. The battle was over almost before the spectators -knew it had begun. Beilstein brought down an overhead swirl of his heavy -blade which would assuredly have annihilated any living thing it -encountered, but Rodolph sprang nimbly aside and when the blade struck -the earth he darted sharply forward, thrusting the thin rapier through -the officer's neck, the only unprotected vital part of his body, -springing back again out of arm's length in an instant. The giant strove -to raise his blade, but the effort caused a red jet of blood to leap -from his throat, and spatter down upon his breast-plate. Rodolph stood -apart, braced and alert, the sting of death held tense in his hand, -showing not a trace of blood on its shining, needle-like length. No -groan escaped the Captain, but a pallour overspread his swarthy face; he -swayed to and fro like a tottering oak, apparently upheld by his huge -sword, the point of which he had been unable to extricate from the -earth. Then he suddenly collapsed, and came, with a clash of armour, to -the ground.</p> - -<p>The horrified lieutenant of Beilstein, seeing his master thus -unaccountably slain, at once raised the cry of "Beilstein."</p> - -<p>"Up! men of Beilstein!" he roared. "Your master<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span> is murdered. Surround -his assassin and take him, dead or alive, to the castle. Beilstein! -Beilstein!"</p> - -<p>"I ask your protection, gentlemen," appealed Rodolph, turning to the -remaining officers. "I claim adherence to the rule of the combat. I -fought reluctantly, and only by compulsion. I demand the right to go -without further opposition."</p> - -<p>"Beilstein! Beilstein! Beilstein!" The cry reechoed through the town and -soldiers came running from all quarters with weapons drawn.</p> - -<p>"He speaks truth," said the Elector's man. "He has won his liberty, and -may go for all I care."</p> - -<p>"Not so," cried Winneburg. "It was no fair contest, but devil's -swordsplay. To the castle with him and his brood."</p> - -<p>The angry soldiery now pressed round Rodolph, but took good care to keep -out of the reach of his flashing weapon.</p> - -<p>"Get a pike," said one; "that will outreach him."</p> - -<p>"Pikes, lances, pikes!" ran from mouth to mouth. Rodolph saw he must -speedily be overpowered, and a scream from the affrighted women in the -hands of the soldiery decided him to try a desperate remedy for a -desperate case.</p> - -<p>He sprang upon the prostrate body of his foe, and towering over the -heads of the clamouring throng, raised his sword aloft and shouted, "The -Archbishop! The lady is the Countess Tekla, ward of Arnold von Isenburg, -insulted by these Moselle ruffians, while you cravens stand by and see -it done. Officer, you have already nearly compassed your own damnation. -Redeem yourself by instantly falling to the rescue. Treves! Treves! Is -there an Archbishop's man within hearing? Treves! Treves! Treves!"</p> - -<p>The Archbishop's officer at once gave the word, and his men, beating -down opposition, formed around Rodolph and the Countess. Winneburg stood -undecided, and before he made up his mind, the fight was over, the -Beilstein men being demoralised for lack of a leader.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span></p><p>"You have entangled us in this affair," said the officer to Rodolph, -"and if you have cried the Archbishop's name unwarranted, your head is -likely to roll off in consequence. I have seen the Countess Tekla. Will -she, therefore unveil so that I may be sure I have not been deluded, or -do you prefer to wait until I hear from his Lordship?"</p> - -<p>Before Rodolph could reply, the Countess threw back her veil.</p> - -<p>"I am indeed, as you see, the Countess Tekla, ward of the Archbishop," -she said.</p> - -<p>"A fine watch you keep on the Moselle," cried Rodolph, with simulated -indignation, "when the Countess Tekla cannot journey to her guardian's -Castle of Cochem without having his Lordship insulted in her person by -unmannerly marauders at Bruttig, where he supposes he holds through you, -control and safe-conduct for all properly authenticated travellers!"</p> - -<p>The officer bowed low to the Countess and to Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"I crave your Lordship's indulgence and forgiveness. Had you but given -me the slightest hint of this I would have protected you."</p> - -<p>"I gave you all the hint I could, but you paid little heed to it."</p> - -<p>"I am deeply to blame, and I implore your intercession with my Lord the -Archbishop. I will myself, with a troop of horse, instantly escort you -to Cochem and see you safely bestowed there."</p> - -<p>"All I ask of you is to secure our boat and let us depart as we came."</p> - -<p>"Alas! the boat is gone, and is now most likely half-way to Cochem. -Shall I order you accommodation here until you can communicate with the -Archbishop?"</p> - -<p>"No, we will at once to Cochem. Have you horses for the Countess and -myself and for our servants?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span></p><p>"Then we will set out on our journey as soon as they are ready."</p> - -<p>The officer saluted, and departed to give his orders.</p> - -<p>"What shall we do? oh, what shall we do?" asked the Countess, wringing -her hands.</p> - -<p>"Do not be afraid," said Rodolph, with a confidence he did not himself -feel. "We will be so much the further from Treves and so much the nearer -to Thuron. We will ride side by side to Cochem, and then consult on what -is best to be done when we get there. Meanwhile, keep a firm command of -your agitation, and do not show fear. The officer has no suspicion, and -will do whatever I ask of him. They, perhaps, do not know yet of your -flight at Treves, and even if they did they cannot get here much before -this time to-morrow, and not then unless they come by boat. Have no -fear; I will, as I promised, see you safe in Thuron gate."</p> - -<p>The Countess impulsively held out her hand, and gave a warm pressure to -the one extended to her.</p> - -<p>"Forgive me," she whispered, "for my distrust of you last night. You are -a brave and true soldier."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER IX.</span> <span class="smaller">A PALATIAL PRISON.</span></h2> - -<p>The Captain presently appeared with a dozen mounted men at his back, and -four led horses.</p> - -<p>"I hold it well," he said to Rodolph, "to get as speedily away from -Bruttig as may be. The lieutenant of Count Beilstein has gone in haste -to the castle to tell his Highness what has happened, and it was not -within my right to detain him. The Count will be beside himself with -rage at the loss of his Captain, so it is safer that you lodge within -Castle Cochem as soon as possible. He will think twice before he attacks -the Archbishop's stronghold. Is it your will that I send a messenger to -Treves to acquaint his Lordship with the welfare of his ward?"</p> - -<p>"That is not necessary," replied Rodolph. "The Archbishop will doubtless -prefer to hear of our safe arrival at Cochem, and a messenger can be -sent from there. Is there a chance that we may be intercepted by the -forces of Count Beilstein?"</p> - -<p>"No interception is possible. His men here are without a leader, and -will attempt nothing, even if they were able to accomplish anything. The -Count himself will likely come in haste to Bruttig, but by that time we -shall be in Cochem, I hope and although the road by the river is none of -the best, it is as bad for him as for us."</p> - -<p>"Let us get on, then," said Rodolph. He assisted the Countess to mount, -sprang into his own saddle, and felt that exhilaration which comes to a -horseman when he finds a spirited steed under him.</p> - -<p>Four of the cavalry headed the procession, with<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span> eight to bring up the -rear, the Countess and her attendants riding between. Rodolph rode by -the side of the Countess, with Conrad and Hilda out of earshot behind -them, the Captain leading the four horsemen in front. Their rough way -led along the right bank of the river.</p> - -<p>"Nothing has been heard from the Archbishop, I trust," said the -Countess.</p> - -<p>"There is little to fear from him until late to-morrow, and not even -then unless your escape was discovered early to-day—a most unlikely -event."</p> - -<p>"But might not the pursuers ride all night?"</p> - -<p>"A difficult and hazardous task they would set themselves in passing -through the forest in the dark, and slow work even if successfully -accomplished."</p> - -<p>"Then we need have no apprehension if we can get clear of Cochem before -the pursuers from Treves arrive at Bruttig?"</p> - -<p>"Once quit of Cochem, pursuit will be futile. My plan is to keep a sharp -look-out for the drifting boat. Conrad will secure it if possible, and -we will get away from Cochem to-night, if we can leave the castle; but I -know nothing of its conformation, nor of how it is guarded."</p> - -<p>The Countess shook her head. "I am afraid it will be difficult to leave -Cochem at night," she said. "The castle is always well and strictly -guarded, and occupies an almost inaccessible position on the top of a -hill."</p> - -<p>"There is nothing for it then but to go with this escort to Cochem, and -trust to Providence and our own ingenuity thereafter. I may have -something to suggest when I have seen the place."</p> - -<p>The increasing roughness of the road made conversation more and more -difficult. An hour's riding and a turn in the river brought them in -sight of the grand castle of Cochem, its numerous pinnacles glittering -in the last rays of the setting sun. It was another hour before the -cavalcade arrived opposite the place. A<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span> trumpeter of the troop blew a -bugle blast that was echoed back from the rock-ribbed conical hill on -which the castle stood. The signal was answered by another from the -ramparts of the fortification itself, and presently a boat put out from -the foot of the rock. In this boat the Countess and her attendant were -placed, while those on horseback set their steeds to the swift current -and landed some distance below, at the lower end of the little village -that clustered from the foot of the hill, extending down the valley. The -Countess mounted her dripping horse, and the troop rode slowly up a -winding path that partly encircled the vine-clad hill, and at last -arrived at the northern gate, which was the chief entrance to the -castle. Here, after a brief parley, the portcullis was raised and the -party admitted to a large courtyard that hung high above the Moselle, -overlooking a long stretch of the river as it flowed toward the Rhine.</p> - -<p>The custodian of the castle received his distinguished guest with that -humble deference which befitted her lofty station, assisting her to -dismount and evidently entertaining not the remotest suspicion that the -visit was unauthorised. The Countess enacted her part well.</p> - -<p>"I commend to your care," she said, imperiously, "my Lord Rodolph, who -has conducted me from Treves. Until the Archbishop himself arrives you -are to hold yourself entirely at his orders."</p> - -<p>The custodian bowed low, first to the Countess and then to Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"How soon may we look for his Highness the Archbishop?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"You will most likely hear from him to-morrow. Is my suite of apartments -ready?"</p> - -<p>"They are now being prepared as speedily as possible; but as no -messenger brought us word of your coming, I hope your Ladyship will -pardon the delay," answered the custodian, with some trepidation.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span></p><p>The Countess made no reply, but with her whip beckoned Rodolph to her -side.</p> - -<p>"Do the troopers remain in the castle, or return to Bruttig to-night?"</p> - -<p>"I have told their officer to keep them here until morning. If a -messenger from the Archbishop arrives at Bruttig sooner than we look -for, he will likely remain there until this officer returns. The -Archbishop would count on the Captain being at his post, and it is not -likely that the messenger's instructions would run further than Bruttig, -which will give us further time."</p> - -<p>"Will you then give your commands to the custodian regarding the -disposal of the men? I think he will obey you; but it is well to -discover this by bestowing orders first that are unimportant, before we -put our power to a supreme test."</p> - -<p>Rodolph gave directions, which, to his relief, were instantly obeyed. -The custodian escorted Countess Tekla into the castle, while Rodolph -walked round the courtyard to get some idea of the lay of the land and -the construction of the fortifications. The view down the river was -magnificent, as also was the outlook up the Endertsbach valley, with the -huge round tower of Count Winneburg's castle standing out against the -evening sky, built on a hill nearly equal in height to the one crowned -by Schloss Cochem.</p> - -<p>Rodolph's short examination of the castle's position speedily showed him -that it was a place difficult to get into or escape from. To steal away -at night was hardly practicable, unless one had a ladder of ropes, while -to escape by day was equally hopeless, as a fugitive could be seen for -miles in any direction until he was lost in the forest.</p> - -<p>As the Emperor stood at the corner of the elevated terrace, gazing down -the river, he became aware of some one's approach, and a moment later -the deferential voice of the aged custodian broke the silence.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></span></p><p>"A goodly sight, my Lord," he said, "and although I have looked at it -for many a year, it never becomes less lovely to my eyes. It is rarely -the same, varying with every change in the atmosphere, but always -beautiful."</p> - -<p>"It is indeed a marvelous view, and not to be the less enjoyed because -your position up here is well nigh impregnable," answered Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"Altogether so, I think," replied the custodian, with the pride of an -old retainer in his castle and a belief in its unassailableness, the -result of many futile assaults he had seen. "Before Cochem falls the -souls of hundreds of its assailants will seek a final abiding place, in -bliss or other where, as God wills."</p> - -<p>"Does the road we came by from Bruttig, follow the river further down?"</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord, it ends opposite the castle. On this side, however, there -is a path that follows the river from village to village, but how far it -goes, I do not know, for I never explored it to the end."</p> - -<p>"Are there many castles between here and the Rhine?"</p> - -<p>"Only three or four, some standing back from the river in the valleys -that run into the Moselle. The chief castle is that of the Black Count, -robber and marauder that he is, and it is called Thuron. Were it less -strong, I think the good Archbishop would have smoked him out long ere -this. Count Heinrich has a chain across the river, stopping all honest -traffic until tribute is paid, and if there is any cavilling about it, -he takes the whole cargo and casts the merchant into a dungeon to teach -him respect for the nobility, as he says. But some day there will be a -reckoning, for Black Heinrich, while compelling due respect to be paid -by all inferiors, is himself most disdainful to those above him."</p> - -<p>"Flouts he the Emperor, then?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, the Emperor!" said the custodian, with a shrug of his shoulders, -that might have been held <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span>contemptuous, "the Emperor is but a name, and -commands scant respect along the Moselle. He is some young man recently -elected, who loves better the dallying of his Court than the risking of -good stout blows in the field. They tell me he comes from a noble family -in Switzerland, and is not of Germany at all, and I warrant the -Archbishop does not wait to ask his leave if he wishes to pull down a -castle about the ears of a truculent Baron."</p> - -<p>"Then it seems to me our friend, the Archbishop, may be accused of the -same want of respect for higher authority that you lay at the door of -Count Heinrich the Black."</p> - -<p>"The worthy Archbishop, God bless him, recognises no over-lord but the -Pope himself and I have sometimes doubted whether Arnold von Isenberg -paid very much attention even to his Holiness; but then I am letting my -tongue run away with me, and am talking of what concerns me not."</p> - -<p>"It will do you no harm as long as I am the sole listener. Does Castle -Thuron stand on this side of the river or on the other?"</p> - -<p>"On the other. It crowns a hill somewhat similar to this and as high, -but it is as unlike Cochem as one castle can be unlike another, for this -is part palace and part fortress, while Thuron is a fortress pure and -simple, and a strong one at that. A stout wall has been built from the -castle down to the river, and it is said that there is a passage within, -where ten men can walk abreast, although that I doubt. There is -certainly a passage by which food or water can be taken up to the -castle, while the carriers pass unscathed, protected by strong stone -walls."</p> - -<p>"It seems, then, that the first duty of besiegers would be to break that -wall, and thus cut communication between the castle and the river."</p> - -<p>"That is easy to suggest, but there would be difficulty in the doing. -The walls are stout and will stand some battering; then the two great -round towers<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span> of the castle are armed with catapults which, they say, -will fling round stones even across the river itself. Besides this, -there are engines along the wall for a similar purpose. The attacking -party would have to remove solid cemented stone, while the defenders -would merely have to sweep down along the hillside unprotected men who -had little to cling to. I think it is no secret that the Archbishop had -Thuron examined by spies with a view to its capture, but they strongly -advised him to leave it alone; safe counsel, which his Lordship -followed."</p> - -<p>"When the assault takes place I hope we shall be there to see."</p> - -<p>"Ah," said the ancient keeper, with a sigh of regret, "I fear I shall -have no such pleasure, for I grow old and Arnold grows cautious. My only -hope comes from Heinrich himself, for he is like enough to hurl some -insult at the Archbishop that cannot well result in anything but the -uprising of pikes; indeed, he once threatened to attack Cochem itself, -and for a day or two we had merry preparation, but he thought better of -it, and no more came of the threat, much to my regret, for I should have -liked to see Heinrich crack his crown against Cochem. And now, my Lord, -if you will come within, you will find a meal prepared, for which I -doubt not you have sufficient appetite."</p> - -<p>The young man and the old entered the castle together.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER X.</span> <span class="smaller">THE INTERCEPTED FUGITIVES.</span></h2> - -<p>In spite of his anxiety, Rodolph slept that night with a soundness that -carried him, unconscious, further into the morning than he had intended -when he lay down. It had been his purpose to rise early, and perfect -some scheme for quitting the castle without arousing the suspicions of -its inmates. The getting off, he knew, must be accomplished that day, -and as soon as possible in the day, for undoubtedly the pursuers of the -Countess must now be well down the river.</p> - -<p>The Emperor, on breakfasting, learned that the Countess had been up long -before, and was at that moment praying in the chapel. The Captain and -the escort had left for Bruttig, and when Rodolph went out upon the -terrace he saw the band far below, climbing up the opposite bank on -dripping horses, rising from the clear waters like spirits of the river, -into the thin transparent mist that floated over the stream. The morning -sun was gently gathering up the airy, white coverlet of the Moselle, -promising a clear and brilliant day. The troop below, seen dimly through -the intervening haze, had formed in regular order, two and two, the -Captain at their head, with the Archbishop's pennant flying above them, -and were now trotting slowly up the river road.</p> - -<p>"Always beautiful, and never the same, changing with every hour of the -day. In a short time the slight fog will have lifted, and the -heightening sun will reveal the full glory of the view."</p> - -<p>Rodolph turned quickly and saw standing at his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span> elbow the old custodian -of the place, as he had stood on the same spot the evening before.</p> - -<p>The young man wondered if any suspicion of the real state of the case -had entered the custodian's mind; whether his cat-like steps and -unexpected appearances, his haunting of his guest, did not betoken some -distrust that all was not as it should be. The custodian had likely -learned from the Captain that the Countess came from Treves to Bruttig -in a small boat, practically without escort, and that there was trouble -before the identity of the party had been disclosed. On the other hand -the custodian must know that the Archbishop often adopted a course of -action, the object of which was known to none but himself, and his -Lordship had small patience with any underling who exhibited -inconvenient curiosity regarding the intentions of those above him. -Rodolph resolved to set his doubts at rest by a practical test.</p> - -<p>"The day," he said, "indeed promises to be fine. To a man of action, -however, the precincts of the castle are somewhat circumscribed, and the -marvellous view makes him more and more conscious of the limited extent -of this most charming terrace. Has the Archbishop some good horses in -his stables, or does he keep them all at Treves?"</p> - -<p>"His Lordship has a rare fondness for a choice bit of horse-flesh, and -there is here an ample variety. Does your Lordship wish to ride this -morning?"</p> - -<p>"Is the country round about safe? I have no desire to be captured and -thus put the Archbishop to the trouble of knocking down some castle in -effecting my rescue."</p> - -<p>"The district is reasonably safe. Perhaps it may be well not to venture -into the territory of the Count of Winneburg, up the valley of -Endertsbach yonder, but down the river there is little chance of -molestation; still, I can provide you with an escort that will most -likely leave you free from attack wherever you go."</p> - -<p>"No," said Rodolph, with unconcern. "It is not<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span> worth while to turn out -a guard, besides the Archbishop himself may be here at any moment and I -think he would like to find the whole garrison ready to receive him, -although he said nothing to me about it."</p> - -<p>"Yes, Arnold von Isenberg does not overlook scant ceremony when he takes -himself abroad. Would you care to see the horses, my Lord?"</p> - -<p>Rodolph thanked his host for the invitation, and together they went to -the stables, where he selected four horses, and directed that they -should be accoutred for riding, two for women and two for men.</p> - -<p>"The Countess," he said, to the custodian, "has been accustomed to -out-door recreation, and is an excellent horsewoman. I am sure she will -desire to take advantage of this exhilarating morning, but I shall now -wait upon her and learn her wishes."</p> - -<p>To the Emperor's relief, the custodian remained behind to see that the -orders were promptly carried out, while Rodolph went back to the castle. -He sought the chapel, which was reached by passing through the castle -and crossing another courtyard looking toward the west. The chapel at -the south-west angle of the castle seemed to hang over the river, -standing as it did on a projecting rock, whose straight sides formed a -perpendicular cliff, rising like a castle wall from the deep slope of -the hill. The chapel was a small but very perfect bit of ecclesiastical -architecture, recently built by Arnold von Isenberg himself. As Rodolph -entered the vestibule he was met by the Countess hurrying out.</p> - -<p>"Oh, my Lord, my Lord," she cried, with agitation in her voice, "the -troops of the Archbishop are now coming down the river. I have seen them -from the window within." Rodolph closed the door of the chapel so that -they might not be overheard.</p> - -<p>"I think," he said, "that the men you saw are those who left us this -morning. They are the troops of the Archbishop indeed, but they are -going toward Bruttig."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span></p><p>"No, no. Hilda has been watching them for a long time, while I prayed -before the altar. Just now she told me she saw a troop meeting those who -escorted us hither. Come and see."</p> - -<p>The interior of the chapel was in dim-coloured obscurity, all the -windows being of glass, sombrely stained. The lower part of one window -looking to the south-west opened on hinges, and there Hilda stood gazing -up the river. For a long distance the Moselle ran straight toward them, -apparently broadening as it approached. Far away Rodolph saw the two -troops meet, but the distance was too great for him to distinguish whose -flag flew over the further party.</p> - -<p>"It may be that they are retainers of Count Beilstein," said the -Emperor. "If it should so chance, there is like to be a hostile meeting. -If they belong to the Archbishop, there will be a short conference, then -all will probably return to Cochem."</p> - -<p>As he spoke the approaching troops came together and it was soon evident -that they had no hostile intentions towards each other. A cry from the -Countess called his attention to the fact that one horseman was hurrying -alone toward Bruttig, and that all the rest were riding at increased -speed for Cochem.</p> - -<p>"There are four horses now ready in the courtyard. Countess, I beg of -you to appear calm and to show no haste in getting away. We will ride -slowly to the river and then into the forest: after that we will make -what speed we may to Thuron, and I much doubt if those who follow will -have sight of us before we reach the castle."</p> - -<p>The Countess and Hilda went to their apartments to prepare for the -journey, while Rodolph sought Conrad, and told him briefly that he was -to make ready for travel.</p> - -<p>The four horses with their attendants stood in the courtyard, and -presently the Countess appeared coming leisurely down the steps, -followed by Hilda. The<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span> ancient custodian busied himself in seeing that -everything was to the liking of his guests. The gates were thrown open, -and the portcullis gradually raised with much creaking of rusty chain. -The small cavalcade rode slowly forth, down the winding way, while the -old guardian of the castle stood watching them as they descended.</p> - -<p>No word was spoken until they had rounded the hill and once more caught -a glimpse of the river. The shoulder of the promontory on the opposite -side cut off their view of the Bruttig road, and there was, as yet, no -sign of the oncoming troop.</p> - -<p>"Even if there was only the river between us," said Rodolph -reassuringly, "we should win the race for their horses are tired, and -ours are fresh and of the best. We can surely ride as fast as they along -a road that is not well adapted for speed; the good custodian told me it -is but a path, and he seemed uncertain how far even that extended. -Everything is in our favour, and so far as I can learn, nothing but a -few leagues of forest and the waters of this river are between us and -Thuron gate."</p> - -<p>"Is the castle, then, on the other side?" asked the Countess.</p> - -<p>"Yes, but the path, such as it is, is on this, and I have no doubt our -horses, accustomed to the river, will make little of swimming across, -when we catch a glimpse of the two round towers of Thuron."</p> - -<p>"I can scarcely believe that we have come so easily forth from yon -stronghold, for last night my heart sank within me as I heard the clang -of the portcullis descending, and it seemed to me that we were trapped -beyond hope of rescue."</p> - -<p>"You showed little fear, Countess, if, indeed, you felt any, which from -your words and manner at the time, I am inclined to doubt."</p> - -<p>The Countess shook her head. "I quaked with fear, nevertheless," she -said, simply, glancing sideways at him.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span></p><p>Reaching the foot of the hill they made their way, still without haste, -along the front of the village, which straggled for some hundreds of -yards facing the river. A short distance below Cochem the cliffs -projected to the Moselle, and the path struggled up the hill in zig-zag -fashion, finally forming a narrow cornice road running parallel with the -stream, but high above it, and when at last it descended to a lower -level Cochem Castle was finally shut from their view as they looked -backward. Rodolph, who was leading, now put spurs to his horse, and the -rest of the company came trotting behind as best they could, Conrad -bringing up the rear. The path kept mostly along the margin of the -stream, frequently diverging into the forest, and then always mounting -upwards, to pass some obstacle where the banks were steep and the waters -of the Moselle lapped the face of the rocks. On every height Rodolph -paused till the others came up with him, and looked anxiously back where -the trees permitted a retrospect, but no sign of pursuit was ever -visible. Thuron Castle stood but five leagues from Cochem, and between -the two places the river ran nearly in a direct line, forgetting the -crooked eccentricities that had marked its progress further up. The -roughness of the path and its numerous divergencies from the level made -it difficult for the riders to accomplish more than a league an hour. -They had been four hours on the journey when Rodolph called Conrad to -his side, and said to him:</p> - -<p>"Have you any knowledge of the distance still between us and Thuron?"</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord. I have no acquaintance with the river below Cochem."</p> - -<p>"The sun is at least two hours past meridian, and we must have food. -Ride on to yonder village and see if they will prepare something for -us."</p> - -<p>"My Lord, knowing how badly travellers fare who depend on chance -foraging down this valley, I brought with me from Cochem a skin of wine -and food enough<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></span> for half a dozen. We might rest on the hill top after -passing through the village and there eat."</p> - -<p>"Your foresight was wise in one way and dangerous in another. Asking for -food and wine might have aroused suspicion in the castle, although -apparently it has not done so."</p> - -<p>"I took none into my confidence, my Lord. The buttery is well provided, -and they keep not such strict watch on it as they do at the outer gate. -I was bidden go there and refresh myself; which I did, and then took -with me what was most portable, palatable and sustaining."</p> - -<p>"In that case you are to be commended as a more thoughtful campaigner -than myself, but, in truth, I was so anxious to get out of the castle I -thought little of bringing anything else with me than those in my -charge."</p> - -<p>Passing through the village, which they learned was called Hattonis -Porta, from the hill that overshadowed it to the east, they began the -ascent that was to bring them to their resting-place. The top of the -hill commanded the valley up the Moselle for a distance of two or three -leagues, and they would thus have ample notice of pursuit, and might -therefore lunch in peace. Furthermore, when Rodolph reached the top, he -was delighted to see but a short distance further on, and across the -river which, rounding the promontory, turned toward the north, the two -grey towers of a strong castle, which from the description he had -received of it, he instantly knew to be Thuron; thus their journey's end -was in plain sight. The empty road far up the river gave him assurance -that, should the enemy appear in view, there was ample time for them to -cross the river and reach the castle before they were even caught sight -of by their pursuers. Rodolph slipped from his horse and stood there -awaiting the arrival of the Countess, whose tired steed was coming -slowly up the hill. Before he assisted her to dismount he pointed out -the castle.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span></p><p>"There, my Lady," he said, "is the residence of the Count, your uncle, -and the end of your toilsome march."</p> - -<p>"Now may the saints be thanked for their protection," cried the wearied -girl. "How I have prayed this some time past for a sight of those -towers!"</p> - -<p>She slipped from her horse into his arms, and he held her perhaps a -moment longer than was necessary to set her safely on the turf. If the -lady resented this, she at least made no complaint about it, but the -colour came swiftly to her fair face, and she sighed, probably because -the haven was so near.</p> - -<p>Conrad and Hilda now came up, and assisted each other in setting forth -the meal that the former had brought from Cochem. Then the horses -cropped the grass near by, securely tethered, as Tekla and Rodolph took -their repast together, while Hilda and Conrad did likewise at a little -distance.</p> - -<p>"What do you propose to do when we reach Thuron?" asked the Countess.</p> - -<p>"I shall first offer some good advice to the Count Heinrich, if he will -listen to me."</p> - -<p>"What advice?"</p> - -<p>"To provision his castle instantly for the coming siege."</p> - -<p>"The coming siege? I do not understand you. The country is at peace."</p> - -<p>"True, but the peace will be speedily broken. The Archbishop will invest -Thuron Castle as soon as he can collect his forces."</p> - -<p>The Countess looked at him for some moments with dilated eyes, in which -apprehension grew more and more pronounced.</p> - -<p>"Do you mean that there will be war because—because of me?"</p> - -<p>"Most certainly. Did you not know that?"</p> - -<p>The girl arose and regarded him with ever-increasing dismay.</p> - -<p>"I shall return instantly to Cochem," she said, at<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span> last. "I will give -myself up to the Archbishop. There shall not be bloodshed on my account, -no matter what happens to me."</p> - -<p>The Emperor smiled at her agitation, and her innocence at not in the -least appreciating the inevitable consequence of her revolt.</p> - -<p>"You will do nothing so foolish," he said. "Besides, you are under my -command until I deliver you safely to your uncle, and I assure you I -permit no rebellion in my camp. Even if you returned to the Archbishop -you would merely consign yourself to a prison, and would not prevent a -conflict. I understand that your uncle has on more than one occasion -demanded the custody of your person, and the crafty Archbishop would -never believe that he had no hand in your flight. His Lordship has for -some time been meditating an attack on Thuron, and I learned at Cochem -that the devout Arnold recently sent spies to discover how best the -castle might be taken; so it is more than likely you are doing your -uncle the greatest service in giving him warning of a struggle which is -hardly preventable, and which might, at any moment, have taken him -unaware."</p> - -<p>"A siege!" said the Countess, clasping her hands before her, speaking -more to herself than to her listener and gazing across the blue river at -the two grim grey towers on the hill top. "A siege of Castle Thuron?" -Then turning suddenly on Rodolph and flashing upon him a swift -bewildering glance of her splendid eyes, speaking rapidly, she asked:</p> - -<p>"Will you be in the castle during the conflict?"</p> - -<p>"I most sincerely hope and trust I shall," cried the young man, -fervently. The girl drew a deep breath that was almost a sigh, but said -nothing. Rodolph stretched forth his hand to her and she put her hand in -his, looking frankly into his honest face. No speech but that of their -eyes passed between them. But there ran rapidly through her mind the -thought that had the Archbishop endeavoured to force her to marry a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span> man -like Lord Rodolph, she might never have sought escape from Treves.</p> - -<p>Conrad at this point interrupted them.</p> - -<p>"My Lord," he said, "there is one coming up the hill, who looks like the -archer."</p> - -<p>The Emperor rose, and accompanied Conrad to the brow of the descent, -with some anxiety, fearing that the newcomer might prove to be one of -the pursuers who had somehow escaped his vigilance. There was, however, -no cause for alarm; a moment's glance showed that it was indeed the -archer, who being stout and cumbered by pike, cloak, and various -belongings, with longbow slung over his shoulder, toiled somewhat slowly -up the steep ascent, pausing now and then to mop his brow and gaze -around him, a habit of caution learned during the years of campaigning. -On catching sight of the two men standing above him he stopped, took the -bow from his shoulder, strung it, gazing up at them for a moment, then -mounted leisurely as before, ready for any greeting he might receive.</p> - -<p>When within earshot he again stood still, and accosting the two, said:</p> - -<p>"Good day to your honours, who seem to be men of peace and but scantily -armed, the which makes it most unlikely that you can be of that service -to me which doubtless your good nature would give you pleasure in -rendering. I am, as you may have noticed, a man accustomed to the wars, -and now on the outlook for some noble who has quarrels on hand and the -will to pay for a skilful archer who, I may say in all modesty, seeing -there is none to testify on my behalf, never misses a mark he aims at, -providing the object be but a fair and reasonable distance away. I am -desirous of taking upon me the quarrel of any such noble, all the better -pleased if the quarrel be just, but not looking too closely into the -merits of the dispute, as experience has shown me that few controversies -exist, in which there is not something<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></span> to be said for both sides; the -only conditions I would be inclined to impose being that pay should be -reasonably sure, and that the provender, such as a man may require to -keep him in health, be ample, for a taut string is of little use unless -there be good muscle behind it."</p> - -<p>"Well and truly spoken, Sir Archer," cried Rodolph, "and inaccurate only -in one detail, which is that there stands a man before you who can -testify most enthusiastically regarding your skill with the bow. Then -you have not yet won your way to the Rhine?"</p> - -<p>"Ah, my Lord, is it indeed you? I thought there was something familiar -in your appearance; but I saw you before for a short time only, and that -at night. Although I spoke just now of taking service with any noble who -might be in need of a man-at-arms, still I hold myself in some measure -as being under your orders, for I accepted from you three months' pay, -and while it is true that I have had to provide food at my own expense -and lodging where night overtook me, still neither the quality nor cost -of either has been such as to invalidate our bargain, should you care to -hold me to it. Of the food along the Moselle I can truly and of -experience say it is most vile and swinish, always excepting the supper -and breakfast provided me by the good fellow who stands at your side, -and who is, if I mistake not, the same whom your comrade, having small -knowledge of the dignity of archery, the which is only what might have -been expected of him, being an untaught German, desired me to execute by -driving a good shaft through him at three yards or so distance."</p> - -<p>"You have fallen among friends," said the Emperor, "and although I fear, -that, if your fasting has been involuntary, you can claim little credit -from it for the benefit of your soul, yet we are happily in a position -to give you one good meal, which will banish the remembrance of hunger -and at least afford temporary benefit to your body."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[Pg 110]</a></span></p><p>"I am loath to say that I give little thought to my soul," replied the -archer, promptly advancing when he became aware that there was -sustenance on the top of the hill, "and I minister unto it perhaps as -much as any man now under arms in Germany, which is not high -recommendation; still the body has a practice of pressing its claims -upon a man's mind in a way that will not be denied, and therefore I -accept with most hearty gratitude any victual that your Lordship may -have at your disposal, and I trust that in the provisioning of your -expedition such an important item as that of drink has not been -forgotten."</p> - -<p>"Your faith in the thoughtfulness of our caterer is far from being -misplaced. I can guarantee you wine as good as the Archbishop himself -keeps in his cellars."</p> - -<p>The archer drew the back of his hand across his waiting lips, and -smacked them in anticipation of the unexpected good fortune that had -befallen him. Rodolph asked Conrad to provide as well for their visitor -as the remnants of the feast would allow, and the archer, wasting no -time in further conversation, fell to, and left nothing for a later -guest, should such an one arrive.</p> - -<p>While the archer heroically made up for lost time, Conrad brought round -the horses, and Rodolph assisted the Countess to mount. Hilda and Conrad -were also ready for the short journey that lay before them, but the -Emperor stood with bridle rein over his arm, and waited the finishing of -the feast, desiring to give the archer hint that there was probably -action ahead at Thuron Castle.</p> - -<p>"You have met with little encouragement, then, on your march down the -river," said the Emperor, as the bowman, with a deep sigh, ceased -operations.</p> - -<p>"No encouragement at all, your Lordship. Never in all my travelling, -either in Germany or elsewhere, have I passed through a country so -depressingly peaceful, which weighs heavily on one's spirits: indeed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span> it -is enough to make a man turn monk, and forsake the bow-string for a -string of beads. What better evidence could there be of the sluggish -nature of this district than the fact that there is at this moment -approaching us, doubtless from yonder castle, three mounted and armed -men, who in some sort appear to be trying to come upon us unmarked, yet -here we are, a tranquil group, paying scant attention to their -adjacency."</p> - -<p>As the archer, who was gazing toward Thuron Castle, spoke thus in a tone -of complacent dejection, Rodolph, who had been scanning the district to -the west, turned suddenly round, and to his amazement beheld three men -on horseback, who had evidently worked their way unseen up the opposite -side of the hill from which the Emperor and his party had ascended, and -who now stood some distance off, regarding the startled quartette and -their calm guest; the bowman not having the remotest idea what the -sudden appearance of those to whom he had thus casually called attention -meant to his hosts.</p> - -<p>To Rodolph they were merely three armed men, but the keener eyesight of -the Countess brought swift knowledge to her, and caused a quick pallor -to overspread her face.</p> - -<p>"The Count Bertrich!" she cried.</p> - -<p>The Emperor clenched his fist and drew a deep breath, as the thought of -all his useless scouring of the western horizon surged over him.</p> - -<p>"Intercepted!" he muttered to himself, with a half-smothered oath.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XI.</span> <span class="smaller">IN QUEST OF A WIFE WITH A TROOP OF HORSE.</span></h2> - -<p>When Count Bertrich flung himself from his horse in front of the -Archbishop's summer palace at Zurlauben, and strode hastily up the steps -that led to the entrance, he passed through the crowded hall, looking -neither to the right nor the left until he reached the ante-chamber that -communicated with the large room in which the Elector transacted his -business. The waiting and excited throng in the hall made way for him, -as the great war-lord and acknowledged favourite of the powerful -Archbishop went clanking through among them clad in full armour, paying -not the slightest heed to their salutations.</p> - -<p>The Count found the secretary ready to conduct him instantly into the -presence of the Archbishop, and together, in silence, they entered the -lofty apartment that was part chapel and part throne-room.</p> - -<p>At the further end of the noble presence-chamber Arnold von Isenberg -paced back and forward across the polished floor, his hands clasped -behind him, a dark frown on his downward bent brow. He was clad in the -long silken robes of his priestly office, and their folds hissed behind -him like a following litter of serpents as he walked. He paused in his -promenade when the Count and the monk entered, and, straightening his -tall form, stood regarding them in silence, until the secretary slipped -noiselessly from the room and left the summoned and summoner alone -together.</p> - -<p>"You are here at last," began the Archbishop, coldly. "It is full time -you arrived. Your bride has fled."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span></p><p>"Fled? The Countess Tekla?"</p> - -<p>"You have no other, I trust," continued the Prince of the Church, in -even, unimpassioned tones. "My first thought on learning she was missing -made me apprehensive that the girl had anticipated the marriage ceremony -by flying to your notoriously open arms, and I expected to be asked to -bless a bridal somewhat hastily encompassed; but I assume from your -evident surprise that she has been given the strength to resist -temptation which takes the form of your mature and manly virtues."</p> - -<p>The sword cut across Count Bertrich's face reddened angrily as he -listened to the sneering, contemptuous words of the Archbishop, but he -kept his hot temper well in hand and said nothing. The manner of his -over-lord changed, and he spoke sharply and decisively, as one whose -commands admit neither question nor discussion.</p> - -<p>"Last night the Countess Tekla took it upon herself to disappear. The -guards say she passed them going outward about ten o'clock, and no one -saw her return. This leads me to suspect that, with childish craftiness, -the passing of the guards was merely a ruse on her part, intended to -mislead, and so although I pay little attention to such a transparent -wile, I have taken all precautions and have already acted on the clue -thus placed in my hands, for there is every chance that the girl is -indeed a fool; we usually err in ascribing too much wisdom to our fellow -creatures. Regarding the proposed marriage, which, strange and -unaccountable as it may appear to me, and must appear to you, the -Countess seemed to view with little favour, she threatened to appeal to -the Emperor and also to his Holiness the Pope." On mentioning the name -of the latter, the Archbishop slightly inclined his head. "I take small -account of the Emperor, but have nevertheless sent a body of fleet -troopers along the Frankfort road in case she meant what she said, which -I suppose may sometimes happen with a <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span>woman. They know not whom they -seek, but have orders to arrest and bring back every woman they find, -therefore we are like to have shortly in Treves a screaming bevy of -females, enough to set any city mad. I have thrown out a drag-net, and -we shall have some queer fish when it is pulled in. But to you and to -you alone, Count Bertrich, do I reveal my mind; see therefore that you -make no mistake. The fool has taken to the water and is now committed to -the sinuous Moselle.</p> - -<p>"She said nothing in her protests about her uncle of Thuron, and unless -I am grievously misled, the crooked talons of the black vulture are in -this business. He has doubtless provided boat and crew, and they are -making their way down the river in the night, concealing themselves -during the day. They will avoid Bruttig and Cochem. Make you therefore -for Bruttig with what speed you may, sparing neither horse nor man; -yourself I know you will not spare. If nothing has been heard of them -there, order a chain across the river that will stop all traffic and set -a night guard upon it; then press on to Thuron across the country by the -most direct line you can follow, coming back up the river to intercept -them, for their outlook will be entirely directed toward what is -following them. If, in spite of all our precautions, the girl reaches -Thuron, seek instant entrance to the castle and audience with the Black -Count. Demand in my name, immediate custody of the body of Countess -Tekla; if this is refused, declare castle and lands forfeit and Heinrich -outlaw. Retire at once to Cochem, where I shall join you with my army. -And now to horse and away. Success here depends largely on speed."</p> - -<p>Count Bertrich made no reply but sank on one knee, rose quickly and left -the room. The expression on his face as he passed through the multitude -in the great hall was not such as to invite inquiry, and no one accosted -him.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></span></p><p>"There is war in that red scar of Bertrich's," said an officer to -another.</p> - -<p>Outside the Count flung himself on his horse, gave a brief word of -command to his waiting troop, and galloped away at the head of his men.</p> - -<p>He made no attempt to pursue the extremely crooked course of the upper -river, but, knowing the country well, he left the Moselle some distance -below Treves, and, taking a rude thoroughfare that was more path than -road, followed it up hill and down dale through the forest. He was -determined to reach Bruttig that night, hoping to finish the journey by -moonlight, taking advantage of the long summer day and riding as hard as -horseflesh could endure. When the day wore on to evening Bertrich saw -that he had set to himself no easy task, for in the now pathless forest, -speedy progress became more and more difficult, and when the moon rose, -the density of the growth overhead allowed her light to be of little -avail. Several times a halt was sounded and the bugle called the troop -together, for now all attempt at regularity of march had been abandoned, -but on each occasion the numbers thus gathered were fewer than when the -former rally was held. In spite of his temporary loss of men, Bertrich, -with stubborn persistence, determined to push on, even if he reached -Bruttig alone. For an hour they pressed northward to find the river -which they now needed as a guide, knowing they would come upon it at -Bruttig or at least some short distance above or below it, but before -the Moselle was reached they suddenly met an unexpected check. The -outposts of an unseen band commanded them to stop and give account of -themselves.</p> - -<p>"Who dares to bar the way of the Archbishop's troops?" demanded Count -Bertrich.</p> - -<p>"It is the Archbishop's troops that we are here to stop. Will you fight -or halt?" was the answer.</p> - -<p>Bertrich, with his exhausted men and jaded horses,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></span> was in no condition -to fight, yet was he most anxious to pursue his way, and get some -information of his whereabouts, so he spoke with less imperiousness than -his impulse at first prompted.</p> - -<p>"I am Count Bertrich, commanding a division of his Lordship's army. I am -on a peaceful mission, and, when I left his Lordship this morning, he -had no quarrel with any. There has been some misunderstanding, and I -should be loath to add to it by drawing sword unless I am attacked."</p> - -<p>"You shall not be molested if you stay where you are. If, however, you -attempt to advance, our orders are to fall upon you," said a voice from -the darkness.</p> - -<p>Noticing that the voice which now spoke was not the one that had first -challenged, Count Bertrich said,</p> - -<p>"Are you in command, or am I speaking to a sentinel?"</p> - -<p>"I am in command."</p> - -<p>"Then who are you and whom do you serve?"</p> - -<p>"Doubtless you are well aware whom I serve?"</p> - -<p>"I know no more than the Archbishop himself."</p> - -<p>"That I can well believe, and still would not hold you ignorant."</p> - -<p>"We are talking at cross purposes, fellow. There must be, as I have -said, some mistake, for the domains of the Archbishop are in a state of -peace. There is no secret about my destination as there is none about -the name which I have rendered to you. I am bound for Bruttig and hope -to reach there before day dawns."</p> - -<p>"My master knew of your destination and that is why I am here to prevent -you reaching it."</p> - -<p>"What you allege is impossible. None knew of my destination save the -Archbishop and myself, and I have ridden from Treves with such use of -spur that news of my coming could not have forestalled me. Again I ask -you whom you serve."</p> - -<p>"That you doubtless guess, for you know whom you are sent against, and -why you ride to Bruttig."</p> - -<p>"You speak in riddles; what have you to fear from plain answers?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span></p><p>"I fear nothing. My duty is not to answer questions but to arrest your -progress toward Bruttig. If you have questions to ask, ask them of Count -Beilstein."</p> - -<p>"Oh ho! Then it is to Count Beilstein I owe this midnight discourtesy. I -thank you for that much information, which is to me entirely unexpected. -Where is the Count?"</p> - -<p>"He is at Bruttig."</p> - -<p>"How far is that from where we stand?"</p> - -<p>"Something more than a league."</p> - -<p>"I cannot comprehend why Count Beilstein should endeavour to prevent my -reaching Bruttig, nor how he can be aware of an expedition of which -neither the Archbishop nor myself knew aught this morning. In addition -to this, Bruttig is under the joint jurisdiction of my master and yours -and the Count of Winneburg, therefore the retainers of each over-lord -have free entrance to the place."</p> - -<p>"Such was indeed the case until the Archbishop broke the truce. Now -Beilstein and Winneburg have combined, overthrown the Archbishop's -jurisdiction, and they hold Bruttig together, with the men of the -Elector prisoners."</p> - -<p>"In the Fiend's name when did this take place? We knew nothing of it at -Treves. How broke the Archbishop the truce?"</p> - -<p>"It was broken by an emissary of his, who by magic sword-play slew my -master's Captain, leaving in his neck a hole no bigger than a pin's -point, yet enough to let out the life of my fellow soldier. Then when -there was outcry at this foul play, the fellow, being sore pressed, -cries 'Treves, Treves,' claiming that the wench with him was no other -than the ward of the Archbishop——"</p> - -<p>"Ha! Say you so? And what then?"</p> - -<p>"Thereupon the Archbishop's Captain bugles up the men of Treves, rallies -round the emissary of his crafty Lordship, and makes rescue, escorting -him later, wench<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span> and all, to his Lordship's stronghold of Cochem, where -doubtless they think themselves safe. But Beilstein, issuing from his -castle, went forthwith to Bruttig, joined with Winneburg, made prisoners -of the men of Treves, and sent me here in force to intercept any whom -they expected the Archbishop would shortly send, as indeed he seems to -have done under your distinguished leadership."</p> - -<p>"You fill me with amazement. There is, as I surmised, a -misunderstanding, and one of no small moment, which we must make it our -business to set right. It is therefore most important that I should have -speech with your master and that speedily. I pray you instantly to -escort me with your men to Bruttig."</p> - -<p>"That may I not do, my Lord. My orders are strict and Count Beilstein is -not the man to overlook divergence from them."</p> - -<p>"Then come with me yourself; I shall go as your prisoner or in any guise -you please, so that no time be lost. My men will camp here for the -night."</p> - -<p>"I cannot part company from my orders, which are to stop you or to fight -with you if you refuse to stand."</p> - -<p>"But the man you call emissary of the Archbishop, who killed your -comrade, is the one I travel in hot haste to arrest. Him the Archbishop -will gladly yield to your master for fitting punishment, but while we -babble here, time flies and he with it."</p> - -<p>"It will take more than the bare word of any follower of Treves to make -my master believe that the murderer, who went jauntily with escort of -the Archbishop's men to the Archbishop's castle in Cochem, is one whom -the Archbishop is desirous of handing over to my Lord for punishment, -still this much I may do. I will send at once a fleet messenger to my -Lord at Bruttig, acquainting him with your presence here, and that -messenger will take any word you are pleased to send to Count -Beilstein."</p> - -<p>Count Bertrich sighed as he agreed to this, for he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span> was too strict a -disciplinarian himself not to know that the Captain who offered to do -this much, dare not wander from the definite instructions he had -received. He had at first some thought of beseeching Beilstein to send -instant word to Cochem to hold within the castle all who lodged there, -until the arrival of commands from the Archbishop, but he was loath to -divulge to Beilstein and Winneburg the full facts of the case, and he -was well aware that, without doing so, he would have some difficulty in -explaining his own presence, which seemed to tally so exactly with the -forecasts of those now temporarily opposing him. However, a league was -but a short distance and a swift messenger would speedily cover it. His -men, thoroughly exhausted, were, many of them, asleep in their saddles, -and although he himself was still eager to be on his way, he saw that -any attempt to move onward would be futile and would still further -complicate the already intricate condition of things, so he contented -himself with sending a message to the Count, the purport of which was, -that there had been a mistake which the Archbishop would speedily -rectify, and that it was imperative for the capture of the criminal, -that an immediate conference should take place between Count Beilstein -and himself.</p> - -<p>This done, he gave the order for dismounting and resting until the -messenger returned. A camp was formed and picketed to prevent surprise, -although he had little fear of an attack, as he had evidently convinced -the opposing Captain of his good faith, yet the military instinct was -strong in Count Bertrich, and he took all the precautions which suggest -themselves to a man in an enemy's country. The moment he threw himself -on the ground he fell into a sound and much needed sleep.</p> - -<p>It was daylight when one of the sentinels awoke him, saying the -messenger had returned. Count Beilstein gave Bertrich choice of three -courses of action: first, he might come alone to Bruttig; second, he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span> -might bring his men with him, provided they first deliver up their arms -to the Captain who had stopped him; third, he might fight. Count -Bertrich quickly decided. He ordered his followers to deliver up their -arms to the Captain, he himself retaining his weapons, and thus they -marched into Bruttig. It was soon made apparent to both the opposing -nobles that the unknown young man who had proved himself so expert a -swordsman was no minion of the Archbishop. The Archbishop's Captain had -not yet returned from Cochem, so the only one who could give a connected -account of what had taken place was Winneburg's Captain, who, under the -shrewd cross-questioning of Count Bertrich, speedily proved that no -document had passed between the young man and the Archbishop's leader; -that, in fact, the Captain had several times asked for such, but it had -not been produced.</p> - -<p>"It is as I suspected," said Count Bertrich, "the person who held a -passport from Frankfort is a follower of Black Heinrich, whose object is -but too evident. He seeks to embroil you with the Archbishop, and has -come perilously near to success. If the scoundrel is still at Cochem, -into which castle I assure you he went with extreme reluctance, and only -under pressure of circumstances, for you learn from your own man that he -refused to send a messenger to Treves when the Captain offered to -dispatch one, then we have him fast, and I undertake, on my own -responsibility, to deliver him to the just vengeance of Count Beilstein. -What I fear is, that this unfortunate delay has given him time to slip -away from Cochem and betake himself to Thuron, where we may have to -smoke him out, if Black Heinrich refuses to deliver him to us. As to -this imprisoning of the Archbishop's men in the absence of their -Captain, I think the least said about it the better. I shall certainly -not dwell upon it when I return to Treves, but I would suggest that they -be liberated without further delay. The Archbishop was not in the -happiest temper when I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span> parted from him yesterday, and one can never -predict with certainty what he may do under provocation. I have myself -been so anxious to avoid any cause of offence, that I have gone to the -extreme length of disarming my men and coming unprotected among you, an -act for which his Lordship is little likely to commend me, should it -come to his ears. The moment their weapons are restored, I shall journey -to Cochem and endeavour to catch my young swordsman."</p> - -<p>Winneburg, the quarrel being none of his, having slept on the matter, -and seeing more clearly than he did on the previous day the danger of -entangling himself with so formidable an antagonist as the Archbishop of -Treves, at once admitted that there had been a misunderstanding all -round, and expressed his willingness to revert to the former condition -of things, as the Archbishop, through Count Bertrich, had disclaimed the -doings of their visitor of the day before. Beilstein, more hot-headed -and more stubborn, was reluctant to admit himself in the wrong, but if -his ally fell from him, there was nothing for it but submission, with -the best grace he could bring to bear on his retreat; and certainly -Bertrich seemed in no way disposed to impose hard conditions, so he gave -order that the prisoners should be released, and that their arms should -be returned to Bertrich's men.</p> - -<p>Having eaten, Count Bertrich and his troop hastened down the river, -hoping to intercept the fugitives at Cochem. In sight of the castle he -met the Captain and his dozen horsemen returning. He sent all back with -the exception of one man, whom he forwarded to Treves to acquaint the -Archbishop with what had taken place. The Captain was ordered to detain -the Countess Tekla in Cochem Castle until the Archbishop's pleasure -should be known; to arrest the young man who accompanied her, take him -to Bruttig, and deliver him to Count Beilstein. Then taking but two -followers with him, Count Bertrich struck across the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span> country direct for -Thuron Castle. He approached that stronghold with caution, keeping to -the high lands above the castle until he espied on the other side of the -river the party of whom he was in search, and saw that they had indeed -stolen away from Cochem. Coming down to the river edge, keeping all the -while in concealment as much as the nature of the country permitted, -knowing there was danger in crossing the stream in full view of Thuron -Castle itself, but nevertheless not hesitating for a moment, he and his -two men plunged their horses into the flood and won the other side a -little below the promontory of Hattonis Porta. Stealthily ascending the -hill, hoping to take the party by surprise, but in any case having not -the slightest doubt of the result of the encounter, Count Bertrich found -himself within range of the alert eyes of the English archer.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XII.</span> <span class="smaller">CUPID'S BOW GIVES PLACE TO THE ARCHER'S.</span></h2> - -<p>Rodolph's first thought ran toward the safety of the Countess. He -resolved at once to send her down the hill they had so recently climbed, -and, under escort of Conrad, ask her to cross on horseback to the other -side of the river, reaching the castle as soon as might be, while he -held Count Bertrich and the two men in check; but a moment's reflection -convinced him that the Count, having intercepted them by cutting across -country to the south of the Moselle, had most likely placed on the -opposite bank a company of troops in ambush, ready to capture whoever -came within its radius. The crossing must be done under shadow of the -castle, so that any lurking enemy might be over-awed by the menace of -its presence, and thus they could ascend unhindered to its frowning -portal. That their situation was already attracting attention at Thuron -was evident, for the Emperor saw bodies of men grouped upon the walls, -while several horsemen were collected at the entrance as if in readiness -to ride, should occasion demand their interference. But there was no -signal by which Rodolph could call for aid, and, of course, Black -Heinrich had little suspicion that his own niece was probably about to -be captured almost within the shadow of his strong castle.</p> - -<p>There was, however, scant time for pondering. Now that concealment was -no longer possible, Count Bertrich, adjusting his lance for the -encounter, was advancing, closely followed by the two men.</p> - -<p>"Conrad," cried the Emperor, "take the Countess down the hill till you -lose sight of our assailants, then,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span> as speedily as possible, bend -through the forest to the north, circling this spot so that you come -upon the Moselle opposite Thuron. Cross the river and make for the -castle gates."</p> - -<p>"But you, my Lord, unarmed, cannot oppose three armoured men," objected -Conrad.</p> - -<p>"I stand by his Lordship," said the archer, with an unruffled -confidence, that in spite of the strait they were in brought the -suggestion of a smile to the lips of the Emperor.</p> - -<p>"We will hold our ground, with what success may befall us," replied -Rodolph, "but lose no time in your circuit, and keep strict watch for -ambush."</p> - -<p>The Countess, Conrad, and Hilda departed, leaving Rodolph and the bowman -alone on the top of the hill, in serious jeopardy, for neither man wore -armour, and the Emperor had no weapon except his slight rapier.</p> - -<p>The archer, seeing from the first that trouble was ahead, but having too -little curiosity regarding its origin to cause him to venture inquiry, -so long as no attempt was made to smooth away difficulty and bring about -a peaceful understanding, caring not a jot whether the side of the -quarrel he expected to champion was just, or the reverse, had unslung -his bow, giving a hitch to the full quiver so that the ends of the -arrows were convenient to his right hand, and now stood with left foot -slightly forward as a bowman should, measuring critically with his half -shut eye the distance between himself and the three horsemen.</p> - -<p>"Is it your Lordship's pleasure," he asked, "that I kill all three, or -do you purpose to try conclusion yourself with one or other of them? If -so, which shall I spare?"</p> - -<p>"These men are cased in iron, and proof against your shafts. I will -parley with them and offer single combat to their leader; we cannot hope -to prosper in a general onset."</p> - -<p>"Their faces are bare, which is all the kindness I ask of any man who -sets himself up as target."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span></p><p>"If choice is to be made, spare the leader, and leave him for me to -deal with," said Rodolph, stepping forward and raising his voice, as he -accosted the hostile party.</p> - -<p>"My Lord, Count Bertrich," he cried, "I ask of you a truce and a parley, -when we may each disclose our intentions to the other, and find if -amicable adjustment be possible."</p> - -<p>An exclamation of intense disgust escaped the impatient archer at this -pacific proclamation, but his drooping spirits revived on hearing the -defiant tone of the Count.</p> - -<p>"Who are you, whelp, to propose a conference with me? Were it not that I -promised to take you alive so Beilstein may have the pleasure of hanging -you, I would now ride you down and put a good end upon mischievous -interference. Therefore surrender, and appeal for clemency to Beilstein, -for you will have none from me."</p> - -<p>"Spoken like a brave man and a warrior," exclaimed the archer, with -enthusiasm. "Would there were more nobles in Germany resembling him. -Now, my Lord, surely the insult anent your hanging, demands that instant -defiance be hurled at him."</p> - -<p>"Peace, peace," whispered Rodolph, "you will have your fighting, never -fear. I must gain time so that the others may escape." Then he cried -aloud, "If I surrender, my Lord Count, it must be on terms distinctly -set forth, with conditions stated and guaranteed by your knightly word."</p> - -<p>The Emperor's diplomatic efforts were without avail. Count Bertrich made -no reply, but giving a quick word of command to his followers, levelled -lance and dug spurs into his horse. The three came on together, the -Count slightly in advance, his men at right and left of him, the -pulsation of the beating hoofs on the hard turf breaking the intense -stillness. The Emperor stood firm with tightened lips awaiting the -onslaught, having little hope that it would end <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span>favourably to him. The -archer, however, gave forth a joyous cry that was half-cheer, -half-chuckle, and, without awaiting for command, drew swiftly the string -of his bow to his ear, letting fly twice in succession with a twang that -sounded like a note from a harp. The arrows, with the hum of angry bees, -passed first by one ear and then by the other of the advancing warrior, -who instinctively swayed his head this way and that to avoid the -light-winged missiles, thinking he was shot at and missed, but the -piercing death-shriek first from the man at his left and then from the -one at his right, speedily acquainted him with the true result. Before -him he saw the deadly weapon again raised, and felt intuitively that -this time the shaft was directed against himself, although the archer -paused in the launching of it, apparently awaiting orders from his -superior. The Emperor raised his right hand menacingly and cried in a -voice that might almost have been heard at the castle:</p> - -<p>"Back, my Lord Count. There is certain death to meet you in two -horse-lengths more."</p> - -<p>The impetus of the Count's steed was so great that it was impossible to -check it in time, but he at once raised his lance in token that he had -abandoned attack, and, pulling on the left bridle rein, swerved his -course so that he described a semi-circle and came to a stand facing his -foes, with the two dead men lying stark between him and his intended -victims.</p> - -<p>With a downward sweep of the hand that had been lifted, the Emperor -signalled to his ally to lower his bow, which the archer reluctantly -did, drawing a deep sigh that the battle should be so quickly done with.</p> - -<p>Rodolph advanced a few steps and once more accosted his foe.</p> - -<p>"My Lord," he said, "you see, I trust, that I hold your life at my -mercy. I am willing to give terms to a brave antagonist, which he -refused to me."</p> - -<p>"In truth," grumbled the archer, "I see nothing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span> brave in one who -attacks with three, all heavily armoured and mounted, two on foot, one -of whom is without weapons. I beg you to tell him so, or allow me to -speak my mind to him, for he is a proud man and I doubt not with proper -goading, he may be urged to a fresh onset."</p> - -<p>Rodolph paid no attention to the interruption, but continued:</p> - -<p>"If you will give me your word that you will return to Cochem, you may -pass unharmed, and we will not attempt to molest you further."</p> - -<p>The Count, however, made no reply, but sat like a statue on his black -horse, gazing on his fallen comrades and meditating on the changed -situation. Then he groped in a receptacle that hung by his saddle and -drew forth, not a new weapon, as the archer, peering at him, suspected, -but a filmy web that glittered like an array of diamonds. This, removing -his gauntlets, he clasped about his neck, fastening it to the lower part -of his helmet, shaking the folds over his shoulders like a cape.</p> - -<p>"Fine chain armour of Milan steel," murmured the archer, seemingly -hovering between anxiety regarding the defensive qualities of the new -accoutrement and delight at the thought that the Count was again about -to venture himself against them. With a clank of iron on iron the -warrior brought down his barred visor over his face, and, drawing on his -gauntlets which during these preparations had rested on his saddle bow, -grasped his lance and lowered it, presenting now no pregnable point of -his person to the flying arrow.</p> - -<p>"By Saint George," cried the archer, "I would fain take service with -that man. He displays a persistence in combat which warms my heart -towards him."</p> - -<p>But the softness of the archer's heart did not cause him to take any -precaution the less, for he drew out a sheaf of arrows, selecting -carefully three that seemed to be thinner at the point than the others. -Two of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span> these he placed in his mouth, letting their feathered ends stick -out far to his left, so that his bow arm was free from their -interference; the third he notched, with some minuteness, on the string.</p> - -<p>"My Lord, I must shoot now," he mumbled with his encumbered mouth, -looking anxiously at Rodolph, who in turn was viewing no less anxiously -the silent preparations of Bertrich. The Count, however, was in little -hurry to begin, apparently wishing to satisfy himself that he had -neglected no expedient necessary for his own safety.</p> - -<p>"There is no help for it," said the Emperor. "Do your best, and Heaven -speed the shaft."</p> - -<p>The bowman twanged the string, bending forward eagerly to watch the fate -of his arrow. The shaft sang an ever lowering song, as it flew, falling -fairly against the bars of the visor with an impact that rang back to -them, palpably penetrating an interstice of the helmet, for it hung -there in plain sight. The Count angrily shook his head, like an -impatient horse tormented by the bite of a fly, but he sat steady, which -showed the archer there was an arrow wasted. The toss of his head did -not dislodge the missile, and the Count, with a sweep of his gauntlet, -broke it away and cast it contemptuously from him.</p> - -<p>"Alas!" groaned the archer, fitting the second to the string, "it was -the thinnest bolt I had."</p> - -<p>Count Bertrich waited not for the second, but came eagerly to meet it, -bending down as a man does who faces a storm—levelling lance and -striking spur. The horse gallantly responded. The second arrow struck -the helmet and fell shivered, the third was aimed at the chain armour on -the neck, and striking it, glanced into the wood, disappearing among the -thick foliage. Still Bertrich came on unchecked, raising his head now to -see through the apertures of his visor to the transfixing of the archer, -who, well knowing there was but scant time for further experiment, -hastily plucked a fourth arrow from his quiver, and, without taking<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span> -aim, launched it with a wail of grief at the charger, driving the arrow -up to its very wing in the horse's neck just above the steel -breastplate. The horse, with a roar of terror, fell forward on its -knees, its rider's lance thrusting point into the earth some distance -ahead, whereupon Bertrich, like an acrobat vaulting on a pole, described -an arc in the air and fell, with jangling clash of armour, at the feet -of the Emperor, relaxing his limbs and lying there with a smothered -moan.</p> - -<p>The archer paid no attention to the fallen noble, but running forward to -the horse began to bewail the necessity that had encompassed its -destruction. He however thriftily pulled the arrow from its stiffening -neck, wiped it on the grass, and spoke, as if to the dead horse, of the -celerity of its end, and the generally satisfactory nature of bow-shot -wounds, wishing that the animal might have had a realisation of its -escape from being mauled to its death by clumsy Germans.</p> - -<p>Rodolph stooped over his foe to throw back on its hinges his visor, -whose opening revealed the unconscious face of the Count.</p> - -<p>"It seems inhuman to leave him thus," he said, "but there is a woman's -safety in question, and I fear he must take the chance he drove down -upon."</p> - -<p>"He can make no complaint of that," replied the archer, "and is like to -come speedily to his contentious self again, if I may judge by the -flutter of his eyelids. Indeed, I grieve not for his bruises, but for -the hurt his obstinacy forced me to inflict upon his poor horse, a noble -animal which I never would have slain did not necessity compel."</p> - -<p>"Capture a horse belonging to one of the fallen men, and accompany me -down the hill," said Rodolph, briefly.</p> - -<p>The archer first recovered the two arrows that had overthrown his -unknown opponents, bestowing on their bodies none of the sympathy he had -lavished on the horse, for, as he muttered to himself, it was their<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span> -trade, and a well-met shaft should occasion them little surprise, which -undoubtedly was the fact.</p> - -<p>Having, with some difficulty, secured one of the horses, and with still -more trouble succeeded in seating himself in the saddle—for, as he -said, he was more accustomed to the broad of his foot than the back of a -horse—he followed his leader, who, with grave anxiety, was scanning the -river bank opposite Alken, hoping to see some indication of the Countess -emerging from the forest.</p> - -<p>"Archer," said Rodolph, turning to his follower, "your great skill, and -no less indomitable courage, has to-day saved my life, and has placed me -otherwise under more obligation to you than you can easily estimate. I -hope yet to make good my debt, but in the meantime I may cheer your -heart by telling you that your expert bowmanship has made inevitable -what was before extremely probable, which is, that these valleys will -shortly ring with war, and the Lord only knows when the conflict shall -cease—possibly not until yonder castle is destroyed, or the Archbishop -returns defeated to Treves."</p> - -<p>"Say you so, my Lord? Then indeed is virtue rewarded, as I have always -been taught, though seeing little confirmation of it in my wandering -over this earth. I winged my shafts for the pure pleasure of seeing them -speed, not forgetting my duty to you in the earning of my threepence a -day, duly advanced into my palm before service was asked, the which, I -know to my grief, is not customary among nobles, although fair -encouragement in spoils gives compensation for backwardness in pay; -still I had no hope for such outcome as war, when I drew string to ear, -and am the more encouraged to think that a wholesome act, thus -unselfishly accomplished, brings fitting recompense so trippingly on its -trail. You spoke of the Archbishop (God bless his Lordship), do I fight, -think you, for, or against him?"</p> - -<p>"As the man you have so recently overturned is the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span> friend, favourite, -and in general the right hand of the Archbishop, judge you in which camp -your neck is hereafter the safer."</p> - -<p>"I have long desired to fight for the Church, but, for a devout man, it -seems ever my fate to be on the opposite side. Ah well, it matters -little, and it serves the Archbishop right for the inhospitality of his -gate at Treves, where they know not a useful soldier when they see one. -We are like to be beleaguered in yon castle then?"</p> - -<p>"Very like, indeed."</p> - -<p>"Know you aught of how they are provisioned for a siege?"</p> - -<p>"That will be among the first things I shall inquire when I enter."</p> - -<p>"It is a most important particular, and in the inquiry it might not be a -waste of breath to give some hint regarding the plenishing of the wine -vaults."</p> - -<p>"I understand Black Heinrich has a secret passage to the river, so we -are not likely to suffer from thirst."</p> - -<p>"'Tis a sensible precaution; I would not say a word against water, which -I have often found to be useful in the washing of wounds and otherwise, -still when a man is expected to fight, I think there is nothing puts -such heart in him as a drop of good sound wine, so it be not taken to -excess, although the limit of its usefulness, in my own case, I have -never yet had a sufficiency of the beverage to gauge."</p> - -<p>"The Black Count, from what I hear of him, is not one to neglect the -laying in of wine; it however may be well to question him closely -regarding his cellarage before you take service with him, for I surmise -that he who finds lodgment in the castle will not soon get abroad again, -as the troops of the Archbishop will shortly encircle it closely."</p> - -<p>"The prospect," said the archer, drawing the back of his hand across his -mouth as if his lips were already moist with good vintage, "is so -alluring that I can scarce credit it, and fear the Archbishop may give -or<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span> accept apology, for we seem to be in a region where compromise is -held in high esteem, and his Lordship has already acquired the -reputation of being a cautious man (may I be forgiven if I do him an -injustice); still, if the Count who plunged so bravely against us, hath -the ear of him, he may whisper some courage into it, for he acquitted -himself on the hilltop as a man should. I must confess that I should -dearly cherish the privilege of being beleaguered in a strong castle, -for it hath ever been my fortune to fight hitherto in the field, -directing my shafts against various strongholds, and living with scant -protection while launching them, sleeping where I might, in a ditch or -in a tent, as the gods willed, and ever like to have my slumbers broken -by a stampede or sortie when least expecting it. I was never one who -yearned for luxury, but it must be a delight to rest under continual -cover with a well-stocked cellar underneath, and the protection of a -stout stone parapet while taking deliberate aim, not to mention the -advantage that accrues to an archer who lets fly at one below him, -rather than continually craning his neck to send his arrow among the -clouds, the which gives little chance for accurate marksmanship. On one -of yonder towers a man might well aspire to the delight of loosing -string at the great Archbishop himself, and may such luck attend me, -although I am the least covetous of mortals."</p> - -<p>"Well, archer, we shall presently see what befalls and I feel myself the -safer that you did not take fee from the Archbishop when you applied at -the gates of Treves."</p> - -<p>The archer looked gratefully at his leader for the compliment, and -together they rode in silence to the waterside opposite Alken.</p> - -<p>As yet there was nothing visible of Conrad's party, who had probably -taken a longer circuit than the occasion demanded, but the Emperor saw -the cavalry of the castle, which had watched the conflict <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span>motionless, -now descend towards Alken, and he rightly considered this move in his -favour, did more of Bertrich's men lie in ambush in the opposite forest. -Rodolph hoped that the Black Count himself was at the head of his men, -but at that distance could distinguish nothing.</p> - -<p>As they drew near the spot Rodolph was gratified to perceive Conrad -emerging from the forest, where he had asked his charge to remain until -he had reconnoitred and proved that the way was clear. The horsemen from -the castle had reached Alken, and now stood drawn up fronting the river, -ready to assist at the landing of the new-comers, or prevent the same, -as might prove to be convenient.</p> - -<p>Rodolph shouted across, asking that a boat be sent over, for he saw -several lying on the beach, but those on the other side made no movement -to comply with his wishes; in fact, it was doubtful if they understood, -for here the Moselle is wide, with water flowing slow and deep.</p> - -<p>Conrad, at a word from his master, plunged his horse into the flood, -entering below the spot where Heinrich had placed a chain across the -river for the encouragement of traffic, and, when he had landed, a boat -was shoved off in which the Countess and Hilda were ferried over, the -others following on swimming horses.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XIII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE BLACK COUNT IS PERSUADED NOT TO HANG HIS EMPEROR.</span></h2> - -<p>The Emperor, when his dripping charger climbed the incline before Alken, -looked with concern toward the troop of horse drawn up facing the river, -wondering whether or no Heinrich himself was there to greet them. The -leader of this scant cavalry sat on his steed a horse-length in advance -of his men, and was rather startlingly red than black. His hair and -beard were fiery crimson in colour, while the face they framed was of a -similar hue, scarcely less violent, although it deadened somewhat as it -reached the nose, and painted that well developed and prominent organ a -rich deep purple, giving evidence, Rodolph thought, of the potency of -Heinrich's liquors. The man's eyes were shifty and suspicious, and, all -in all, his face was as forbidding as one would care to see, bringing to -life the conjecture which had more than once crossed the young man's -mind, that in thus unceremoniously changing guardians the Countess had -scarcely bettered herself. However, he still had hopes that this -crafty-looking horseman was not the uncle, from whom he expected -violence perhaps, but not treachery.</p> - -<p>The Emperor advanced and saluted the red warrior, who remained -motionless upon his horse, bestowing an inquiring but none too friendly -glance upon the approaching stranger.</p> - -<p>"I would have speech with Count Heinrich, of Thuron," said Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"Then you must seek him in his castle," was the reply, which brought a -sigh of relief to the lips of the Emperor.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span></p><p>"Whom have I the honour of addressing?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"I am Steinmetz, Captain of Castle Thuron. Who are you?"</p> - -<p>"My name is Rodolph, a Lord of Frankfort, and I desire convoy to the -castle."</p> - -<p>"That is as may be," answered the Captain, with lowering brow. "What is -your business with my Lord the Count, and who is the lady that -accompanies you?"</p> - -<p>"My business I will relate to the Count himself. The lady is the -Countess Tekla, niece of Count Heinrich and sometime ward of Archbishop -Arnold von Isenberg of Treves. If you have further questions to ask, it -may be well to put them to your master, for my patience is at an end, -and I am unaccustomed to the cross-examination of my inferiors. There is -a chance that Count Heinrich may thank you for this delay, and a chance -that he may not; you know him better than I, so act as best pleases you -under that knowledge."</p> - -<p>The Captain gave a whistle of astonishment when the name and quality of -the lady were mentioned, and instantly saluted with his sword the man -whom a moment before he had treated with scant courtesy. The truculence -disappeared from his manner, and he said, with some eagerness:</p> - -<p>"I shall be pleased to act immediately as your convoy to the castle, my -Lord."</p> - -<p>"Nothing could be more satisfactory," replied Rodolph.</p> - -<p>The Captain gave the word to his men, who formed in line, some before -and some after the visitors, and thus the procession made way through -the village and up the zig-zag path that led to the castle, a rugged -slanting road rising higher and higher at each turn, and disclosing -broader and broader views of the charming valley of the Moselle. The -scene was peaceful in the extreme, and, but for the clatter of armed -men, one might have imagined that no such<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span> thing as conflict could exist -in all that region. On the hilltop, beyond the river, Rodolph could see -that Count Bertrich had come to himself, had captured the remaining -horse, and was transferring the accoutrements of his own animal to the -new mount.</p> - -<p>While Rodolph was watching his late opponent with keen interest, -wondering whether the Count would betake himself to Cochem, or persist -in his quest and visit Thuron, Tekla spoke to him.</p> - -<p>"My Lord," she said, "you have somewhat neglected me of late, and I am -still in ignorance of what happened when you so unceremoniously turned -me off the hilltop. I trust you are unhurt."</p> - -<p>"Not only unhurt, but untouched, Countess, thanks, not to my own -prowess, but to the marvellous skill of the English archer, who -annihilated the foe like a necromancer with a touch of his wand."</p> - -<p>"Is Count Bertrich slain then?" she asked, with a shudder.</p> - -<p>"No. Yonder he stands gazing at us, seemingly in hesitation as to what -he shall do next, but his two followers are dead, and the pride of -Bertrich encountered a shattering fall before he consented to let us -pass him. I have proven myself a blundering guide, otherwise he had -never intercepted us; but defenders are ever at hand when your Ladyship -needs them, and I trust we are about to find the chief of them within -these walls."</p> - -<p>"Now that we are at our journey's end, I am oppressed with fear. I am -more afraid than I was in grim Cochem itself, for I like not the look of -this Captain and his men."</p> - -<p>"They might be more prepossessing, it is true, but we should not judge -hastily by externals. The outside of Castle Thuron seems forbidding -enough, but no doubt a warm welcome awaits you within. Count Heinrich -has to hold his possessions with a strong hand, and so cannot be too -nice in the selection of those who are to do his work. You will find -him, I trust, a true nobleman and an indulgent relative."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span></p><p>"I hope so," said the girl, with a sigh, which seemed to indicate that -she looked forward to the meeting with more apprehension than she had -yet shown.</p> - -<p>The Captain sounded a bugle that hung at his belt, and the gates of the -castle were thrown open in response, allowing the cavalcade to enter a -wide stone-paved courtyard. There was none in authority to meet them, -which was not strange, as no news of their approach could possibly have -yet reached the stronghold. The gates were instantly shut behind them, -and the Captain, flinging himself from his horse, strode into the -castle, doubtless to acquaint his chief with the important tidings he -carried. Rodolph dismounted, assisted the Countess to dismount, and then -all stood there with the horsemen surrounding them, more in the attitude -of captives than of welcome guests.</p> - -<p>The archer gazed about him with much nonchalance, at the defences of the -place, and asked questions concerning them from some of the servitors -and men-at-arms who stood silently by, regarding the newcomers with -looks of distrust, answering nothing. Far from being nonplussed by the -scant attention paid his queries, he strutted round in high good humour, -as if the castle were his own, and audibly made comments which were -sometimes far from complimentary.</p> - -<p>"If this man, Heinrich the Black, has a head on his shoulders somewhat -more intelligent than those of his men-at-arms, he might defend the -place with reasonable success, providing he was amenable to advice -regarding certain additions I consider necessary, for if the attacking -party——"</p> - -<p>"Do not cheapen your advice, archer, by tendering it unasked," said -Rodolph, somewhat sternly, "and avoid comment until you have made the -acquaintance of the Count."</p> - -<p>"Indeed there is wisdom in that," replied the archer, unabashed, "and I -would that his Lordship showed greater anxiety to receive us suitably, -for then the sooner would come a taste of his <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></span>hospitality, the which I -am already anxious to pass opinion on."</p> - -<p>Further conversation was prevented by the return of the Captain, who -curtly informed Rodolph that Count Heinrich commanded the whole party to -be brought before him, adding with a malicious leer that he had not -found his Lordship so anxious for the meeting as the words spoken by the -river bank had led him to suppose.</p> - -<p>"You will remain in your saddles until further orders," said the Captain -to his men, a behest that did little to reassure the Emperor.</p> - -<p>The Countess spoke no word, although her pale face showed that this -reception was scarcely to her liking. They all followed the Captain, who -led them along a hall, up a broad stair, and through a doorway into a -large and lofty room, where half-a-dozen men sat at a table with -drinking flagons before them, while one strode angrily back and forward -across the floor; his place at the head of the table was empty thus -indicating that he was the Count, although Rodolph needed no such token -to aid recognition.</p> - -<p>Count Heinrich was more than six feet high, and strongly built. His -massive head was covered with a shock of jet black hair; his beard and -fierce moustache were of the same sombre colour, while his face was so -swarthy that at first sight one doubted if the man had a drop of Saxon -blood in him. He seemed more like the king of some heathen African -domain, than a nobleman in a Christian land. His piercing eyes lit up -his dark face, and a glance from them reminded Rodolph of a flash of -lightning athwart a black cloud. He stopped abruptly in his march as -those summoned into his presence entered, and roared rather than spoke:</p> - -<p>"Well, madame, what do you here in Thuron?"</p> - -<p>The Countess had taken a step or two in advance of her comrades, but -paused dumbfounded at the thunder in his tone and the savagery of the -face turned upon her.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span></p><p>"My Lord—uncle," she faltered at last, "I am here to implore your -protection."</p> - -<p>"Protection?" shouted Heinrich. "Is not the Lion of Treves able to -protect you? It is <i>his</i> duty, not mine. Why does he send you journeying -with such a scurvy escort?"</p> - -<p>"My Lord, if you will permit me to address you in private I will inform -you why——"</p> - -<p>"You will inform me here. Have you, as I suspect, left Treves without -sanction of the Archbishop?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Of all reckless fools a woman—Are your horsemen still in saddle?" he -cried, abruptly, to Captain Steinmetz.</p> - -<p>"They are, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Well, madame, we shall repair the mischief you have done as speedily as -horseflesh may. You shall have escort to do you honour, but must make -your peace with the Archbishop as best you can. Take her to Cochem, and -there present her to the Archbishop, or, in his absence, to the officer -in charge."</p> - -<p>"Oh, uncle, uncle," cried the girl, throwing herself at his feet, "you -cannot commit such a crime. Remember, I am the daughter of your only -sister. The Archbishop commands me to marry the Count Bertrich——"</p> - -<p>"And a most proper union. It is his right to marry you to whomsoever -pleases him. You cannot gainsay that. Am I to engage in war with Treves -merely because you do not fancy Count Bertrich? It is enough that one of -my line is a fool. I am none such."</p> - -<p>"If you will not shelter me, let me, I beseech you, pass on to Frankfort -to beg protection from the Emperor. Although you have the right to -refuse hospitality you have no right to take me prisoner and send me -back to Cochem."</p> - -<p>"That shows you to be doubly a fool. The Emperor has gone to the Holy -Land, where God protect him, and were he at Frankfort he would send you<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span> -back to Treves, for he must uphold the Feudal law. The Archbishop's will -elected him, and if his will is to be void regarding a fire-brand like -you, it would also be void regarding the Emperor's own elevation. As for -my right to prison you, I have what rights I take, which even the -Archbishop will hesitate to question."</p> - -<p>"My Lord, touching the Emperor," began Rodolph, stepping forward, then -checking himself, hardly knowing how to continue.</p> - -<p>"Yes? Touching the Emperor? Are you empowered to speak for him? Who are -you, sir, and what is your share in this business?"</p> - -<p>Black Heinrich had calmed perceptibly as the colloquy between him and -his niece went on, but the interpolation of Rodolph at once roused him -to fury again, and caused him to turn on the young man with blazing -eyes.</p> - -<p>"I am a namesake of the Emperor, Lord Rodolph of Frankfort, and I am -further his most intimate friend."</p> - -<p>"Are you so? Then I am glad to hear it. You will thus make all the more -acceptable a sacrifice to Arnold von Isenberg, who likes interference as -little as do I, whether from Emperor or serf. Captain Steinmetz, get -hither your hangman, reeve a rope through a ring on the river front of -the castle, and hang me this fellow so that the Archbishop's emissaries -will see him dangling as they come up to inquire respecting this -enterprise."</p> - -<p>"My Lord, I would like a word with you in private before you proceed to -this extremity."</p> - -<p>"I transact my business publicly, that all the world may see."</p> - -<p>"The more fool you," returned Rodolph, stoutly. "You have already -bandied the epithet, therefore I use it. The Archbishop, who is no such -ranter, but who acts while you sleep, has had secret spies here to note -your weakness. His army is doubtless now on its way to Thuron. If you -send back your niece he will think you to be a coward; he already holds -you to be<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span> a liar, and will believe nothing you say anent this affair, -though you hang your whole garrison outside the walls. While you stand -babbling there, gloriously frightening women and threatening defenceless -men, he, like a sane warrior, is surrounding you. What the Archbishop -thinks of your innocence in this matter is shown by the fact that Count -Bertrich was sent directly to Thuron, and met us almost at your gates. -Blood has already been shed, and two of the Archbishop's men lie dead -within sight of your towers. Judge, then, of your childish paltry scheme -of returning the Countess Tekla to Cochem. He knows you to be a knave, -and will think you poltroon as well, and is doubtless right in both -estimates."</p> - -<p>Something almost resembling a ruddy colour came into the atramentous -face of Black Heinrich as he listened to this rating of himself in his -own hall. His jaws came together with a snap, and as the tirade went on, -his bearded lips parted and showed his teeth like a white line across -his face, giving him an expression that might well be called diabolical. -His eyes nearly closed, and his breath came and went with a hissing -sound. He stood rigid and motionless, while on the faces of all present -was mute amazement at this temerity on the part of one virtually a -prisoner. When Heinrich spoke, however, his former loudness was gone, -and his words came quiet and measured.</p> - -<p>"You are not wanting in courage, therefore will I countermand the order -for your hanging, and cause your head to be struck off instead."</p> - -<p>"Oh, uncle, uncle!" cried the horrified girl. "Do as you will with me, -but he is guiltless even of previous knowledge regarding my escape from -Treves. It is his misfortune, not his fault, that he is here. I implore -you——"</p> - -<p>"Steinmetz, let two of your men conduct this fellow to the courtyard, -and there behead him."</p> - -<p>The captain was about to move when a new voice from the corner of the -apartment broke in upon the discussion.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span></p><p>"May I ask your Blackness," said the archer, "to turn your mind from -the seeming peril of my Lord, to the much more certain jeopardy which -confronts yourself, and charge the heathen who obeys you to make no -motion, otherwise shall you instantly die. Without boasting, Henry -Schwart, I beg to acquaint you with the fact that not all your men nor -the surrounding of your strong castle can save your life if this string -but slip my finger. I have killed two better men than you to-day when -they were charging upon me at full speed, and well protected with -armour; judge then what chance you have, standing there a rank -temptation to an honest archer. My sure arrow cares not a jot whether it -pierces the heart of a Count Palatine, or the honest if stupid brain of -a serf. And now, my Lord Rodolph, the life of his Blackness rests upon -your lips. If you say 'Let fly' I kill him and whoever stands behind -him, for I will break bow if this shaft go not through at least three -unarmoured men."</p> - -<p>"It is as the archer says, my Lord," said Rodolph, "and his expertness -with his weapon is something almost beyond belief, as your own men, -watching from your walls a while since, will doubtless testify. I beg -that you make equitable terms with us, for I assure your Lordship the -archer is more to be feared at this moment than a round dozen of -Archbishops. I ask you to pass your knightly word, and to swear by the -three Kings of Cologne and the Holy Coat of Treves, that you will do us -no hurt, but allow us to pass freely on to Frankfort."</p> - -<p>The Black Count glared in speechless rage at the unwavering archer, and -made no reply, but one of the men seated behind him shifted position -gingerly, speaking as he did so.</p> - -<p>"It is no shame to yield, my Lord," he said. "I was witness to the -bowman's skill and saw the two men unaccountably fall with less -difference in time between them than the drawing of a breath."</p> - -<p>The Count spoke after a moment's silence.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span></p><p>"If I respect not my own word, the swearing on Kings of Cologne or Coat -of Treves will not make me keep it."</p> - -<p>"I will take your word, my Lord, so that it includes us all, especially -the archer, and stands also for the good conduct of your men."</p> - -<p>"My men will not lay finger on you with safe conduct from me. I give -you, then, my word that you pass on unscathed to Frankfort. Does that -suffice?"</p> - -<p>"It does, my Lord. Archer, unbend your bow."</p> - -<p>The archer, with a sigh, lowered his weapon, but apparently had no such -trust as Rodolph, for he still kept the arrow on the string. Captain -Steinmetz looked shrewdly at his master, as if inquiring "Does this -hold?" but he met only a lowering frown and a sharp command to betake -himself to the courtyard and disband his men.</p> - -<p>A bugle at that instant sounded outside, and the captain presently -returned to announce that Count Bertrich was without, and demanded -instant audience in the name of the Archbishop of Treves.</p> - -<p>"Demands, does he? Let him wait until I am ready to receive him," -replied the swarthy Count. Then, turning to a servitor, he commanded him -to ask the attendance of his lady.</p> - -<p>Heinrich continued his pacing of the room, which he had abandoned when -the Emperor and those with him had entered. Moodiness sat on his brow, -and he spoke to none; all within the apartment maintained silence. -Presently there entered, dressed in deep black, a thin, sallow lady of -dejected appearance, who probably had none too easy or pleasant a life -of it with her masterful husband.</p> - -<p>Heinrich stood, and without greeting said:</p> - -<p>"This is my niece, Tekla of Treves, now on her way to Frankfort. She -will rest here to-night, so I place her in your care."</p> - -<p>When the ladies had departed the Count ordered that Conrad and the -archer should have refreshment, then turning to Rodolph, he said:</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span></p><p>"As the visit of Count Bertrich may have connection with the escapade -in the development of which you have no doubt ably assisted, I request -you to remain here until the conference is ended, as your testimony -concerning it may be called for."</p> - -<p>Rodolph bowed without speaking.</p> - -<p>"Admit Count Bertrich," directed the master of Thuron, standing with his -great knuckles resting on the table, ready to receive his warlike -visitor.</p> - -<p>Bertrich strode into the room quite evidently fuming because of the -waiting he had been compelled to undergo. He made no salutation, but -spoke in a loud voice, plunging directly into his subject. His face was -pale, but otherwise he showed no sign of the rough treatment he had -encountered. Looking neither to the right nor to the left, but straight -at the Black Count, he began:</p> - -<p>"Heinrich of Thuron, I bear the commands of my master and yours, Arnold -von Isenberg, Lord Archbishop of Treves. In his name I charge you to -repair instantly to Treves, bearing with you my Lord's ward, the -Countess Tekla, whom you have treacherously encouraged and assisted in -setting at defiance the just will of his Lordship. You are also to bring -with you as prisoners those who aided her flight, and deliver them to -the garrison at Cochem."</p> - -<p>The eyes of Count Heinrich gleamed ominously from under the murky brow.</p> - -<p>"I have heard," he said, harshly. "Is there anything further I can do to -pleasure his Lordship?"</p> - -<p>"You are to make public apology to him in his Palace at Treves, -delivering into his hands the keys of Castle Thuron, and, after penance -and submission have been duly performed and rendered, his Lordship may, -in his clemency, entrust you again with the keeping of the castle."</p> - -<p>"Does the category end so lamely?"</p> - -<p>"I await your answer to as much as I have already cited."</p> - -<p>"The Countess Tekla is of my blood, but <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span>somewhat contaminated, I admit, -by the fact that her father was your predecessor in the Archbishop's -favour. She was Arnold's ward, betrothed to you, his menial. She was in -your hands at the capital city of the Archbishop, surrounded by spies -and environed by troops. If then the girl has the wit to elude you all, -baffle pursuit, and arrive unscathed in Thuron, she is even more my -relative than I had given her credit for, and now the chief loser in the -game comes yelping here to me like a whipped spaniel, crying 'Give her -up.' God's wounds, why should I? She will but trick you again and be -elsewhere to seek."</p> - -<p>"I demand your plain answer, yes or no, to be given at your peril!"</p> - -<p>"There is no peril in dealing with so stupid a band as that at Treves, -whose head a simple girl may cozen and whose chief warrior, mounted and -encased in iron an unarmoured foot-soldier can overthrow. By the three -Kings, you strut here in my hall with jingling spurs which you have no -right to wear. You know the rules of chivalry; give up your horse, your -armour and your sword to the archer who rightfully owns them, having won -them in fair field. When thus you have purged yourself of dishonesty, I -will lend you a horse to carry my answer back to Treves, which is as -follows: Tell the Archbishop that the maiden is in my castle of Thuron. -If he want her, let him come and take her."</p> - -<p>The colour had returned in more than its usual volume to the pale face -of Count Bertrich as he listened to this contemptuous speech, but he -made no reply until he had withdrawn the gauntlet from his hand: then, -flinging it at the feet of the Black Count, he cried:</p> - -<p>"There lies the gauge of my Lord Archbishop of Treves, and when Thuron -Castle is blazing, I shall beg of his Lordship to allow me to -superintend the hanging of the pirate who now inhabits it."</p> - -<p>Heinrich threw back his head with a rasping bark that stood him in place -of a laugh.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></span></p><p>"Indeed, my Lord, you have the true hangman's favour, and I marvel not -the girl fled from you. I am, as you say, somewhat of a pirate, but with -more honesty in me than passes current in Treves, so I cannot lift the -gauge without leave of its real owner. Steinmetz, bring here the archer -with his bow."</p> - -<p>When the wonder-stricken archer appeared, grasping his weapon, his mouth -full, for he had been reluctantly haled from a groaning board, he looked -with some apprehension at the Black Count, expecting a recantation of -the promise wrung from him.</p> - -<p>"Archer," cried Heinrich, "there lies a gauntlet which is yours of -right. I ask you for it."</p> - -<p>"Indeed, my Lord," replied the archer, hastily gulping his food to make -utterance possible, "if I have aught to say concerning it, it is yours -with right good will."</p> - -<p>"Then from where you stand, as I refused your formal proposal to judge -your marksmanship, pin it for me to the floor."</p> - -<p>The archer, nothing loath, drew bow, and with incredible swiftness shot -one after another five shafts that pierced fingers and thumb of the -glove, the first arrow still quivering while the last struck into its -place.</p> - -<p>For the only time that day the dark face of the Count Palatine lit up, -in radiant admiration of the stout foreigner who stood with a smirk of -self-satisfaction while he nodded familiarly to Captain Steinmetz as who -would say:</p> - -<p>"You see what would have happened if——"</p> - -<p>Count Bertrich regarded him with wonder in his eyes, then pulling a -purse from under his breast-plate, he said:</p> - -<p>"Archer, I am in your debt for horse, armour and arms, and think it -little shame to confess defeat to one so skilful. If you will accept -this gold in payment, and leave me steed and accoutrements, I shall hold -myself still your debtor. My excuse for tardy payment is that you did -not wait to claim your own."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span></p><p>"My Lord," said the archer, "I am always willing to compound in gold -for any service I can render, and only hope to have another opportunity -of practising against your closed helmet with arrows which I shall -shortly make a trifle thinner in the shank than those I used to-day. I -have to apologise to your Lordship that my shafts were rather too thick -at the point to give complete satisfaction either to you or to me."</p> - -<p>All sign of levity vanished from Count Bertrich's face as he turned -again to the Black Count.</p> - -<p>"Although the exhibition we have been favoured with is interesting," he -said, "I do not understand what bearing it has upon the point we were -discussing. Do you accept challenge, or shall I intercede with my Lord -the Archbishop to grant you the terms formerly recited by me?"</p> - -<p>"Tell the Archbishop that the glove has been pinned to my floor by five -shafts, piercing the points of its five members; there it will remain -until his Lordship contritely enters this hall on his knees and pulls -them out with his teeth. When he does this and delivers up Count -Bertrich to my hangman he shall have peace."</p> - -<p>Count Bertrich, again without salutation, turned his back upon the -company, and left the apartment while the archer gazed with admiration -on Black Heinrich, whose language had no mincing diplomacy about it, but -stood stoutly for a quarrel.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XIV.</span> <span class="smaller">A RELUCTANT WELCOME.</span></h2> - -<p>After Count Bertrich's unceremonious departure, Heinrich stood by the -table with black brows, in the attitude of one who listened intently. No -one in the room moved or spoke, and in the silence there came from the -courtyard the noise of horse's hoofs on stone—first the irregular -stamping of an animal struck or frightened by an impatient master, then -the rhythmical clatter of the canter, gradually diminishing until it -lapsed beyond the hearing. The shutting of the gates with a clang seemed -to arouse the master of Thuron. He drew a deep breath and glared about -him fiercely, like a man ill-pleased, but determined.</p> - -<p>"Steinmetz," he said, gruffly, "have you three men who can be trusted?"</p> - -<p>"I should hope, my Lord, that we have many."</p> - -<p>"Are you sure of three?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Then send them with money—no, I will not tempt the dogs. Let one on -horseback cross the river, and scour the region round Munster-Maifield, -telling each peasant to bring to Thuron all the grain he has to sell. -Announce that I will pay for wheat delivered here at once, a trifle -higher than the market price."</p> - -<p>"Indeed, my Lord," said Steinmetz, "it will not be believed; better -trust your men with the money—if you really intend to pay."</p> - -<p>"Tell the peasants that all who bring in grain to-morrow will be paid, -and fair weight allowed. Say that I will in person visit those who do -not respond, accompanied by a troop of horse, and take then<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span> what -pleases me without payment. See that no word slips out about the coming -of the Archbishop. Another horseman is to go eastward and treat on our -side of the river in the same way. Let the third ride up the Moselle and -collect wine on similar terms. To-morrow it is bought; next day it is -taken."</p> - -<p>"The sun is already set, my Lord. The men cannot go far to-night. Might -it not be better——"</p> - -<p>"Steinmetz, I spoke of hanging to-day, and I am still in the mood for -it. If you do not listen silently and act promptly and accomplish -effectually, you shall dangle. The three men you despatch must be in the -saddle all night, returning here by sunrise, with a full account of what -we may expect. They will be the surer of finding the peasants at home -from now till cock-crow. If my vaults are not full to-morrow at this -hour, some one's soul goes to Purgatory. Arrange as best pleases you, -and account to me twenty-four hours hence. I shall myself superintend -the intake, and will know how to deal with you if it is insufficient."</p> - -<p>Steinmetz looked with evil eye at his imperious master, but left the -room in silence and haste, to make the best of a dangerous commission.</p> - -<p>Heinrich turned to Rodolph, and was about to address him when the -archer, who had been uneasily awaiting a chance to attract attention, -clearing his throat emphatically and often, with little result, spoke -up.</p> - -<p>"My Lord, I am pleased to see that you so thoroughly understand the -first requisite of a good captain, the which is to attend properly to -the victualling of his garrison, but I was somewhat hastily removed from -a full board at which I had hardly seated myself, leaving in my hurry to -wait on your highness, a full tankard of wine, which I would fain return -to. Therefore, my Lord——"</p> - -<p>"In the Fiend's name, do so!" cried Heinrich, who with wrinkled brow had -at last comprehended his guest's volubility, whereupon the archer waited -no<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span> further permission but took himself off with a celerity which caused -more than one smile to brighten the anxious faces in the room.</p> - -<p>"You are doubtless as hungry as your man-at-arms," said Heinrich, -turning to Rodolph, "but will possibly pardon the necessity that -intervened between you and the board."</p> - -<p>"Indeed, my Lord, I care little for food to-night, being more in need of -rest, and, if I have your leave, would be glad to get sight of bed, -especially as I hold it necessary to be early astir to-morrow, if we are -to make Frankfort before nightfall."</p> - -<p>"It is not my intention that you go to Frankfort; I have changed my -mind. It will profit my niece nothing to go to Frankfort, for even if -the Emperor were there, he is nothing but a hare-brained fool."</p> - -<p>"I most emphatically agree with your estimate of him, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"I thought you were a friend of his?"</p> - -<p>"I am, and therefore know him well, and so with easy conscience can -perform the part of candid friend and amply corroborate what you say -concerning him."</p> - -<p>"I know him not, and judge him but by hearsay. He is a foreigner and no -true German, and was elected by the two Archbishops for their own -purposes and cannot therefore be either a fighter or a man of brains. He -lacks wisdom, think you?"</p> - -<p>"He has no more wisdom, my Lord, than I, who mix with other people's -quarrels and get scant thanks for my pains."</p> - -<p>"A man can scarcely be expected to give thanks when he finds that others -have arranged a war for him without his knowledge or sanction."</p> - -<p>"That is very true, my Lord, and consequently I expect no thanks from -the Archbishop, who thus finds his hand prematurely forced, and timely -warning given to the redoubtable Count Heinrich. His secret preparations -against you are thus unmasked, and I can well understand his rage -thereat."</p> - -<p>The Black Count scowled darkly at the younger<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span> man, and seemed unable to -measure accurately his apparent frankness, feeling the awkwardness of an -unready man in the polished presence of a courtier, and resenting the -feeling.</p> - -<p>"That was not my meaning," he said, curtly.</p> - -<p>"I am under little obligation to the Archbishop, and therefore tell you -frankly that I believe it was his intention to attack you later, and -catch you unaware. I was confirmed in this belief by some remarks -dropped by the custodian of Cochem castle. He told me the Archbishop had -lately sent two spies secretly, to find out all there was to learn -regarding your defences. They did so, and reported to his pious and -crafty Lordship."</p> - -<p>"Did the custodian say Arnold intended an attack?"</p> - -<p>"Had he said so, then would I have surmised you were free from danger. -On the contrary, he said the Archbishop had thought better of it; but -knowing the devious ways of the Elector, I am convinced he was making -secret preparations for your downfall. He is not a man to wear his plans -upon his robes of office. Imagine then his present rage at finding -himself unaccountably forestalled, for nothing on earth will persuade -him the flight of the Countess is not all your doing. He is taken -unprepared. His troops are some days' hard marching from Thuron, and -when they come, they find the land has already been scoured; that you -have collected in your cellars all the meat and drink there is in the -region round about, so therefore must he sustain his army from a -distance and at increased labour and cost. Instead of secretly -encircling your castle with an army, as if he called his troops by magic -from the ground, and driving back your foragers on a half empty larder, -he comes upon you well stocked and waiting for him. Instead of the -haughty Bertrich giving you his ultimatum with a company at his back, -and the white tents of Treves gleaming over the green landscape, the -envoy goes back on the horse of one of his own slain men, himself<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span> -compelled to compound with an unknown foot-soldier for his forfeited -accoutrements, and that in the hall of his enemy, under the taunts of -the master of Thuron and the scornful gaze of his nobles. He returns to -Treves an overthrown man with good assurance that Heinrich of Thuron -cares not one trooper's oath for either the Archbishop or himself. -Therefore, my Lord, you have right valid reason for thanking the -Countess Tekla and myself, although I must own that some short time -since, you gave but small token of your gratitude."</p> - -<p>Heinrich regarded the young man as he spoke with a look of piercing -intentness, tinctured with suspicion. As the recital went on and he -began to see more clearly in what light his actions would go abroad, and -how he stood in relation with the Archbishop, he drew himself proudly -up, the smell of coming battle seeming to thrill his nostrils. -Nevertheless there was rarely absent from his penetrating gaze the -indication of slumbering distrust, with which a man uncouth and rough of -tongue, usually listens to one of opposite qualities for here before him -was a puzzle; a man who apparently did not fear him, who spoke smoothly -and even flatteringly, yet who, in a manner, looked down upon him as if -he were inferior clay. He had this young man entirely in his power, yet -the position might have been reversed for all the comfort it gave the -Black Count.</p> - -<p>"I am not sure but you have some qualities of a great commander," said -Heinrich, a compliment which although perhaps reluctantly given, the -nobleman recalled in after life as a proof of his own foresight, when -Rodolph had become in the estimation of all Europe the most notable -Emperor Germany had ever seen.</p> - -<p>The young man laughed.</p> - -<p>"I am scarcely in physical condition to do justice to whatever qualities -I may possess, for these two nights past I have had more fatigue than -sleep."</p> - -<p>His entertainer, however, did not take the hint.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span> His brow was knitted -in deep thought. At last he said, with a return to scepticism to his -eyes:</p> - -<p>"You spoke of being at Cochem. What did you there? Were you the guest of -the Archbishop?"</p> - -<p>"In a manner. A guest without his knowledge. The Countess and her party -enjoyed the hospitality of Cochem last night."</p> - -<p>"You amaze me. In your flight from Treves had you the actual temerity to -make a hostel of the Archbishop's own palace?"</p> - -<p>Again the Emperor laughed.</p> - -<p>"It was not our intention to do so, but hospitality was forced upon us. -At Bruttig I was, with some reluctance, compelled to slit the throat of -Beilstein's captain in defence of the Countess, and, in the mêlée that -followed, I had to proclaim the quality of the lady and demand -protection from the Archbishop's troops there stationed. They conducted -us to Cochem, and the Countess was received by the custodian of the -castle there with a courtesy which seems to be entirely absent from such -ceremonies further down the Moselle."</p> - -<p>The Black Count grunted and the expression on his countenance was not -pleasing to look upon. However, he did not pursue the subject, but -called to an aged waiting servant and said:</p> - -<p>"Conduct Lord Rodolph to the round guest-chamber."</p> - -<p>"With your Lordship's permission," said Rodolph, "I would crave a word -with the Countess Tekla. She has had recent trying experiences, and -after the tension may come relapse. I would fain speak encouragingly to -her, if you make no objection."</p> - -<p>Heinrich threw back his lion head and laughed hoarsely.</p> - -<p>"Objection of mine comes rather tardily. An unmarried woman who throws -herself into the arms of the first chevalier who presents himself, and -journeys with him night and day across the country, has no reputation -left for me to protect. See her when you will for aught of me."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></span></p><p>Rodolph reddened, and his lips came tightly together.</p> - -<p>"My Lord," he said, slowly, "I have already informed you that I slit the -throat of a man who spoke less slightingly of her Ladyship than you have -this moment done, and, from what I saw of him, he was as brave a warrior -as you, and had the advantage of being surrounded by a larger following. -Yet he lies buried in Bruttig."</p> - -<p>"We have had this trick performed to-day already by the archer, and it -is now stale. Push me not too often to the wall, for I am an impatient -man, and some one is like to get hurt by it. I say nothing against the -girl; she is my niece and if any one draw sword for her it should be -me." Then to the aged servitor who still stood waiting, he cried:</p> - -<p>"Take him to my lady's portion of the castle, and after, to the round -guest-chamber."</p> - -<p>Rodolph followed the servant, who shuffled on before him through various -passages, and at last came to a small door where he knocked. It was -opened by an old woman, who, after explanation, conducted the young man -through several small rooms, in the first of which the manservant -awaited the Emperor's return. This suite of rooms looked out on a -courtyard overshadowed by one of the tall round towers of the castle, -and in the courtyard there had been an attempt at gardening, unattended -with marked success. The further room of the series was larger than any -of the others, and was furnished less rudely than the huge apartment in -which the Black Count and his men were gathered.</p> - -<p>The sallow wife of Heinrich sat at a table near one of the windows and -was gazing silently out on the courtyard. The Countess Tekla sat also by -the table with her arms spread upon it and her head resting, face -downward, upon them. Hilda had a bench to herself in a corner of the -room, and it was evident that all three women had been weeping in a -common misery. The Countess Heinrich gave Rodolph a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span> timid, almost -inaudible greeting, and when Tekla raised her head at the slight sound, -she sprang to her feet on seeing who had entered, undisguised joy in her -wet eyes.</p> - -<p>"Oh Lord Rodolph!" she cried, but could get no further.</p> - -<p>The Emperor took her unresisting hand and raised it to his lips.</p> - -<p>"I have come, my Lady Tekla," he said, with a smile, "to congratulate -you on the successful accomplishment of your dangerous journey."</p> - -<p>"Successful!" she cried. "Yes, successful as far as you could make it -so, and most sincerely do I thank you. But cannot we leave for Frankfort -to-night? I am now rested, and eager to be quit of this inhospitable -dungeon. I would rather be in the forest with you——" then adding in -some confusion, realising what she had said in her zeal to set off -without delay, "and Conrad, and Hilda, than to stay longer in Thuron."</p> - -<p>"In that you would do grave injustice to your valiant uncle, who but now -has said he would be first to draw sword for your defence. No, Bertrich -has returned empty-handed as he came, unless a bold defiance of the -Archbishop from Heinrich of Thuron be considered, which he takes with -him to Treves. The Emperor, as Heinrich truly says, is not at Frankfort, -so a journey thence might be ill-timed. Your uncle freely extends to you -the shelter and protection of Thuron. I must own to having formed an -admiration for the man, although at first my feeling tended rather in -the opposite direction. But it must not be forgotten on his behalf that -our coming was unexpected, and he can scarcely be blamed if, like a -spirited horse, he shied at first."</p> - -<p>"He is a good man," said the Countess of Thuron, mildly, "if he be not -crossed. He will brook no interference."</p> - -<p>"Then we stay in Thuron!" cried Tekla, in amazement.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span></p><p>"It is your uncle's wish."</p> - -<p>"And what of the Archbishop? Will he attack, think you?"</p> - -<p>"Of that I have grave doubts. Arnold is above all things a cautious man, -and if one were sure what any other would do, one might guess that the -Archbishop would act the contrary. I think he will attack, but my -thinking so quite prepares me for the opposite. In any case, Lady Tekla, -you have nothing further to fear from Count Bertrich, for your uncle -seems to hold him in less fear than you do yourself."</p> - -<p>"Thank God for that!" said the Countess, fervently, with an involuntary -shudder. She stole a furtive glance at the young man before her. "Do you -depart from Thuron on the morrow?" she asked, in a low voice.</p> - -<p>"That rests largely with Count Heinrich—and—and with you. If you -desire my presence, or my absence, I shall endeavour to fulfil your -wish."</p> - -<p>"Your own affairs will not be bettered by your absence from them I -fear."</p> - -<p>"Indeed," said Rodolph, with a laugh, "I doubt if it will make great -difference either way."</p> - -<p>"If that is truly the case, I would be—I think my uncle will need all -the stout hearts he can muster round him."</p> - -<p>"My own wish is to stay. But we will see what the morrow brings. -Meanwhile, you are tired, and little wonder. I wish you good rest, and I -am sure you may sleep in serene peace of mind, for your troubles are at -an end."</p> - -<p>With that he took leave of her, sighing to think they were no longer -alone together, he her sole protector, and so it may have chanced that -his eyes spoke what his lips dare not utter, but if this were the case -Tekla had no censure for him, but sighed in company, though so lightly -he did not hear as he turned away.</p> - -<p>The ancient man, who was patiently waiting for him, had now a torch in -his hand, which he lighted when he came to the courtyard, applying it to -another<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span> that flared in an iron receptacle fastened to the stone wall. -He led the way to one of the round towers, and climbed slowly up a -narrow stone stair, passing several doors, but stopping at none until he -seemed to have reached the top. Then, resting his torch in an iron -holder, he, with much effort, drew back heavy bolts and threw open the -door. The torch lighted a round chamber in which were three narrow -windows in the thick stone, wide at the inner surface of the wall, but -narrowing to a mere slit, with scarce room for a man's hand to penetrate -to the outer air. A pallet of straw lay by the wall furthest from the -door, and there was in the room a rude table, and a ruder bench. The old -servant placed the burning torch within the room, and muttering a -good-night, withdrew, closing the door after him. A moment later Rodolph -heard the bolts being shot into their places. He cried aloud, beating -the stout oaken panels with the hilt of his rapier.</p> - -<p>"Here, fellow. You are exceeding your instructions. The Count said -nothing of my being barred in. I am no prisoner, but a guest."</p> - -<p>But the old man did not draw the bolts.</p> - -<p>"The instructions ever follow the order given. Take him to the round -guest-chamber, says my Lord, which means also, bolt him in there."</p> - -<p>Again Rodolph loudly protested, but the shuffling steps of his guide -echoed hollow from the circular stair. The Emperor, when the last sound -had ceased, threw himself, dressed as he was, on the straw, and an -instant later was sound asleep.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XV.</span> <span class="smaller">CASTLE THURON MAKES A FULL MEAL.</span></h2> - -<p>The sun, shining through one of the narrow slits in the circular wall, -striking on Rodolph's face, woke him next morning, and when he sat on -his straw pallet he saw that the door had been unbarred and thrown -partly open. He walked down into the quiet courtyard, with its neglected -garden, and glanced up at the windows of the suite of rooms which the -women of the castle inhabited, but saw no signs of any of them. Passing -through a hall he entered the outer courtyard, where the day before he -had dismounted after his journey. The gates were wide apart, and the -courtyard itself looked like a city market-place. The scene was one of -hurry and animation. The enclosure was filled with rude carts, and with -lowing cows and oxen that had drawn them, steaming after the exertion of -dragging their heavy loads up the steep hill. A procession of others, -waiting their turn, extended through the gateway and along the hillside -road that led to it. The Black Count himself superintended the intake of -sacks of grain and casks of wine, estimating rather than accurately -measuring their value, and paying with his own hand for what was thus -brought to his doors. Count Heinrich, like many other nobles of his -time, had the right to coin gold and silver, and his mint-master had -been busy all night striking off pieces of different sizes, each with a -rude effigy of the Count on one face of the coin, and its value in Roman -numerals on the other.</p> - -<p>Heinrich seemed to be driving generous bargains, loudly demanding what -the owner thought his contribution worth, and when the sum was -tremblingly named,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span> giving often more than was asked, but never less. He -acted like a man who had long defied public opinion, but who now, for -reasons of his own, preferred to court it, not knowing how soon he might -be in some measure dependent upon it. Rodolph learned that before -midnight the wine from the upper valley had begun to come in, and that -the Count, having been in council with his captains until that hour, had -gone forth to make payment by torchlight, while his mint-master sent him -from the cellars of the castle, bags of currency still warm from the -crucible. Heinrich showed no sign of fatigue, but was as alert as any, -standing on the stone steps that led to the castle door, a head or more -above the throng, while two secretaries counted out the sums he demanded -and handed them to him from the bags at his feet. His eagle eye covered -the whole scene, and now and then when the incomers and outgoers became -jammed in an apparently indissolvable tangle, wheels interlocking, and -goads falling ineffectually on the patient backs of the cattle, the -Count with stentorian voice and eloquent gesture would command one to -back here, another to go forward there, whereupon the knot would be -speedily unloosed and the business go forward as it should.</p> - -<p>If the stout Heinrich had little mercy on himself he had none at all on -his servitors. Panting men struggled with heavy sacks on their backs, -disappearing through the open archway that led to the cellars, emerging -empty handed, drawing sleeve across sweating brow, to bend back -instantly under a fresh burden and return. Full casks of wine were -rolled and lowered out of sight, as if the castle were some huge -open-jawed monster who was swallowing a gigantic meal with little sign -of repletion. Did a man pause but a moment to fill his lungs with the -fresh morning air, the all-encompassing eye of the master had singled -him out and a roar of rage made all within hearing tremble. It was -evident that peasant and servitor alike, officer and foot soldier, were -in deadly terror of the Black Count.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span></p><p>Rodolph made his way up to the battlements and looked down on this -stirring scene. Then he walked along the walls to gain some idea of the -castle's strength and situation. There was a broad level promenade -parallel to the river front, protected by a strong machicolated parapet. -The promenade ran due north and south, and was nearly a hundred yards in -length. At each end of the castle, but some distance back from the -front, rose a round tower, the north tower being slightly lower than its -brother. Behind the north tower was a precipitous wooded cliff falling -steeply down to the little river Thaurand. The northern, eastern, and -southern sides of the slope, at the top of which the castle stood, were -densely wooded. The western slope, descending some hundreds of feet to -the Moselle, was covered with vines, through which, beginning near the -northern end of the stronghold, ran at steep incline the stout wall that -ended at the river, carrying on its back here and there a stumpy square -stone guard-house. Clustered at the foot of this wall, and stretching -along the edge of the Moselle, lay the small village of Alken, over -which was thrown the dark shadow of the Black Count's castle. Beyond it -flowed the broad smooth river, placid as a sheet of glass, reflecting, -far down, the forest-covered hills of its western bank.</p> - -<p>At the junction of the hollow river wall with the castle, there stood on -the terrace, at either side of the up-springing causeway, a huge, clumsy -catapult, one commanding the northern face of the wall coming up from -the river, the other the southern side. Here and there, at the edge of -the promenade furthest from the parapet, were piled, with some attempt -at symmetry, many hundreds of round pieces of granite, each considerably -larger than a man's head, and each weighing as much as a man might care -to lift. These spheres were ammunition for the catapult, and Rodolph saw -that the Count appreciated not only the necessity of guarding his way to -the river, but also the difficulty the Archbishop's men would find, in -the face of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span> hurling granite, to force a breach in the stonework. All in -all, Arnold had a hard nut to crack in Castle Thuron, defended as it was -by a man of resource and resolute determination.</p> - -<p>On the opposite shore of the river Rodolph saw collected many ox-carts, -while the three boats which the day before had been drawn up on the bank -at Alken, were busy ferrying over the produce brought by the carts. -Sturdy villagers with bags on their backs were slowly plodding up the -hill to the castle, ignoring the zig-zag road, and coming steeply and -straight up the lanes between the rows of vines.</p> - -<p>As Rodolph leaned against the stone parapet watching the villagers -crawling like laden ants up the slopes, he was accosted by the cheery -voice of the English archer.</p> - -<p>"I hope you have slept well, my Lord," he said.</p> - -<p>"Excellently. And you?"</p> - -<p>"Never better. With the blue sky above me and my mind at peace with all -the world; a bed of moss and a sloping hillside, that the water may -speedily run away should a shower come on, no man can ask for better -resting-place."</p> - -<p>"Good Heaven! The Count did not turn you thus inhospitably adrift on the -landscape surely? He has roof enough and room enough to give you some -choice of a sleeping chamber."</p> - -<p>"Oh, the Count's intentions were doubtless fair enough; I make no -complaint of his Blackness. That he is uncivilised and knows nothing of -the courtesy that pertains to a guest, is the fault of his upbringing -and should not be justly charged against him. I was taken to a dark -vault and barred in, the which I never can put up with, unless I am a -legal prisoner, and even then only if it fall in with my convenience. I -had some thought of slaying my jailor and taking his head with me to the -Count, to demand an unbarred door, but the rascal was too quick for me, -and before I fathomed his inhospitable intent, had thrust bolt in -socket, himself safely on the outside, scorning<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span> my protestations. A -fastened door gives me a sense of suffocation that I find ill to abide. -I tested the door by various expedients which lie at the hand of an -experienced soldier, but found it proof against them all. Window there -was none, but the open chimney gave me a speedy way, working with hands -and knees, to the roof. The moon, just past the full, was shining -brightly, and at some risk to my bones I got from roof to lower roof, -and so at last to the battlements, where by trusting my body somewhat -precipitously to the top of a tree, I won my road to the ground outside -the castle. There I made myself a bed and was awakened as a man should -be, by the singing of the birds, after a most refreshing night of it. I -wandered about in the forest testing the different trees to find timber -for the making of arrows, or a bow if need be, although I found little -suitable for the latter. With these branches of timber I presented -myself at the entrance gate to the no small amazement of the guards, and -found all in a bustle, with the buying and selling of grain. Henry -Schwart espied me as soon as I entered, notwithstanding the throng, and -he roared out how the devil I came there, and who had unbarred the door, -whereat I laughed at him, and said they kept such loose watch at Thuron -that an industrious man might have cut all their throats while they -slept, had he been so minded, and this brought greater blackness into -Heinrich's face than I had hitherto seen there."</p> - -<p>"If a suggestion does you any good," said Rodolph, with some severity, -"I would not make his Lordship the subject of mirth."</p> - -<p>"Indeed, my Lord, your words are full of wisdom, which I marvel at -considering your youth; but with me it is usually the word first and the -thought after, which may be likened to putting the cart before the cow, -as they would say in these parts. No; I saw that Heinrich did not enjoy -my merriment, but what was I to do when the laugh had already echoed -from the stone walls, and was thus beyond recall. He sent<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[Pg 163]</a></span> one messenger -to my room, and another to yours, with instructions to leave your door -open and unbarred, which seemed to show that the Black Count may still -be judiciously taught by good example. The messenger to your room -reported you to be sleeping soundly, while the one to mine said the door -was still bolted, which was undoubtedly true, for I had not meddled with -it. But I much fear, as you have already hinted, that I have forfeited -the love Heinrich bore me yesterday, when I pointed an arrow at his -heart, for when I asked permission to go to Treves (granted that I -received your leave) he opened his eyes till they were round as targets, -and cried that he would see me in the region of the condemned with -pleasure, but not to Treves, which I took as an ill-natured remark, -given coarsely as he put it."</p> - -<p>"To Treves? Why to Treves of all places in the world? How could you -expect Count Heinrich to permit you to go to Treves from this castle -when he is in momentary anticipation of being besieged by Treves?"</p> - -<p>"I told him I should return unless I was decapitated by the Archbishop -or Count Bertrich, in which case he could hardly look to me to keep my -tryst with him. I have a friend whom I left near Treves, from whence, if -I succeeded in getting employment, I was to send him word, so that he -too might have a place beside me. In case of not hearing from me he was -to betake himself to Treves and there make inquiry regarding me; that, I -fear, he has done, or is about to do, and I wish to engage him on my -side in this quarrel. It has been our fate this many a year to be in -opposing camps, and thus not only are we deprived of each other's -company, but our lives are placed in jeopardy, each through the -marksmanship of the other; and while I should as fain take my departure -from this world on one of Roger's shafts as otherwise, yet it would -grieve him ever after, for he is a tender hearted man as ever let fly -unerring arrow. It would greatly advantage Black Heinrich, had he but -sense to see it,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[Pg 164]</a></span> to let me go to Treves and bring back Roger Kent with -me."</p> - -<p>"Is he then an archer also? There surely cannot be two such."</p> - -<p>"No, there is none like him. He regards me as his most promising pupil, -but that is merely because of his fondness for me, who will patiently -listen to the poetry he makes."</p> - -<p>"Is he a poet as well? Such a man, if he betters you in shooting, must -write most stirringly of war."</p> - -<p>"He is the greatest of poets, for so he himself admitted to me. He -writes poetry that no man on earth can understand, and if that be sign -of greatness, it must be as he says. He has slight conceit of himself as -an archer, in which craft I know him to be unequalled, but I am no judge -of his verses, although they read most soothingly and put a man to sleep -when aught else fails. He writes not of war, my Lord, but of love. He -indites verses to many foreign virgins of ancient times, whose very -names I am never able to remember, and he has marvellous pages on the -birds and the woods and mosses, and all flowers that grow, which, he -says, speak to him in a language of their own, and that I can well -believe, for I have no understanding of it. And he has penned many -touching lines on the blessings of peace, though how he could earn his -threepence a day if peace abounded, is something which even he, poet as -he is, cannot explain."</p> - -<p>"I think such a soldier would be an acquisition to our garrison, and I -shall see whether Count Heinrich can be persuaded to allow you a visit -in Treves, although I can well understand his reluctance, fearing the -losing of so valuable an archer as yourself. I also have a message to -send to Treves, so perhaps we shall prevail on the Count to think better -of his decision. You gave me the name of your friend, but I have never -yet learned your own."</p> - -<p>"I am called John Surrey, my Lord. I am Saxon, as you may see, but Roger -is a Norman, tall and thin and nearly as black as Heinrich himself. We -should<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></span> be enemies and not friends, for the Normans conquered the -Saxons, but as that conquest is now some time past, and I saw not how to -better the matter by my interference so long as the Normans had such -archers as Roger; and as he could get none of his own countrymen to -listen to his poetry, we had need of each other, and our only grievance -is that we fight usually on opposite sides, the which I should in this -instance amend if the Count but let me to Treves before the Archbishop -has Roger enlisted. If there is a tumult in Treves and men are called -for, he will be one of the first to offer himself, thinking to find me -in the ranks, for he knows that it was to take service with Arnold that -I journeyed forth."</p> - -<p>"I have, as I said, a message to send to Treves, so I shall speak to the -Count on behalf of your mission, but I doubt if he will risk the loss of -one archer like you on the remote chance of gaining two such later."</p> - -<p>"Am I then in the Count's service and not in yours? Have you transferred -me to him, my Lord?"</p> - -<p>"Not so. You are at present my archer regiment, which I hope to increase -in number as opportunity serves, but we must now do our best to aid the -Count, having helped in some measure to bring on his dilemma."</p> - -<p>"With right good will, my Lord, so be it that he treats a man not as a -slave or prisoner, and if it come to hanging, or the like, I would -rather be hanged by you than by the Count."</p> - -<p>Rodolph smiled and said:</p> - -<p>"You may be sure I shall not deliver up to the Count whatever rights I -possess regarding your fate. I have always insisted on the esteemed -privilege of hanging my own men; it is not an advantage I would -willingly bestow upon another."</p> - -<p>"In that your Lordship is wise," answered the bowman, soberly, "for the -relinquishing of apparently trivial pretensions is generally followed by -increased encroachment. I shall now bid your Lordship good morning, for -I must betake myself to the workshops<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span> of the castle and there teach a -knave Heinrich has given me, the proper making of arrows, the which is -likely to be a task of some duration, for the rascal does not seem -over-bright, and the Germans have little skill, at best, in the accurate -manufacture of shafts, and the correct balancing of them. I hold it well -to prepare for the coming of the Archbishop, and meet him with suitable -offerings, lest he suspect us of disrespect to his high station."</p> - -<p>"I hope he will appreciate your thoughtfulness," said the Emperor, -whereupon the archer descended from the battlements.</p> - -<p>Rodolph rested his arms on the parapet and gazed at the peasants toiling -slowly up the incline from the river with their burdens. As the sun rose -higher and higher the shadow of the great castle also moved -imperceptibly up the slope, as if emulating the labourers. The houses of -Alken, closely packed together, as was the case with all mediæval -villages, stood brilliantly out in the sunshine, now that the shadow of -the castle was removed from them. In the clear air every stone of the -place stood distinctly out, and it seemed so surprisingly near that one -might have imagined he had but to stretch down his hand and touch its -roofs. From its streets came up the merry laughter of children, joyous -at the unusual bustle going forward, having not the slightest idea of -the ominous meaning which the hurrying to and fro brought to older -minds.</p> - -<p>A musical greeting caused the Emperor to start from his reverie and turn -suddenly round. The Countess Tekla stood before him, smiling, and -seeming herself a spirit of the morning. To Rodolph she appeared to be -robed magnificently, and he wondered how she came by all this finery, -which suited her so well, making her look the great lady she undoubtedly -was. Notwithstanding her youth, there was an unconscious dignity about -her that awed him, even though he was accustomed to the splendour of the -grand dames who thronged his now deserted Court at<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span> Frankfort. Could -this be the girl who had come through such rough usage with him from -Treves to Thuron, standing now like a fair goddess of the Moselle in her -queenly beauty? Here was one indeed to fight for and to die for, if -necessity arose, thinking oneself blessed for the privilege. Her head -was coroneted by a semi-circular band of gold, encrusted with jewels. -Behind her fair neck the rich profusion of hair was kept in bounds by a -clasp of finely-wrought silver, from which imprisonment it then flowed -unimpeded, the colour of ripened wheat, each thread apparently spun from -the golden beams of the sun itself. It covered her like a mantle, making -even the embroidered splendour of her gown seem poor by comparison.</p> - -<p>To this radiant vision so unexpectedly risen before him, the Emperor -bowed with the slow, lowly deference of a courtier to his monarch, -speechless for the moment through the emotions that stirred within him.</p> - -<p>The girl laughed merrily at his confusion.</p> - -<p>"You must not so critically regard me, my Lord," she said. "My wardrobe -is elsewhere, as you know, and I have been compelled to explore this -grim castle for the wherewithal to attire myself, finding more of coats -of mail than of ladies' adornments, for it is long since feminine vanity -dwelt herein, so I have been compelled to piece out this with that, to -make myself presentable, and I feel like one engaged in a masquerade, -tricking myself out as they tell me the ladies do at some grand function -given by the Emperor at Frankfort."</p> - -<p>"My Lady, the Emperor's Court is lit by candles; I stand now in the -radiance of the sun."</p> - -<p>The lady turned her dancing eyes upon him.</p> - -<p>"If that is a compliment, my Lord, 'tis fit for Frankfort itself; if it -merely refers to the undoubted fact that the sun is shining bravely on -you, and that the Court is dim by comparison, think not you will deter -me from going there, for I should dearly love to witness the pageantry -of the capital."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span></p><p>"Indeed, Countess, if you fail to do so it will not be through lack of -invitation."</p> - -<p>"When invitation comes I shall eagerly accept it."</p> - -<p>"I sincerely trust you will, my Lady."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps you also will be there, and may not have forgotten me. If I see -you, I shall ask you to point out to a stranger those who are notable."</p> - -<p>"Such is my most devout wish, although I lacked the courage to give -expression to it."</p> - -<p>"But I breathe a warning to you. My uncle tells me you spoke slightingly -of the Emperor last night. I was grieved to hear it, for I am a loyal -subject of his, and were I a man, would draw sword, did any in my -presence allude to the head of the state in other terms than those of -respect."</p> - -<p>"Knowing your pleasure, I shall be careful not to offend again. Still, -in my own defence, I should like to say that I spoke only of faults that -the Emperor himself would be the first to admit. An Emperor should be an -Emperor, and not a nonentity whose wish commands but slight attention."</p> - -<p>The lady drew herself up, a slight frown marring the smoothness of her -brow.</p> - -<p>"You pay little heed to my request, and while professing to comply, -offend the more. A loyal noble would scarce call his Emperor a -nonentity."</p> - -<p>"Look around you, Countess. Here are going forward busy preparations for -war. Does the Count appeal to his over-lord against the suspected -incursion of the Archbishop? 'Twould be grotesque to hint that such a -thought ever occurred to him. Does the Archbishop send an envoy to -Frankfort acquainting the Emperor with his purpose and asking leave to -launch an army against Thuron? Not so. He doffs his clerical vestments -and dons a coat of mail, as mindless of the Emperor as if no such person -existed. Here red-handed war is about to open within a day's journey of -the capital, in the centre of the Emperor's domains, and if he ever -hears of it, 'twill be because some friend tells him. That jumps not -with my idea of the high office."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span></p><p>"But the Emperor is at the Holy War in foreign lands."</p> - -<p>"Then should he instead stand where I stand, in the midst of the unholy -war in his own land, to stop it or to guide it."</p> - -<p>"If you think thus," said the girl, perplexed at the confident tone of -the young man, and forgetting the censure she had just pronounced upon -him, "why have you left his side? Why do you not say to him what you say -of him to me?"</p> - -<p>"Indeed, my Lady," replied Rodolph with a laugh, "I have but little -influence with his Majesty. Often has he pursued a course that has not -met with my approval, being turned aside from great policies of state by -the sight of a pretty face. You could sway him, Countess, where I should -be helpless. But I know that he has lately met one, who can if she -likes, make a great Emperor of him, should he prove capable of a -distinguished career, so my part in his reformation will count for -little."</p> - -<p>"Then she will do so, of course, and be proud of the opportunity," cried -the Countess, eagerly.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps. Who can tell what a woman may do? It is my earnest hope that -she prove not unwilling."</p> - -<p>"Is she beautiful?"</p> - -<p>"The divinest—yes, she is accounted so."</p> - -<p>In spite of Tekla's enthusiasm for the welfare of her Emperor, the -ardour with which the young man began his eulogy regarding the unknown -lady in question, and the quick suppression of the same, did not escape -her notice, nor did it bring that satisfaction which a moment before -Tekla had anticipated. She turned her eyes from him and allowed them to -wander over the wide and peaceful landscape, whose beauty was so much -enhanced by the winding, placid river.</p> - -<p>Then she said suddenly, obviously apropos of the labouring peasants:</p> - -<p>"We shall be in little danger of starvation in Thuron, unless the siege -be long."</p> - -<p>"I am not so sure of that," replied Rodolph. "I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span> had no supper last -night, and this morning none has said to me 'This is the way to the -dining hall.'"</p> - -<p>"Do you mean that you have not yet breakfasted?" cried Tekla, turning to -him with quick surprised interest. "And I have been standing here -censuring a hungry man. You must think our race a most ungrateful one."</p> - -<p>"I had no such thought. But your mention of starvation reminded me that -I am rather in the condition of a famishing garrison myself."</p> - -<p>"Then come with me at once. I will be your hostess, and will endeavour -to recompense you for the inhospitality of the castle. There is a -delightful balcony overlooking the quiet inner courtyard, and there we -shall spread your repast. Come."</p> - -<p>The Emperor followed her, and presently arrived at the balcony she had -spoken of, overhanging the neglected garden. It was, indeed, a pleasant -spot in so stern a fortress, shut off by heavy velvet hangings from the -apartment out of which it projected and forming thus a little square -room half inside the castle and half in the open air.</p> - -<p>Rodolph sat at the table with the Countess opposite him, while Hilda -waited on them. Tekla chatted as her <i>vis-à-vis</i> broke his long fast.</p> - -<p>"I intend to make this plot of ground my care, and, while all others are -busy fighting for me, I shall be peacefully engaged in gardening. I hope -to interest my aunt in horticulture. Poor woman, she seems to have -little to occupy her mind in this prison, and I fear her husband pays -scant attention to her. Him too I shall cultivate if I get an -opportunity. He has need of civilisation, for he scarce seems to believe -that women have a right to exist, and his wife has for years been so -patient and uncomplaining, that he has been confirmed in his neglect of -her."</p> - -<p>"I have already cautioned my archer this morning not to encroach too -boldly on his Lordship's good nature, which the Count seems to have but -short stock of. May I venture to suggest that the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span> task of reforming him -will be more safely accomplished perhaps when your Ladyship occupies -your strongest castle, with a stout garrison about you?"</p> - -<p>"Have no fear, my Lord. He came to us last night and sat talking to me -as smoothly as if he were the Archbishop himself—in truth, much more -smoothly than the Archbishop has lately spoken. He sat there with his -elbow on the table looking fixedly at me, quite ignoring his wife, who -trembled with fear while he was in the room, and groaned aloud when I -spoke my mind to him on one or two occasions. He said that we two were -the only kin each had and should think much of each other. I told him -frankly I should be pleased to think much of him as soon as I saw -occasion to do so, but that what I had seen of him heretofore had not -made me proud of the kinship. My Lady caught her breath and looked -imploringly at me, but he, frowning, gazed sternly at me, first saying -nothing, then after a long silence muttering: 'I would you were a man,' -'Indeed, uncle,' I replied, 'such was my own wish this afternoon, when, -instead of throwing myself at your feet I might have drawn sword and -taught good manners in Thuron.' Then you should have seen him. His brow -was like midnight, and his eyes blazed. He started up in wrath, and I -little wondered that my Lady moaned and wrung her hands, but I laughed -and returned his look without flinching, although I may confess to you I -was as frightened as when in Cochem. But his frown cleared away, and -something almost resembling a twinkle came into his piercing eyes. I am -sure there was at least the beginning of a smile under his black beard -as he said, quite in kindly tone, 'We are, indeed, relatives, Tekla.' He -placed his hand on my head as if I were a little child, sighed, turned -on his heel and strode away without further farewell. My aunt gazed -wonderingly at me as if I had baited a bear, and had unexpectedly come -forth unscathed."</p> - -<p>"Which is exactly my own opinion. I beg of you not to repeat the -experiment."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span></p><p>Tekla looked archly at him across the table, with a smile on her face -like the play of sunshine on the fair surface of the river.</p> - -<p>"Why should I repeat it, my Lord? It is only men who do that, and as -your former advice was given to a man, it was of course well placed. A -man always repeats. Oh, I know his formula. First there is the haughty -word; next the sneering reply; then a mounting flush of anger to the -forehead, and hand on the hilt of the sword. It always ends with the -sword, for the men have little patience and less originality. With a -woman it must be different, for she carries no sword, and her ingenuity -is her only weapon. My dark uncle, when he reflects slowly on his -treatment, will come at last to a conclusion regarding what he shall do -when next I laugh at him. But when he visits us again I shall be most -kind to him, and he will learn with amaze how pleasant he finds it when -he acts less like a bear with his women folk. I shall take him to this -balcony and feed him tenderly. Hilda knows the method of preparing some -culinary dainties, which are common enough at Treves, but utterly -unknown at Thuron. On each occasion my dear uncle will find me -different, and whatever plan he prepares for one method of attack, will -be utterly useless when confronted with another. I can see he is an -unready man, and I shall never give him time to build up a line of -defence while he is with me. Oh, if the Archbishop attacks Thuron with -half the skill with which I shall besiege my uncle, then is the castle -doomed. And in the end you shall find that my dark uncle will so dearly -assess me that he will fight for me against a whole house of -Archbishops."</p> - -<p>"I can well believe that," said Rodolph, with undisguised admiration.</p> - -<p>Before Tekla could reply a wild cheer went up from the further -courtyard, echoed by a fainter cheer outside the castle. Rodolph started -to his feet and listened as the acclamations continued.</p> - -<p>"Run, Hilda," cried the Countess. "Find the cause of the outcry and -bring us tidings of it."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span></p><p>When the girl breathlessly returned she said they were hoisting on the -great southern tower the broad flag of Thuron, and that the people were -cheering as if they were mad, but the cause of it all she could not -learn.</p> - -<p>"The Archbishop's army is very likely in sight," said Rodolph, "although -how that can be, unless Arnold has sent it close on Bertrich's heels, I -cannot understand. Perhaps Bertrich has met it between the castle and -Cochem and has returned with it. Let us go and see."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XVI.</span> <span class="smaller">THE COUNTESS TRIES TO TAME THE BEAR.</span></h2> - -<p>Once more Tekla and Rodolph found themselves on the battlements. The -flag hung listless at the top of the pole in the still air, as if the -time for action had not yet arrived. On a hill summit further up the -river another flag was fluttering, and on the other side, still more -distant, a third flag was being slowly raised against the sky. Whether -or not this betokened the coming of the Archbishop, Rodolph could not -determine. The nearer flag seemed to be of the same design as the one -that hung over Thuron; the third flag was too far away to allow its -character to be discerned. The line of peasants winding up from the -river and stretching along the banks had taken up the cheering which -echoed lustily from hill to hill. It was evident that that most -infectious malady, the war spirit, was abroad, for fighting songs, -ringing and truculent, with swinging, inspiring choruses, were being -chanted in the village and along the river. Some rumour or suspicion of -what was going forward had undoubtedly permeated the mass of people -collected within and under shadow of the castle; Rodolph felt the -enthusiasm of coming battle in the air. Yet these people had always been -tyrannised over by the Black Count, and this was probably the first time -he had paid for what he took from them. Nevertheless, they were shouting -for him, and woe betide the man who now raised his voice against him. As -Rodolph looked on in wonderment, the Black Count himself came up the -steps that led to the lofty promenade, and there was a gleam of fierce -delight in his dark eye as he swept it over the animated scene.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span> Some of -the songs sung had evidently not been intended as complimentary to the -Count when they were originally composed, but now the singers had either -forgotten the first import of the words, or had added others that turned -censure into laudation. The burden of the chorus in one of them was "The -Devil is black," a line oft repeated, and ending with a phrase which -betokened the ultimate fate of his sable majesty. Although some -unthinkingly, carried away by the enthusiasm of the occasion, repeated -the old ending, the majority gave the new rendering, which was to the -effect that their devil was more than a match for any other devil in -existence. The Count as he approached the two young people standing by -the parapet, had shaken off much of his habitual gloom, and was even -humming to himself the catching refrain referring to the blackness of -the devil, quite unheeding any personal reference it might contain.</p> - -<p>"Good day to you, my Lord Count," said Rodolph. "You have had little -rest since I last spoke with you. Do the flags on the hill-tops betoken -the coming of Treves?"</p> - -<p>"No, they are my signals, already agreed upon, to let the peasants know -the castle can hold no more. Thuron has had a full meal, and now let -Arnold come on when he pleases: we are ready for him."</p> - -<p>"Shall you not follow the castle's example, uncle?" said Tekla. "You -must be both tired and hungry I have a meal in preparation for you."</p> - -<p>"Hungry always; tired never. The loss of one night's sleep is nothing to -me. If it were ten I might wrap my coat about me and look for a corner -to lie down in. I shall eat with my men in the great hall, child, so -never depend upon me for a table companion, but dine when and where it -pleases you. I place few restrictions upon those within these walls, and -suffer none at all to bind myself. Go therefore to your apartments; the -ramparts are for men-at-arms and not for women. I wish to have some -words with this gentleman."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span></p><p>"Nay, but uncle," pleaded Tekla, in a pretty tone of entreaty, placing -her small white hand on his gigantic stalwart arm, "I have appointed -myself caterer of the castle and must not have my housewifely arts so -slighted by the chief thereof."</p> - -<p>"Uncle me not so frequently," he cried, with rude impatience, trying to -shake off her hand; but it clung there like a snowflake against a piece -of rock. "I am rarely in the humour for pretty phrases. I am not a man -of words, but a man of action."</p> - -<p>"Then, mine only uncle, as you yourself reminded me last night, come and -show yourself a man of action against the meal I shall prepare for you."</p> - -<p>Black Heinrich glanced helplessly at Rodolph with so much of comic -discomfiture that the young man had some ado to keep his countenance.</p> - -<p>"If I had a score of uncles," continued Tekla. "I might lavish my -kindness on them one after another; as I have but one he must be patient -with me, and take to my civilising influence with the best grace he may. -You will come then when I send for you?"</p> - -<p>"Well, well," said the Count gruffly, so that his giving way might -attract the less notice, "if you leave us now, I will go."</p> - -<p>When Tekla had departed and the two men were left alone together, -Rodolph was the first to speak.</p> - -<p>"I know not what you have to say to me, my Lord Count, but I have -something to say to you. Last night you told me I was not a prisoner, -yet was I treated like one when I left you. I protested against being -barred in, and was informed that when you ordered a guest to the round -chamber, the bolting was included in the hospitality. I should like, -therefore, to know what my standing is in this castle. Am I a prisoner -at night, and a free man during the day, or what?"</p> - -<p>"It is on that subject that I wish to speak with you," said the Black -Count. "We were in a mixed company last night, and it was not convenient -for me to enter into explanations, which I propose now to do.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span> I am -still in some ignorance concerning your part in this flight from Treves. -Perhaps you will first tell me exactly who you are, what is your -quality, and where your estates lie, if you have any?"</p> - -<p>Rodolph had anticipated such inquiry and had thought deeply how he -should answer when it was propounded. He had come to the conclusion that -there would be great danger in making full confession to the Black -Count, known far and near as a ruthless marauder, who, but for the -strength and practically unassailable position of his castle, would have -been laid by the heels long before, if not by Emperor or Archbishop, or -surrounding nobles, by the banded merchants on whom he levied relentless -tribute. To put such a man in possession of the fact that he had in his -power the Emperor of all the land, was to take a leap into a chasm, the -bottom of which no eye could see. With such an important hostage what -might not the ambition of the Black Count tempt him to do? No friend -that Rodolph possessed had the slightest hint of the Emperor's position. -It would be as difficult for him to get out of Thuron without its -owner's permission, as it was like to prove for the Archbishop to get -in. The Black Count was surrounded by daring and reckless men, to whom -his word was law, and it was not probable that, in case of need, Rodolph -could hold his sword aloft and shout 'The Emperor,' with any hope that a -single warrior would rally to his side. He had learned much in his short -journey through his own domains. He found that where his own title had -no magic in its sound, the cry of 'The Archbishop,' had placed an army -at his command, and had turned the tide of battle that had threatened to -overwhelm him at Bruttig. If then he ever hoped to make the name of the -Emperor as potent a spell, he must, until he reached Frankfort again, -keep his identity a secret. Therefore he fell back on the old fiction -that he was a silk merchant at Frankfort, in support of which he had a -passport to show.</p> - -<p>"My Lord Count, this passport will tell you my<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span> name and quality, and -will also give reason for my journey from Frankfort to Treves, at which -latter place, through an entirely unexpected series of circumstances, I -came to lend aid to your niece in her escape from Arnold's stronghold. -Until I arrived in Treves a few short days ago I had never heard of the -lady. I am, as you will see by the parchment you hold in your hand, a -silk merchant of Frankfort, who journeyed to Treves with a friend, to -discover there the prospect of trade."</p> - -<p>"A merchant!" cried Heinrich, frowning, and making no effort to conceal -the contempt in which he held such a calling. "I understood you to say -last night that you were noble, and laid claim to the title of lord."</p> - -<p>"I am as noble as yourself, my Lord Count, although not so renowned. -Many of us in these times of peace have taken to trade, and yet are none -the less ready to maintain our nobility at the point of the sword, -should our title be called into question. Indeed I have heard that you -yourself have on various occasions engaged in traffic of silk and other -merchandise which passes your doors, and have become rich by such -dealing. The only difference between you and me as traders is that I -make less profit in the transaction than you do, as I am compelled to -pay for the goods I resell."</p> - -<p>Heinrich bent his lowering brow over the parchment he held in his hand, -but whether it conveyed any meaning to his mind or not, Rodolph was -unable to conjecture. There was, for some moments, silence between them, -then the Count spoke:</p> - -<p>"Are you a rich merchant?"</p> - -<p>"I am not poor."</p> - -<p>"You have had a hand in bringing me to the pass I find myself in, it is -but right then that you should see me out, or further in; but right or -wrong it is my intention to hold you, and if disaster comes, I shall -make you bear some share in it. It is useless for me to demand ransom -for you now, because if the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span>Archbishop knock down my house he will lay -hands on whatever treasure lies therein. When we come to an end of the -siege then I shall compound with you on terms that may seem to me just -or otherwise, depending in a measure on how you hereafter comport -yourself. If you give me your word of honour that you will make no -attempt to leave the castle without my permission, then I will accept it -as you accepted mine yesterday, and you shall be as free as any man -within the castle. If you will not give me your word then you are -prisoner, and shall be treated as such; in fact, I have some men-at-arms -within call who will at once convey you to the round chamber, there to -rest until my contest with the Archbishop is decided."</p> - -<p>"Then, my Lord, is your word of little value, for you promised that I -should be free to pursue my way to Frankfort in the morning if the -archer spared you."</p> - -<p>"Not so. I promised you your life."</p> - -<p>"Very well. We shall have no argument about it. I give you my word, and -I swear to keep it as faithfully as you have kept yours."</p> - -<p>Heinrich looked sternly at his guest with a suspicious expression which -seemed to say: "Now what devilish double meaning is there in that?"</p> - -<p>Up from the outside of the walls came the chorus "The Devil is black," -and Rodolph smiled as the refrain broke the stillness.</p> - -<p>"Do you mean to impugn my word?" Heinrich said aloud.</p> - -<p>"Nothing is further from my intention. I mean to emulate it. It is my -ambition to keep my word as fully as you keep yours, and you can ask no -better guarantee than that, can you? The truth is I am as anxious to see -the outcome of this contest as you are, and I intend to be in the thick -of it. If you imprison me, the chances are that you will thrust bolt on -the only man of brains in the place, not excepting your august self, for -although you may be a stubborn fighter, I doubt if you know much of -strategy, or can see far ahead of your prominent nose. So, my Lord, you<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[Pg 180]</a></span> -may act as best pleases you, and call up all the men-at-arms in the -castle, if their presence comforts you. If you trust me, I may, at a -critical moment, be of vast assistance to you. It is even possible that -should the Archbishop press you too closely, I may, by slipping out of -Thuron, make way through his camp and, gathering my own men, fall on him -unexpectedly from behind, thus confusing your foe. If you choose to -treat me as a prisoner, then do you put your wits against mine, and you -will wake up some morning to find three of your best men gone. So, my -Lord, ponder on that, and lay what course you choose."</p> - -<p>It was plain that the unready Count was baffled by the free and easy -manner in which the other addressed him. The same feeling of mental -inferiority which he had felt in Rodolph's presence the night before, -again came over him, and, while it angered him, his caution whispered -the suggestion that here was a possible ally who might in stress prove -most valuable. Never had Heinrich met one apparently helpless, who -seemed so careless what his jailer might think or do. The Count wished -he had braved the archer's shaft, taken the risk of it, and hanged this -man out of hand. However, it was too late to think of that now, and he -asked, keeping control of his rising temper:</p> - -<p>"How many men answer to your call?"</p> - -<p>"Enough to make the Archbishop prefer, at any time, that they be not -thrown in the scale against him. More than enough when he faces so -doughty and brave a warrior as the devil of Thuron, regarding whose -colour and fate those peasants outside are chanting."</p> - -<p>"I take your word," cried Heinrich, with sudden impetuousness. "I -should, of course, allow you to go free to Frankfort, but I beg of you -to remain with me. I ask you not to leave until you have consulted with -me, but, excepting that condition, you are as free of the castle as I -am."</p> - -<p>"Spoken like a true nobleman, and on such basis we shall have no fault -to find with each other. And now I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span> request your permission to send a -messenger at once to Treves."</p> - -<p>"To Treves!" cried the Black Count, the old look of fierce suspicion -coming again into his piercing eyes. "Why to Treves? The archer wants to -go to Treves. You want to send to Treves. It is nothing but Treves, -Treves, Treves, till I am sick of the name. Why to Treves?"</p> - -<p>"It is a very simple matter, my Lord Count. I told you I came from -Frankfort with a friend. I also informed you that I took this journey -down the Moselle most unexpectedly. My friend, who distrusts the -Archbishop as much as you distrust him, and more if that be possible, is -now in Treves not knowing what has become of me. He will imagine that -the Archbishop has me by the heels, and may get himself into trouble by -attempting my liberation. I wish, therefore, to get word to him of my -whereabouts, not only that his just anxiety may be relieved, but also -that if we are hard pressed, he may come to our timely rescue."</p> - -<p>"If we are to trust each other, I must have fuller knowledge. Who is -your friend?"</p> - -<p>"The Baron von Brunfels."</p> - -<p>"What? Siegfried von Brunfels of the Rhine? The friend of the Emperor?"</p> - -<p>"The same."</p> - -<p>"He has enough retainers of his own to raise the siege of Thuron if he -wished to do so."</p> - -<p>"That is true. All the more reason then that he should be acquainted -with the fact that his friend is here, for, from what I have heard him -say of you, he would never stir a man through love of Heinrich of -Thuron."</p> - -<p>"If Baron von Brunfels is your friend, you are no merchant."</p> - -<p>"Indeed, I have often thought so; for I make some amazingly bad -bargains."</p> - -<p>"Should the Archbishop and his men come on, it will not be possible for -a single horseman to get through to Treves. I do not wish to lose the -archer,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span> nor can I spare one of my own men. Do you intend yourself to go -to Treves."</p> - -<p>"No. Neither do I desire to lose the archer, even though he should bring -back his equal with the bow, which would be his purpose in setting out. -He has a friend, he says, who excels him in skill, although that I -doubt. I desire to send my own man, Conrad, who knows Treves, and who -was in the employ of the Baron. He will win his way through if any one -can, and may bring the other archer back with him. Besides, there is a -chance that the crafty Arnold is not yet on the move, and it would be -interesting to learn something of what is going on in Treves, and what -happened when the valiant Count Bertrich returned to his master. This, -Conrad can discover much more effectually than the archer, for he is -intelligent, and loves not the sound of his own voice as does our -bowman. Conrad is a listener rather than a talker; I cannot say the same -for the skilful arrow-maker."</p> - -<p>In deep doubt Black Heinrich stood gazing on the stones at his feet. He -was outmanœuvred, yet knew not how to help himself. Full authority -was his, yet the control of affairs seemed slipping from his grasp. He -had not entertained the slightest intention of allowing any one from the -castle to depart for Treves, yet here he felt he was about to consent. -He chafed at the turn things had taken, but knew not how to amend them. -If he refused permission to everything proposed, he feared he might be -making a fool of himself, and acting against his own interests, and -worse, that the cool confident young man would know he was making a fool -of himself, and despise him accordingly; still, he was loath to allow -even the semblance of power to pass away from him.</p> - -<p>"I like not this traffic with Treves," he said, at last.</p> - -<p>"Nor do I. Still I am determined in some fashion to let Brunfels know -where I am. Further than that I shall tell him nothing, if such -knowledge is against your wish; but if you give your consent I shall ask -him to keep an eye on this siege; and if, as is very likely,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span> you beat -off Arnold, he is not to interfere, but if you are getting the worst of -it, there is little harm in having a friend outside on whom we can, in -emergency, call. It all rests with you, my Lord; I merely make -suggestions, and if they do not jump with your liking then they are of -little value. Your experience is greater than mine, and your courage is -unquestioned. A man less brave might hesitate to lay plans for -emergencies, but with you it is different. Therefore you have but to -command and I shall obey. I shall send word to Brunfels of my own safety -to relieve his anxiety, and I shall ask him to keep an eye on the siege -if you care to have me do so. It can at least bring us no harm."</p> - -<p>The Count looked at the speaker with an expression in which distrust -seemed to be fighting with gratification. There was at first a lurking -fear that the young man was trifling with him, but the other's serene -countenance gave no indication of lack of earnestness, and Heinrich's -own self-esteem was so great that no praise of his courage could seem to -him overdrawn. When all suspicion of Rodolph's good faith had been -allayed, he said, heartily:</p> - -<p>"Send what message you will to the Baron. We may be none the worse for a -stroke from him at the right time."</p> - -<p>With that the Count strode away, and Rodolph gave his instructions to -Conrad, watching him ride from the gates in the direction of the -Frankfort road, with the passport of the silk merchant in his pocket.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XVII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE ENVOY'S DISASTROUS RETURN.</span></h2> - -<p>The sun rose and set, and rose and set again, before news came to Castle -Thuron. There was no sign of an enemy; the Moselle valley, as seen from -the round towers, seemed a very picture of peace. During these two days -the air was still, the flag drooped, unfluttering, from its staff, and -the sun shone warmly in the serene heavens. Yet there was something -ominous in the silence, and each person in the castle felt, more or -less, the tension of the time. Black Heinrich scanned the distance from -the battlements with growing impatience, for, like all men of action, he -chafed at the delay and was eager for the fight to come on, even should -it prove disastrous to him. Anything seemed better than this newsless -waiting. The huge gates were never opened; in fact, it was now -impossible to open them, for the outer courtyard was partly filled with -sacks of grain and butts of wine, which were piled in a great heap -against the two leaves of the gate, and any one desiring to depart from -the castle had to climb down from the platform over the gates by a -ladder resting there, which could be pulled up at any moment's notice. -The two days were a most enjoyable interval for Rodolph, who spent much -of his time, in ever increasing delight, with the Countess Tekla. Yet -there was an alloy in his happiness. He felt that he was not wise in -lingering in Thuron, which at any moment might prove a trap from which -escape was impossible, either through the Count learning who he actually -was, and thereupon imprisoning him to make the most of his detention, or -through the sudden beleaguering of the castle by forces from Treves. -His<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span> confidence that Conrad would reach his friend in the house by the -city wall quieted his conscience, which with some persistence was -telling him that he neglected duty and high affairs of state, all for -the sake of spending the golden hours with a fascinating girl of -nineteen.</p> - -<p>But these qualms left him when in her presence, and as he spent much of -his time with her, there was little chance for his conscience to work a -reformation. He consoled himself with the reflection that a man can be -young but once, and there was probably a long life before him which he -could energetically devote to the service of his country. He knew that -Baron von Brunfels would carry out faithfully his instructions in -Frankfort, and if the Emperor's presence became necessary there, he -would bring on a force that neither the Archbishop nor Black Heinrich -could cope with, did either attempt to detain him against his will. He -had unlimited faith in Brunfels' judgment, and thus he lulled -disquieting thought. Nevertheless he knew that his place was at -Frankfort and not in Thuron, where, if the turbulent Archbishop moved an -armed man without his sovereign's consent, that sovereign could emerge -from the capital at the head of the German army and bid the haughty -prelate back to Treves; yet prudence told him such a course might plunge -the country into civil war, for he knew not the exact military strength -of the Archbishop, and was well aware that his own army should be -considerably augmented before it undertook so hazardous a commission, -for nothing short of overwhelming force might overawe the fighting Lord -of Treves. In truth it was to see for himself what manner of man the -Archbishop was, and to form some estimate of the forces at his back, -that the secret journey to Treves had been taken, now so strangely -deflected from its original purpose. Both the Emperor and von Brunfels -believed that the present strength of the army at Frankfort was not -sufficient to cope with the battalions of Treves, especially if the -Archbishops of Cologne<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span> and Mayence made common cause with their brother -in the West—an eventuality not at all improbable. The first step then, -should be the return of the Emperor to his capital, to be followed by a -quiet increase of the imperial army until it reached such strength that -no combination could prevail against it. Rodolph knew his duty, yet -silken fetters held him from action. Had he been certain of the -sentiments of Tekla regarding himself he would have spoken to her, -without revealing his identity, and then might perhaps have made -arrangement with her uncle by which he could proceed to Frankfort, but -although the events of a lifetime had been compressed within the last -week, yet he could not conceal from himself the fact that the Countess -had known him for three or four days only, and he felt that to speak to -her at the present moment would be premature. Of course it was quite -within his right to assume his place at the head of the state once more, -and demand the lady, in which case neither her guardian nor the Count -would dare refuse, nor would one of them be the least likely to refuse, -for Black Heinrich was not the man to underestimate the qualification of -relationship with an Empress. But the Emperor was in no mind to follow -the example of Count Bertrich, and accept an unwilling wife.</p> - -<p>He set before himself the enticing task of winning the lady as a -nameless lord, letting her imagine that he was perhaps not her equal in -station or fortune, and then, when consent had been willingly gained, to -demand her from his throne, allowing himself to dwell with pleasure on -her amazement at learning that her Emperor and her lover were one and -the same person.</p> - -<p>But there was savage news in store for him, and for all within Castle -Thuron; news that made his rosy dreams dissolve as the light river mists -dissolve before the fierce midsummer sun. On the evening of the third -day after Conrad's departure, an unkempt, tattered figure staggered from -the forest and came tottering towards the gate of the castle. The -archer,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span> on duty above the gate, drew string to ear and ordered the -fugitive to halt and explain himself. The forlorn man raised his hands -above his head, gave a despairing upward look, took two faltering steps -forward and fell prone on his face, as the bowman relaxing his weapon, -and peering eagerly forward, cried aloud:</p> - -<p>"My God, it is Conrad!"</p> - -<p>Then instantly forgetting his duty as guardian of the gate, he dropped -bow and sprang down the ladder, running to his fallen comrade. The news -spread through the castle with marvellous rapidity, and the Black Count -and Rodolph were on the battlements above the gate before the archer and -some of the garrison had hoisted the insensible man up the ladder.</p> - -<p>"Take him to the great hall; he is wounded and seems famished as well. -Perhaps a cup of wine will revive him; meanwhile keep strict watch on -the gate; those who have pursued him cannot be far distant. Draw up the -ladder and man the battlements, Steinmetz."</p> - -<p>The Captain at once gave the necessary commands, while those who had -rescued Conrad carried him to the great hall and laid him on a bench. -His clothes were in rags, and his face gaunt from fatigue or want. As -Heinrich had suggested, a cup of wine held to his lips revived him, and, -opening his eyes, he glanced at Rodolph and gasped:</p> - -<p>"We are completely surrounded, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Impossible!" cried Rodolph. "The Archbishop could never have moved his -troops so quickly."</p> - -<p>The Black Count said nothing, but scowled down on the wounded man, whose -garments the leech was removing in order to apply ointment to wounds -evidently caused by shafts from the crossbow. John Surrey looked on -these wounds with a lofty contempt, muttering:</p> - -<p>"If I had drawn string at him there would be fewer hurts, but he would -not be here to tell what happened."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span></p><p>Conrad drank a full flagon of wine, which revived him sufficiently to -enable him to tell his adventures. He had directed his horse towards the -Roman road between Frankfort and Treves, but on approaching it saw -troops. Turning back he proceeded further west, but came again upon -armed men. In neither case was he himself seen. Retracing his way, he -tried to pass to the west, nearer to the river, but there also he found -an encampment. Surmising now that the wide space between the Roman road -and the Moselle was in the Archbishop's hands, and that there was no -chance of penetrating towards Treves in that direction, he resolved to -make for Frankfort itself, get to the south of the Roman road, and reach -Treves round about, through the great forest. To his amazement here also -he saw portions of the army, and it began to dawn upon him that the -castle was environed, at least on the south. He now determined to make -no more attempts to break the circle, but return to Thuron and report -the alarming situation he had discovered. In journeying through the -forest towards the castle he came unexpectedly upon a camp, and there, -for the first time, was seen by the enemy. He tried flight, but a -crossbow bolt brought down his horse and resulted in his capture. It -never occurred to those who held him prisoner, that he had come from -Thuron; in fact they readily believed he was, what his passport -proclaimed him, a merchant from Frankfort who was trying to reach -Treves. They assured him that such a journey was impossible at the -present moment, but said he could get through unmolested when the troops -had drawn closer round Thuron. They kept him merely a nominal prisoner, -paid little attention to him, and talked freely before him, having no -suspicion that he belonged to the castle. Nothing was said of the flight -of the Countess Tekla, and he surmised from this that her sudden -departure was unknown. It was believed that the investment of Thuron had -been projected for a long time, and that the Archbishop had struck thus<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span> -suddenly to take the Black Count unaware. From the fact that the troops -had been sent along the Roman road in detachments, Conrad inferred that -they were there when Count Bertrich had flung his glove on the floor of -Thuron. In like manner part of an army had been sent down the river to -Cochem, and from that place had pushed round the castle on the north -side of the stream until they saw their comrades on the other shore, -while between the two camps a chain had been stretched and all traffic -up and down the river stopped. But the most startling part of Conrad's -budget was this. The Archbishop of Cologne had come through the Eifel -region to Treves and had joined hands with his colleague, Arnold von -Isenberg. Troops were then marching up the Rhine from Cologne, and the -two Electors had made common cause regarding the reduction of Thuron. -The army of Treves had surrounded the castle, and would draw closer the -moment the army of Cologne arrived. It was supposed that the speedy -environment of the place was to prevent the Black Count and his company -from escaping to the Rhine or to Frankfort. Conrad learned all this on -the evening of the first day, and, watching his opportunity, made his -escape, but was seen by the guards, whose bolts came near to making an -end of him. For two nights and two days he wandered without food in the -forest, not knowing his whereabouts, and following streams which he -expected would lead him to the Moselle, but was often forced to abandon -them because of the hostile parties encamped near their waters, and thus -at last he had reached Thuron.</p> - -<p>The Emperor listened to this recital, appalled at the position in which -he found himself. With the two Archbishops besieging the castle, there -would be small chance of his reaching Frankfort, and as the ultimate -reduction of the castle was now certain, he would find himself the -prisoner of his two turbulent and powerful subjects, Treves and Cologne, -confronted with the problem of whether he preferred being<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></span> hanged as an -accomplice of the dark marauder who stood by his side, or revealing his -identity and taking what chance might offer when the knowledge was thus -brought to the Archbishops. Meanwhile his friend, Baron von Brunfels, -would not have the slightest inkling of his whereabouts, and if the -disappearance of the Countess was thus kept secret, as seemed to be the -intention of Arnold and Count Bertrich, Brunfels would not be able to -hazard even a guess. However, there was this consolation, that at no -time could he have escaped from Thuron. He was in effect trapped the -moment he set foot within its gates. Had he, with the Countess, set out -the following morning for Frankfort they would evidently have been -intercepted by the Archbishop's troops, and had he alone attempted to -reach his capital the same fate would have been in store for him. His -only regret now was that von Brunfels must remain in ignorance of his -position, but, as he had done his best to remedy that, he could only -blame fate for its unkindness to him.</p> - -<p>The Black Count listened in sombre taciturnity to Conrad's record and -spoke no word when it was finished, but stood there in deep thought, his -eyes on the floor. Rodolph was the first to break the ensuing silence.</p> - -<p>"You see, my Lord Count, the case stands as I expected. It was Arnold's -intention to have besieged you, and he has craftily entered into -negotiations with Cologne, doubtless fearing to attack you alone. This -scheme has been some time in concocting, and the flight of the Countess, -so far from bringing on the contest, has merely given you bare time for -preparation."</p> - -<p>Heinrich gave utterance to an exclamation which can be designated only -by the inelegant term, grunt. It was his favourite method of expression -when perturbed. He did not raise his eyes from the floor, nor did he -reply.</p> - -<p>"The fact that two Archbishops instead of one do<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span> you the honour to -besiege you should really not have much bearing on the result. I doubt -if they can carry the castle by storm, so their numbers are of little -avail to them. They can but starve you, and that one Archbishop could -have done as well as two. I suppose you have at least a year's provision -now in the vaults?"</p> - -<p>"Two years," answered the Black Count, gruffly. "I shall turn out of the -castle all but fighting men. Not an extra mouth shall remain within the -walls."</p> - -<p>"You surely do not intend to turn the Countess Tekla and your own -Countess from Thuron?" cried Rodolph in alarm.</p> - -<p>Heinrich looked sullenly at him for some moments, and then said:</p> - -<p>"No. Neither do I care to be questioned, and, least of all, interfered -with. You see how much your precious scheme for informing Baron von -Brunfels is worth, therefore be not so forward with advice or comment."</p> - -<p>"I beg to call your Lordship's attention to the fact," said Rodolph, -with cool firmness, "that my precious scheme has informed you of the -odds against you. You may take the knowledge with the petulance of a -woman or the courage of a man, as best befits you. A gloomy brow never -yet encouraged beleaguered garrison. If you hold off this pair of -prelates with their armies for a year or more, then will your name be -renowned in song and story wherever brave deeds are valued, and the two -Archbishops will become the laughing stock of Christendom. By my good -sword, the carvers of the Black Forest shall make wooden figures of them -butting their twin heads against Thuron, and the children of the world -from now till doomsday will pull a string to see them jump. 'As foolish -and as futile as the two Archbishops' will pass into a proverb, or -perhaps it will be 'As brave as Heinrich of Thuron.' You have indeed an -opportunity which falls to but few, if you meet it with unwrinkled -brow."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span></p><p>The Count's countenance had perceptibly cleared while this recital was -going on, but he made no direct reply, merely telling the attendants to -convey Conrad to a room and see that he was well cared for. Then he -asked that Captain Steinmetz be brought before him, and when that ruddy, -uncomely officer entered, he said:</p> - -<p>"Have you disposed your men along the walls?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Are any of the Archbishop's troops yet in sight?"</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Send a trusty man to Alken, and tell the dwellers therein that we are -to be besieged by the Archbishops of Treves and Cologne. Ask them to -spread the news along either bank of the river with these instructions, -that all are to make the best terms with the Archbishops they can; to -sell their provisions and wine for the most money obtainable, preferring -the gold to their Lordships' blessings, if they take my advice. Tell -them I shall look out for myself, but that I cannot offer protection to -any outside the castle walls; therefore, I shall in future, if -victorious, not hold it against any man that he has saved his skin, or -his grain, or his wine, by denouncing me. Make all arrangement for the -women folk and very old men who are now in the castle. Pay for a year's -keep of each of them, and say that if more money is required I shall see -they get it. Marshal the non-combatants over the wall and down the -ladders as quickly as may be, and if any have friends in the village -with whom they prefer to lodge, arrange it to their satisfaction."</p> - -<p>"All the women, my Lord?" cried Steinmetz, in astonishment.</p> - -<p>"All the women in the castle, with the exception of my wife and my -niece, and all the old men incapable of bearing arms."</p> - -<p>Steinmetz hesitated, yet seemed incapable of protest.</p> - -<p>"Well!" roared the Black Count.</p> - -<p>"There will be grumbling among the men, my Lord."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></span></p><p>Heinrich brought his huge fist down on the table with a resounding -blow.</p> - -<p>"Bring me the head of the first man who grumbles. Go and execute your -orders, send the women away at once, and they will the sooner make terms -with their innkeepers."</p> - -<p>Steinmetz departed, and the Black Count strode up and down the room, -muttering to himself and scowling like a demon. Rodolph saw he was not -in a humour to be remonstrated with, and so said nothing; indeed he -understood the military necessity of the apparently harsh measures the -Count proposed in deporting from the castle all those who were not -necessary to its defence, yet who would likely come to no ill through -leaving the fortress. For a long time there was silence in the room, -broken only by the Count's measured stride on the oaken floor, in the -centre of which Count Bertrich's glove lay pinned with arrows. Rodolph -himself was in no pleasant temper, and he looked ahead with some dismay -toward imprisonment in a castle which was commanded by so rude and -disagreeable a person as the swarthy Count. The archer stood guard at -the door, having been set there by the Count's command when Steinmetz's -men took their places on the walls. Rodolph wished that he might go to -the entrance and talk with the good-natured bowman as an antidote to the -gruffness of the Count, whom he found becoming more and more unbearable. -There had been moments when he thought the Count might be won over by -judicious flattery and soothing compliments, but as he learned more of -his temperament he saw that all this had but a transient effect upon -him; that, indeed, the Count resented any superior readiness shown by -others in conversation; and, in addition, had a nature so suspicious -that after having had time to think on what had been said, he became -more intractable than ever, evidently coming to the conclusion that the -wheedling phrases used to him had been spoken for the purpose of -mollifying him and attaining certain ends, all of which he resented.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span></p><p>Presently Rodolph was startled from his reverie by the entrance of the -Countess Tekla, accompanied by Hilda, who was weeping. A rich colour -mantled the cheeks of the Countess, and it needed no second glance to -see that she was in a state of angry indignation. Rodolph, remembering -that she expected to civilise her uncle, began to have doubts of her -success. Heinrich stopped in his walk when she came in, and glared -blackly at her but without speaking.</p> - -<p>"Oh, uncle, uncle!" cried Tekla, her voice showing she was nearer tears -than the haughty expression of her face indicated, "you surely cannot -intend that Hilda and I are to be separated, and that she, a stranger to -all here and in Alken, is to be taken to the village?"</p> - -<p>"I will have no interference with my orders, Tekla—not from any one."</p> - -<p>"But one person more or less can make no difference in the result of the -siege. If you think it will, give Hilda and me a single share of food -between us, but do not send her away."</p> - -<p>The Black Count with almost inarticulate rage at this crossing of his -will, beat the table with his fist repeatedly, but seemed unable to -speak. He stuttered, with white foam flecking his lips and his black -beard. Rodolph edged nearer the Countess, and in a whisper begged her to -go away; that unexpected tidings seemed to have for the moment overcome -the Count's self-control.</p> - -<p>"But they are waiting outside to take Hilda with them. They will seize -her unless the order is countermanded," cried the Countess.</p> - -<p>"It is war, you fool!" at last roared the Count. "If I have another word -from you, huzzy! I shall send you also with your Treves trollop; a fine -to-do about a menial like her! And from you, who are the cause of all -our trouble."</p> - -<p>"You know that is a lie," said Rodolph, quietly.</p> - -<p>The Count turned on the young man with an expression like that of a -ravenous wolf; his jaw dropped,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span> showing his white teeth against the jet -black of his beard. He seemed about to spring at Rodolph's throat, but -his wild eye, wandering to the door, saw the dreaded archer on the -alert, watching with absorbed interest the loud-talking group in the -centre of the room. His weapon seemed itself on the alert, and there was -enough of sanity somewhere in the Count's brain to bid him pause in his -projected onslaught. But the fact that he had to check himself added -fuel to his anger.</p> - -<p>"Get you out of this!" he shrieked; "all of you. I am master of this -castle, and none breathes herein but by my permission, man or woman. -Whoever questions my authority by word or look, dies. Now, out with -you!"</p> - -<p>Before any could move Steinmetz strode into the hall, holding by the -hair a human head lopped off at the neck, raggedly, the red drops -falling on the floor as he walked.</p> - -<p>"There, my Lord," he said, holding up the ghastly trophy at arm's -length, while he cast a malignant leer at Rodolph, who involuntarily -shrank from the hideous object. Even the Black Count himself seemed -taken aback by the sudden apparition that confronted him.</p> - -<p>"What ... what is that?" he stammered.</p> - -<p>"The head of the first man who grumbled at your command about the women, -my Lord. I obeyed your orders and struck off his head."</p> - -<p>Rodolph, pale as the dead face, stepped hurriedly between it and the -Countess, but not in time to prevent her getting sight of it. She raised -a terrified scream that rang to the rafters and covered her eyes with -her hands, tottering backwards, while Hilda implored her to withdraw, -saying she would go anywhere the Count ordered, and begged her mistress -not to cross him. Rodolph sprang quickly to the side of the Countess and -supported her. The scream once more aroused the tigerous anger of her -uncle. His eyes shot fire as he shouted:</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span></p><p>"You did right, Steinmetz, and I am glad there is one man in the castle -who obeys the master of it unquestioning. It is war!" and as with -increased violence the Black Count roared these words, he smote the -grinning head with his gigantic paw and sent it spinning along the floor -like a round projectile from a catapult.</p> - -<p>"It is not war, it is murder!" wailed the Countess. "There is a curse on -this doomed roof, and it shall fall in deserved ruin."</p> - -<p>"Hush, hush," whispered Rodolph in her ear. "Bend to the storm; nothing -can be done with him now."</p> - -<p>"I am going with Hilda; I am going with Hilda. I care not where, so long -as it is away from Thuron."</p> - -<p>"No, no. Hilda will be safe enough, while you are not, outside those -walls. Let me conduct you to your apartments, and I will be surety that -you shall see Hilda shortly. For her sake as well as your own, bend to -the storm. Don't you see you are dealing with a madman?"</p> - -<p>Count Heinrich stood watching them, laughing in short snarling harsh -snatches that did indeed resemble the ejaculations of a lunatic, but he -made no attempt to interfere with them. Hilda, thoroughly hysterical -through fear, leaving her mistress in the care of Rodolph, had flung -herself at the feet of the Count, beseeching him to deal with her as he -pleased, saying she would go anywhere he ordered her to go, and in the -same breath imploring him not to be harsh with her mistress.</p> - -<p>"Take her away, Steinmetz," commanded Heinrich, spurning her with his -foot. "Send her down to the village."</p> - -<p>The Captain, grasping her wrist, jerked her rudely to her feet, pushed -past Rodolph and the Countess, dragging the girl out with him. The -Countess seemed again about to protest, pausing in her progress, but the -young man urged her towards the door, still counselling silence.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[Pg 197]</a></span></p><p>"Shall I pin him to the wall?" whispered the archer, who had been -watching the scene with wide open eyes, his fingers twitching for the -string, on tension for any sign from his master that might be -constructed into permission to launch a shaft. "It seems high time."</p> - -<p>"No," said Rodolph, sternly. "Keep true guard where you stand. See -nothing, and say nothing."</p> - -<p>Man and woman disappeared, leaving the archer murmuring that he wished -his master had some courage. The Black Count now alone, except for the -silent archer at the door, resumed his walk up and down, first savagely -kicking the decapitated head from his path.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[Pg 198]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XVIII.</span> <span class="smaller">A TWO-HANDED SWORD TEACHES DEPORTMENT.</span></h2> - -<p>The archer on guard in the Rittersaal stood with his back to the -doorway, bow ready to hand, his mouth pursed as if he were silently -whistling, his eyes upraised to the ceiling, seeing nothing and saying -nothing, as had been his orders. There was a look of seraphic calm on -his face, as if he had never spent a more enjoyable half-hour than that -which had just so tumultuously terminated.</p> - -<p>In a short time the heavy curtains that concealed the entrance to the -room parted, and the Emperor reentered alone. His face was pale and his -lips were tightly drawn. The Count stopped in his walk at the further -end of the room, and turned to face the incomer.</p> - -<p>"Well, my Lord," he said, a savage leer of triumph in his red eyes, "you -have seen, I hope, who is master of this castle. There have been -indications that you supposed I was to be cajoled by flattery into -relaxing my authority; but we shall have no more of that, I trust, and -there will hereafter be no question regarding whose will is law within -these walls."</p> - -<p>"On the contrary, Count of Thuron," said Rodolph, with deferential -smoothness, "it is that very question I now propose to discuss with -you."</p> - -<p>"I will have no more discussion," cried the Count, his anger returning. -"There shall be nothing but the giving of orders here and the prompt -obedience of them."</p> - -<p>"Ah, in that I quite follow your Lordship, and have great pleasure for -once in agreeing entirely with<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></span> the valiant Count of the lower Moselle. -Archer, close the doors and bar them."</p> - -<p>The archer, a smile coming into his cherubic face, dived behind the -hangings and disappeared.</p> - -<p>"Hold!" roared the Count. "Stand to your guard, and obey no orders but -mine."</p> - -<p>There came from behind the curtains the clanking sound of the two heavy -oaken leaves clashing together, then the shooting of bolts and the -down-coming of the weighty timber bar, capable of standing almost any -assault likely to be made against them. Again the rich hangings parted -and the archer stood once more before them, his eyes on the ceiling and -lips prepared to whistle.</p> - -<p>"Do you mean to defy me in my own hall of Thuron?" said the Count, in -low, threatening tones, glaring luridly from under his bushy black brows -at his opponent.</p> - -<p>"Oh, defiance is a cheap commodity, and I have heard much of it since I -entered this castle. Of ranting and of shouting I have had enough. I -propose now to see what capable action is at the back of all this -plenitude of wind."</p> - -<p>The wall to the right was covered with many weapons and hung with -armour. The Emperor took down a huge two-handed sword, similar to the -terrific weapon Beilstein's captain had used so futilely against him at -Bruttig. He held it in both hands and seemed to estimate the weight of -it, shaking it before him. Then with the point of this sword placed -under a similar weapon that hung against the wall, he flipped it from -its fastenings and sent it, with ringing clangor, to the floor almost at -the feet of the Black Count, who stood with folded arms and face like a -thunder cloud, watching the movements of the younger man. He was -swordsman enough to know that the very manner in which Rodolph handled -the weapon to estimate its weight and balance, proved him an adversary -not to be lightly encountered. He made no motion to lift the blade at -his feet.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span></p><p>"Is this, then, to be a duel at which no witnesses of mine are -present?"</p> - -<p>"It is no duel," cried Rodolph, his control over himself for the moment -dissolving in the white heat of his continued anger. "It is to be the -chastisement of a craven hound. Not a single honourable wound shall I -inflict upon you. You shall either kill me, or I will punish you as a -cowardly dog is punished. Up with your sword, courageous frightener of -women, up with your sword, and let us see what it will do for you."</p> - -<p>The archer, breathing hard, had difficulty in fixing his eyes on the -ceiling, and in endeavouring to conceal his excitement he began actually -to whistle, the infectious refrain, "The devil is black," coming to his -lips, and disturbing rather than breaking the silence which followed -Rodolph's words. The Count still did not bend his back, but stood there -with his arms across his breast. The whistling turned his attention to -the door. The Emperor looked round, annoyed at the interruption, -whereupon the refrain suddenly ceased, and the bowman's eyes again -sought the ceiling.</p> - -<p>"I understand," said the Black Count slowly. "It is a most admirable -arrangement. When I have you at my mercy your follower there is ready to -turn your defeat into a victory by sending shaft through my body; -assassination beautifully planned under the guise of fair fight."</p> - -<p>"Archer," commanded Rodolph, "unbar again the door and place bow and -arrows outside, then fasten bolts once more."</p> - -<p>"My Lord," demurred Surrey, "that will arrest attention and lead to -interference, which is doubtless what his Darkness desires, for the -devil is not only black but treacherous."</p> - -<p>"There is truth in that," admitted the Emperor. "Unstring your bow, -then, and give it to me."</p> - -<p>When the archer had done this with visible reluctance, for he was like a -fish out of water deprived of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></span> his lithe instrument, Rodolph, passing -the Count, flung the bow into the farther corner of the room, and -returned to his place nearer the door.</p> - -<p>"Now, my Lord Count," he said, "if you defeat me you can easily keep the -unarmed archer away from his weapon. If he calls for help, it will be -your own men who answer, for my only other follower lies sorely wounded -in your service. If, on the other hand, I defeat you, the archer will -have no need of his bow. Is your chivalrous spirit now content? You -have, lion-like, out-faced the women, and sent them beaten from your -presence; let me see you now stand up to a man, for I swear to you that -if I hear another word from those lips until you fight, I will throw -knightly weapon aside and assault you with the back of my hand."</p> - -<p>The Count, stooping, raised the sword, swung it powerfully this way and -that, then whirled it round his head. Unpleased with it, he strode to -the wall and took down another and a heavier one. Rodolph stood in an -attitude of defence, watching intently every movement of his enemy, -turning his body to face him as he walked to the wall and back. The -Count was a stalwart man somewhat past the prime of life, so far as -active swordsmanship goes. Rodolph having quickly thrown off his -doublet, standing in his shirt sleeves, with their lace ruffles at their -wrists, seemed no less powerful, and youth gave him an agility which was -denied the elder man. But the Count was partly encased in mail, while -his rival had no such protection; a disastrous inequality should the -opposing sword break through his defence. Europe came later to know -Rodolph a master of weapons, as he was of statesmanship, but at this -time the Count little anticipated what he was about to face, and had no -reason to doubt that he himself was a match for any swordsman in the -Empire.</p> - -<p>With bull-dog bravery he launched himself upon the young man, swinging -his gigantic weapon with an ease and dexterity which, considering the -weight of it,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span> was little short of marvellous. That he had determined to -kill, and not to wound, was evident from the first flash of his massive -blade. Rodolph, strictly on the defensive, gave way before him inch by -inch. Thus the two, their falchions glittering like lightning shafts -around their heads, came slowly down the long length of the great room, -admirable for such a contest, except for the semi-gloom that pervaded -it. There was no sound save the ring of steel on steel. The archer stood -with his back against the curtain, his hands on his hips, body inclined -towards the combatants, neck craned forward, every muscle tense, almost -breathless with the excitement of the moment. His master's back was in -alignment with him, and he saw with dismay his almost imperceptible -retreat. Through the shimmering of the whirling steel the wild eyes of -the Count glared like sparks of fire, filled with relentless hate and a -confidence of victory. Sometimes the blades struck a shower of sparks -that enveloped the fighters like a sudden glow of flame, illuminating -the dark timbers of the ceiling, and drawing scintillations of light -from the polished weapons along the wall. Backward and backward came -Rodolph, nearer and nearer to the archer, who liked not this slow -retreat, and wondered at it; thinking perhaps his master came thus -toward him expecting something from him which he had not the wit to -understand, but determining to intervene with his bare hands if his -master's safety demanded it. Why had he foolishly been deprived of his -bow? He thought of stealing to the corner and re-possessing himself of -it, but feared Rodolph's displeasure, so stood rigid and helpless, -looking at this contest of the giants, quailing at the inch by inch -retreat. No human being could hope to keep up for long that onslaught, -yet no sword stroke came through the cool guard of Rodolph. The archer -began at length to see with an exultation he could scarcely keep from -translating into a victorious shout, that despite the yielding foot by -foot his master seemed covered by a roof of steel. Black<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[Pg 203]</a></span> Heinrich might -as well have rained his blows on the main round towers of his own -castle; in fact, he could have done so with more visible effect.</p> - -<p>As the clashing tornado of strokes went on without cessation, the archer -began to wish he could see the face of his friend and master, but he -dared not move from the spot. The Count was quite manifestly beginning -to feel the effects of his own fury. His brow was corded and huge beads -of sweat rolled down his forehead and dripped into his eyes, interfering -with his sight and causing him, now and then, to shake his head -savagely, thus momentarily clearing his vision. The same motion -scattered the foam gathering at his open lips, and flecked white -splotches on his black beard. Rodolph's attitude had been practically -unchanged since the contest began, with the ever shifting backward -motion, and now as the two neared the entrance end of the long room, the -swing of the Count's blade had gradually become automatic as it were, -resembling measured strokes regulated by machinery, rather than designed -and varied by a sentient human brain. In response to this, Rodolph's -defence took on a similar fixity and regularity of movement, and to the -onlooker it seemed that the fight might so continue indefinitely, until -one or the other dropped from sheer exhaustion.</p> - -<p>Suddenly Rodolph stepped swiftly back, whirled his blade round his head -with a speed that made it whistle in the air like a gale through a key -hole, and, in its sweep from right to left, curving upward, it caught -the downward stroke of Heinrich's sword near the hilt with irresistible -impact, whirled the weapon out of the Count's hands, and sent it flying -to the left wall, from which, ringing against the armour, it fell -clattering to the floor. Rodolph, letting the point of his weapon rest -at his feet, leaned his arms on the transverse piece, which gave the -sword the appearance of a cross, and stood thus regarding his -antagonist, who, as if the hilt he had grasped had been the source of -his motion, remained in exactly the posture he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[Pg 204]</a></span> held when it was struck -out of his hands. He resembled a figure turned suddenly to stone by the -sweep of a magician's wand. Leaning forward, his hands outstretched, the -one before the other, as if holding an invisible weapon, the spasmodic -heaving of his breast was the only motion that agitated his indurate -frame. For the first time Rodolph saw in his eyes a lurking flash of -fear.</p> - -<p>"Take a moment's breathing space, my Lord Count," said the Emperor. "If -you exhaust yourself before attack begins how can your defence prosper?" -Then turning his head he said, across his shoulder, "Bring the Count his -sword, archer."</p> - -<p>Surrey saw with jubilation that there was no sign of fatigue on the calm -face turned to him, and he had difficulty in smothering a joyous whoop -as he picked up the weapon and gave it to Black Heinrich, who, taking it -like a man in a dream, backed cautiously to the spot where the fight had -begun. It needed no second glance to see that his unexpected disarming -had thoroughly demoralised him; yet he made no appeal for mercy, but -stood there in sullen obstinacy awaiting the attack which would bring -death to him were his antagonist bent on killing him.</p> - -<p>"Defend yourself," cried Rodolph, advancing towards him. The other took -a firmer grip of his sword hilt and stood ready. The contest was -scarcely of a moment's duration. The Emperor struck down his guard -several times in succession until Heinrich could have no doubt that he -stood entirely at the assailant's mercy whenever he chose to take -advantage of a defence that availed nothing; then whirling his weapon -several times round his head while Heinrich guarded here and there in -doubt where the blow was about to fall, Rodolph dealt the Count a -fearful blow on the cheek with the flat of the sword and sent him head -over heels with a clatter of armour and the jingling of the liberated -sword dancing along the floor. The Count lay where he fell, so dazed -that he held his elbow above his head as if that would protect it.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></span></p><p>"Get up, you craven dog!" cried the Emperor, the fever of battle -unloosing his hitherto suppressed rage. "Get up, you terroriser of -women, you executioner of defenceless men. Stand on your feet and don't -cringe there like a whipped spaniel."</p> - -<p>But the man remained prone and made no motion to help himself. Rodolph -raised his sword once or twice and seemed about to strike his fallen foe -with the flat of it, but he could not bring himself to hit a helpless -enemy, so flinging the blade to the wall where its companion lay, he -walked down the room, took up his doublet, and put it on.</p> - -<p>For a few moments he paced up and down the room as the Count had done, -then seeing Heinrich getting somewhat unsteadily to his feet Rodolph -stopped and watched the very gradual uprising. The side of Black -Heinrich's face was bruised and swollen, and he rubbed it tenderly with -his open hand.</p> - -<p>"Now, my Lord Count, if you are ready, we shall conclude this discussion -regarding the exercise of authority within this castle."</p> - -<p>"Oh, take the castle," cried its owner, dolorously, "and the devil give -you good of it."</p> - -<p>"I have no wish to deprive you of castle or of anything else. I fought -that our lives and liberties may not be at the disposal of a truculent -coward."</p> - -<p>"I am no coward, my Lord, as you yourself will willingly admit when you -are cooler. It is little disgrace to me that I fell before such -sword-play as yours, the like of which was never before seen in Germany. -If you have no distrust of me, I have no rancour against you for what -has happened, and I am content to acknowledge my master when I meet him. -What, then, have you to propose to me?"</p> - -<p>"I have invited no witnesses to this bout, not because I wished to take -unfair advantage, as you suggested, but so that you might not be -humiliated before your own men. The archer here will keep a still tongue -anent what he has seen. You will bear me out in the promise of that, -Surrey?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span></p><p>"I will not mention it, even to the bow, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Very well. Then, Count Heinrich, you have nothing to fear if you play -fairly. Are you honest when you say you will bear no malice?"</p> - -<p>"I am honest," said the Count, rubbing his swollen cheek, adding with a -grunt, "indeed, I have every reason for wishing you my friend."</p> - -<p>"We will take it so. Archer, place the swords where they were against -the wall, and take up your bow from the corner. Now I consent that you -still exercise full authority in your castle, but we must have no more -scenes like that of to-day, where we plead and protest in vain against -your barbarous decisions."</p> - -<p>"It was a military necessity, my Lord, that forced me to remove all -useless persons from a castle about to be besieged. It is always done."</p> - -<p>"I quite agree with that, and quarrel with nought but the method of the -doing. I will go further and say that your message to the villagers -giving them liberty to make the best terms they could for themselves, -had in it traces of nobleness that left me entirely unprepared for the -madness which followed. To every rule there are exceptions. Are you -prepared to order the return of Hilda, the handmaiden of your niece?"</p> - -<p>"Such will be my first order on leaving this room."</p> - -<p>"You will perhaps promise there are to be no more murders by that -cowardly assassin, Steinmetz."</p> - -<p>"I shall punish him for what he has done. It was not my intention that -any should be beheaded."</p> - -<p>"You cannot punish him, richly as he deserves it, for you are the real -culprit, giving first the order and then approving the deed when it was -done. You promise then, that there shall be no more of such sanguinary -commands?"</p> - -<p>"I promise."</p> - -<p>"The archer will hereafter be my bodyguard, and where I go, he goes. He -is to be under no orders but<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span> mine. I shall choose my lodgings in this -castle where it best pleases me, and none shall enter therein without my -invitation. It may be well to remember, that if it come to such a pass, -the archer and myself are prepared to stand out against you and your -whole garrison."</p> - -<p>"I had hoped that so brave a man as you, would have been willing to -accept the word of an equally brave, if less youthful and less skilful, -antagonist."</p> - -<p>"My confidence in mankind has not undergone improvement during my brief -stay at Thuron. Some of your favourites I most thoroughly distrust, -Steinmetz for example. It will do no harm if you intimate to him that -your severest displeasure will rest on whoever molests us. As for -Conrad, when he recovers——"</p> - -<p>But this sentence was never finished, and its lack of completion came -near to costing Conrad his life, but that was through no fault of Count -Heinrich. The conference was interrupted by a vigourous knocking at the -closed doors. The Count looked at Rodolph, and it was the latter who -ordered the archer to withdraw the bolts and raise the bar. Captain -Steinmetz entered, and seemed amazed at finding the door shut against -him, but he saw the two men seated at a table as if they were merely in -friendly converse together, and so thought no more of the unusual -shutting in.</p> - -<p>"My Lord," he cried, "the Archbishop's men have entered Alken, coming -unexpectedly up the river, instead of from the direction of Cochem. -Others have appeared on the heights above the valley by the north tower, -and a further body to the south. Foot soldiers are now marching down the -left bank towards Alken. A troop of horsemen were the first to enter the -village, but now armed men appear in every direction. They are putting -up tents on the plains above Alken."</p> - -<p>"Has the conductor of the women returned from the village?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord, he is now in the castle, and not a moment too soon."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span></p><p>"He left the women there?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord."</p> - -<p>Heinrich turned to Rodolph and said in a low voice:</p> - -<p>"I am willing to venture a detachment, to rescue the girl, if such is -your wish."</p> - -<p>"No, it is too late, and too hazardous. She will probably come to no -harm where she is, and a detachment lost would weaken our force so that -the castle might be taken in the first rush."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XIX.</span> <span class="smaller">A MAN AND A WOMAN MEET BY TORCHLIGHT.</span></h2> - -<p>Heinrich and Rodolph left the grand hall with the archer following at -their heels, and ascended to the battlements. The sun had set, and long -parallel belts of crimson clouds barred the western sky with glory. The -wide valley of the Moselle was filled with a lovely opalescent light, -and the river, winding through it, shone like burnished silver. Not a -breath of wind stirred the listless flag, and here and there in the -encampment slender columns of smoke rose perpendicularly in the air, -spreading out like palm trees at the top. White tents had risen as if -they had been a sudden crop of mushrooms, and the voices of men came up -from among them through the still air. From the village was heard the -beat of horses' hoofs, and mounted troopers galloped here and there up -and down the darkening valley. On the heights across the Thaurand chasm -to the north of the castle, a huge tent was being erected, which -Heinrich surmised to be the headquarters of the Archbishops. They had -chosen the highest point of land in the neighbourhood with the exception -of the spot on which Thuron itself stood; a good coign of vantage, -overlooking the Moselle valley in part, and the village of Alken and -some of the lower tents, while behind it stretched the level open plain.</p> - -<p>"By the gods of our forefathers!" cried the Black Count, drawing down -his brow, "I will venture a stone or two at that tent from the north -tower catapult before it grows darker."</p> - -<p>"Do nothing of the sort," advised Rodolph. "In the first place, it may -be well to let the Archbishops<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span> begin the fray in whatever set form they -choose. Should the affair come up for arbitrament, that point will be in -your favour. You were attacked, and you defended yourself. Then I would -waste no stones on an empty tent, for if you strike it, they will but -move further afield. I should try the range when their august Lordships -are there to bear witness to the accuracy of your aim."</p> - -<p>"Oh, very well," said the Count, moodily.</p> - -<p>"Nay," continued the Emperor, in kindly tone, placing his hand in -friendly manner on the other's shoulder, "I meant what I said merely as -a suggestion. Act as pleases you, untrammeled. I seek but to help, and -not to hinder you. The utmost I ask is that, if I lodge protest, my -protest shall be at least considered. On you rests the defence of the -castle, and in that you must be unhampered."</p> - -<p>The Count turned quickly and held out his hand, which the Emperor -grasped. "Your suggestion was right, and mine was wrong. I want you to -stand my friend in this pinch. I have few that wish me well, though -perhaps I have as many as I deserve. But I never met a man like you, and -I say truly that I would rather meet the two Archbishops with you by my -side than have the two with me, and you against me."</p> - -<p>"No fighter can ask a higher compliment than that, my Lord Count. We -stand or fall together, let the fate of the castle be what it may."</p> - -<p>As darkness filled the valley, slowly climbing the hills, whose tops -were the last to part with the waning light, numerous camp fires shone -in spots of crimson along the river bank. The sound of horses plashing -in the water, an occasional snatch of song, with now and then a distant -bugle call, echoing against the opposite hills, interfered with the -accustomed stillness of the valley.</p> - -<p>Rodolph chose for himself and the archer two rooms at the top of the -southern tower, one above the other, John Surrey occupying the lower. -The narrow stone stair which gave access to both rooms ended at the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span> -circular flat roof of the tower, a platform protected by a machicolated -parapet. The flagstaff of the castle rose from the centre of this -platform, and over the parapet one had a broad view, which included -hilltop and high level plain, for the summit of the south tower was the -highest spot in all the Moselle district. From this lofty perch the weak -point of the castle was easily recognised. If Thuron was ever to be -carried by assault the gate front would probably be the portion to give -way.</p> - -<p>The builder of the castle had recognised this, and had constructed a -gate ridiculously small when contrasted with the great bulk of the -castle itself. The entrance was barely wide enough to allow a cart or -two horsemen abreast to pass in. The flattened Norman arch above it -supported masonry pierced for the crossbow bolts that might be launched -in its defence, and the flat parapet-protected platform over the gate -might be covered with warriors, while a huge catapult lay there ready to -hurl round stones on whoever attacked the portal. Even if the two stout -oaken leaves of the gate, iron bolted, and barred within by heavy -timbers, were broken down, the gateway might be held by two expert -swordsmen against an outside host. So when the assault was made the -souls of many of the besiegers would pass through the gates of Paradise -before the bodies of their comrades won their way through the gates of -Thuron. Nevertheless, the entrance was the weak point of the castle, for -in front of it lay comparatively level ground, while everywhere else the -slopes fell steeply from the walls, and the man who attacks up a hill is -ever at a disadvantage when he meets the defender who is already on the -top. The gate was at the south-western corner of the castle, facing the -south. The south tower stood on the eastern face of the fortress twenty -yards or less north of the south-eastern corner of the stronghold.</p> - -<p>Rodolph came to the conclusion that when the gate was attacked, John -Surrey, stationed on the lofty platform of the south tower, with a -bundle of arrows<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span> at his side, would give a good account of himself, and -make some of the besiegers wish they had been elsewhere.</p> - -<p>The Emperor, leaving Surrey in his lofty eyrie, went down the stone -steps, and endeavoured to send a message to the Countess that he wished -to have a word with her. The wholesale deportation of the servants made -the carrying of intelligence about the castle difficult, and he, on -personal investigation, found the door to the women's apartments barred. -Entering the inner courtyard, which was in darkness, for the moon which -had been at the full a week before was now on the wane and had not yet -risen, he groped his way until he estimated that the balcony was above -him, and there softly cried his lady's name, but without receiving any -response. No light shone in any of the windows, and a vague alarm filled -his breast, not knowing what the Countess might have done in her -despair. That she could have left the castle was hardly possible, for -the guard was now most vigilant, yet it might be that she had slipped -away when the others were taken to Alken, although, as Rodolph had -conducted her from the grand saal to the door of the women's apartments, -he had imagined that the women and old men were already gone, the last -to depart being Hilda herself, who had been taken to the outer courtyard -by Captain Steinmetz after the stormy interview in the great hall. The -Emperor left the courtyard and returned with a lighted torch, which he -placed in a holder set against the wall on the side opposite to the -windows, and this with its sputtering resinous flame illuminated the -neglected garden, on which Tekla's horticultural efforts had not yet -made visible impression. The light had the effect Rodolph desired. The -curtains at the back of the balcony parted, and the Countess, wrapped in -a long white robe, looking, Rodolph thought, like an angel, came to the -edge of the stone coping. The rays of the torch showed her eyes still -wet with tears, but their swimming brightness seemed more beautiful than -ever. The young<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span> Emperor caught his breath with delight on seeing the -fair vision before and above him, standing out in pure dazzling white -against the grim grey walls of the castle. He tried to speak, but could -not trust his voice.</p> - -<p>"Is it you, my Lord Rodolph?" asked the Countess, in her low, rich -voice, peering into the semidarkness of the garden.</p> - -<p>"Yes, Lady Tekla," said the young man, at last finding utterance. "I -could not go to rest without having a word with you. Your door was -barred and I could get no one to hear me, so I called fire to the aid of -my impatience, and set up a torch before your windows."</p> - -<p>"We are self-made prisoners. I myself barred the door and paid no heed -to the knocking, for I thought it was my uncle returned again. He came -once and demanded admittance, which I refused. Then to our amazement he -went quietly away, when we fully expected he would batter down the door. -My aunt is prostrate with fear of him, and I have but now left her -bedside, where she has at last fallen into an exhausted sleep. Oh! why," -cried the Countess, raising her arm as if in appeal to a just heaven, -"are such uncivilised wretches as the master of Thuron allowed to live -and contaminate this fair earth?"</p> - -<p>"Well," said Rodolph, with a smile, happily unseen by the girl, who was -intensely in earnest, "we must admit that the Archbishops are doing -their best to eliminate him. I have often thought that it is only our -wonderful self-conceit that leads us to suppose we are actually -enlightened beings, and I fear that perhaps future ages may look back on -the thirteenth century, and deny to it the proud pre-eminence in -civilisation it now so confidently claims. But I have had some -conference with your uncle since I last saw you, and I think you will -have nothing now to fear from him. There will be no more scenes such as -that of this afternoon. He has promised me as much."</p> - -<p>"Promised!" cried the girl, indignantly; "I put little faith in his -promises."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span></p><p>"There. I think, you do him an injustice. I make no attempt to defend -his conduct, but he had most disquieting news brought by Conrad, -and——"</p> - -<p>"Has Conrad then returned?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; a fugitive and sorely wounded. He brought news that the two -Archbishops, Treves and Cologne, are leagued against Heinrich of Thuron. -This was sufficient to disturb a much less despotic and evil-tempered -man than your uncle. He knew that the lines were rapidly closing in upon -him, and his ordering of the non-combatants out of the castle, when they -might go with no risk to themselves and live safely as humble villagers, -was a measure that all custodians of a stronghold threatened with -besiegement would have taken, had they been wise. There is no fault to -be found with the act as it stands, although his method of carrying it -out may lend itself to amendment. And the order was accomplished not a -moment too soon, for the fugitives were scarcely in the village before -the troops of the Archbishop had taken the place; besides this, Heinrich -very nobly counselled none to make resistance but to disclaim all -sympathy with the master of Thuron."</p> - -<p>"Are the Archbishop's troops now in Alken?"</p> - -<p>"In Alken? They are all around us. Not in Alken alone but on the heights -to the north, and on the plains to the south. We are completely -environed, and, from the round tower above us, a thousand watch fires -may be counted in every direction."</p> - -<p>"What of Hilda, then, thrust thus among enemies?"</p> - -<p>"Hilda is at this moment much safer than you are, my Lady. The Black -Count would have sent and brought her back but that he gave the order -too late."</p> - -<p>"If she is free from harm, I have no complaint to make. You must not -think that I protested against her removal through selfishness, or -because I was in any way thinking of my own comfort. She has become to -me friend as well as servant, and if privations are to be borne within -this castle I have no wish to elude my share."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[Pg 215]</a></span></p><p>"Hilda is safe in the village and may come and go as she pleases so -long as she does not approach the castle, and perhaps even that the -Archbishops' troops will allow. They are not warring with women, but -with the master of Thuron and his followers. All those who have left the -castle are in more prosperous circumstances than we who remain, for -should the fighting become desperate and a sack ensue, I should rather -have friends of mine out than in."</p> - -<p>"Is there danger of the castle being taken?"</p> - -<p>"I think the danger is not great, but the Archbishops do not agree with -me, otherwise they would not have encircled us. Then chance works -strange pranks in situations like ours. The truth is, no one can tell -what may happen."</p> - -<p>"That is not encouraging, is it?"</p> - -<p>"You see I have got into the habit of talking to you just as if you were -a fellow campaigner, for you are certainly not the least courageous in -this garrison; indeed I doubt if any one else would have had the bravery -to face the Count as you have done on more than one occasion. I intended -when I came here to-night, to relieve your mind of anxiety regarding -Hilda, and forgot that we might need mutual encouragement over our -situation. I confess I am rather eager to know what is going to happen, -and I wouldn't be anywhere else than where I am for the wealth of the -Archbishops themselves. I count much on your uncle, and I think their -high and mighty Lordships may wish they had encountered some one else -before they are done with him. He is a man of the most headlong courage, -as you will see when you know him better, and when you remember that he -has probably never been contradicted in his life till we thrust -ourselves upon him, I think he is almost amenable to reason."</p> - -<p>"Alas, I have not found him so, and my aunt can hardly be looked upon as -a favourable example of treatment by a reasonable man. She trembles when -his name is mentioned, or when she hears his footstep."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[Pg 216]</a></span></p><p>"Nevertheless, I hope you will not give up all efforts toward his -reclamation. Believe me, he has sterling qualities that I would were -more conspicuous in some of his followers."</p> - -<p>The Countess sighed deeply and drew her robe closer about her. The torch -had gone out, but the rising moon had begun to silver the top of the -round tower. The place was as still and peaceful as if it had been some -remote convent garden, far removed from the busy world and its strife.</p> - -<p>"It is growing late," said Tekla, "and I must bid you good-night. Your -coming has cheered me."</p> - -<p>"It gives me delight to hear you say so. May I not come here to-morrow -night at the same hour and bring you the latest news?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," replied the lady, adding, "again good-night."</p> - -<p>Her white form was swallowed up by the dark hangings and the young man -climbed the stairs of the tall south tower.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XX.</span> <span class="smaller">A BREAKFAST ON THE TOP OF THE SOUTH TOWER.</span></h2> - -<p>The Emperor was awakened by the ringing martial sound of bugles, calling -the various camps from slumber. The sun had not yet risen when he -reached the platform that formed the roof of his chamber, and there he -found John Surrey scanning the military preparations around and below -him with undisguised satisfaction. Soldiers in the valley were already -falling into line, and the clear stillness of the air made the sharp -commands of the officers audible even at the distance where Rodolph and -the archer stood. The tall powerful figure of the Black Count could be -seen pacing up and down the broad promenade on the west front, which -seemed hardly less remote than the valley itself, so lofty was the -tower. The whole design of the castle lay beneath them like a raised -map.</p> - -<p>"I think he has been there all night," said the archer, nodding towards -the Count. "I sat here late making arrows in the moonlight, and he was -on the battlements when I went down. I was here at daybreak, and there -he was still. What a lovely scene it is, my Lord, viewed from this -perch," he cried, enthusiastically, waving his hand in a semi-circle -about him.</p> - -<p>"It is indeed," concurred the Emperor. "The placid river, the hill tops -touched with the growing light, the green of the dense forest and the -yellow of the ripening grain, with the dark cliffs of rock above the -polished surface of the deep waters, are well worth getting up early to -see."</p> - -<p>The archer scratched his head, and an expression of perplexity clouded -his brow.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span></p><p>"That was not quite what I meant, my Lord, for although there may be -pleasure in viewing hills, fields and river, as my friend, Roger Kent, -the poet, often pointed out to me, yet to my mind all such, which we -have continually seen these few days back, are little to be compared to -the blossoming of the tents on the plain, the stir of marching men eager -for the coming to conclusions with their fellows, as men should, and the -dealing and receiving of honest blows, doughtily given. Indeed, my Lord, -I would rather see one good two-handed sword argument like that between -your Lordship and his Darkness yesterday, than all the hills that were -ever piled one above the other in Switzerland."</p> - -<p>"That contest," said Rodolph, sternly, "is not to be spoken of. You -heard me promise the Count that you would keep silence regarding it?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, I did not take it to mean that we might not discuss it among -ourselves; indeed, it was my intention on the first opportunity to -inquire of his Blackness how he felt when he saw you approach like a -windmill gone mad, with the sword in every place but where he expected -it."</p> - -<p>"You hold your life lightly to trust it on such a query. You have my -strict command to say nothing to him on any subject whatever unless he -speak first to you, and then answer briefly and with not too much -curiosity."</p> - -<p>"I shall cling close to your wish, my Lord, the more as there is little -of intelligent talk to be got out of his Blackness at best. These -warriors below are like to give us enough to think and speak about. They -were early afoot, and got to their work like men who expected to take -the castle before breakfast, sack it for mid-day eating, and be home to -sup at Treves. I trust we shall keep them with us longer than they -think."</p> - -<p>The Emperor glanced at the heap of feathered arrows which lay against -the parapet partially hidden by a mantle that had been thrown over them. -"Has<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></span> your arrow-maker proven a success then? You seem to be well -supplied."</p> - -<p>"He is so far a success as a German can be expected to succeed in a -delicate art. The making of an arrow," continued the archer with great -complacency, taking a specimen in his hand the better to illustrate his -argument, "is not merely one art, but rather the conjunction of several. -There is an art in the accurate shaving of the shank with a sharp flint -stone; there is an art in the correct pointing of it, and the sloping of -its shoulders so that it take not the wind more on the one side of it -than on the other, thus deflecting it from the true course; there is an -art in the feathering of it, which is in reality the winging of it; the -cutting of the notch requires great care, for there it receives its -impetus, and the making of the notch I hold to be like the training of a -youth, his course in after life depends on it; then it should, when -completed, balance on your forefinger, thus, with just so much length to -the right and so much to the left. In the making of a perfect arrow -there are thirty-four major points to be kept in mind, added to -fifty-seven minor details which must in no instance be neglected, the -which, beginning with the major points, are as follows, to wit, -firstly——"</p> - -<p>"We are early afoot, John Surrey, but still too late for the beginning -of such a recital. During the siege it is most likely that we may have -to spend some sleepless nights on watch, and during these vigils you -will tell me all the conditions that go to the constructing of a perfect -arrow, for in the still watches I can give that attention to particulars -which the importance of the subject demands."</p> - -<p>"The suggestion of your Lordship is good, and shows that you have some -appreciation of the task's difficulties, the which I have never been -able to beat into the head of the German hind the Count has bestowed -upon me, although I find him useful in the splitting of wood and the -rough shaping of the shaft; indeed he has advanced so surprisingly that -he now<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[Pg 220]</a></span> sees that a piece of timber, bent and twisted like a hoop from a -wine butt, is not suitable for the making of an arrow; that the presence -of a straight grain is more desirable than many knots, and so I have a -hope that in time he may gather much useful knowledge regarding the -arrow-maker's craft. But I would on no account have your Lordship labour -under the delusion that the mastering of the major and minor points will -guarantee you success in the construction of a shaft. No; you must be -born to it as well, because there is an intuition in the estimating of -its value when completed; for many of our archers in England, unerring -in aim, could not, did their life depend upon it, make for themselves a -true flying arrow; indeed the making and the speeding have ever been -regarded as separate and distinct accomplishments, expertness in the one -being no assurance of expertness in the other; the which is but to be -expected in a civilised country, for England must not be confounded with -the more barbarous nationalities of the continent; and so in my land the -arrow-makers are a guild in themselves, to which trade a man must be -duly apprenticed, forswearing in his indentures all vices by which the -steadiness of his nerves are affected, as the drinking of strong liquors -or the amorous pursuit of——"</p> - -<p>"Yes, yes," cried the Emperor, with scarcely concealed impatience, "all -the virtues of earth are concentrated in your land and upon the -inhabitants thereof."</p> - -<p>"Nay, I made no such claim," continued the archer, calmly, "but I may -state without suspicion of prejudice in favour of my countrymen that for -honesty, bravery, skill, intelligence, modesty, integrity, patriotism, -strength, nobility of character, firmness, justice, enlightenment, -courage——"</p> - -<p>"And a good appetite. John Surrey, have you breakfasted? Do you feed -with the men of the castle, or alone?"</p> - -<p>"The room below," said John, in no wise <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[Pg 221]</a></span>disconcerted by the sudden -change of the subject, and ever ready to discourse on any topic -presented to him, "being much too large for my sleeping accommodation, -and one never knowing what may happen, especially after such a bout as -you had with the master of the place—I beg your worship's pardon, I -shall not more particularly refer to it—I might more properly have -said, in the circumstances that have come to our private knowledge, I -thought it wise to fill the remainder of the space with provisions from -the outer courtyard, where they ran some danger of being spoiled by the -first rain that falls; and I have also, with much effort and with the -help of my arrow-making knave, trundled up these stairs, several of the -smaller casks of wine from the same place, the hoisting of the larger -butts presenting difficulties we could in no wise overcome. I have -furthermore taken the precaution to provide myself with various -trenchers, flagons, and the like, and a few stools, for as I have some -skill in cookery, picked up in various countries, I thought I might have -the privilege of preparing a meal for your Lordship when you were -disinclined to venture down these long stairs. I foresaw that such a -thing might come as a siege within a siege, and for all such emergencies -it is well to be ready, even though they never come. A stout swordsman -in a pinch might hold these stairs though a thousand tried to mount -them, and when he is tired, a skilful bowman might take his place -without danger to any but those below him."</p> - -<p>"John, all the compliments you tender your countrymen do I multiply -tenfold and bestow on thy resourceful head. Wisdom, thy name is Surrey. -Is thy knave in thy room below?"</p> - -<p>"Aye. He sleeps, my Lord, that being the greatest of his -accomplishments."</p> - -<p>"Then waken him; transport table and stools to this platform. Prepare a -choice breakfast for four. We will invite the Count himself to breakfast -with us, and the two ladies of the castle, if they will so honour<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[Pg 222]</a></span> us. -Therefore let me boast of thy skill with the viands, John."</p> - -<p>"I like not the coming of the Count," said the archer, sturdily. "I did -not wish him to know that we were also provisioned for a siege."</p> - -<p>"The knowledge should make him the more chary in attacking us, were such -his intention. But he has no malignant designs. I trust Count Heinrich."</p> - -<p>"You trusted him before," persisted the archer, with the dogged tenacity -of his race, "and all that came of it—again craving your pardon—was -stout blows and the flying of sparks."</p> - -<p>"The Count differs from you, archer, in learning a lesson and profiting -by it. No more pardons for such allusions will be granted; three within -an hour have exhausted my stock. Attend you to the preparation of the -meal; keep strict silence while serving it, and expect generous reward -if it prove satisfactory. Leave all dealing with the Count to me, and if -you cannot trust his Lordship, trust in Providence."</p> - -<p>Saying this, Rodolph went down the stairs, while the archer, grumbling -to himself, descended to his room and kicked the slumbering menial into -a state of wakefulness that enabled him to appreciate the hard realities -of life.</p> - -<p>The Emperor, reaching the battlements, greeted the Lord of Thuron, who -returned his salutation without lavish excess of cordiality.</p> - -<p>"My Lord Count, in honour of the coming of the Archbishops, I am having -prepared a breakfast on the top of the southern tower. The archer -pretends to some knowledge of cooking, and I ask your Lordship to help -me form an estimate of his abilities."</p> - -<p>"I shall breakfast on these battlements. I wish to watch the movements -of the enemy."</p> - -<p>"There is no more admirable point of observation than the top of the -tower, for from there you may view what is going on all round you, while -from here you may see but towards the west. It is also my intention, -with your permission, to invite the ladies, your wife and niece."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[Pg 223]</a></span></p><p>Count Heinrich made no reply, his restless eye scouring the plain -below.</p> - -<p>"I hold it well," continued Rodolph, suavely, "to begin our conflict -with peace and harmony within, whatever may happen outside the walls. -Have I your Lordship's consent?"</p> - -<p>"My whole mind is in the coming fight," said the Black Count, still -keeping his eyes on the valley, "and I have little skill in the nice -customs and courtesies that perhaps you have been accustomed to. I am a -soldier, and prefer to eat with soldiers."</p> - -<p>"Am I to understand that you consider me no soldier?"</p> - -<p>"You twist my words. I am an awkward man. I mean that I care not for the -company of women."</p> - -<p>"You owe some reparation to your niece for your harshness of yesterday. -It is the least you can do to tell her that you are sorry. I have -already said to her on your behalf that your mind was worried by the -unexpected news of the junction of the two Archbishops, and although -that is no excuse for a grown man, still I think I persuaded her it was. -She will, no doubt, forgive you, little as you deserve it."</p> - -<p>"Forgive me!" cried the Count, angrily.</p> - -<p>"Aye. We all need forgiveness, and I judge you are not so free from -blame that your statue will be erected in the valley as the Saint -Heinrich of your day. Come, my Lord Count, be a bear to your enemies if -you like, but a lamb to your friends, whose scarcity you but last night -deplored!"</p> - -<p>"The Countess Tekla has refused to see me; she barred my own door -against me."</p> - -<p>"And quite right too. She is a girl of spirit, and worthy of her warlike -ancestors. Therefore, the more proud should you be that she consents to -take you by the hand this morning."</p> - -<p>"But does she so consent?" asked the Count, dubiously.</p> - -<p>"Come to the tower and see. Large minds bear no malice. We will signal -to you when the meal is ready."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[Pg 224]</a></span></p><p>Rodolph found there was more difficulty in persuading Heinrich's wife -to be one at the table with her lord, than there was in winning Tekla's -consent, but at last all obstacles were removed and he escorted the -ladies up the narrow winding stairs. The Countess Tekla was in -unexpectedly high spirits, and she admitted to him gaily that she had -been at her wit's end to know what they should do for breakfast, as all -attendants had gone, and her uncle had shown no anxiety regarding their -substance.</p> - -<p>It was Tekla's first visit to the tall tower and she looked upon the -marvellous scene spread before her with keen and enthusiastic -appreciation. The sun had risen and the morning was already warm, but -the skilful Surrey had spread an awning from flag pole to parapet, which -shielded the table from its rays. The elder lady seated herself on one -of the stools, and paid no attention to the view, awaiting with evident -apprehension the coming of her husband. Tekla passed from point to point -in the circle of the parapet and exclaimed joyously as the beauties of -the landscape unfolded themselves to her. The deep, sombre, densely -wooded chasm of the brawling little river Thaurand, from which in three -variants, the castle took the several names that designated it, she had -never until this moment beheld; the more familiar valley of the Moselle -revealed new aspects at this height, not noticeable from the lower level -of the battlements. Rodolph accompanied her and pointed out this and -that, having himself eyes for nothing but the delighted and delightful -girl, and thus, telling the archer to summon the Count, he paid no -attention to Surrey's method of doing so, which might not have met his -approval. The Count was standing at the edge of the battlements gazing -abstractedly down upon the village of Alken, his arms folded across his -breast and his back towards the tower. The bowman deftly notched an -arrow on the string and let fly with such precision that its feather -must have brushed the Count's ear. The<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span> amazed and startled man -automatically smote the air and his ear with his open hand as if a bee -had stung him, and sprang several yards from where he had been standing, -glaring angrily round, wondering whence the missile had so unexpectedly -come.</p> - -<p>"My Lord," said the archer, deferentially, leaning over the stone coping -and motioning with his bow, "breakfast is ready."</p> - -<p>For a moment the Count stood as one transfixed, then a reluctant smile -made itself visible through his thick beard, and he strode along the -promenade, disappearing down the steps.</p> - -<p>A few moments later he was on the platform of the tower, visibly ill at -ease. His eyes were on his niece, seemingly in doubt regarding the -nature of her reception of him. The girl on hearing his steps had turned -away from the parapet, and now stood somewhat rigidly with heightened -colour, waiting for him to approach her.</p> - -<p>"Tekla," he began, but she quietly interrupted him, saying:</p> - -<p>"When you have greeted my aunt, I shall be glad to receive your -salutations."</p> - -<p>Heinrich was taken aback at this. He had not thought of looking at his -wife, but now he glanced at her shrinking form cowering on the stool. He -took a step forward, and placed his hand roughly on her shoulder.</p> - -<p>"Wife—" he said, and paused, not knowing what to add, until sudden -inspiration seemed to come to him, and he cried, masterfully: "We are -surrounded by enemies, but we will beat them off, damn them!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord," whispered his spouse, meekly, trembling under his heavy -hand. Tekla laughed merrily, and sprang forward to him, flinging her -arms about him, to his great embarrassment.</p> - -<p>"You great Swartzwald bear!" she cried, "of course you will beat them. I -am sure no one can stand up against you."</p> - -<p>"Tekla," he protested, with visible discomposure,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span> "that is the -Archbishops' tent on the heights. They can see us."</p> - -<p>"Let them!" cried the girl, waving her hands towards the large tent. -"This is my uncle, Heinrich of Thuron, surnamed the Black, my Lords and -Archbishops, and we hurl defiance at you, for he fears you neither -separately nor together."</p> - -<p>The Black Count smiled grimly, and very soon they were all seated at -breakfast, Rodolph and Tekla bearing the burden of the conversation, the -Count and his wife adding but little to it. It was easily seen that -Heinrich's mind was not on his meal, but on what was passing in the -valley, where his uneasy eye wandered ever and anon.</p> - -<p>As the breakfast ended and the Countess Tekla was congratulating the -archer on its excellence, there came up to them a fan-fare of trumpets, -and all saw, issuing from the forest to the south, an impressive -cavalcade, headed by Count Bertrich, at whose side rode another, -seemingly his equal in rank, and quite his superior in equipment, whom -Rodolph at once recognised by his blazonry as the representative of the -Archbishop of Cologne. Behind these two rode a group of perhaps -threescore men, all gaily bedecked and fully armed. Five or six -horse-lengths in front of this notable procession came four heralds -holding long trumpets from which depended gay silken banners in gorgeous -colours, setting forth, two the arms of Treves, and two the arms of -Cologne. As the cavalcade advanced the trumpeters raised bugles to lips -and gave forth the musical notes that had first attracted the attention -of those on the tower. The Count sprang instantly to his feet, Rodolph -also rising.</p> - -<p>"A demand of surrender," said the latter, "about to be set forward with -due ceremony and circumstance. I must say the Archbishops acquit -themselves creditably."</p> - -<p>"Will you attend me while I make reply?" asked the Count, of Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"Surely," returned the other.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span></p><p>"I should be glad of your counsel," continued Heinrich, "and of some -slight hint regarding the choice of words to be used. We have usually -fallen to without so much preliminary flourishing at Thuron, and I am -not versed in the etiquette of the occasion."</p> - -<p>"Answer slowly," said the Emperor, "taking ample time to consider each -question, and if there is any hint to give, I will whisper it to you."</p> - -<p>The two men departed down the stairs, leaving at least one interested -spectator of the conference about to take place. The elder woman -remained where she was, with her hands folded on her lap; the Countess -Tekla leaning against the parapet, saw her uncle and Rodolph, attended -by Captain Steinmetz and a guard of lancers, mount the platform above -the gates, while the imposing troop of horsemen came to halt amidst -another blast from the trumpets.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXI.</span> <span class="smaller">AN EXPERIMENT IN DIPLOMACY.</span></h2> - -<p>In loud and sonorous voice Count Bertrich spoke, his words plainly heard -by all on the castle walls and even far down the valley.</p> - -<p>"Heinrich of Thuron, sometime Count Palatine, now deposed by lawful -authority duly proclaimed, you are summoned to surrender the Castle of -Thuron at present held by you, to the custody of his High Puissant and -Reverend Lordship, Konrad von Hochstaden, Archbishop of Cologne, and his -ally, the High Puissant and Reverend Lordship, Arnold von Isenberg, -Archbishop of Treves, and in event of such summons not being instantly -obeyed, your life is declared forfeit and all within your walls -outlaws."</p> - -<p>"Ask him," whispered the Emperor, "on what authority this summons is -delivered."</p> - -<p>"On whose authority do you act?" cried Heinrich, in a voice no less -powerful than that of Bertrich.</p> - -<p>"His Lordship the Archbishop of Treves is your over-lord, and as such is -entitled to make the demand I have set forth."</p> - -<p>"Then ask him what the devil Cologne is doing in this business," said -Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"Why then is the Archbishop of Cologne put first in your proclamation, -and by what right does he claim jurisdiction over me?" cried Heinrich.</p> - -<p>The two emissaries of Treves and Cologne consulted for a few moments -together, and it was quite evident that Count Bertrich had little liking -for the turn the colloquy had taken, his haughty nature scorning -lengthened talk with a man whom he considered an inferior, and in any -case the sword was with him<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[Pg 229]</a></span> a readier weapon than the tongue, as indeed -it was with Heinrich himself, but the envoy of Cologne seemed in a -measure impressed by the replies of the Lord of Thuron, and appeared to -be protesting against what the other was proposing, a backward wave of -the hand seeming to betoken a desire to break off negotiations and -return whence they came. At last Bertrich again spoke.</p> - -<p>"Their High and Mighty Lordships of Cologne and Treves are, as I have -said, allies in this quarrel, and they demand your instant answer."</p> - -<p>"Say it is impossible for you to recognise Cologne in a matter that -concerns you and Treves only. Add that if Treves alone press the demand -you will make suitable reply," dictated the Emperor.</p> - -<p>"A noble answers only to his own over-lord," shouted Heinrich. "If the -Archbishop of Treves make a demand, he shall have my reply, but I stand -no question from his Lordship of Cologne, nor can he justly prefer the -right to question me except through my over-lord."</p> - -<p>"Well spoken," said the Emperor, emphatically, "and good feudal law."</p> - -<p>Again a conference ensued between the two envoys, Bertrich first -protesting against the decision of his colleague, then reluctantly -accepting it. In his anger shearing Arnold of some of his adjectives, -Bertrich cried:</p> - -<p>"In the name of the Archbishop of Treves, my master and yours, I demand -that you surrender to him the castle of Thuron."</p> - -<p>"Say that you appeal for justice to the over-lord of all, the Emperor, -and offer to surrender your castle when you see his signature to a -document demanding it," whispered Rodolph.</p> - -<p>Heinrich turned to him in astonishment.</p> - -<p>"I fear the Emperor less than I do Treves, and have no intention of -surrendering to either. He may have the signature of the Emperor, and -then I should be in serious jeopardy."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[Pg 230]</a></span></p><p>"He has it not, nor can he obtain it. The Emperor is in Palestine."</p> - -<p>The humour of the situation began to appeal to Heinrich. For the first -time in his turbulent life he was posing as a respecter of the law and a -stickler for forms. The envoy of Cologne sat on his horse awaiting the -answer with an expression on his face which showed that he believed the -Black Count to be more in the right than he had hitherto suspected, -while Bertrich, fuming with impatience and anger, savagely dug spurs -into his horse and then reined in the astonished animal with rude -brutality when it curvetted under the sting of the steel.</p> - -<p>"In a case so serious," cried Heinrich, sternly, "I appeal to the -over-lord of the Archbishop, who is my over-lord as well, his Majesty -the Emperor. That no injustice may be done, I will deliver up my castle -to the Emperor, or, in his absence, to any delegate whom he empowers, -the same to show me his credentials signed by his Majesty."</p> - -<p>"The Emperor," roared Bertrich, "has already delegated his authority to -the Archbishop, who now acts thus under the power granted him. This -juggling with words will not serve you. I demand——"</p> - -<p>But here he was interrupted by the envoy of Cologne, who seemed -surprised when it was alleged that the Emperor had delegated his -authority to the Archbishop of Treves. He laid his hand on Bertrich's -arm and spoke earnestly with him.</p> - -<p>"What comes next?" said Heinrich.</p> - -<p>"Oh, the rest is most simple," replied Rodolph. "Bertrich has lied, for -there has been no delegating of Imperial authority to his master. Worse -than that, he has sown seeds of dissension between the Archbishop of -Treves and the haughty Lord of Cologne, and Bertrich has not yet the -sense to see it. Tell him you did not know of this bestowal of -authority. Ask for the witnesses, if the delegation was verbal, or for a -document if he has a written commission from his Majesty."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></span></p><p>"But he may have it. How can you say whether he has or no?"</p> - -<p>"I tell you the man has lied. Would the Emperor, think you, dare to give -to one what he did not give to another? See the surprise on Cologne's -face at such an absurd statement. Have no hesitation. He has few -qualifications fitting him to be a diplomatist."</p> - -<p>"I was not aware," cried Heinrich, stoutly, "that the Emperor had so -favoured Treves at the expense of his brother of Cologne. If such is -indeed the case, then we need parley no longer. On proof to me of this -bestowal of Imperial power on his Lordship of Treves, I will at once -surrender my castle to him, leaving the Emperor to adjudicate between -us."</p> - -<p>Then did the choleric Count indeed justify Rodolph's prophecy. Shaking -his sword over his head, Bertrich shouted:</p> - -<p>"Surrender the castle, you robber dog, or I will knock it down about -your ears, black son of a rooting boar."</p> - -<p>The hand of Count Heinrich sprang to the hilt of his blade, and he would -have answered angrily in kind, but the Emperor, touching him gently, -said:</p> - -<p>"Softly, softly. Call our astonished friend of Cologne to witness that -you have done everything you could in the way of peace, and the -upholding of the feudal law."</p> - -<p>Heinrich drew a deep quivering breath into his huge chest, and -controlled himself with an effort that made his stalwart frame tremble.</p> - -<p>"I ask your colleague," he said, at last, in a voice that was somewhat -uncertain, "to bear witness that I have been treated with grave -disrespect while endeavouring to yield deference to all above me; the -Emperor no less than the Archbishops. I am anxious to abide by the -feudal law, and while protecting my own rights, infringe not on the -rights of others."</p> - -<p>Bertrich gave vent to a cry of disgusted impatience, spurring his horse -onward and then round until his back was to the castle. The envoy of -Cologne bowed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[Pg 232]</a></span> low to Count Heinrich, although he said nothing, which -bow the Black Count handsomely returned. With a blast from the four -trumpets, the glittering cavalcade turned, and at slow, dignified pace, -as befitted an embassy, left the castle.</p> - -<p>Rodolph and Heinrich watched the departure in silence, the latter still -struggling with his suppressed emotions, more than half feeling that he -had not acquitted himself as a man should, by neglecting to fling back -in the teeth of his enemy the contemptuous phrases he had received.</p> - -<p>"My Lord Count," said Rodolph, "you have conducted the negotiations most -admirably, and I desire to offer you my congratulations."</p> - -<p>"I would rather have cut his beggarly throat than bestowed smooth words -upon him," muttered the Count.</p> - -<p>"There is much that is commendable and even alluring in the project, and -doubtless before the sun has set, Bertrich will wish you had, for I do -not envy him the meeting with his master. Never was the Archbishop so -rascally served. One of two things will happen now, thanks to your -diplomacy. The Archbishop of Treves, proud as he is, will be compelled -to humble himself before his haughty ally, and declare that Bertrich -failed to speak the truth, or the Archbishop of Cologne will gather his -men about him and depart down the Rhine to the less picturesque -precincts of his famous city. Even if a peace be patched up between -them, there will be deep distrust in von Hochstaden's mind against the -crafty Isenberg, for, knowing the wily Arnold as he does, Cologne will -never believe but his envoy blurted out the truth, in spite of his -master's assurance that it is a lie. Believe me, you might have rained -blows on Bertrich's back and he would consider the chastisement as -nothing compared with the humiliating dilemma in which your words and -calmness have placed him."</p> - -<p>"The words were not mine, but yours," said Heinrich, much mollified.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span></p><p>"I will not have you say so. I did indeed give you some hints but you -clothed them in your own language, and in every case added force to -them. It is not flattering to say I did not expect such from you, but I -have to admit the truth. Words, my Lord Count, are often more deadly -than swords. The man of words who can keep his temper will ever rule the -man of the sword. As you acted this morning you might guide an empire."</p> - -<p>"And as I acted yesterday, I could not rule my own household," said -Heinrich, dryly.</p> - -<p>"So far as I am concerned, my Lord, yesterday is dead. I do not remember -what happened. I deal only with to-day."</p> - -<p>"Lord Rodolph," cried Heinrich, with sudden exultation, "we shall beat -these villains yet."</p> - -<p>"So the Countess Tekla has prophesied, and so I devoutly believe. In any -case this conference has postponed attack for a few days. It will take -some time for the Archbishops to adjust their differences, and who knows -what may happen later?"</p> - -<p>Whether the Countess should prove a true prophet or no remained to be -seen, but Rodolph was quickly shown to be a false one.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE FIRST ATTACK ON CASTLE THURON.</span></h2> - -<p>It is doubtful if a nation or a military commander is strengthened by -securing an ally, even though that ally be powerful. One determined man -will wage war with more success than will a committee that commands a -larger force. A general with an ally must be ever thinking of what that -ally will do, or will not do. He is hampered at every turn, and must be -careful not to take too much glory to himself or show himself a better -warrior than the other.</p> - -<p>As those within Castle Thuron afterwards discovered, what happened on -the morning of the first attack was this. Count Bertrich in his original -visit to Thuron and his ignominious departure therefrom, saw with quick -military eye, which he allowed no personal feeling to obscure, that the -gate, narrow though it was, offered the best means of capturing the -stronghold. Once that was battered down, there would be a hot fight in -the outer courtyard, then, resistance being overpowered by numbers, the -castle belonged to the assaulters. His plan was approved by the -Archbishop, who, however, was annoyed to find that his colleague of -Cologne desired that Heinrich should be summoned in due form to -surrender peacefully before hostilities commenced. To this proposal von -Isenberg had to accede, and he did so the more readily as Bertrich -assured him that the hot-tempered Count would make some insulting reply -which would offend the northern Archbishop when it was reported to him. -Although the cautious Arnold was usually most scrupulous in his -observance of forms and ceremonies, he had been so angered in this -instance, first by the successful flight<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[Pg 235]</a></span> of his ward, from under his -very roof, and second by the contemptuous defiance of himself by his -vassal, Heinrich of Thuron, whom he had always hated, that he was now -eager to recover lost prestige, and to accomplish by instant -overwhelming force the downfall of the Black Count. He was the less -particular in this matter as it never occurred to him that his action -might possibly come up for review and judgment by his own nominal -over-lord the Emperor, for no Emperor in recent ages had commanded the -slightest respect. When it is remembered that twenty-two years before -the election of Rodolph, the Archbishop of Treves had captured the -capital itself, Frankfort being the place where the election of Emperor -was held, and, keeping the Archbishops of Cologne and Mayence outside -the gates, proceeded himself to elect an Emperor, while the shut-out -electors met under the walls and solemnly elected another, some idea may -be formed of the slight influence an Emperor had over his proud and -powerful vassals.</p> - -<p>It was arranged that the force on the heights to the south of Thuron, -concealed in the forest, should be augmented by others from the plain by -the river, comprising a company of crossbow men and a troop of lancers, -the first to harass the garrison while the gate was being battered down, -the second to storm the castle when a breach was made for them. The -attack was to be delivered when the embassy had retired after receiving -the contumacious reply of Count Heinrich. The assault was to have been -led by Count Bertrich and the envoy of Cologne, but when the two had -reached the shelter of the forest, Bertrich's colleague refused to take -part in the fray, until he had first acquainted his master with the -purport of the conference at the gate of Thuron. By this time Count -Bertrich felt that he had come badly off in his diplomatic bout with the -Black Count, and the knowledge maddened him. He therefore told his ally -that Cologne might do as he pleased, but Treves would attack -immediately, and the two Archbishops might settle<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[Pg 236]</a></span> details after the -castle was captured. Bertrich believed that his success in taking the -fortress would more than blot out any resentment his master might feel -for his failure in diplomacy, as he well knew the state of Arnold von -Isenberg's mind regarding Count Heinrich; furthermore, he had not the -slightest doubt that with the forces at his command, he would speedily -be in possession of Castle Thuron.</p> - -<p>So the envoy of the Archbishop of Cologne, attended by his guard, passed -through the forest into the ravine of the Thaurand, and thus up to the -heights of the Bieldenburg, where the tent of his master was situated.</p> - -<p>Rodolph and Heinrich were still standing on the platform above the gate -when they saw emerging from the forest a monster closely resembling the -dragons which were supposed to infest the Rhine, but from whose baleful -presence the Moselle had hitherto been free. Rodolph gazed at its coming -with astonishment in his eyes, and the swarthy countenance of the Count -seemed almost to blanch, for although that courageous man was not afraid -of the Archbishops and their armies, he was in deadly fear of dragons. -If their Lordships had invoked the aid of such, then was Thuron indeed -doomed. But as the apparition came nearer it proved to be a huge oaken -tree, stripped of its bark, advancing, butt foremost, towards the -castle. On the underpart all the limbs had been lopped off, but at each -side of it the branches remained, stripped of leaves and twigs, -sprouting out like the fins of a gigantic fish to right and left. The -great tree was borne aloft on the shoulders of more than twoscore men, -who were distributed equally on either side of it, and so it advanced -slowly, with its white body and gaunt branches, like an enormous -centipede. It was evidently the intention of the carriers to throw the -tree from their shoulders at the gate, and then taking it by the -branches, half a dozen or more at each limb, swing it back and forth, -using it as a battering ram to force in the gate. The men carrying this -monster<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span> oak had still breath enough left to cheer as they advanced, and -Count Bertrich, in the full armour he had worn at the conference, rode -by the side of this strange procession encouraging the bearers by word -and motion of the sword. From out of the wood, like the first flakes of -a snow storm driven by a gale, came bolts from crossbows, the pioneer -shafts falling far short of the walls, but gradually coming nearer as -the bowmen the better estimated the distance. Bertrich waved his sword -at those in the forest, indicating that a closer approach would please -him better, and by and by the bolts began to strike against the walls -and even fall into the courtyard.</p> - -<p>The Black Count, as soon as he was assured that he had to contend with -the things of this world only, took on at once the mien of a true -commander. He ordered up his catapult men, and two stalwart fellows were -speedily at the levers of the engine, working back the flexible arms of -timber which acted as motive power for the huge balls of stone. As the -bolts from the crossbows began to fall here and there on the walls, -Heinrich turned to Rodolph and curtly ordered him to seek another -portion of the castle.</p> - -<p>"I am very well where I am," answered the Emperor. "I wish to see the -result of the attack, and am also anxious to watch your practice with -this engine."</p> - -<p>The Black Count bent a look upon the younger man that was not pleasant -to behold, but before he could speak again the other added hastily:</p> - -<p>"I am wrong, my Lord; I go at once."</p> - -<p>"When you have armour on you, I shall be glad of your company," said -Heinrich, in a tone less truculent than his glance.</p> - -<p>The Emperor, fearing to miss the issue of the fight, did not betake -himself to the armoury to fit a suit to his body, but mounted to his -eyrie on the south tower, where he found the archer watching the -approach of the enemy with great interest. The catapult was at work, but -doing no execution. It seemed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[Pg 238]</a></span> impossible to predict where one of the -huge pieces of rock it flung would alight; some went crashing into the -forest and perhaps had an influence in frightening the crossbow men, -although there was little indication of any such result, for the bolts -came as thickly as ever, and were now so truly aimed that they harassed -the defenders on the walls. The majority of the granite balls, however, -fell to the right of the approaching party and bounded harmlessly down -the hill. Meanwhile the men at the levers worked like demons after each -shot, and so hard was their labour that others had to take their places -after a few rounds. There was no question that if they once succeeded in -getting the range, and dropped a few of the boulders on the procession -they would speedily demoralise it, but those carrying the tree not only -moved forward, but advanced in a zig-zag fashion, that made marksmanship -difficult, even had the cumbrous instrument lent itself to accurate -aiming, which it did not. The Emperor saw at once that Heinrich should -have had several catapults over the gate instead of one, for the -interval after each discharge was quite long enough for great advances -to be made between shots. Also Heinrich was weak in having no men of the -crossbow. This siege had come upon him so suddenly that there had been -scant time for the training or arming of crossbow men, and in his -marauding expeditions he had never needed them. It was also evident that -his men were unaccustomed to catapult work. The castle had never before -been attacked, and although the engines had long been part of the -equipment of the walls, yet had there been no occasion heretofore to use -them. So the Count fought at a grievous disadvantage, and was well aware -of the fact, for he worked like a madman, sometimes even handling the -levers himself, when a man was injured by the flying bolts, or showed -signs of exhaustion. The men themselves, although they worked doggedly -under the eyes of the Count, gave no answering cheer when the besiegers -shouted their exultation at the erratic work of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span> stone-heaver, and -the crossbow brigade now issued from the forest, and boldly planted the -stakes on which their weapons rested in the open, concentrating their -bolts on those who manned the only engine of defence. One valiant -crossbow man, panting for distinction under the eye of a leader who was -quick to recognise bravery, ran with weapon and stake far ahead of those -coming with the battering ram, planted his stake not more than a score -of lance lengths from the gate, and began to prepare for a trial at -close quarters. This so enraged the Black Count that he seized one of -the great spheres of stone, and not waiting to place it in the slow -engine, hoisted it up and poising it for one brief second above his -head, as he stood on the edge of the parapet, flung it with such -accuracy and such tremendous force, that it rolled at great speed -towards the man, who turned and fled in terror, leaving his weapon and -stake behind him, amidst the jeers of his own comrades, and the first -cheer that went up from the garrison.</p> - -<p>"Wait till we get the villains under us at the gate, and we will need no -catapult," roared Heinrich, in a voice of thunder; and indeed, here was -a danger that made the attacking party pause for a moment until urged on -again by their intrepid leader.</p> - -<p>When Rodolph arrived at the top of the tower, the archer looked up at -him with an expression of inquiry, and seemed not too well pleased with -his coming. On the ledge of the stone coping, the Emperor saw arrayed -with nice precision a dozen arrows, all an equal distance apart. The bow -was in Surrey's hand, strung and ready for action, but his jaw dropped -on seeing the Emperor, who gazed at the mathematically arranged display -on the coping with a smile curling his lip.</p> - -<p>"John Surrey," he said, "I trust it was not your intention to molest the -Archbishop's troops without command of your superior officer."</p> - -<p>"Well, my Lord," replied the archer, in a hesitating tone most unusual -with him, "it is difficult<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span> to see so pretty a fight in progress and not -do something to the furthering of it. The Archbishop has a hundred -bowmen, such as they are, while his Darkness does not appear to have -one, if I am not to be allowed to draw string."</p> - -<p>"But we have no quarrel with the Archbishop, John."</p> - -<p>"Indeed, my Lord," answered Surrey, bitterly, "you forgot that, when you -ordered me to bend bow against his two men-at-arms on the hill yonder."</p> - -<p>"True, true, so I did, and right well you acquitted yourself. Can you do -the same from this height?"</p> - -<p>"Can I? My fingers were just getting beyond my control when you came up. -No man could wish better shooting than is here to his hand."</p> - -<p>"We will wait a little and see if they cannot do better with the -catapult. They need some practice, and will never have a finer -opportunity."</p> - -<p>"Look you, my Lord, at the crossbow shooting. Did you ever see the air -so thick and so little damage done? 'Tis a most contemptible instrument, -as I have before averred to you, and now you can see its uselessness for -yourself. A body of English archers would have had the castle taken and -the Count well hanged long ere this."</p> - -<p>"I hardly see how archers alone could scale the battlements, however -expert they might be; but perhaps they project each other over stone -walls attached to their arrows; they do such wonderful things in -England."</p> - -<p>"I make bold to inform you, my Lord, that——"</p> - -<p>"I do not doubt it. Let us watch the fight."</p> - -<p>When the cheer went up that greeted the hurling of the stone, and the -very precipitate flight of the jeopardised crossbow man, the Emperor -turned to the offended and silent archer and said:</p> - -<p>"Now is your time, John. Show them what true marksmanship is, and -remember the eyes of Germany are on you, or presently will be."</p> - -<p>The archer needed no second bidding. Rubbing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span> his right foot on the roof -to make certain against slipping, then standing squarely with feet the -correct distance apart, in a position where the arrows laid out were -ready to his hand, Surrey, with tightly set lips and wrinkled brow, -launched shaft after shaft in marvellously quick succession. The first -man at the butt end of the log on the right hand side fell, pierced in -the neck downwards through the body. The second man on the same side -dropped, then the third, then the fourth, then the fifth. The sixth man -jumped, with a yell of terror, to one side, leaving his place, while the -remainder not understanding what had happened, straining to uphold their -increased burden, at last gave way, and the falling log pinned many of -them to the ground.</p> - -<p>The archer, the frenzy of killing in his eye, a veritable angel of death -on the tower, shouted sharply to the Emperor, as if Rodolph were his -menial, "Scatter more arrows on the coping," and his Majesty promptly -obeyed.</p> - -<p>Into the midst of the now panic-stricken crowd, that a moment before had -so proudly borne aloft the oaken tree, Surrey sped his winged -messengers, each bringing forth a yell of pain or an expiring groan. -Count Bertrich, lashing about him with the flat of his sword, tried to -stay the flight of his men, but without avail.</p> - -<p>"Roll the log from your comrades, you cowardly dogs, and then fly if you -must!" he shouted, but his commands were unheeded.</p> - -<p>"Shoot none of those pinned to the ground," cried the Emperor.</p> - -<p>"Have you ever seen me shoot a helpless man or horse—except -Bertrich's?" cried the insulted archer. "More arrows and less talk."</p> - -<p>"Discipline and respect have both gone for the time being," said Rodolph -to himself, with a chuckle, as he placed arrows from the pile along the -coping. The thought of Bertrich's horse turned the archer's attention to -that thoroughly enraged commander.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span> One arrow glanced from Bertrich's -shoulder, and another struck him squarely on the side of the head, -shattering itself, but dealing a staggering blow to the Count. Bertrich -shook aloft his sword defiantly at the man on the tower, and received a -third arrow in his sleeve which came perilously near to be the undoing -of him.</p> - -<p>"Shoot me that archer on the tower!" he said, to his crossbow men. "Let -one bolt at least among the hundreds you have wasted account for -itself."</p> - -<p>But the order was more easy to give than to obey. The crossbow is not -suited to upward firing, for if a man uses a stake, he must lie down to -shoot at a height. Surrey, however, turned with an exultant laugh -towards those bowmen who had the courage to try conclusions with him, -and pinned three to the earth while the others took to flight leaving -their cumbrous weapons behind them. A moment later the surviving -crossbow men were safe in the forest.</p> - -<p>Count Bertrich, to whom the archer again turned his attention, sprang -from his horse, paying little heed to the shafts, and, going to the tail -end of the log, exerted his great strength, pulling it partly from those -nearest him, who, getting up, sorely bruised as they were, lent a hand -and rolled the log from the others.</p> - -<p>"Stop!" cried the Emperor to the archer, in a tone of voice which left -no doubt that authority had returned to its usual habitation.</p> - -<p>Surrey paused, and turned a sweat-bedewed face towards his master.</p> - -<p>"I am not hurting him," he protested, dolefully, "and it is excellent -practice."</p> - -<p>"You need no practice, John; and the day is triumphantly yours and yours -alone. Never will I believe there lives on this earth a greater bowman, -be he English or the devil himself."</p> - -<p>"Ah," cried the archer, drawing a long breath of deep satisfaction, "if -you could but see Roger Kent. God grant that he is not with yonder crowd -on the plain, or some of us will never set foot out of Thuron."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span></p><p>Black Heinrich stood gazing up at the round tower, an unkempt figure, -after his great but fruitless exertions. Rodolph waved his hand to him, -and leaning over the coping cried:</p> - -<p>"How like you our catapult, my Lord?"</p> - -<p>"In truth it is amazing. Guard the archer well, and see he does not -expose himself. I will burn this clumsy implement and cook our dinners -at the fire. 'Tis all it's fit for."</p> - -<p>"Your men are not in practice. Give it another chance."</p> - -<p>When the log was rolling away, many who were under it lay prone on the -ground, crushed to death. Count Bertrich approached the gate on foot, -his hand upraised, unheeding the catapult which Heinrich kept his men -steadily working, saying that if Bertrich did not give in, he would not -cease battle, being less chivalrous toward a brave enemy than Rodolph -had proved himself.</p> - -<p>"My Lord of Thuron," cried Bertrich, when within hearing distance, -"although there is little chance of harm, we know not what accidents may -arise, so I beg you to stop your practice, as some of my poor fellows, -sorely hurt already, may suffer if I do not formally proclaim our defeat -to you. I have no flag of truce with me, and, therefore, ask you to -overlook informality, and give me the opportunity of conveying away my -dead and wounded."</p> - -<p>"Your request is granted, my Lord," said Heinrich, telling his men to -cease their efforts, "and I hope that to-day's check will not deprive us -of the happiness of meeting you again."</p> - -<p>"From what I have seen of your own military skill, my Lord, we might in -perfect safety camp within lance length of your gate."</p> - -<p>With which interchange of civilities Bertrich strode back to attend to -the removal of those who were injured, while the Black Count, moodily -cursing his catapult, said to his men:</p> - -<p>"Follow me to the north tower. We shall see if the engine there is no -surer than this one."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[Pg 244]</a></span></p><p>As the Count strode away Rodolph joined him, and Heinrich explained -half apologetically that he was about to test all the other catapults in -the castle.</p> - -<p>"I am going to heave a stone into the Archbishop's big tent, if you have -no objection," said the Count.</p> - -<p>"None in the least," cried the Emperor, "providing the projecting -machine is equally willing."</p> - -<p>A round stone was put in place, when the levers had done their duty, and -Heinrich himself discharged the shot. The formidable projectile -described an arc over the profound valley of the Thaurand, struck fairly -the western end of the huge tent, and disappeared within it, leaving a -ragged hole to attest its passage.</p> - -<p>"Ah, that is better," said the Black Count in a tone of exultant -satisfaction.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[Pg 245]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXIII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE TWO ARCHBISHOPS FALL OUT.</span></h2> - -<p>The great white tent erected on the heights of Bieldenburg was in -reality much larger than it appeared from the battlement of Thuron. It -is doubtful if any who then beheld it, lord or serf, had the slightest -conception of its significance. It was actually the precursor of what is -perhaps the grandest cathedral the world has ever seen; and when, two -years after, Konrad von Hochstaden laid the foundation stone of Cologne -Cathedral, it was the designer of this tent who drew the plans for that -splendid edifice, which was not to be completed for centuries later.</p> - -<p>If the three Archbishops of Cologne, Mayence and Treves, who were also -Electors, could have held honestly together, and could have suppressed -their jealousy of each other, they might have swayed the destinies of -Germany much more surely than they did, for they needed but one more -Elector with them to form a majority of the Electoral College, the -number of whose members was now fixed at seven, a figure which the -Germans were loath to change, because it had come, in this connection, -to have almost a mystical significance. Not only had the Electors power -to nominate whom they pleased as Emperor, but the College had also the -right to depose him, yet the latter privilege was practically nullified -by their fear and hatred of each other, so that afterwards an -acknowledged fool, Charles IV., who was held in such slight respect that -a butcher in Worms had him arrested for not paying his meat bill, so -worked on the mutual dislikes of the Electors that he not<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[Pg 246]</a></span> only reigned -undeposed, in spite of a thousand reasons for being rid of him, but -actually arranged matters so that his weak-minded son was elected to -succeed him, in spite of the determination heretofore held, that no -colour should be given for establishing a precedent that a son might -succeed his father on the German throne.</p> - -<p>The Rhine, flowing from Mayence to Cologne, seemed to have formed a link -between the Archbishops of each place, and they were usually found in -alliance with each other, bonded against powerful Treves, whose -iron-handed master had defied them both and held them at bay outside the -barred gates of Frankfort. The astute Arnold von Isenberg had now -resolved to lure the Archbishop of Cologne from the Archbishop of -Mayence, and thus Treves and Cologne found themselves in alliance -opposite Thuron. What the inducements were is unknown, but as the -Archbishop of Cologne two years later began the great Cathedral, and as -the Archbishop of Treves four years later began the castle of -Stolzenfels on the Rhine, it may be surmised that there were mutual -concessions, and that each was reasonably well guaranteed from -interference by the other. Stolzenfels stands, as near as may be, midway -between Cologne and Mayence, so in fixing a fortress residence for -himself and his successors right on the line of communication between -his two rivals, it must be admitted that the Archbishop of Treves had a -substantial advantage in the bargain. This desertion of his ancient ally -must have somewhat surprised the Archbishop of Mayence, for he doubtless -remembered that twenty-one years before, Frederick von Isenberg, a -relative of the master of Treves, had assassinated on the Cavelsburg, -Engelbert von Berg, Archbishop of Cologne, the predecessor of Konrad von -Hochstaden, one Archbishop reigning between.</p> - -<p>There were also reasons of locality which made an alliance between -Cologne and Treves natural. Mayence up the Rhine, Cologne down the -Rhine, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span> Treves up the Moselle formed the points of a large triangle, -and the latter cities being further from the capital than the other, -were perhaps freer from fear of whatever influence the Court might -possess.</p> - -<p>It had long been the ambition of Cologne to build a Cathedral in keeping -with the growing ambition of the Archbishopric. Both Mayence and Treves -had great Cathedrals. The Cathedral at Mayence had been four times -destroyed by fire within the past two centuries and had arisen like an -ecclesiastical phœnix in greater splendour after each conflagration. -That of Treves had been built on the site of the Roman Basilica, and was -said to rival the ancient edifice in size and magnificence. The -ill-fated Engelbert took the first steps towards the beginning of a -Cathedral in Cologne that would at least equal those of Mayence and -Treves, but his assassination ended the scheme for a time. His successor -did nothing, and now that Konrad von Hochstaden was Archbishop he was -ambitious to link his name with the commencement of an edifice that -would eclipse anything then in existence. It was his intention to employ -the greatest architects in Germany, and when this determination spread -abroad, it caused many artists more or less known to submit plans to -him, but none of these met the Archbishop's entire approbation.</p> - -<p>There came a man from a small village near Cologne who desired to submit -designs for a great church, but being without influence and without -wealth he never succeeded in gaining audience with the princely -Archbishop. He had no gold with which to bribe attendants and no highly -placed friends who could whisper a word for him at the proper moment. -Yet he had one friend who believed in him. Father Ambrose, clerical -secretary to the Archbishop, was a native of the small and insignificant -village of Riehl near Cologne, where the man ambitious to build a -Cathedral lived, and Meister Gerard, the architect, was well known to -him. Ambrose spoke once or twice to Konrad regarding this man, but the -Archbishop was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[Pg 248]</a></span> then busy with the secret envoys from Treves, and while -war is being concocted, churches must stand in abeyance. When these -secret negotiations were completed, Father Ambrose again attempted to -bespeak a hearing for his fellow-townsman. The Archbishop, however, was -not then in the architectural mood, and Ambrose feared his request had -been inopportune.</p> - -<p>"You are a good man, Ambrose," said the Archbishop, "but persistent. Now -let me tell you finally what my purpose is. It is not a village church I -wish to see builded, but a Cathedral that will outshine Imperial Rome -herself. Therefore it is not a village architect I am on the outlook -for, but one who will prove the modern brother of the builder of the -Parthenon in Athens."</p> - -<p>"I know not who built the Parthenon, my Lord," said the monk, with the -dogged pertinacity of the North German, "but it may have been a village -architect, despised by the great of Greece."</p> - -<p>"It may indeed be so. Whence comes this architect of yours?"</p> - -<p>"From Riehl, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"From Riehl, indeed! You might at least have given us a town the size of -Bonn. From Riehl!" The Archbishop threw back his head and laughed.</p> - -<p>"'Can any good come out of Nazareth,' quoth they of old," said the monk, -solemnly. The Archbishop became instantly serious.</p> - -<p>"Ambrose, that smacks strongly of the sacrilegious."</p> - -<p>"I may put it thus then—'A prophet is not without honour but in his own -country, and among his own kin, and in his own house,'" said the monk, -giving the quotation in Latin.</p> - -<p>"You think much of this man?"</p> - -<p>"I do indeed, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Then I will give him a commission, but it shall not be the building of -a Cathedral. I have made compact with my brother of Treves, Arnold von -Isenberg, too long estranged from me. We are more like to find ourselves -engaged in tearing down than in <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span>building up. Let your architect then -design for me a large tent, one that will hold a hundred men while -seated at dinner, or five hundred, with tables removed, to hear Mass. -Let the tent be well proportioned, for in that lies architectural skill. -Its ornamentation will give little scope to a dull man and much to one -who is ingenious. Draw what money is needed from the Treasury for its -construction, and see that the sum be ample, so that your architect may -have fair recompense, and that I may not be ashamed of my tent, for -within it shall the Archbishop of Treves meet me in conference. Have the -tent made ready as soon as possible, for I know not the day I may need -it, and in the building of it let your fellow remember that the beauty -of a tent is that it bears transportation well, being not over bulky, -and that it is erected quickly and stands firmly in a storm."</p> - -<p>Thus came the large tent, made in Cologne, to be placed on the heights -of Bieldenburg over the Moselle, with Meister Gerard himself -superintending its erection.</p> - -<p>The floor had been constructed of flattened timber, bedded in the cement -used for the building of castles, which when hardened was more difficult -to break than the stones it bound together. Over this was laid Eastern -cloths, soft in touch to the foot, and pleasing in colour to the eye. -When the tent was erected, Meister Gerard waited eagerly until the sun -rose next morning, so that he might persuade Ambrose to ask the -Archbishop's criticism of the work now completed that he might thus -obtain an opportunity to speak with the great ecclesiastic, on whom the -architect felt his future depended. Gerard saw the envoys depart on -their mission to the castle, and, early as it was, he also saw Konrad -von Hochstaden, the monk Ambrose by his side, walking to and fro before -the Archbishop's residential tent. The great audience pavilion stood -alone, one end facing the east, as any erection intended for the use of -two Princes of the Church should stand. To the north of it was the -cluster of tents occupied<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[Pg 250]</a></span> by Konrad and the numerous attendants who -waited upon him. To the south was a similar village belonging to the -Archbishop of Treves, each village being at the point nearest the city -from which its master took his title. The trumpets were blaring before -Castle Thuron when Ambrose induced the Archbishop to inspect the new -tent. He stood within it and gazed about him, while the architect, near -by, waited for a word of approval or condemnation.</p> - -<p>"You have given us no ornamentation," said Konrad at last.</p> - -<p>"The ornamentation, my Lord, is largely in its correct proportion; -nevertheless, I have ventured on a touch of colour which may be seen, or -not, at your Lordship's pleasure."</p> - -<p>"Let us behold it, then."</p> - -<p>The architect gave a signal to two workmen who waited at the western end -of the tent, and they, by the pulling of cords, rolled up an inner -screen. There was disclosed a picture wrought in many coloured silks, -deftly sewn together, representing the arms of Cologne and Treves in -juxtaposition. The light shone through the scheme of colour from the -outside, and the richness of the painting stood out with the more -distinctness that the whole interior of the tent was of one subdued hue -of white.</p> - -<p>"That is most ingenious," the Archbishop was pleased to say, to the -architect's gratification. "We will have it remain so."</p> - -<p>"I have another picture on the eastern end as well," said Gerard. "Have -I your Lordship's permission to exhibit that also?"</p> - -<p>"Surely, surely," answered Konrad, whereupon the two workmen walked the -length of the tent, and rolled up another screen similar to the first.</p> - -<p>The result was most startling. The morning sun shone fully upon the -eastern end of the tent and imparted a glory to the rich colouring, -which gave the picture a brilliancy savouring more of Heaven than of -earth. The design represented a twin spired<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span> Cathedral, worked out in -the fullest detail, the spires encrusted with ornament, the beautiful -Gothic door between them being a model of correct proportion, yet of -immense size, the whole representation one on which the eye rested with -ever increasing delight, wonder, and admiration.</p> - -<p>For some moments the Archbishop stood speechless before this marvel in -line and tint. At last he said:</p> - -<p>"It is not possible that such a building actually exists and I have -never heard of it! Where is it?"</p> - -<p>"Only in my brain, my Lord, but it may exist in Cologne, if your -Lordship so wills it."</p> - -<p>"Ah!" The Archbishop drew a long sigh of supreme gratification. "Are you -sure you sold not your soul to the devil for this design, Meister -Gerard."</p> - -<p>"I had hoped your Lordship would attribute the design to a higher -source. It was my belief that inspiration prompted the picture which -made me so persistent in trying to obtain permission from your Lordship -to exhibit to you the drawings. There will be no Cathedral like that of -Cologne in all the rest of the world, if this building is erected."</p> - -<p>"You speak truly. Let down the curtain, and see that it is securely -fastened. The design cannot be seen from without, can it? I did not -notice it as I entered."</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord, unless at night when the tent is lighted, and then only -when the curtain is raised."</p> - -<p>"This curtain is not to be raised. No one must look upon this picture. -Have a new end made for this tent, and put in a drawing of Treves -Cathedral if you like, but this is to be seen by none. Meister Gerard, -you are the architect of Cologne Cathedral. He is to have a room in the -palace, Ambrose, and a fitting allowance: see to it. As soon as another -end is in place, get you back to Cologne and work upon your plans. Men -less inspired will attend to the fighting."</p> - -<p>Therefore was the stay of Meister Gerard, architect of Cologne -Cathedral, of short duration in the neighbourhood of the Moselle.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[Pg 252]</a></span></p><p>The Archbishop was still in the tent when his envoy returned from the -mission to Castle Thuron, and reported there to his master the colloquy -that had taken place between Count Heinrich and Bertrich. Konrad von -Hochstaden frowned as he listened, and for a time pondered deeply in -silence over the information he had received. The architect and the -workmen were gone, and Archbishop, envoy and monk were alone in the -tent.</p> - -<p>"You say that Count Bertrich attacked the castle as you departed. Are -any of my men in the fray?"</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord. I urged Count Bertrich to postpone assault until you were -made acquainted with the result of our conference at the gate, but this -he refused to do. I then ordered your captain to hold aloof until he got -direct command from you."</p> - -<p>"You did well. This Bertrich seems to act much on his own -responsibility; a hot-headed man, whom perhaps his master employs for -that very reason; if successful, the Archbishop may commend, and if -unsuccessful, disclaim. Is there a chance of capturing the castle -through his onslaught?"</p> - -<p>"I could form no opinion thereon, not knowing how rigorously the place -may be defended."</p> - -<p>"I must have some explanation from Arnold von Isenberg before the -question is decided. Ambrose, deliver greetings from me to the -Archbishop of Treves, and acquaint him with the fact that I await him -here, as there are matters of grave import to discuss."</p> - -<p>The monk departed, and presently the Archbishop of Treves entered the -tent attended only by his secretary. After salutations had passed -between the two Princes, Konrad von Hochstaden began the discussion, -going directly to the heart of the matter, as was his fashion, for he -never imitated the round-about method of approaching a subject that so -much commended itself to his more subtle colleague.</p> - -<p>"I am informed that Count Bertrich has attacked the castle, and is at -present engaged in its reduction,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span> and this without waiting for -co-operation from my forces."</p> - -<p>"If he has done so," replied Arnold suavely, "he has most gravely outrun -his instructions."</p> - -<p>"He furthermore stated to the Count of Thuron that you had certain -powers granted you by the Emperor Rodolph. What is the nature of those -powers?"</p> - -<p>"In that also is Count Bertrich wrong. I have never so much as seen the -Emperor Rodolph."</p> - -<p>"You may, nevertheless, have had communication with him."</p> - -<p>"I have had no communication with him."</p> - -<p>"It seems strange that such a claim should have been put forward on your -behalf by your own envoy."</p> - -<p>"I cannot account for it. Bertrich has not yet returned, but when he -does, I shall ask him for an explanation, and that in your presence. He -is a turbulent man, and a good fighter, but difficult to restrain. One -has to work with the tools that come to one's hands, and often the -service is ill-rendered, as seems to have been the case in this -instance."</p> - -<p>As the Archbishop ceased speaking there arose cheer after cheer from -Castle Thuron, which caused all present to listen intently, and for a -short time nothing further was said. It was his Lordship of Cologne who -first broke silence.</p> - -<p>"Those cries are too near at hand to betoken victory for Count Bertrich. -Perhaps it may be well to send him reinforcements."</p> - -<p>"No," said Treves. "This action has been begun without my sanction, and -Bertrich must conduct it as best he can. He has the demerit of being -over-confident, and a check, while not affecting the final result, may -make him the easier to reason with, and prevent the recurrence of such -hasty unauthorised action."</p> - -<p>"You take it coolly. I confess I would learn with some impatience that -my troops were being over-borne, and my first impulse would be to send -assistance."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[Pg 254]</a></span></p><p>"Your action would be natural and creditable to you, but there is more -at stake than the issue of a mêlée. I find myself unexpectedly put on -the defensive, and have no reply to make beyond giving you my simple -word. I know no more than you do what has happened, and have had, as -yet, no account of the parley with the occupier of Thuron. It is -necessary there should be complete confidence between you and me, and I -regret that in the very beginning of our united action, suspicion should -be engendered in your mind. If Bertrich captures Thuron, he mistakes me -much if he thinks that the bringing thither of the Black Count will -compensate for the shadow he has cast on my good faith with you. -Therefore I propose to await his coming, and I shall be most gratified -to have you question him before he has had word with me, either in my -presence, or in my absence, as best pleases you."</p> - -<p>The candour of Arnold von Isenberg made an evident impression on his -suspicious colleague, who said after a pause:</p> - -<p>"Yes, there must be confidence or our united action will be futile. -There are our arms, side by side, on the end of this tent, facing the -stronghold which we expect to reduce. Our several motives should be as -plainly in sight to each other, which is my excuse for speaking thus -openly to you, rather than cherishing secret distrust."</p> - -<p>The sentence was strangely interrupted. The cheering had for some time -ceased, and now through the arms of Treves, blazoned on the wall, there -came, with a sound of tearing cloth, the huge round stone shot from the -catapult. It fell with a resounding crash on the floor and rolled -between the two Electors, who both started back with dismay on their -faces. The silk and canvas hung in tatters, and showed beyond a bit of -the blue and peaceful sky. The Archbishop of Cologne devoutly crossed -himself, but his comrade of Treves looked alternately at the rent, and -at the great missile that caused it, like one stupefied.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span></p><p>"If I believed in portents," said the Archbishop of Cologne in the -uncertain voice of one who did so believe, "that might have seemed an -unlucky omen."</p> - -<p>The Lord of Treves, recovering himself, shrugged his shoulders.</p> - -<p>"It is but a chance shot, and the rending of a bit of painted cloth. I -shall send flag of truce to Heinrich and ask him to deal us no more of -these pleasant surprises. If he refuses, then must our encampment be -removed further from the castle, while we shall place some catapults -here and return his favours to him, so I have little doubt he will -consent to leave us unmolested."</p> - -<p>As he finished speaking there entered to them Count Bertrich, his face -flushed with anger, but his demeanour in a measure crestfallen. He bowed -to each Prince of the Church, and stood there silent, wincing under the -lowering indignant gaze bestowed on him by his imperious master.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[Pg 256]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXIV.</span> <span class="smaller">COUNT BERTRICH EXPLAINS HIS FAILURE.</span></h2> - -<p>The two Archbishops looked at one another as if each waited for his -colleague to begin.</p> - -<p>"Will you question Count Bertrich, my Lord?" said Treves, at last.</p> - -<p>"No. He has represented you, and should account to you. As I have your -permission to note his replies, I shall put question when I have heard -what he has to say, if further examination seems necessary."</p> - -<p>"You went on a diplomatic mission," began Treves, very slowly to his -follower; "am I correct in surmising that you return from a battle?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Is it true that you began this attack notwithstanding the protest of my -ally's representative?"</p> - -<p>"It is, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"In pursuance of instructions previously given by me?"</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord; I had no instructions from you to offer battle, but I knew -it was your intention to fight, if Heinrich refused to surrender. He did -so refuse, and I took it upon myself to begin."</p> - -<p>"What was the outcome?"</p> - -<p>"I was defeated, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Have you lost any men?"</p> - -<p>"Something over a dozen, and under a score. They were killed by the -archer I told you of, just on the point of victory. We would have had -the castle otherwise."</p> - -<p>"You return, then, a defeated man, having insulted your master's ally by -refusing to listen to his counsel, your followers are slain, and you -admit having acted<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[Pg 257]</a></span> without orders. What have you to say in excuse, -Count Bertrich?"</p> - -<p>"There is nothing to say. I stand here to take the brunt of my acts, and -to endure what punishment is inflicted upon me. A fighting man makes -mistakes, and must bear the issue of them."</p> - -<p>"Yet, what I have chronicled is not the most serious of your offences. -It seems hardly credible that you should have said such a thing, but I -am told you boasted to Heinrich that the Emperor had bestowed certain -authority on me. Made you any such statement, and if so, what -explanation have you to offer?"</p> - -<p>"I out-lied the villain, that was all?"</p> - -<p>"To whom do you refer when you speak of the villain?"</p> - -<p>"To the black thief of Thuron. Perhaps I should have admitted two -villains, myself being the other. He said that he would surrender the -castle if you had authority from the Emperor. I knew he was lying, and -would surrender to none, so I said you had such authority."</p> - -<p>"What grounds had you for making such statement?"</p> - -<p>"No grounds whatever, my Lord. It was merely a case of two liars -meeting, one on horseback, the other on the walls of Thuron."</p> - -<p>Notwithstanding the seriousness of the occasion, a slight smile -disturbed the severe lips of the questioner, and a more kindly light -came into his eyes. He was shrewd enough to see that the blunt and -prompt outspokenness of the Count served his purpose better than the -answers of a more diplomatic man would have done. There was never a -moment's pause between question and reply, nor was there any evidence on -the part of Bertrich of an endeavour to discover what his master wished -him to say. Any sign of an understanding between the two, any hesitation -on Bertrich's part in answering, might have added to the apprehensions -of Konrad von Hochstaden. But the dullest could not help seeing that -here stood a brave<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[Pg 258]</a></span> unscrupulous man who knew he had done wrong, yet who -was not afraid to take upon himself all the consequences, attempting -little excuse for his conduct. The Lord of Treves turned to the Lord of -Cologne. "Have you any question to ask?" he said.</p> - -<p>"Not one. I have nothing to say except to beg of you not to visit any -resentment you may feel upon Count Bertrich, who is a brave soldier, if -an unskillful liar. Indeed I am not sure but the Count has done us both -a service in bringing to an issue this matter, which, to our detriment, -might have dragged on longer than would have been convenient. The Black -Count seems to possess some skill in diplomacy, which I did not give him -credit for, and it was probably his intention to keep us parleying with -him until he was better prepared to receive us. All that now remains for -us to do is to plan a comprehensive attack on the castle with our whole -force, which will be immediately successful. Your archer can do little -when confronted by an army, for, as I understand it, there is but one -archer in the castle. Then we will take the Black Count and the other -prisoners with us to Treves in a few days, and there pass judgment upon -him, for I think it better that such trial should take place under your -jurisdiction than under mine, Heinrich being your vassal, and he seems -to show a preference for having all transactions done in strict -accordance with the feudal law, which is but just and proper. He may -then appeal to the Emperor—if he can find his wandering Majesty."</p> - -<p>"I entirely agree with your argument," replied Treves; and turning to -Count Bertrich, he continued, "In deference to what has been urged on -your behalf by his Lordship of Cologne, I shall say nothing further in -regard to your conduct, beyond breathing a fervent hope that you will -not so offend again. Take or send a flag of truce to Thuron gates, and -ask the Black Count to respect this camp. Tell him that if he will not -so arrange, he will merely put us to the trouble of moving back our -tents, and placing catapults here<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[Pg 259]</a></span> instead. If he molest us not, we -shall take no offensive measures against him from this quarter. This -piece of rock has just been hurled from the castle through the tent, and -it came dangerously near being the death of some of us."</p> - -<p>"By the gods, then," cried Count Bertrich, "Heinrich has greatly -improved his catapult practice in very short time."</p> - -<p>"We have no desire to be his targets, so make the arrangement with him -if you can."</p> - -<p>"My Lord, if I may venture the suggestion, it were better to have no -further traffic with the Black Count, for I doubt if he will keep his -word, even if he gave it. But besides that, this is the only point from -which a catapult can be of service against the castle. Placed here, -half-a-dozen engines, energetically worked, might fill his courtyard for -him. I strongly urge you to remove the tents and fix catapults in their -places."</p> - -<p>"Count Bertrich," said Arnold, harshly, gazing coldly upon him, "this -morning's excursion has led you into delusions not yet cleared away, I -fear. This campaign is to be conducted by the Archbishop of Cologne and -myself. We desire no suggestions from you, but very prompt obedience. -You have heard the order, transmit it to one of your officers, for I -distrust your own powers as faithful envoy. When he reports the result -of his conversation with Count Heinrich to you, you will then, perhaps, -be good enough to bring the tidings to me."</p> - -<p>Count Bertrich reddened angrily, kept silence, bowed to the two -dignitaries and withdrew.</p> - -<p>"Nevertheless," he muttered to himself as he strode away, "it is folly -to waste the best point of attack for the convenience of two -Archbishops. Heinrich is no such fool as not to jump at such a senseless -proposal."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[Pg 260]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXV.</span> <span class="smaller">THE SECOND ASSAULT ON THE CASTLE.</span></h2> - -<p>The swarthy Heinrich, summoned once again by bugle blast to the gate top -of the castle, seeing there a man with white flag, heard with amazement -that the high and honourable Archbishops did not wish to be incommoded -by his catapult practice and the incoming inconvenience of the lumps of -stone, and were, therefore, willing themselves to forego the bombarding -of the castle from that point, if he would promise not to fling rounded -granite again into the deliberations of the mighty Lords aforesaid. -Heinrich, casting a glance over his shoulder at the heights of -Bieldenburg, scarcely believing that men pretending knowledge of war and -siege would so easily forego so great an opportunity as the heights -afforded them for the annoyance of the castle, not to mention the -destruction which might be caused by the falling of stone on the roofs -inside the walls, readily gave his consent to put the catapult of the -north tower out of action—a promise which he duly kept in the letter, -if not quite in the spirit, as will be seen when this history has -somewhat farther extended itself.</p> - -<p>So great, however, was his distrust of humanity in general, and the -Archbishops in particular, that he did not remove his catapult from the -north tower to some part of the battlements where it could make its -influence felt on the invaders, but kept it there idle, expecting that -their Lordships would, when they came to realise the advantages of the -situation, forthwith break their word, which, it is pleasant to record, -they never did. The incident of the white flag and its mission -encouraged Heinrich mightily, for small as<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[Pg 261]</a></span> was his respect for his -assailants before, it was less now. They might easily have shifted their -tents farther back, while he could not remove the castle, nor eliminate -the Bieldenburg, and thus they possessed a notable natural advantage -over him which they had recklessly bargained away, getting practically -nothing in exchange. The Black Count walked up and down gleefully -rubbing his hands together, communing with himself, for he was not a man -to run and share his satisfaction with another. This was but the first -day of the siege, yet he had enjoyed a victory in diplomacy, a victory -in battle and a victory in bargaining, and in pluming himself thereon he -quite overlooked the fact, as mankind is prone to do, that in none of -the three cases was the merit due to himself, but to the actions of -others.</p> - -<p>There were to be no more pleasant breakfasts on the top of the south -tower, it being within the range of possibility that a crossbow bolt -might find its way thither, so the two ladies of the castle could not be -permitted to run the chance of such an eventuality. Heinrich, however, -beginning at that late day to show some human interest in his family, -arranged that they should eat together in the great hall. Here he took -the head of the table, with his wife and Tekla on one side, while -Rodolph occupied a seat on the other. The archer had proved himself no -less expert with cooking utensils than with the bow, and on the promise -of an extra penny a day, willingly prepared their meals, which were -carried in by two men-at-arms, who proved, at first, clumsy waiters -compared with the neat and deft-handed Hilda. These meals, however, were -anything but cheerful functions, for the Count and his wife rarely broke -silence, and although some conversation passed between Rodolph and -Tekla, it was overshadowed by the continual gloom that sat on the brow -of their taciturn host.</p> - -<p>Watch was set for the night, as evening fell once more upon the valley, -and again the hundreds of camp fires glowed in the darkness, while up -from the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[Pg 262]</a></span> tented plain, in the still air, came the singing of familiar -songs, deep-throated bass mingling with soprano and tenor, the harmony -mellowed by distance, sounding sweet in the ears of the beleaguered. The -songs for the most part were those the Crusade had brought forth, and -the words, while often warlike, even more frequently told of Christ and -his influence on the world. They were the songs which had stirred the -sentiment of the nation and had caused so many to go forth to battle for -the rescue of the true sepulchre from infidel hands. Militant marching -tunes mingled with other sadder strains which mourned the nonreturn of -friends from the Death Plains of the crimson East.</p> - -<p>In the morning the circling army was early astir, displaying an energy -not less remarkable than it had exhibited on the previous day. It was -evident that an attack of some kind was contemplated, and those within -the castle had not long to wait before the design was disclosed. A line -of men, probably numbering a thousand, was drawn up at the foot of the -hill extending between the village of Alken and the castle, from the -north of the Thaurand valley far towards the west. The warriors stood -about, or sat down, or sprawled at full length on the ground, as suited -each soldier's fancy, and apparently waited the word of command which -their officers, standing on the alert, would give when some signal was -shown or sounded. The few sentinels on watch along the eastern wall of -the castle gave warning that a like company of men was crawling up the -steep slopes of the Thaurand through the forest, but little heed was -given to them, as the eastern sides of the castle were so high that no -man could easily win to the top with any ladder the besiegers might -construct, and if they attempted such scaling, the guards at the top -would have no difficulty in dislodging the ladders with their pikes and -lances. The line near Alken rested out of reach of catapult-stones, but -in a measure only. Although the catapult which Heinrich at once set in -operation, could not<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[Pg 263]</a></span> hurl a stone directly on their line, yet the balls -of granite rolled down the hill with irresistible force, and while the -men were inclined at first to hail these missiles with shouts of -merriment, dancing this way and that to avoid them, several standing -with legs widespread allowing the projectiles to pass between their -feet, yet now and then a hurling stone would take an unexpected leap in -the air and double up a man, whose laughter was heard no more. After -some moments of eruptive activity on the part of the castle the soldiers -were compelled to treat the efforts of the enemy with respect, while the -officers moved their men in extended order, so decreasing the danger -from the catapults.</p> - -<p>Presently there emerged from the forest, in front of the gate, twoscore -or more of men in complete armour. They advanced to the great oaken log -which had proved so disastrous to their comrades the day before. -Crossbow bolts now flew again from the wood, but a wholesome fear of the -archer on the tower kept the bowmen from showing themselves. The men in -armour with some difficulty lifted the heavy log to their shoulders, and -as they advanced towards the gate, Surrey's arrows glancing -ineffectually from their protected bodies, a bugle call rang out over -the valley. Instantly the men at the bottom of the hill gave a great -cheer and charged up the slope, treading down the vines, while others -behind them carried scaling ladders of a length suitable for the long -low front of Thuron. Those at the catapults now worked like madmen, and -their efforts told heavily on the advancing army, whose movement, -laborious because of the steepness of the hill, the feet of the men -entangled in the tenacious, trailing vines, was once or twice checked in -the ascent, but they always rallied with a cheer, under the -encouragement of their officers, and set their faces to the task before -them with renewed energy.</p> - -<p>The archer on the tower desisted from his fruitless efforts against the -men in armour, and now turned his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[Pg 264]</a></span> attention to the unprotected horde -climbing the hill, and although every arrow did execution, the stormers -were in such multitude that his skill had no effect in checking the -advance.</p> - -<p>The Black Count strode from catapult to catapult, alternately cursing -and encouraging the workers. Rodolph, now in full armour, commanded a -body of men who stood on the battlements with axes on their shoulders, -ready to spring forward when ladders were planted. The twoscore with -their battering ram threw down their bulky burden at the gate, and -endeavoured to put it to its use, but it was soon evident they could not -hold the position they had won. Besides, they were unaccustomed to the -weight and awkwardness of armour and made little headway with their -battery. Their heads being enclosed in iron—for if they had shown an -inch of their faces the archer would certainly not have turned -discouraged from them—prevented their hearing the words of command, and -they seemed incapable of swinging the log with rhythmic motion. Count -Bertrich, on his horse, his visor up in spite of the archer, roared -orders that were not obeyed, because unheard, and in his frenzy the -Count seemed about to ride down his own followers, while loudly cursing -their clumsy stupidity. But worse than this was the rain of stones which -even armour could not withstand. The Black Count, summoning his most -stalwart followers, hurled down on the men beneath them the huge granite -spheres, acting for the time as their own catapults. The machine itself -did better execution than it had accomplished the day before, as its -workers had now learned its peculiarities. The oak log gave infrequent -feeble blows against the strong gate, but one after another of its -carriers were felled by the stones, then the log itself proved too heavy -for its thinned supporters, and so came to the ground, whereupon those -who remained turned and fled for shelter in the forest, all of them -sweating in the unaccustomed iron cases in which they found themselves: -some falling prone on the ground<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[Pg 265]</a></span> through heat and exhaustion, not -knowing how to unloose their headpieces to get a breath of fresh air.</p> - -<p>Bertrich wasted no further effort on them, but called his crossbow -brigade out of the wood to advance and harass those on the walls while -the scaling ladders were being put into use. They came out timorously -with an eye on the tower rather than on the direction of their bolts. -Here, at last, was Surrey's opportunity. His hatred of a crossbow man as -a cumberer of the earth lent strength to his aim, and his anger at being -baffled by those in armour made the game he was now playing doubly -enjoyable. He raised a Saxon yell, heard far and wide over hill and -dale.</p> - -<p>"Oh, here you are at last!" he cried. "Come along with your ox-bows and -hay ricks."</p> - -<p>When half-a-dozen had fallen under the whizzing, almost invisible, -shafts that so quickly succeeded each other, the ranks of the crossbow -men wavered and broke, every man of them getting under cover as speedily -as he could.</p> - -<p>Those on the western wall under Rodolph's command were now having all -they could do. The hill climbers, although somewhat out of breath with -their hurried ascent, swarmed in such numbers at the foot of the walls, -that for a time their repulse seemed almost hopeless. Each of the -attacking soldiers carried, wound round his waist, a rope tied at one -end to a piece of timber three or four feet long. This billet of wood -they flung over the parapet, dragging instantly on the attached rope. -Sometimes the billet came down on them again, but more often it caught -and held in the machicolations of the parapet, and then the soldier, -setting his feet against the stone wall, climbed nimbly up the rope, -usually to get knocked on the head with a battle-axe when he appeared at -the top, but while many went thus down again, others obtained a -precarious footing and fought fiercely until they fell backwards over -the parapet.</p> - -<p>Rodolph saw that the moment three or four of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[Pg 266]</a></span> enemy made good their -stand at any one part of the wall, their comrades would swarm up at that -point and the castle would be taken, for the besiegers were so numerous -they might speedily overpower the little garrison. He gave the word to -cut the ropes whether the ascending man got foothold or not. The -defenders, in the fury of the battle, were paying more attention to the -splitting of skulls than the destroying of the means of ascent, often -leaving a rope dangling where another than its original owner might come -up. After this command the battle-axes clove each rope at its junction -with the wooden billet, and so destroyed its usefulness, for there was -no time in the mêlée to retie the cord to other billets, even if other -billets were to hand. When at last the ladders came, the fight waxed -more fierce. Here Rodolph took pattern by the Black Count, and gave -command to the defenders to hold catapult stones in readiness and wait -till two or three men were following each other up a ladder, then hurl -granite on the foremost, who in his fall brought down his comrades with -him. In each case when this was accomplished the men on the walls were -instructed to rush forward, pull up the ladder and throw it inside the -courtyard. In this way most of the ladders had been taken before the -attacking force rightly estimated their loss, or indeed noticed it in -the exciting conflict which was going forward, and with each capture the -danger to the castle grew less. Black Heinrich looked grimly on, taking -little part in the defence now that the attack on the gate had been -abandoned, but once when, in spite of all efforts of the defenders, four -ladders had been placed simultaneously together and half-a-dozen men -succeeded in mounting the battlements, the Count sprang forward and -grasping one after another of the invaders, flung them, head over heels, -through the air in such quick succession, and with such incredible -force, that most of them rolled well nigh into the village of Alken -before they came to rest on the hillside. The raiders gradually became -discouraged, but<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[Pg 267]</a></span> were buoyed up by the hope that other points of attack -might be more favoured by fate than theirs, else the retreat would have -sounded from the bugle. But suddenly a riderless horse came galloping -round a corner from the gate, and the officers recognised the animal -from its trappings. Like wildfire spread the rumour, "Count Bertrich is -slain," then all heart departed from the attack, and a wild exultant -cheer rose from those in the castle. The retreat down the hill became a -panic-stricken flight, which the catapults, now in activity again, -accelerated.</p> - -<p>"Show your white flag!" roared Heinrich, striding up and down the -battlements, intoxicated with his triumph, and waving hands above his -head like a madman. "Show your white flag; you surely were not foolish -enough to attack without it."</p> - -<p>The white flag presently did appear coming up from Alken, and the -request was made that they be allowed to bear away their dead and -wounded. Then at last the active engines ceased and the tired men sat on -beams and parapet, drawing sleeves across their sweating brows.</p> - -<p>The foot of the walls presented an appalling spectacle. There was a -windrow of dead and wounded, as if the poor wrecked human beings had -been some sort of wingless moths who had flung themselves against these -adamant walls, and had paid the last penalty of their rashness. Parts of -broken ladders lay mingled with the slain, together with the round lumps -of stone which had been their undoing.</p> - -<p>"Is it true that Count Bertrich has been slain?" asked Rodolph of -Heinrich, when the latter had assumed his customary calm.</p> - -<p>"I know nothing of it. Here is the archer who was on the tower; he may -be able to tell us."</p> - -<p>"Indeed," said Surrey, "I fear it is not true, for I had no fair shot at -him. It was not my intention to have killed him so early in the game, -but he must needs insult me, so I let fly at him."</p> - -<p>"How did he insult you?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[Pg 268]</a></span></p><p>"He raved at the cautious crossbow men, telling them that if they did -not come out from the wood they were cowards. Now it is not fair to call -a man a coward who fears my bow, and that expression I took as an -insult. He is a wise man and not a coward who betakes himself to the -wood when my arrows are abroad."</p> - -<p>"I can bear witness to the truth of that," said the Black Count.</p> - -<p>"I therefore loosed arrow at his slanderous mouth, but he turned his -face just at the moment, and although I unhorsed him and he lay still -enough till they dragged him away, I have my doubts regarding his -death."</p> - -<p>During all the rest of that stirring day soldiers were busy carrying -their dead and wounded comrades down the steep hill to the village, and -the white flag flew until darkness blotted it out.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[Pg 269]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXVI.</span> <span class="smaller">AN ILLUMINATED NIGHT ATTACK ON THURON.</span></h2> - -<p>On the following morning there were no signs of activity in the camp, as -the sentries on the castle walls gazed about them in the early dawn.</p> - -<p>Heinrich thought that after a defeat so overwhelming the Archbishops -would strike tent and hie themselves back to their respective cities, -there to resume the religious duties which had been interrupted by the -martial bugle blast, but Rodolph laboured under no such delusion. He -said the defeat made a prolonged siege inevitable; that the feudal lords -could not afford to turn their backs upon a vassal who had thus repulsed -them, or their prestige in the land would be gone forever. And it was -soon evident that, although there was no activity in the camp, neither -was there any sign of departure. It was learned from those who came to -make further search for the missing, that Count Bertrich lay grievously -ill of his wound, and if he recovered there would be another scar on his -already unattractive face, but hope was held that he might live, as he -was being tenderly cared for in his own tent next to that of the -Archbishop of Treves himself. Rodolph acquainted the archer with the -condition of his high-born foe, and Surrey received the news with -subdued dejection.</p> - -<p>"I had no fair chance," he said, sadly. "A man on a prancing horse is -ever a difficult mark, but when he is encased in armour with only his -face showing, and then unexpectedly turns his head just as arrow leaves -string, death, however merited, can hardly be looked for."</p> - -<p>The archer spent most of his time on the tower<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[Pg 270]</a></span> top, industriously -making arrows, and attended assiduously by his menial, who had conceived -a strong attachment to him, chiefly through the medium of vigorous kicks -and blows which John somewhat lavishly bestowed, hoping thus, as he -said, to make a man of him.</p> - -<p>"You may have another opportunity of giving Count Bertrich a taste of -your skill," said Rodolph, "for I doubt if the siege is yet near its -conclusion. Indeed that we still hold the castle is due most of all to -you."</p> - -<p>"We hold the castle through the mercy of Providence alone," said the -archer, gloomily, uninfluenced by his master's praise.</p> - -<p>"Through that of course," remarked Rodolph, "but also in a measure -through our own hard blows and your accurate marksmanship."</p> - -<p>"I am saying nothing against the valour of the garrison, my Lord. What I -mean is, that if Providence had led my friend Roger Kent into the camp -of the enemy, as I supposed was probable, there would have been little -use of our longer holding out, for he could have stood in Alken or even -further away and picked us off one by one as pleased him. No man would -dare show face above parapet. I would rather undertake to conquer Thuron -with Roger Kent alone than with all the army of the Archbishops."</p> - -<p>"Let us be thankful therefore that he is elsewhere. You think then he is -not with the Archbishop?"</p> - -<p>"He has probably forgotten all about my going to Treves," replied the -archer, sorrowfully. "Roger is an absent-minded man, and a dreamer. He -is likely sitting on the bank of some stream, poetry making and watching -the drying of the papyrus he fabricates, for unless hunger overcame him -he would never think of accepting service with any, or of drawing bow. -It was his hope that some good peasant would take charge of him, and -feed him, allowing him to exchange poetry for what provender and lodging -he had, but he has never found such, for he wants a hut in a -<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[Pg 271]</a></span>picturesque spot, by a lake or near a waterfall, with hills or -mountains round about, where he may make papyrus and poetry."</p> - -<p>"What is the nature of this papyrus he manufactures, and what is its -purpose?" asked the Emperor.</p> - -<p>"He says the Egyptians produced it in ancient times. He macerates -certain reeds and grasses together between two stones, in flowing water, -and when he has compounded a substance like porridge, he spreads it -thinly on a flat stone which lies in the sun. It dries very white, and -is of light texture, like cloth, only more easily torn, and will last -you a long time if kept dry, but in water it dissolves again. He has -thus lost much good poetry, through lying in trenches during heavy -rains, the which causes him to dislike campaigns where the tents are -few. On his papyrus he indites with a sharp stylus his poems, and for -safe keeping places the sheets under his doublet when he sleeps; but he -rises, after a rainy night, encased in pulp, which he takes from various -parts of his apparel with tender care, attempting to dry the same again -in the sun. He tells me that even when successful in drying the -substance, the poetry is gone. Thus does he yearn for a warm hut of his -own, or any one's for that matter, who will let him use it. But there is -small chance of a peasant taking him up; few of them care for poetry, -and he never can save the money he earns; he was always a fool in that -respect, differing greatly from me; he gives away his money to the first -beggar that comes with a pitiful story."</p> - -<p>"I like your friend Roger from what you tell me of him, and if I ever -come near to him, God granting he has not bow in hand, I shall be -pleased to furnish him the hut he craves, if we can find one with stream -and waterfall in conjunction."</p> - -<p>"What! and thus rob Germany of the finest archer that ever bent yew -wood? Indeed, it is my hope that he shall find no such patron, but that -we may both take service under one commander, fighting side by side in -future battles, or perhaps instructing others in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[Pg 272]</a></span> the use of the long -bow, and thus raising a company that will be of use in German warfare!"</p> - -<p>As day by day passed without motion in the camp, it came to be believed -in the castle that no further attack was contemplated until Bertrich had -so far recovered as to lead it. He alone knew the conformation of the -fortress, as he alone had been inside Thuron, so it was probable that -his knowledge was regarded by the Archbishop as necessary to an -attacking force.</p> - -<p>The nights were now moonless, and although watch was strictly kept, the -first intimation the garrison had of renewed hostilities was the -resounding crash of the battering ram against the closed gate. The Black -Count was instantly on the rampart above the gate with his stone -heavers, launching out huge boulders into the darkness, and calling in -his stentorian voice for torches, which seemed slow in coming. These -lighted brands were flung down on the besiegers, to be trampled out by -them at once, while the stone throwers, taking advantage of the -momentary gleams of light, thundered down granite on the heads of the -enemy. The gate did not yield as speedily as the assaulters expected, -and they, not knowing it was barricaded behind by tons of grain in -sacks, redoubled their efforts to gain quick entrance, for they were -unarmoured, and knew their existence depended on a sudden forcing of the -portal.</p> - -<p>Rodolph, leaving the defence of the gate entirely to the Black Count, -summoned his men to the long west battlement, fearing an attack there -with the ladders, for he could not conceal from himself the fact that -had the day attack been more intelligently conducted, with a -concentration of forces at any one point along the lengthy wall, it -would have come perilously near to success. He ordered a lavish supply -of unlit torches, which he placed in position along the outer edge of -the parapet, for their only hope lay in having plenty of light to deal -successfully with an onslaught. To light the torches prematurely would -be to lay the defenders open to a flight of bolts from crossbows,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[Pg 273]</a></span> were -a brigade of bowmen in attendance, as was extremely probable.</p> - -<p>Shortly after the first sounds of battering at the gate aroused the -citadel, the attack on the west front began. The besiegers apparently -had not come up the hill as before, but swarmed round the corner of the -castle from the level ground opposite the entrance, and at first Rodolph -thought the assault on the gate had been abandoned and the attacking -party had come to try their fortunes against the comparatively low wall, -which it was his duty to protect, but the blows of oak on oak still -resounded, and now he saw he was face to face with a general attack -similar to the one they had formerly repulsed in daylight, the enemy -doubtless hoping to profit by the darkness, and perhaps thinking to take -the garrison by surprise.</p> - -<p>In spite of his eagerness and anxiety, the Emperor could not help -pausing for a moment to note the unexpected transformation which took -place in the valley and on all the hillsides round about. As soon as the -cheers from Thuron gave evidence that the attack was known and had been -met, a line of fire seemed to encircle the castle far below and up the -hills. Thousands of torches were lit, and the cheers of their holders -caused Rodolph to expect an instant onslaught by the entire strength of -the Archbishops. This, however, was not the intention, for those bearing -the torches marched and counter-marched in apparently aimless fashion, -weaving a thousand threads of fire into a glowing web that dazzled the -eyes of the onlookers, while cheer after cheer rent the air, as if to -encourage the actual besiegers.</p> - -<p>The amazing illumination had at first the effect intended. It bewildered -those who had to face it, while the assailants, with their backs to the -scintillating brilliancy, were helped rather than disturbed by the -universal glow, which faintly illumined the grey walls before them. -Rodolph had his torches lighted as rapidly as possible, for he knew that -light was absolutely necessary to a successful defence, and the long<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[Pg 274]</a></span> -train of flaming, smoking torches, which were here and there beaten down -by the ends of ladders, suggested an expedient to him. He had ample -help, for the whole force of the castle was now aroused, so he ordered -up his reserves to carry wood and build two bonfires, one at each end of -the stone terrace. With these roaring to the sky, the two great towers -of Thuron stood out in crimson relief, seeming to hang in the air, -resting on nothing, for their bases were hid in the darkness below. -Before the fires blazed out, however, several of the enemy had obtained -footing on the terrace, and fierce hand to hand fights were going on, -the climbers for the most part getting the worst of it, for even when a -man secures his footing on solid stone instead of ladder-round, he is -scarcely on equality with his foe who has had to expend no exertion, -merely waiting there until a head appears.</p> - -<p>When the two fires shot up to the sky the desultory cheering in the -valley gave place to one mighty simultaneous shout of triumph, while -torches were enthusiastically flung in the air. They were quite palpably -under the delusion that the castle had been carried and was already -burning. The fierce yell which came from Thuron was an answer they had -not expected, and now, as being of no further use, the torches below -were extinguished as rapidly as they had been lighted. The great castle -was self-illumined and must have presented a spectacle well worth -viewing from the plain below, as it stood out against the dark sky like -a glowing fortress of molten stone. With the sudden access of light, the -attack on the gate had proved no more practicable than on the two -previous occasions. The archer on the tower again cut down the -unprotected men, and again the attacking party fled panic stricken to -the forest or round to the west front, where matters were going little -better for their comrades.</p> - -<p>The besiegers, with a lively remembrance of their former repulse along -the same wall, became disheartened when they found themselves fighting -in a light<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[Pg 275]</a></span> as strong as that of day. They knew if they did not scale -the walls before the garrison became fully alive to what was taking -place, they would have no further chance after they were discovered. -Again they saw their ladders pulled up when those who climbed them had -been crushed by stones, shattered with battle-axe, or flung backwards by -a lighted torch being thrust in their faces, and now they saw the -ladders thrown on the fires to blaze up and illumine their discomfiture.</p> - -<p>Yet the fight while it lasted had been fiercer than during the previous -attack, and three of Count Heinrich's men had been slain.</p> - -<p>In spite of the victory, which wrought up the Black Count to a pitch of -frenzy, during which he paraded the long terrace between the two fires, -shaking a battle-axe above his head, and roaring defiance to the enemy, -Rodolph saw that if these attacks were continued the castle must -inevitably fall, for the Archbishops had more than a hundred men to -Heinrich's one, and the loss of two or three of the garrison on each -occasion would soon leave the castle without defenders. For the greater -part of the night the Emperor paced the walls, keeping watch with the -regular guard. The fires burned out, and as dawn approached he still -walked up and down with his cloak drawn round him, pondering on the -extraordinary situation, and wondering how it would end. He felt that he -was the Emperor in name only, as indeed many of his predecessors had -been without complaining, so long as they had money to spend and good -wine to drink. Here was war of the most sanguinary nature raging in the -centre of his dominion, his subjects not arrayed against a foreign foe, -but mercilessly slaughtering each other, and if the Emperor cried -"Stop," not even the most humble of the men-at-arms would heed the -command. How to remedy this amazing state of affairs he had not the -least idea. If he proclaimed himself to Heinrich that noble would, as -like as not, clap him into the deepest dungeon of Castle Thuron, and -look about to see what profit might be made of his notable<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[Pg 276]</a></span> prisoner. -Should he approach the Archbishops, a similar fate would probably await -him. He would have given much for an hour's conversation with Baron von -Brunfels, or even for the opportunity of letting his friend know where -he was, but either chance was alike impossible, girt round as he was by -hostile troops. The hill tops were lightening with coming dawn when -Rodolph sought his room in the south tower, and lay down wrapped in his -cloak to a troubled rest, his great problem still unsolved by his -night's vigil.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[Pg 277]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXVII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE TWO YEARS' SIEGE BEGINS.</span></h2> - -<p>What the Emperor feared the Archbishops would do, and what would have -been the proper thing to do from a military standpoint, was what the -warlike prelates did not do. Both were appalled at the loss of life -which had accompanied their efforts to capture Thuron. It is not to be -supposed that a man whose ambition it was to link his name with the -building of the greatest cathedral the world had yet seen, relished the -outlook which promised instead to give him the reputation of a Hannibal -or an Alexander, and that, too, without the compensating fame of a great -conqueror, for the Archbishop of Cologne saw that even if the castle -were captured, the feat would add few laurels to the brow of a commander -at the head of a comparatively overwhelming force. He felt he had been -tricked by his smooth-spoken colleague, who had persuaded him that the -mere appearance of this imposing body of men before the walls of Thuron -would in a manner cause them to imitate the walls of Jericho. In this -suspicion, however, he wronged his brother of Treves, who had not -intentionally misled him, but had actually hoped to prevent bloodshed by -employing a force so palpably irresistible that Heinrich would at once -come to terms. Arnold von Isenberg had no particular objection to the -shedding of blood, and had before now held down his enemies with a -strong hand, but results in this instance had been out of all proportion -to their cost. He had been led, more than he himself cared to admit, by -the impetuosity of his fiery follower, Count Bertrich, who now lay -raving with the fever resulting from his wound. As Arnold<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[Pg 278]</a></span> advanced in -years he was more prone to depend on diplomacy for his victories than on -actual force, but he liked to have the force in the background even if -he did not care to use it.</p> - -<p>There was a stormy scene between the two dignitaries on the morning -after the failure of the night attack. The dormant suspicions of von -Hochstaden were again roused. The assurance that the siege would be a -bloodless one had been so quickly belied, that he now saw in Bertrich's -first impetuous attack a determination to drag the forces of Cologne -into a struggle which Treves shrank from meeting alone, and now the -apparently frank answers of the culprit which at the time had satisfied -him, seemed but the deeper villainy, as having been probably rehearsed -beforehand. Thus the Archbishop of Cologne saw himself the easy dupe of -his crafty co-elector, from whose latent methods he had more than once -suffered, and whose cunning he had always feared.</p> - -<p>"You have deceived me," he cried angrily, when they were in the -conference tent alone together, saving only the presence of their two -secretaries.</p> - -<p>"I do not like your word 'deceived,'" replied von Isenberg, who remained -as calm as the other was agitated, "unless you apply it to me as well. I -have deceived you, perhaps, but I was myself deceived. If you accuse me -of miscalculation, I am willing to admit the truth of the charge."</p> - -<p>"You knew the character of this man Heinrich; I did not. You said we had -but to sit down before the castle, and it was ours. That was not true."</p> - -<p>"I have already admitted that I was mistaken," said Arnold, quietly.</p> - -<p>"You can do nothing but admit it," cried von Hochstaden, hotly; "the -facts disclaim all denial. What I hold is that you knew this before we -came, and have drawn me into a quarrel which is none of mine; that you -have forced on the fighting so that we are now apparently committed to a -course of which I entirely disapprove."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[Pg 279]</a></span></p><p>"I assure you I did not expect to be compelled to fight."</p> - -<p>"That I do not believe."</p> - -<p>"My Lord, you are too angry now to discuss this question as it should be -discussed. You are overwrought, and naturally, at the loss of so many of -your men."</p> - -<p>"I would not give the life of one Rhine man for all the castles on the -Moselle!" exclaimed von Hochstaden, impetuously.</p> - -<p>"I was about to add that I, too, am deeply grieved that your men have -fallen, and also that so many of my own have been killed. I think it -right then that we postpone further discussion until we can approach -this grave situation with minds free from the emotions which now make -reasoning difficult. Are you willing that we leave decision until -to-morrow?"</p> - -<p>"With all my heart. Our talk cannot bring back to life the meanest of -our following. To-morrow you will be unembarrassed by any suggestions -from me."</p> - -<p>"Why, my Lord?"</p> - -<p>"Because the moment I leave this tent I shall give orders to my captains -to gather my men, when we shall together journey to Cologne."</p> - -<p>"Do you hold such determination to be fair to me?"</p> - -<p>"Have you been fair to me? You have deceived me from the first."</p> - -<p>"Twice you have said that, my Lord, and for the second time I give you -my earnest assurance that such is not the case. I counsel you as a -friend not to make the charge the third time."</p> - -<p>"Do you threaten me?"</p> - -<p>"Have you not threatened me with your desertion? If you say you do not -intend to withdraw, then we will lay plans together at a future time."</p> - -<p>"I am determined to return to Cologne."</p> - -<p>"To begin your cathedral?"</p> - -<p>"'Tis of more avail than dashing out the brains of my soldiers against a -Moselle rock."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[Pg 280]</a></span></p><p>"Let me give you good advice in the rearing of it. Build your cathedral -like a fortress. You will need a stronghold presently in Cologne, -whether you need a church or not."</p> - -<p>"From threatening my person you threaten my city."</p> - -<p>"Frankly, I do," replied the Archbishop of Treves, without raising his -voice. "You have hitherto been in some measure the ally of Mayence. I -cannot remember the time when I feared you combined, but it suited me to -separate you. I have done so. I learn that our brother of Mayence is -both enraged and trembling. If you leave Thuron I shall instantly -propose alliance with him, who now thoroughly distrusts you, and he will -gladly join me, for I have never pretended to be his friend, and he has -ever feared me as an enemy. Why did I propose alliance with you?"</p> - -<p>"For your own purposes, as I now know too well."</p> - -<p>"Surely. But what suggested the thought that such an alliance might be -accepted by you? You cannot guess? Well, I will inform you. Because your -ally of Mayence sent secret emissaries to me proposing an alliance with -him. I saw there were differences between you, and instantly resolved to -make an ally of the stronger. Therefore my envoys went to you, while his -were dealing with me in Treves. When my men returned with your consent I -told the envoys from Mayence, with much regret, you had made the first -proposal to me, and that although I had sent to you begging to be -released from our compact, you had refused."</p> - -<p>"Which was a lie."</p> - -<p>"Say rather a whole series of them, my Lord, or call it diplomacy if you -wish to speak politely; but meanwhile do not neglect my advice to build -your cathedral in the form of a fortress, and make it a strong one."</p> - -<p>"How can you expect me to trust you after such a cynical confession?"</p> - -<p>"I do not expect you to trust me. I have dealt<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[Pg 281]</a></span> with strict honesty -towards you from the moment we joined together, yet you have displayed -distrust since the first day. I do not in the least object to that. But -as I cannot have the advantage of confidence I shall turn to the -advantage of perfect frankness. I shall keep to the letter the bargain I -have made with you. You shall keep to the letter the bargain you have -made with me."</p> - -<p>"You mean, then, to attempt to stop my withdrawal?"</p> - -<p>"No. You may withdraw to-morrow if you wish to do so, and my men will -form line and salute you as you pass. Then I shall divide my forces into -groups and attack Thuron night and day until there is not a man left to -defend it. That will not take many days, and it will give time for my -brother of Mayence to meet my victorious army at the junction of the -Rhine and the Moselle, when we will journey amicably together to make -some inquiries regarding the progress of your cathedral at Cologne."</p> - -<p>Konrad von Hochstaden walked the length of the tent several times with -knit brows, turning in his mind the problem that confronted him. Arnold -sat on the bench beside the long table which divided them, his face -impassive and inscrutable. Never during their colloquy had he raised his -voice to a higher key than was necessary to make it distinctly heard. -The two monks sat apart, downcast and silent, helpless spectators of a -quarrel which might have the most momentous consequences.</p> - -<p>At last von Hochstaden stopped in his walk, and stood regarding his ally -with bewildered indecision stamped on his countenance. He had spoken -heretofore in tones alternately tremulous with deep emotion and -quavering with the anger he had tried in vain to suppress.</p> - -<p>"I cannot stand here," he said, "and see my men uselessly slaughtered."</p> - -<p>"With your humanity I am in complete sympathy. It is no pleasure to me -to have soldiers killed, although<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[Pg 282]</a></span> sometimes the killing is necessary. -Were I alone I would, as I have said, throw force after force against -Castle Thuron until it succumbed, but I am acting with you and eager to -come to an understanding that will be satisfactory to you; but you have -made no proposal, only a threat of withdrawal. Now if it is your wish to -take the castle without risking the life of another of your followers, I -stand ready to make such arrangement."</p> - -<p>"Can such arrangement be made?"</p> - -<p>"Without doubt. We have come so suddenly on Count Heinrich that he has -had no opportunity of provisioning his stronghold. The peasants tell my -men that he has taken in nothing that will enable him to withstand a -prolonged siege. We can therefore environ him so closely that in a -comparatively short time hunger will compel him to sue for terms. This -may consume days, but not the lives of men. I stand ready to agree to -such a proposal willingly; in truth I will agree to anything you -suggest, short of your own desertion, or of requiring me to retire -defeated before the Black Man of Thuron."</p> - -<p>"How long, think you, will the siege last?"</p> - -<p>"There is the castle; there are our men. You can answer your question as -well as I. How many men has Heinrich within his fortress? I do not know. -What I do know is, that if no more grain enters the castle, the supply -therein will, in time, be consumed, and then grim famine allies itself -with the two Archbishops—a foe that cannot be fought with bow or -battle-axe. If we resolve to starve him out, then I shall proclaim to my -men that I will hang any who shortens the life of one of his. There will -thus be no more bloodshed, for he dare not sally forth to attack us, and -we will keep bow-shot distance from him. The conditions of the game are -all before us; you can form a conclusion as well as I, and if you prove -in the wrong, I shall not accuse you of cozening me."</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Cologne stood with clouded brow, arms folded across -his breast, ruminating on<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[Pg 283]</a></span> what had been said by the other, who watched -him keenly from under his shaggy eyebrows. At last von Hochstaden spoke, -with the sigh of a man out-generalled.</p> - -<p>"I do not wish to spend the remainder of my days sitting before Thuron."</p> - -<p>"Nor do I. The plan of starving them out is yours, not mine. At least it -is my proposal as an alternative that may please you. With your -co-operation, I would fling force after force against Thuron, and so -reduce it."</p> - -<p>"No, no!" cried the Lord of Cologne, "no more bloodshed. We have had -enough of that."</p> - -<p>"Very well; therefore I modify my desires to meet yours. You may -withdraw as many of your men as are not necessary, retire yourself to -Cologne, and set them, with suitable prayers, to the building of your -cathedral. I will send an equal number of mine to Treves, and with what -remains of our united forces we will surround that thieving scoundrel -with an impregnable band of iron. All that I insist on is that the flags -of Cologne and Treves continue to fly together on this tent, and that we -encircle the castle with our allied troops."</p> - -<p>"Have it as you wish," cried Konrad, sorrowfully. "I defer to your -opinion."</p> - -<p>"Not so, my Lord," said von Isenberg. "It is I who give way to you. But -from this moment the plan is mine as well as yours, and I shall loyally -adhere to our agreement, come good or ill out of it."</p> - -<p>Thus began the celebrated investure of Thuron Castle, which lasted two -years, until famine did indeed spread its black wings over the fortress, -while during that time, historians tell us, the besiegers merrily drank -one thousand gallons of good Moselle wine each day.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[Pg 284]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXVIII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE SECOND ARCHER ANNOUNCES HIMSELF.</span></h2> - -<p>The first problem which the Archbishops set themselves to solve was the -estimating of the exact number of men required to surround the castle -effectually, and keep watch night and day, with proper reliefs. The -cordon was drawn closer round the castle. The axe-men hewed an avenue -through the forest in straight lines, so that no point should be out of -sight of two or more men who constantly paraded these woodland lanes. -The village itself was completely cut off from Thuron, and the living -line extended between the castle and the brook Thaurand, so as to make -the getting of water impossible, the besiegers not knowing the castle -itself possessed an inexhaustible well, and that all within were thus -free from the dreadful danger of thirst. A group of tents was placed at -the river end of the stoned-in passage that descended from the castle to -the Moselle. The besieging line of men ran up the deep valley of the -Thaurand, and so across the steep hill through the forest, and down -again into the valley of the river, where the links of the living chain -joined the line that extended south from the village. The guards were a -few yards apart, and the orders concerning their watch were as strict as -skilled officers could make them, for the Archbishop of Treves had -commanded that a net with meshes so minute that not the smallest fish -could penetrate, should be drawn round the doomed castle, and each -officer knew that neglect would be punished with ruthless severity. The -tents instead of being grouped together were placed along the outside of -this line, so that no guardsman need have far to travel to his rest, nor -any excuse to loiter in coming to his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[Pg 285]</a></span> watch. A circle of fires -surrounded the castle at night, serving the double purpose of giving -light for seeing and heat for cooking.</p> - -<p>Those in the castle witnessed the tightening of the line around them, -and at first thought a new attack was meditated, but as time went on and -no attack was delivered, the true state of affairs began to dawn upon -them. The Emperor was amazed to find so little military skill or pluck -in the opposition camp, but he welcomed the change from activity to -quiescence. He supposed the Archbishops must know how well provisioned -the castle was, for it had been filled in the eye of all the country, -and he had heard Heinrich's order to the peasantry to save themselves by -giving any information they chose to the invaders; he was also cognizant -of the fact that the Black Count had ruled his district with a hand by -no means of the gentlest, so it never occurred to him that the besiegers -had got little news from the people.</p> - -<p>The archer, perhaps, would have rested more contented had he been -permitted to try his skill at long distance bowmanship on the environing -soldiery, but the Emperor thought it best to let sleeping dogs lie, and -bestowed positive instructions upon John Surrey to wing no shaft unless -he saw a determined advance on the part of the enemy. The archer was -most anxious to show how much superior his light instrument was to the -cumbrous catapult, which admittedly could not carry so far as the ring -around the castle, and he pleaded with Rodolph to be allowed to -dispatch, say, half a dozen shafts a day, by way of preventing the -coming of weariness upon the opposing camp. Nothing, he held, was so -demoralising to an army as a feeling of absolute security; and if there -was to be no sallying out against the Archbishops, those within the -castle owed it to the foe, if only from the dictates of common humanity, -to allow a few arrows to descend from tower to tent each day. Rodolph, -however, was proof against all arguments the archer could bring to bear -upon him, and John<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[Pg 286]</a></span> frequently sighed, and even murmured to himself a -wish that he had taken service with the irascible Heinrich rather than -with so peaceably minded a man as Rodolph.</p> - -<p>He consoled himself by sitting in the sun on the top of the southern -tower, with his back against the parapet, busily employed in the making -of arrows, the huge pile beside him bearing witness to his tireless -industry, while many more were stored in his room below, and to the safe -custody of this apartment he took down his day's manufacture each -evening, where they might become seasoned, free from the dampness of the -outside night air. In his occupation he was obsequiously waited upon by -his German dependent, who in despite of the archer's rough treatment of -him, looked up to his master with slavish admiration. Usually Conrad, -now rapidly recovering from his wounds, lay at full length on the warm -roof, saying little but thinking much of the absent Hilda.</p> - -<p>The archer disdained all armour with the exception of a steel cap, which -he wore to ward off battle-axe strokes, should he come into close -quarters with the wielders of that formidable weapon, and this helmet he -kept brightly polished till it shone like silver. It was somewhat hot to -wear in mid-summer, but the head was defended from the warmth of the -sun's rays by a lining of cloth which also made the cap more -comfortable, because more soft, in the wearing. The archer sat thus with -his pile of arrows by his side and the material for their making in -front of him, while his slave crouched near, ready to anticipate his -wants by promptly handing to him knife or scraping flint, or length of -wood, or feather, as the case might require. Surrey's steel cap -projected above the parapet and glistened like a mirror in the sun. He -was droning to himself a Saxon song, and was as well contented with the -world as a warrior may be who is not allowed, at the moment, to scatter -wounds and death among his fellow creatures.</p> - -<p>Suddenly he was startled by a blow on his steel<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[Pg 287]</a></span> helmet, which for an -instant caused him to think some one had struck him sharply, forgetting -that his position made such an act impossible, but this thought had -barely time to flash through his mind when he saw an arrow quivering -against the flag pole in front of him. He looked at it for a moment with -dropped jaw like a man dazed, then as Conrad and the other made motion -to rise he cried gruffly:</p> - -<p>"Lie down!" as though he spoke to a pair of dogs. The two, however, -promptly obeyed.</p> - -<p>"There seems to be an expert archer in the camp as well as in the -castle," said Conrad. John Surrey sat without moving and without -replying, gazing on the arrow which had come to rest in the flag pole. -At last he said to his dependent:</p> - -<p>"Gottlieb, rise cautiously and peer over the battlements, taking care to -show as little of your head as possible, and tell me if you see any one -in the camp who looks as if he had sped a shaft."</p> - -<p>"I see a tall man," began Gottlieb.</p> - -<p>"Yes!" cried the archer.</p> - -<p>"Who stands with his hand shading his eyes, looking up at this tower."</p> - -<p>"Yes, yes."</p> - -<p>"In the fist by his side I think he holds a bow like yours; but the -distance is too great for me to make sure what it is."</p> - -<p>"He has no cross-bow at least."</p> - -<p>"No, it is not a cross-bow."</p> - -<p>"I thought so. No cross-bow could have sent shaft like that. I doubt -also if archer living, save Roger Kent, could have——"</p> - -<p>"He seems to be placing another arrow on the string."</p> - -<p>"Then down, down with you. If he has caught sight of your head you are -doomed."</p> - -<p>An instant later another arrow struck the helmet, glanced over the -tower, and disappeared in the forest beyond.</p> - -<p>"Now come and sit beside me, Gottlieb," said<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[Pg 288]</a></span> Surrey, as he lifted the -helmet gently and moved away his head from beneath it, not shifting the -cap except slightly upwards from its position. "Get under this, and sit -steadily so that the target may not be displaced."</p> - -<p>Having thus crowned his dependent, Surrey crawled to his bow and -selected a well-finished arrow.</p> - -<p>"You are surely not going to use your weapon," said Conrad. "The Lord -Rodolph has forbidden it."</p> - -<p>"He has forbidden it unless I am attacked, and there is the arrow in the -pole to prove attack. Besides, I shoot not to kill."</p> - -<p>With much care Surrey, exposing himself as little as might be, drew bow -and let fly. The tall archer was seen to spring aside, then pause -regardless of his danger, stoop and pick up something which lay at his -feet, examining the object minutely. Surrey also, unthinking of danger, -stood up and watched the other, who, when his examination had been -concluded to his satisfaction, dropped the arrow, which was undoubtedly -what he had picked up, although the distance was too great for the -archer to be sure of that, and, doffing his cap, waved it wildly in the -air. Surrey himself gave utterance to a shout that might have aroused -even the Archbishops on the height, and danced round like one gone mad, -throwing his arms about as if he were an animated windmill.</p> - -<p>"It is Roger! It is Roger!" he cried.</p> - -<p>The Emperor, hearing the tumult, came hurriedly up the stairs, expecting -that an assault was in preparation, and, although relieved to find that -no onslaught was intended, seemed to think the archer's ecstacy more -vociferous than the occasion demanded. John pointed excitedly at his -far-off friend, and said he wished permission to visit him at once, to -learn what had befallen him since last they met.</p> - -<p>"That is impossible," replied Rodolph. "You would be taken prisoner, and -I have no wish to lose so good an archer merely because the opposition -camp has, according to your account, a better one."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[Pg 289]</a></span></p><p>This obvious comment on his proposal dampened the enthusiasm of the -archer, who stood in deep thought regarding wistfully the distant form -of his friend. At last he said:</p> - -<p>"Would it not be possible then for Roger to visit me here in the -castle?"</p> - -<p>"I do not see how that may be accomplished. He cannot come here as our -friend, and he must not come as a spy. If he refused to give information -to his officers when they discovered he had been within the castle, they -would imprison him. If he asked their consent before coming, permission -would be given only because they expected to learn something from him on -his return. We could not receive him even as a deserter, for if -starvation be their game, we have enough mouths to feed as it is. And I -do not suppose he would desert, if he has taken service with the -Archbishop."</p> - -<p>"Alas, no," said Surrey, sadly; "he would no more think of deserting -than would I myself, having once taken fee for the campaign. It is a -blessing that he is a modest man and not given to vaunting his own -skill, in the which he differs somewhat from myself perhaps, and thus -his commander is little likely to learn his usefulness providing Roger -is left to the making of papyrus and poetry, for he alone might subdue -this strong castle. If he were set to it there would be no possibility -of keeping watch or guard, for he could easily kill any man who showed -head above parapet. Not finding me in the ranks of the Archbishop's men, -he must have surmised I was here, for fate has always enlisted us on -opposite sides, and he perhaps recognised the gleam of my helmet in the -sun, and only sent his arrow the more surely to discover my presence, -for there are guards on the battlements below whom he might readily have -slaughtered had there been deadly motive in his aiming."</p> - -<p>"He is about to shoot again," cried Conrad, in alarm.</p> - -<p>All looked towards the archer, and it was evident<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[Pg 290]</a></span> he was preparing -another shaft. Surrey waved at him and shouted a warning, but the -distance was too great for his voice to carry effectually. Roger Kent on -this occasion held the bow above his head and let fly at the arch of -heaven. No one on the tower could mark the flight of the arrow, but they -saw the sender of it stand and gaze upward after it.</p> - -<p>"It is a message of some sort," said Surrey. "Conrad and Gottlieb, get -you down to the room below, as you are unarmoured. It will not hurt my -Lord, who is in a suit of mail, and I wear my steel cap."</p> - -<p>The two obeyed the command with notable alacrity.</p> - -<p>"But it may strike you on the shoulder," protested Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"I shall watch for it," replied Surrey, "and will be elsewhere when it -falls. Do not look upward, I beg of you, my Lord, for thus was our Saxon -King, Harold, slain by a like shaft from one of Roger's ancestors. Stand -where you are, looking downward, or, better, retire below."</p> - -<p>Rodolph laughed.</p> - -<p>"I am surely as nimble as you are," he said, "and may thus escape like -you the falling shaft."</p> - -<p>As the Emperor spoke the arrow came in sight and swiftly descended, -speeding down alongside the flag pole so close as almost to touch it on -its way. The arrow shattered itself by impact on the stone, and thus -loosened a scroll that had been wrapped tightly round it, fastened at -each end. Surrey pounced upon this and found the message to be in -several sections, one being a letter, while on the others were verse, -regarding which the writer, in his communication, begged perusal and -criticism. The missive thus launched into the air had evidently been -prepared for some time in readiness to be sent when opportunity offered. -Surrey gave utterance to several impatient exclamations as he, with -considerable difficulty, conned the meaning of the script, and at last -he said:</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[Pg 291]</a></span></p><p>"Roger tells me nothing about how he came to be in the Archbishop's -army, nor does he give tidings of anything that should be of interest to -a reasonable being. It is all upon his poetry and the lessons to be -learned from a perusal of the same, which I think had been better put in -the poetry itself, for if it convey so little to the reader that it -needs must be explained 'twere as well not written."</p> - -<p>"That shows you to be no true poet, nor critic either," said the -Emperor. "But now that old friends are in correspondence with each -other, I shall leave them to the furtherance of it, merely reminding you -that if a message is sent similar to the one received, you will observe -like caution in not mentioning anything that relates to the castle or -its occupants."</p> - -<p>When the Emperor left him the archer laboured hard to transcribe his -thoughts on the back of a sheet containing one of the poems. He told -Roger he was not permitted to leave the castle, but that he had orders -to go on guard upon the western battlements at midnight to take up his -watch until daybreak, and if Roger could quit the camp at that hour and -climb the hill, keeping the north tower against the sky as his guide, -the writer would endeavour to meet him half-way, when they could talk -over their mutual adventures since parting. In case there was a -companion at his watch that night, and it was thus impossible for him to -desert the castle, the up-comer was to approach the wall under the -northern tower, giving the customary cry of the water-fowl, when the -friend on the wall and the one at the foot of it might have some -whispered communication between them. He added, however, that there was -little danger of a second man being on the battlements unless a new -alarm of some kind intervened. The leaf containing these instructions he -deftly fastened to the shaft of an arrow and so sped it to the feet of -his friend, who was himself on guard.</p> - -<p>When Roger had read what was sent he waved his hand in apparent token -that the arrangement suited<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[Pg 292]</a></span> him, and Surrey, so understanding the -signal, went to the room below and threw himself on his pallet of straw -to get the rest he needed before his watch began. Like all great -warriors he was instantly asleep, and knew no more until he felt -Gottlieb's hand on his shoulder announcing to him the beginning of his -vigil. Once on the ramparts, he relieved the man who had been there -during the earlier part of the night, and was pleased to note that -nothing had occurred to put an extra guard on the promenade. The camp -fires had gone out, and the valley lay in blackness. Surrey paced up and -down the battlements for a while to let the sleepy man he had relieved -get to his bed, then he looked about him for means of reaching the foot -of the wall outside. There was as yet no cry of the night bird, and he -began to fear that his friend had probably gone so soundly asleep that -daylight alone would awaken him. Surrey examined the wall with some -care. He might jump over without running great risk of injuring himself, -but he could not jump back again. At the remote end of the battlements -under the north tower, his foot struck an obstacle, and, stooping to -examine the obstruction, he found it one of the wooden missiles with a -rope attached to it which the besiegers had flung over the machicolated -parapet to enable them to climb the wall. The rope hung down outside, -and Surrey wondered that it had remained there all this time unnoticed, -certainly a grave menace to the safety of the garrison, for a whole -troop might have climbed up in the darkness with little chance of being -seen by the one sentinel on top, whose watch, now that all fear of -attack had left those in the castle, had become somewhat perfunctory. -However, this was just the thing the archer needed, and he marvelled why -he had not thought of such a plan before, for numbers of these ropes and -billets lay in the courtyard of the fortress. He slipped down the cord -and made his way cautiously through the vineyard towards the village, -pausing now and then to give the signal. About half-way down the hill, -he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[Pg 293]</a></span> heard the breaking of twigs, and knew that his friend was coming up. -He crouched under the vines and waited; then as the other came opposite -him, he sprang up and gave him a vigorous slap on the shoulder. -Instantly the stranger grappled him, pinioning his arms at his side, and -the next thing the archer knew he had stumbled backwards and fallen, -with the assailant's knee on his breast and a strong grip at his throat, -shutting off the breath and making outcry impossible, even if it had -been politic.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[Pg 294]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXIX.</span> <span class="smaller">CONRAD VENTURES HIS LIFE FOR HIS LOVE.</span></h2> - -<p>Hilda had been given lodging in a house at the back of the village, and -from her window she could see the castle which had so inhospitably sent -her from its gates. But the girl had little time to mourn her fate, for -the attacks on the castle followed so swiftly one upon another that -Alken became speedily filled with wounded men, all the houses of the -place being transformed into hospitals for the time. In like manner the -women were requisitioned as nurses, and to their care many of the -stricken men owed life. Into this humane occupation Hilda threw herself -with a fervour that was not only admirable in itself, but which was -deeply appreciated by all those to whom she ministered. The other women -of the village were anxious to do their best, but they were for the most -part rude and ignorant peasants, knowing little of their new duties, and -their aid was at all times clumsy and often ineffectual. But Hilda -brought to bear upon her task an enlightened intelligence and a deftness -of hand, the product of long residence amidst civilised surroundings, -which quickly gave her, by right of dexterity, the command of the -nursing staff. She reduced the arrangements to cleanliness and order, -and her bright presence, not less than her winning beauty, seemed to do -more for the convalescent than the ointment of the physicians. She was -thoroughly womanly, and thus was in her element while having charge of -so many injured men, and every moment of her day being taken up with her -work of mercy, she had no time to brood over her own expulsion from the -castle, nor the severance from her lover and mistress; and so, in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[Pg 295]</a></span> doing -good to others, she unconsciously bestowed great benefit upon herself.</p> - -<p>Once she had a fright that for the time almost deprived her of speech. -In the midst of her duties a breathless messenger brought news that the -Archbishops themselves were coming to visit the wounded. Hilda, pressing -her hand to her heart, stood pale and confounded, not knowing what to -do, for she feared the sharp eyes of Arnold von Isenberg, which had -before fallen upon her in Treves, might now recognise her. She hoped -that the comparative obscurity of the room would shield her from too -minute scrutiny, and, at first it seemed that this would be the case, -but the officers who accompanied the prelates spoke so enthusiastically -of her untiring efforts to ameliorate distress and pain, that Arnold -turned his keen eyes full upon her, slightly wrinkling his brow, as if -her appearance brought recollection to him that he had difficulty in -localising. The girl stood trembling before him, not daring to raise her -eyes to his. After a moment's pause, filled with deep anxiety on her -part, the dignified prelate stretched out his hand and rested it upon -her fair hair.</p> - -<p>"Blessed are those who do deeds of mercy, my child," he said, solemnly, -in sonorous voice.</p> - -<p>"Amen," responded the Archbishop of Cologne, with equal seriousness.</p> - -<p>"Remember," said von Isenberg, significantly, turning to his officers, -"that on her head rests the benediction of our Holy Church."</p> - -<p>All present bowed low and the stately cortege withdrew, leaving the girl -thankful that recognition had not followed the unlooked-for encounter, -for so little do the great take account of those who serve them, that no -suspicion crossed the Archbishop's mind that the one he commended had -been a member of his own household.</p> - -<p>Thus it came about that Hilda was a privileged person in Alken and its -environs, and there was not an officer or common soldier who would not -instantly<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[Pg 296]</a></span> have drawn weapon to protect her from insult or injury had -there been any in the camp inclined to transgress against her.</p> - -<p>Late one night a lad called at the house where Hilda lived and told her -a soldier had hurt his foot and could not walk. He was seated on the -river bank, the boy added, and asked the good nurse to come to him, as -he could not come to her. Hilda followed her conductor through the -darkness without question, and found the man sitting by the margin of -the stream. He gave a coin to the boy, who at once ran off to tell his -comrades of his good luck, leaving the two alone. Hilda, although -without fear, called after the boy, but he paid little heed to her; then -she turned to the man and said:</p> - -<p>"Where is your wound?"</p> - -<p>"In the heart, Hilda, and none save you can cure it," he answered in a -low voice. The girl gave a little cry of joy.</p> - -<p>"Conrad! Is it indeed you? Where have you come from?"</p> - -<p>"From the castle, where for many days I have lain wounded, but now I am -well again and yearn only for you. So to-night I took one of the scaling -ropes that the Archbishop's men used, and which Count Heinrich captured, -and, watching my opportunity when the sentinel was at the other end of -the battlements, I clambered down to the foot of the wall, descended the -hill, crawled through the lines unseen, and here I am. I was free from -danger the moment I reached the village, for there are so many men -hereabout that one more or less is not noticed, and luckily I am dressed -as Treves men dress. I looked to have trouble in finding where you -lived, but every one knew of the nurse Hilda, and spoke of her good -deeds, so, not wishing to come upon you without warning, I asked the lad -to bring you to a wounded soldier. It is not so long since I was one in -reality."</p> - -<p>"But you are not wounded now?" asked Hilda, anxiously.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[Pg 297]</a></span></p><p>"No. I am as well as ever again."</p> - -<p>"And you have braved all this danger to see me?"</p> - -<p>"Indeed the danger is but slight, Hilda, and I do not even see you -plainly, but perhaps you will make amends for the darkness"; saying -which the young man placed his arm about her and kissed her tenderly, -and to this demonstration there was little opposition on the part of -Hilda.</p> - -<p>"Can you return unseen as you came?" she asked.</p> - -<p>"With less difficulty. The archer is on guard from midnight until dawn, -and even if he detected me, he would say nothing, for we are right good -friends. We are comrades, both serving Lord Rodolph, and not the Black -Count. I shall not return before midnight."</p> - -<p>"Oh, but I dare not remain here so long. They would search for me, and -you would be discovered."</p> - -<p>"You will stay as long as you can, will you not, Hilda? When you are -gone I shall make my way back through the lines and wait for the coming -of the archer on the battlements, unless there is good opportunity of -mounting before then."</p> - -<p>"I like not all these risks for my sake, Conrad."</p> - -<p>"I am more selfish than you think. It is for my own sake that I come."</p> - -<p>And again he proved the truth of his statement, although the girl -forbore to chide him for his levity of conduct.</p> - -<p>"Have you seen my Lady? How is she?" asked Hilda.</p> - -<p>"I see her but seldom, though she is well, I know."</p> - -<p>The two were so absorbed in their converse that neither noticed -gathering round them, stealthily enclosing them, a group of a dozen men -led by an officer. They were therefore startled when the officer cried:</p> - -<p>"Stand! Make no resistance. You are prisoner."</p> - -<p>The men instantly closed in on Conrad and had him pinioned before he -could think of escape.</p> - -<p>"Why do you seize him?" said Hilda to the leader,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[Pg 298]</a></span> hiding her agitation -the better because of the darkness that surrounded them.</p> - -<p>"He is a spy, gentle nurse," answered the officer in kindly tone, "and -shall be hanged as one ere morning. His story of a wound is doubtless -false. He gave the boy a coin with the effigy of the Count Heinrich on -it, and one to whom the lad showed the coin sent warning to us. If this -man can tell us how he came by such a silver piece, and can show us a -wound got in honourable service under the Archbishop, then he will save -his neck, but not otherwise. What questions did he ask you, nurse? I -heard you talking together."</p> - -<p>"None but those I might answer with perfect safety to both Archbishops."</p> - -<p>"Ah, nurse, you know much of healing, but little of camp life, I fear. A -question that may appear trivial to you is like to seem important to his -Lordship. We give short trials to spies, which is the rule of war -everywhere, and always must be."</p> - -<p>"He is no spy," maintained Hilda stoutly. "If you hold him, I will go -myself to the Archbishop and claim his release. You must give me your -word that nothing shall be done until I return."</p> - -<p>"It is better to see the captain before troubling the Archbishop with so -small a matter."</p> - -<p>"A man's life is no small matter."</p> - -<p>"Indeed you will find the Archbishop attaches but little importance to -it. The case will go before the captain, and it will be well for you to -see him, for he may release the man if he wishes. I must hold him -prisoner in the square tower until I am told to let him go or to hang -him."</p> - -<p>With this the officer moved his men on, the silent prisoner in their -midst, to the square tower which stood over the centre street of the -place. Hilda followed, not knowing what to do.</p> - -<p>"I will see the captain," said the officer, evidently desiring to -befriend her, "and I will tell you what his decision is. Then you may -perhaps be able to give<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[Pg 299]</a></span> him good reason why the prisoner should be -released, or the man himself may be able to prove his innocence. In that -case your intervention will not be needed."</p> - -<p>The prisoner had been taken up the narrow stair that led to a room in -the tower above the arch that spanned the street.</p> - -<p>"I will await you here," said Hilda. She walked up and down in the -contracted street until the officer returned.</p> - -<p>"I am sorry to say," he began, "that the captain has gone to the -Archbishop's tent and no one knows when he will return."</p> - -<p>"What am I to do?" cried the girl.</p> - -<p>"It is better for you to go home, and when the captain comes I will let -you know."</p> - -<p>"But if he insists on executing the prisoner, then am I helpless. It -will be impossible for me to see the Archbishop until morning."</p> - -<p>"Has this man come from the castle?"</p> - -<p>"If I answer, what use will you make of what I say?"</p> - -<p>"I shall make no use of it, but will give you a hint."</p> - -<p>"I trust to your word then. He did come from the castle."</p> - -<p>"So I thought. Well, I am responsible for the spies. The captain is -responsible for the imperviousness of the line round the castle, and he -will be most loath for any one to tell the Archbishop that a man from -the castle has broken through the lines to be captured by me on the bank -of the river. If one man comes through why not all? will be the natural -thought of the Archbishop. This I dare not suggest to the captain, but -you may do so, if you find your resolution to see the Archbishop has no -effect on him."</p> - -<p>"I thank you," said Hilda, simply.</p> - -<p>The lieutenant took her hand and whispered:</p> - -<p>"What am I to get besides thanks for this valuable hint?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[Pg 300]</a></span></p><p>He tried to draw the girl towards him but she held back, and said -quietly:</p> - -<p>"I will give you a hint for a hint. I call to your remembrance the words -of the Archbishop concerning me. The benediction of our Holy Church -protected me, he said."</p> - -<p>The officer dropped her reluctant hand.</p> - -<p>"I will inform you when the captain comes," he replied, turning away -from her.</p> - -<p>It was nearly midnight when the captain returned, the girl anxiously -awaiting him. It was found, however, that her intercession was not -necessary. The Archbishop, it seemed, had given general instructions -that any one attempting to leave Thuron was to be sent back unharmed, on -giving his parole that he would not again desert the stronghold. The -shrewd prelate did not propose to help Heinrich indirectly by capturing -and executing his men, thus leaving him with fewer mouths to fill. His -object was to bring starvation to Thuron as speedily as possible, and it -was not likely he would allow either death or imprisonment to be an ally -of the Black Count. But a difficulty presented itself, for the prisoner, -undeterred by threats, obstinately refused to give his word that he -would not again attempt to break through the lines. In vain did the -captain sternly acquaint him with the invariable fate of the spy, -asserting that the clemency of the Archbishop arose through his -Lordship's noted kindness of heart; that the terms of his liberation -were simple and much more humane than any other commander in the world -would impose; nevertheless, Conrad stoutly maintained that he would -break through the lines whenever it pleased him to do so, and if they -caught him next time they were quite welcome to hang him. The captain -was nonplussed, for the prisoner asserted this with the rope actually -round his neck. The lieutenant whispered that the nurse Hilda seemed to -have wonderful influence over the man and proposed that she be called -and the case stated to her, whereupon she might persuade him to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[Pg 301]</a></span> be more -reasonable, although all their threats had failed. Accordingly Hilda was -sent for, the lieutenant telling her on the way that the captain would -spare the prisoner's life if he but gave his word that he would not -again return to Alken, concealing, however, the fact that the captain -dare not execute the man.</p> - -<p>"If I may speak with him alone," she said, "I will try to convince him -that he should give the captain his word, and I know he will keep it -once it is given, otherwise he would have promised you anything to get -free."</p> - -<p>"Yes, the captain himself said as much, wondering why a man should so -hesitate in the face of certain death."</p> - -<p>They found Conrad standing bound, with a loop round his neck, the rope -being threaded through an iron ring in the ceiling, while two stout -men-at-arms held the loose end ready to pull him to destruction when -their officer gave the word.</p> - -<p>The captain, on hearing Hilda's proviso, ordered his men to withdraw, -and, following them himself with the lieutenant, left Hilda alone with -Conrad.</p> - -<p>The subordinate officer suggested to his chief that the girl might untie -the man and thus allow him to escape, as she seemed to have much -interest in his welfare.</p> - -<p>"Indeed," said the captain, with a shrug, "it is my devout hope that she -will do so, if he refuses to take parole, for I know not what to do with -the fool. If then you see him sneak away, in God's name let him go, and -we will search ineffectually for him when it is too late. We shall be -well rid of him."</p> - -<p>When all had gone, Hilda said to her lover:</p> - -<p>"You must promise, Conrad, not to come again to Alken. You run a double -risk; first from the officers here; second from your own master when you -return. Therefore give your word that you will attempt no such dangerous -task again."</p> - -<p>"How can I do that, Hilda? I must see you, otherwise life is unbearable -to me. If I should promise I could not hold to it."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[Pg 302]</a></span></p><p>"It will be easy for us to meet, Conrad, without running such risks. I -can pass through the lines at any time unchallenged, so on mid-week -night I shall go up to the castle walls, and there we may be together -without scathe. If we are discovered and I am made prisoner in Thuron, -that will not matter. They will not harm me, and I shall then be where I -wish to be. But with you it is different; if they capture you again, it -will be impossible for me to save you, for they will believe you are a -spy. Let me then meet you under the safe walls of Thuron, for I am as -anxious to see you as you are to see me."</p> - -<p>"It delights me to hear you say so, Hilda, but I like not the thought of -you climbing this dark hill alone."</p> - -<p>"Pooh, that is nothing. I shall most willingly do it, and then we can -whisper to each other whatever seems of most interest, without fear of -being interrupted, the constant terror of which would haunt us in Alken. -The shadow of the frowning walls of Thuron makes an ideal lover's -trysting-place, therefore, Conrad, give the captain your promise, and -meet me under the north tower, two nights hence, at the same hour that -you sent for me in Alken."</p> - -<p>"It seems the only thing to do. I can come down the hill to meet you, so -that you——"</p> - -<p>"No, no. We will meet under the walls of Thuron; that is settled, and I -shall now call the captain and his men to unbind you. I suppose they -would not be pleased if I untied your cords."</p> - -<p>The impatient captain, to his amazement, was summoned, after he had -quite made up his mind that the girl would connive at the prisoner's -escape. Conrad then, in presence of the men, gave the captain his word -that he would not again attempt to pass the lines, and that he would -inform no one in the castle of anything he might chance to have seen or -heard while he was in Alken. He was then unbound and conducted through -the lines, and set his face towards the steep and dark hill as the deep -toned bell of the castle struck the hour of midnight. Although he had -not<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[Pg 303]</a></span> told Hilda so, he feared treachery from the captain and his men. He -had seen the captain's hesitancy regarding his threatened execution and -wondered why that officer contented himself with the simple word of a -captured underling, for Conrad knew how little dependence was placed -even on the oath of such as he. He believed that for some reason the -captain did not wish to hang him, but intended to have him set on in the -dark and there quietly made away with. So when he had mounted a few -steps he paused and listened intently, but could detect no indication of -followers. Further up he paused again, and this time he certainly heard -some one coming with apparent caution, yet, as if unfamiliar with the -ground, the follower stumbled now and again among the vines and bushes. -Conrad hurried up the slope and paused a third time, now being sure that -he was indeed tracked, for the man behind came on with less -circumspection and prudence. As Conrad, resolving to distance his -pursuer in the race, plunged onward and upwards, he was startled by a -man springing from the bushes in front who seized him by the shoulder. -Instantly Conrad sprang upon him, making no outcry and determined that -his antagonist should make none either, for he clutched the unknown -firmly by the throat, and bore him to the earth, squeezing all -possibility of sound from his windpipe. Kneeling thus above his -unexpected foe, he tried to reach his knife, to give quietus to the -under man before his accomplice could come up with them, for in spite of -the absence of cries the two combatants made much noise thrashing about -among the vines; but now the under man, who had been so easily pushed -backwards, seemed to gather both strength and courage, fighting with -such bravery of despair that Conrad had all he could do to keep him -down, using both hands instead of one. If he was to maintain his -position on top, the knife was out of the question, so he devoted his -efforts to the strangling of the man beneath him. In the midst of this -arduous occupation, the third man arrived on the scene.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[Pg 304]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXX.</span> <span class="smaller">THE STRUGGLE IN THE DARK.</span></h2> - -<p>"Hold!" cried the newcomer. "Which is for the Archbishop—under dog or -upper dog? A plague on this darkness which lets me see distinctly -neither one nor the other."</p> - -<p>Surrey underneath could not speak, and Conrad above thought it more -prudent not to speak.</p> - -<p>"Answer, upper dog," cried Roger Kent, peering at them, "or take your -fingers from the under dog's throat and let him answer, otherwise I will -run my knife into you on the chance that you are my enemy."</p> - -<p>"You are free," said Conrad, maintaining his hold, but conscious that he -had little chance against the two of them, "therefore declare yourself."</p> - -<p>"I have no shame in doing so. I fight for the Archbishop and the -Church."</p> - -<p>"Then stand aside and see whether Archbishop or Black Count wins."</p> - -<p>"Nay, that I will not do. You are no true follower of the Church or you -would call me to your aid. Release your hold of the other's throat, or I -will draw my knife across yours."</p> - -<p>Conrad, seeing that the game was up, and guessing also that the two were -not comrades and accomplices, as he had at first supposed, relaxed his -hold and stood up. The other lay gasping where he had fallen.</p> - -<p>"Now speak, fellow, an' enough breath has returned to you; are you for -the White Cross or the Black Count?"</p> - -<p>With some difficulty Surrey rose to a sitting posture, and said at last:</p> - -<p>"Indeed I think I must be the Black Count himself,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[Pg 305]</a></span> for with the choking -I have had, my face, could any see it, more nearly resembles that of His -Swarthiness than it does the lilies of the field."</p> - -<p>"Is it you, archer?" asked Conrad in surprise, stepping forward.</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Surrey and Kent simultaneously, then the former added, -shaking himself as he rose to his feet, "at least it was me before your -most unlooked for interference, but who I am now it is beyond me -accurately to tell. If you are Conrad, then what the devil do you here -out of the castle on the hillside after midnight, when all honest folk, -except those on watch, should be sleeping soundly on straw?"</p> - -<p>"If it comes to that," replied Conrad, "what do you here, honest -watchman, who at this moment are supposed to be faithfully guarding the -battlements of Castle Thuron?"</p> - -<p>"That in truth is a knotty question to answer, and I confess myself -grievously in the wrong, in thus breaking my watch, and feel the more -inclined to say, let us make a pact together, for if you inform not on -me, then is my mouth shut regarding your own flagrant delinquencies. -These I find hard to pardon, for a man owes it to his comrades during -besiegement to stand by them and not to be found coming up from the camp -of the enemy."</p> - -<p>"I am not on guard, and therefore have broken no oath. My desertion is -as white compared to thine as was my face to thine a few moments since."</p> - -<p>"True, true. There is much to be said on both sides of the question, and -if I had the judging in the matter we should each of us hang, that is, -did the cases come impartially before me, without personal consequences -affecting me in any way. And to think that I once had the privilege of -sending an arrow through you at three yards distance, was begged to -speed it, and neglected the opportunity! It serves me right well to be -choked for thus putting aside the gifts of Providence."</p> - -<p>"I am truly sorry I laid hands on you, but I was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[Pg 306]</a></span> looking for an attack -by the Archbishop's men, and when you came suddenly upon me I did what -seemed best, for it is ill running up the hill, and I feared to run down -as I heard this fellow on my track."</p> - -<p>"I was journeying to meet my friend," said Roger, "and had no thought -that any was before me until I heard the struggle. We seem all three -equally foolish and equally guilty, therefore let us all forgive one -another, as becomes Christians."</p> - -<p>"I bear no malice," said Surrey; "but I will say that had he not taken -me unaware, as I was looking for a friend, the contest might have turned -out differently. Still it matters little, unless they have discovered my -absence in the castle and have sent Conrad in search of me, in the which -case I had better abandon bow and take to the camp of the Archbishops. -Were you looking for me, Conrad? If not, why are you here?"</p> - -<p>"I left the castle long before you did, most like. I went to the village -to find Hilda, who was with us on the voyage down from Treves."</p> - -<p>"Ah, that is the wench for whose sake you risked having an arrow hurtled -through your vitals at Zurlauben, and, learning nothing, stake your life -for her again. The folly of man!"</p> - -<p>"Judge him not harshly, John," murmured the poet. "Admire rather the -power wielded by true love. 'Tis the most beautiful thing on earth: the -noblest passion that inspires the human breast. That a man should gladly -venture his life on the chance of a few words with his beloved, shows us -this world is not the sordid, disputatious place we sometimes fancy it -to be. What other motive could so influence a man?"</p> - -<p>"Tush, Roger!" cried his friend, with some impatience. "Your head is -ever in the clouds, and you therefore see not what lies at your feet. -Thousands of men continually risk their lives, and lose them, for less -than threepence a day. No such motive as love! Nonsense! Friendship is -every whit as strong, and we stand here to prove it, who have both this -night<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[Pg 307]</a></span> risked our lives that we may but talk with one another. Out upon -rhapsodies."</p> - -<p>"Nay, John, if you were a true poet you would not speak in gross -ignorance as now you do. If you try to weave friendship into verse you -will find that it rouses not the warmth which the smaller word 'love' -calls forth. I say nothing against friendship, for I have tasted the -sweets of it, and I know nothing of love, having never myself -experienced a touch of it, but I find that in the making of poetry love -is the most useful of all the themes that a poet may play upon. Yet have -I but to-day accomplished a poem on the delights of friendship, which I -will now recite to you both, and which I think does justice to the -subject in a manner that has hitherto been withheld from all writers, -save perhaps Homer himself!"</p> - -<p>"I must be gone to the castle," said Conrad.</p> - -<p>"We will walk up the hill with you," rejoined Surrey, "and, Conrad, I -wish you would take my watch on the wall till I relieve you. I desire to -have converse with my friend here, and we will sit under the wall, where -you can give me timely warning if you hear any one approach from within, -although I think such interruption most unlikely. Was it on your rope I -descended, I wonder?"</p> - -<p>"I left a rope dangling at the north-west corner."</p> - -<p>"That was it. I marvelled how it came there, and thought it had been -flung up by the besiegers, remaining unseen by the garrison. Will you, -then, take my watch for a time, Conrad?"</p> - -<p>"Surely. 'Tis but slight recompense for the choking I——"</p> - -<p>"Yes, yes," interrupted the archer, hurriedly, "we will not speak of -that, for you took me by surprise. Mount to the battlements, and you -will find my pike lying on the top of the wall near the place of -descent."</p> - -<p>They had by this time reached the castle, and there they stood for a few -moments and listened, but everything was quiet, and Conrad, aided by the -<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[Pg 308]</a></span>hanging rope, ascended to the top, while the two archers sat down at -the foot of the northern tower.</p> - -<p>"The poem on 'Friendship,'—" began Roger.</p> - -<p>"Yes," broke in his friend, "we will come to it presently. How is it you -are fighting for the Archbishop?"</p> - -<p>"How is it you sent no word back to me as you promised to do?"</p> - -<p>"That is a long story. They would not even let me enter Treves, for -there was nothing of all this afoot when I was there. On finding service -at last, having journeyed to a hill-top within a league of this place, I -tried to send tidings to you by the young man who has just left us, but -he was baffled and turned back by the forces of the Archbishop, and -could no more get to Treves than I could enter it once I was at its -gates. We are all prisoners here, and until your arrow tapped my steel -cap I knew not where you were."</p> - -<p>"Hearing nothing I went to Treves in search of you, regretting I had not -accompanied you, but you know there were important poems that I wished -to complete when you left me—they are all finished now, and it would -have done you good to hear them, in fact, it was that which made me -follow you to Treves, for the consummation of a poem is the listening to -it. There is one set of verses on 'Sleep' that luckily I remember, and -can recite, if you will but harken."</p> - -<p>"What happened when you reached Treves?"</p> - -<p>"I made enquiry concerning you from all with whom I could gain speech, -but there was nothing save talk of war in the place, and nowhere could I -hear aught of you. One army had already left Treves, marching eastward, -and another was then filling its ranks. The officer I spoke with, who -was inducing all he could to join, offering great chances of plunder -when the castle was taken, said he remembered you well, and that you had -gone with the first army, leaving word that I was to join and follow -you."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[Pg 309]</a></span></p><p>"The liar. I wonder the Archbishop retains the service of such, -although perhaps he does not know his officers hold the truth in -contempt."</p> - -<p>"It is strange you should refer so warmly to truth, for I esteem it the -choicest of all virtues, and have written a poem on 'Whiterobed Truth,' -which I hope remains in my memory, seeing it is so dark that no reading -may be done. It begins——"</p> - -<p>"You believed him, of course, and enlisted with him?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. He said we should find you here, and so indeed have I, but in the -opposite camp. I marched with them down the river, and when we arrived I -heard such wonderful stories of an infallible archer in the castle that -I knew he must be you."</p> - -<p>"Yes," cried John, rubbing his hands together in glee, "it was the most -heavenly opportunity ever bestowed upon a mortal man. I wish you had -been there to see. I was in the tower above the enemy, and I shot them -in the neck, stringing them one after another on the shafts, like -running skewers in a round of beef. Not one did I miss."</p> - -<p>"Oh, 'tis easily done," commented Roger, carelessly. "'Tis instinct, -largely; you glance at your mark, and next instant your arrow is there."</p> - -<p>"Roger Kent," replied the other, in a despondent tone, "I have on -various occasions passed favourable judgment on your poems; I think you -might, in return, admit that I am at least proficient in the rudiments -of archery."</p> - -<p>"John Surrey, I have more than once expressed the opinion, which I still -hold, that you will in time, with careful practice, become a creditable -archer. You would not have me say more and thus forswear myself."</p> - -<p>"No," admitted John; "I am well content when you say as much, and now if -it pleases you I will listen to as many of your verses as you can -conveniently remember."</p> - -<p>Surrey leaned back against the wall with a deep<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[Pg 310]</a></span> sigh, and the other, -his voice vibrant with enthusiasm said:</p> - -<p>"I will recite you first the poem on 'Friendship,' in honour of our -meeting, and then you shall hear the verses on 'Sleep,' which come the -more timely on an occasion when we both deprive ourselves of it, in -order to hear verse which you will be the first to admit is well worth -the sacrifice."</p> - -<p>The poet then delivered his lines in smooth and measured tones, to which -the other listened without comment. From poem to poem Roger Kent glided, -sometimes interlarding the pauses between with a few sentences -describing how the following effort came to maturity, thus cementing the -poems together with their history, as a skilful mason lays his mortar -between the stones. No literary enthusiast could have had a more patient -listener, and the night wore on to the tuneful cadence of the poet's -voice. At last he ceased. The steps of the patient Conrad on the -battlements echoed in the still night air.</p> - -<p>"Those are all the poems I can remember," he said, "and you see that I -have not misspent the time while you were journeying down the Moselle. I -do not know when I have had a more fruitful season. If I could but -deliver these verses to some monk who would inscribe them on lasting -parchment, for future ages to discuss and con over, I would be a happy -man. Alas, the monks care not to write of aught save the sayings of the -Fathers of the Church, and look askance at poems dealing with human -instincts and passions that are beyond the precincts of the cloister, -even though such poems tend to the future enrichment of literature, had -the holy men but the mind to appreciate them. Thus I fear my verse will -be lost to the world and that, in this deplorably contentious existence -which we lead, my span may be suddenly at an end, with none to put in -permanent form the work to which my life has been devoted. What poem, -think you, of all you have heard, is the most likely to live after we -are gone?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[Pg 311]</a></span></p><p>There was no reply, and in the silence that followed, the even -breathing of John Surrey brought to the mind of the poet the well nigh -incredible suspicion that his friend was asleep. This suspicion, -however, he dismissed as unworthy of either of them, and he shook his -comrade by the shoulder, repeating his question.</p> - -<p>"Eh? What?" cried John. "Take your hand from my throat, villain."</p> - -<p>"My hand is not on your throat but on your shoulder, and I misdoubt you -have for some time been asleep."</p> - -<p>"Asleep?" cried John, with honest indignation. "I was far from being -asleep. When you stopped reciting I had but let my mind wander for a -moment on the rough usage I had had from Conrad, who pretended he did -not know me. I'll wing a shaft by his ear so close that it will make him -jump a dozen yards, and for the space while he counts ten he will be -uncertain whether he is in this world or the next. I called him villain, -and I stick to it."</p> - -<p>"But what call you my poems?"</p> - -<p>"They are grand—all of them. You are getting better and better at -rhyming; I swear by the bow, you are. I never heard anything to equal -them."</p> - -<p>"Indeed," replied the poet, complacently, "a man should improve with -age, like good wine, if he have the right stuff in him, but though all -are so good, there is surely some poem better than the rest, as in a -company of men one must stand taller than his fellows. Which was it, -John?"</p> - -<p>"The last one you recited seemed to me the best," said John, scratching -his head dubiously, and then not having the sense to let well enough -alone, added, "the one on 'Sleep.'"</p> - -<p>The poet rose to his feet and spoke with justifiable indignation.</p> - -<p>"I have recited to you a score since that, you sluggard. You have indeed -been asleep."</p> - -<p>"I said not the last, but the first. I say the poem on 'Sleep' is the -best, and that I hold to."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[Pg 312]</a></span></p><p>"The first was on 'Friendship,'" said the poet gloomily.</p> - -<p>"Nay, I count not the one on 'Friendship' as aught but the introduction. -'Twas given, you said, in honour of our meeting, therefore I regard the -one on 'Sleep' as the beginning, and although all are good, that seemed, -in my poor judgment, the best."</p> - -<p>"I had hoped you would have liked the one on 'Woman's Love,'" murmured -Roger, evidently mollified.</p> - -<p>"Ah, Roger, what can you expect of a hardened bachelor like me? There -was a time when I would have thrown up my cap and proclaimed that poem -master of them all, which doubtless it will be accounted in the -estimation of the world. Even I admit it was enough to make my old bones -burn again, and while you were reciting it, I was glad young Conrad was -not here, else he had straightway run to Alken in his own despite. That -poem will be the favourite of lovers all the world over; I am sure of -it."</p> - -<p>"Say you so, honest John?" cried Roger, with glee. "It is indeed my own -hope. You were the truest and wisest of critics, and no bowman in all -Germany can match you. Forgive me that I mistook your meditation for -slumber. And now, good night, old friend; we will meet again when I have -composed some others, although I doubt if I ever do anything as good as -that one."</p> - -<p>And thereupon the friends embraced and parted, each glowing with the -praise of the other.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_313" id="Page_313">[Pg 313]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXI.</span> <span class="smaller">BRAVE NEWS OF THE EMPEROR.</span></h2> - -<p>As the days went by and the seasons changed, dull monotony settled down -upon the besieged castle, and all within felt more or less its -depressing effects. The Black Count chafed under it like a caged lion, -breaking out now and then into helpless rage, eager to do anything -rather than the one thing which had to be done, and that was to sit -quiet until the Archbishops tired of their task, or until some commotion -occurred elsewhere which would compel them to withdraw their troops. -Heinrich had wild schemes of breaking through the lines, marching on to -Treves, and there fomenting rebellion, so that Arnold might find -something to occupy him at home and be thus compelled to leave his -neighbour in peace. But the cool head in the garrison was that of -Rodolph, who pointed out calmly to his nominal chief the -impracticability of his plans. He knew more of Treves than did the -Count, and asserted that no man could stir up trouble in that town, -where all were but too well acquainted with the weight of the -Archbishop's iron hand.</p> - -<p>It was not to be expected that two men so differently constituted as the -Emperor and the Count, thus hemmed in together, should grow to love each -other; indeed, Heinrich took small pains to conceal the dislike he felt -for his enforced guest, although Rodolph was more politic, and always -treated his elder with grave respect. Only once during the two years' -siege did there come a conflict of authority between them, and this said -much for the forbearance of the Emperor.</p> - -<p>One morning Rodolph found the Count in the courtyard in full armour -vigorously superintending his men,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_314" id="Page_314">[Pg 314]</a></span> who were removing from the gates the -bags of grain and casks of wine which were piled against them.</p> - -<p>"What is going forward?" asked Rodolph, quietly.</p> - -<p>"Something that concerns you not, and your assistance is neither asked -nor wanted," answered the Black Count, in his most surly manner.</p> - -<p>"Pardon me, if I venture to point out that anything which pertains to -the safety of the castle concerns me."</p> - -<p>"Whose castle is it?" roared the Count.</p> - -<p>"That is precisely the point now under dispute," replied the Emperor, -with the utmost gravity. "If you do some foolish thing the castle -doubtless will in a few hours belong to the Archbishops, for they are -probably counting on an act of folly which will bring them into -possession. I am anxious that the castle remain in your hands, therefore -I ask again, what are you proposing to do, and why are you taking away -the materials which so well supported the gates when they were -assaulted?"</p> - -<p>"I am commander here and not to be questioned."</p> - -<p>"That is hardly according to our compact, my Lord. Let us not, however, -discuss the matter before the men, but in the council chamber alone -together. I must know what you intend to do."</p> - -<p>"I have held my castle until now against all comers. I will continue to -keep it in my own way."</p> - -<p>"Your memory is short, my Lord. Your castle was saved in the first -assault by my archer. In the two following it was kept largely by my -generalship, if I may be so conceited as to claim as much. You did some -stentorian shouting, and some wondrous catapult practice, which, if it -killed any, wrought their death more by amazement at the work, than -through the accuracy of the machines. I came here a stranger, but am now -well known to the men, and they have confidence in me. If we must have -deplorable dissensions in their presence I will at once give command for -them to cease work, and you will see how many obey me. It is best not to -force me to this extremity, for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[Pg 315]</a></span> if I am thus put to it, you will give -no more orders in this castle. Let it come to an open contest between -you and me, and you will be amazed to find that all who rally round you -are Steinmetz and one or two others, hirelings at best, whom you, -knowing nothing of men, have placed above the others, and even they will -at once desert you when they find you standing practically alone. -Therefore, my Lord, I ask you for the third time what you intend to do?"</p> - -<p>The cool and firm insistence of the Emperor had a quenching effect on -the other's anger. The Count began to doubt the wisdom of his hot-headed -resolve, for he had, in spite of himself, a growing confidence in -Rodolph's generalship, and his bluster was largely caused by the shame -he felt in placing his plans before the incisive criticism of his -comrade in arms. He turned brusquely away from Rodolph, and said, -curtly:</p> - -<p>"Very well. Let us to the council chamber."</p> - -<p>The Emperor followed him, and was in turn followed by the archer, who -always kept an eye on his master, unless definitely commanded not to do -so. The archer never pretended that he had the least belief in the good -faith of Count Heinrich, and it is likely that Rodolph, although he gave -no utterance to his distrust, had as little confidence, for he rarely -made objection to the watch John Surrey kept over him. Neither was their -vigilance relaxed on the tower. They constantly increased their store of -provisions, and allowed no one to come up the stair on any pretence -whatever. When the archer was not on watch in the tower, Conrad usually -took his place, and the possibility of their having to stand a siege -within a siege at any moment was rarely absent from the mind of the -Emperor. If the intentions of the Black Count were honest, there was no -harm in being ready for the reverse.</p> - -<p>When the Emperor and Count reached the council chamber the latter turned -sharply round and plunged at once into his explanation.</p> - -<p>"I am going to open the gates and sally forth at<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[Pg 316]</a></span> the head of my men. I -shall cut their line and, sparing none who oppose me, fight as long as -may be, then shall we return to the castle. In this way shall I harass -them day by day, until they are glad to raise the siege."</p> - -<p>"How many men do you intend to leave with me to protect the castle in -your absence?"</p> - -<p>"The castle needs no protection until I return to it. The Archbishops -will find enough to do without troubling Thuron. I shall take all my men -with me."</p> - -<p>"Have you made any computation regarding the number of soldiers the -Archbishops have under their banners?"</p> - -<p>"What has that to do with it? The men are scattered north, east, south, -and west of this place, and cannot be rallied in time to harm me."</p> - -<p>"I am, of course, not in the confidence of the Archbishops and cannot -tell how wisely or unwisely their plans are laid. Were I in their place -I should count on just such a sortie as you have proposed, caused either -by folly or desperation. It is a thing a famished commander might do, or -it might be done by one who knew no better. I should have it arranged -that a bugle call would cause all available men to march instantly over -the hills and cut you off from the gates before you could possibly -retreat. As the Archbishops have a hundred men and more to your one, -there can be no possible doubt regarding the termination of such a -venture as yours. You are as wise as a snail would be to leave his -shell, and, unarmed, fight a hawk in the open. The castle is your shell, -and remaining in it is your only salvation. I am astonished at the -futility of your proposal."</p> - -<p>"I cannot sit inactive."</p> - -<p>"You must. Otherwise the sane thing to do is to run up a white flag -after taking down your own, make terms with the Archbishops and deliver -your castle to them. Then you may get concessions, but to sally forth at -the head of your men is to deliver your castle at once into their hands, -and that without compensation, for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[Pg 317]</a></span> then they take it and capture or -kill you. It is the project of a madman."</p> - -<p>The Count became fiercely enraged at this merciless criticism, and, -almost foaming at the mouth, smote his fist on the table, crying:</p> - -<p>"Our weakness is not that we are outnumbered a hundred to one. It is -that we are one too many in Thuron. No garrison can prosper under two -commanders."</p> - -<p>"Again you are mistaken. There are not two commanders, but one only. -There are two commanders with the besiegers, and that fact, in spite of -their army's strength, is probably the reason the castle has not been -taken long since. There is but one commander in Thuron, and I am he."</p> - -<p>"You lie!" yelled the Black Count. "I am master of Thuron, and will -remain so while a stone of it rests on another."</p> - -<p>"Prove yourself so. The weapons with which we previously fought on this -question still hang on the wall; only, take warning. I shall use the -edge of the sword, and not the flat of it, upon your person when next I -face you."</p> - -<p>"I shall not honour you by fighting with you, a nameless stranger, for -whose quality no one can vouch."</p> - -<p>"I bore the honour you formerly bestowed upon me modestly enough, and no -one has been told of our encounter. As for the quality of my fighting, -you made no complaint at the time."</p> - -<p>"I will imprison you as an insubordinate traitor."</p> - -<p>"I am even prepared for that, and have been ever since I took my -quarters in the tower. The moment you break your word with me I -constitute myself my own jailer, and will retire to the tower. There my -archer will kill your adherents one by one in the courtyard, or on the -battlements, or wherever you dare show yourselves. I will haul down your -banner and run up a flag of truce instead. Then, when the envoys of the -Archbishop come, I will shout to them<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[Pg 318]</a></span> from the tower that we are -commanded by a madman. I will make terms with them so far as the ladies -are concerned, and will tell them how to take the castle, as not one of -your men dare show face upon the walls, fearing my archer. I regret -being compelled to show you that you are both helpless and, at the same -time, a fool, but you would have it. Now, my Lord, what is to be done? -Are you content to hold command under my orders, or am I to be further -troubled with your petulance, so that I must humiliate you in the eyes -of your own men, depose you publicly, and perhaps imprison you in the -castle I would be only too glad to have you hold and keep? I must know -definitely and finally, for these discussions cannot continue."</p> - -<p>The Black Count rested his shaggy head in his hands, and for a long time -there was silence in the room. At last he raised his blood-shot eyes, -burning with hate, and shot a question at Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"Who are you?"</p> - -<p>"Your master. Take that for granted until this siege is ended, then you -may discover you have not been in error. If you attempt to fight me as -well as the Archbishops the contest will be a short one. In the fiend's -name, has your ill temper not left enough of sense in your brain to show -you, even in your anger, that it is better to have me fighting for you -than against you? Your persistent stupidity exhausts my patience."</p> - -<p>"What am I to tell the men whom I have ordered to clear the sacks from -the gate? They will think me indeed mad if I bid them reverse their -work."</p> - -<p>"They think it now, as does every one with whom you come in contact. -When the grain is all removed tell them to fill the empty sacks with -earth and stones from the cellars, and to place them in position against -the gates again. Have this done whenever a sack is emptied in future, so -that our consumption of corn will not interfere with the security of the -gates. If you have said to any one that you intended to sally<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[Pg 319]</a></span> forth, -tell him now that you have changed your mind."</p> - -<p>This was the last rebellion of Count Heinrich against the usurper within -his gates. The ladies, when all met together for the evening meal, did -not suspect that there had been any difference between the two men, for -Heinrich was invariably so gruff towards his women folk that his -demeanour could hardly be made worse by any check he had encountered -during the day, and Rodolph's manner was marked by a deferential -equanimity that was immutable.</p> - -<p>While they were seated at the evening repast Captain Steinmetz entered -and made announcement that a holy Palmer was before the gate asking -admittance, saying he had news for the master of the castle.</p> - -<p>"Where is he from? How did he get through the lines?" demanded the -Count.</p> - -<p>"I think he is from Palestine," replied Steinmetz, "and he came through -the lines by permission of the Archbishops. He says he bears news to you -of the Emperor."</p> - -<p>"Of the Emperor?" ejaculated Rodolph, in amazement.</p> - -<p>"Yes. His Majesty is fighting in the Holy Land, and I think the monk -comes from him with news of his battles."</p> - -<p>"Ah!" Rodolph looked closely at those who sat round the table, but said -nothing further. Tekla gazed with interest at the captain; the Count's -eyes were bent on the table, and his wife regarded his dark face -timorously.</p> - -<p>"We want no news of the Emperor's fighting," said the Count, gruffly, at -last. "What matters his fighting to us? A wise man goes not abroad to -deal his blows, when there are good knocks to be given in his own land. -Tell the Palmer we want none of his budget."</p> - -<p>"Not so, my uncle," cried Tekla, her eyes glowing with enthusiasm, "we -are all loyal subjects of his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[Pg 320]</a></span> Majesty, I hope, and I confess I should -like to hear how he prospers. I beg you to admit the pious father."</p> - -<p>"He is most likely a pious spy, sent by the connivance of the -Archbishops, whose tool he is. Their Lordships desire to know how -matters stand within the fortress."</p> - -<p>"Even if that be the case," put in Rodolph, mildly, "I should be the -last to baulk their curiosity. It would give me pleasure to have them -know that the stout Count Heinrich is well, and has no fear of them, -either separate or united. It may comfort the Archbishops to learn that -we were faring generously when their envoy came upon us, and that -Heinrich of Thuron thought them of so small account that he permitted a -man coming from their camp and through their lines to enter his dining -hall."</p> - -<p>The Count's eye lit up for a moment as he glanced round his hall, then -the light died out, gloom came upon his brow, and once more he bent his -gaze on the table in silence.</p> - -<p>"I would suggest, however, that the Palmer be blindfolded before he is -taken up the ladder, and so conducted to the Count's presence. It may be -prudent to conceal from him how well the gates are barricaded. If he -actually comes from the Emperor, I confess, like the Countess here, I -think so much of his Majesty that I should dearly love to have news of -him. What say you, my lord Count?"</p> - -<p>"Have it as you will. There is no desire on my part to hear of his -Majesty, so question the Palmer as best pleases you. Admit the man, -Steinmetz, but blindfold him as has been suggested."</p> - -<p>A few minutes later the monk was led into the hall, advancing with -caution as a blind man does, gropingly uncertain regarding his -footsteps, placing one sandal tentatively before the other, as if he -feared a trap, although led by the captain, who at last removed the -bandage from his blinking eyes, thus bringing him suddenly from darkness -to light. The monk bowed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[Pg 321]</a></span> low to each one present, then stood with -folded arms, awaiting permission to speak. If he were indeed a spy he -showed no indication of it: his face was calm and imperturbable, and -looked little like the countenance of a man in fear of the fate which -must quickly have followed conviction as an informant.</p> - -<p>"You come from the Holy Land, Father?" began Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"Not so, my Lord. I come from Frankfort, but there has recently arrived -from Palestine a messenger, who brought brave tidings from his noble -Majesty, the Emperor Rodolph of Germany."</p> - -<p>"Indeed. And who sends you forth, or do you come of your own accord?"</p> - -<p>"I am sent forth by the Baron von Brunfels, now in Frankfort, to relate -intelligence of the Emperor in all castles and camps and strongholds, to -those of noble birth, who are, I trust, loyal subjects of his Majesty."</p> - -<p>"That are we all here, holy father," cried Tekla with enthusiasm.</p> - -<p>The monk bowed low to the lady.</p> - -<p>"I trust that the Baron von Brunfels is well. He is a dear friend of -mine," said Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"He is well, my Lord, but somewhat haggard with the care of state which -has fallen upon him in his Majesty's absence. He is thought to be -over-anxious regarding his Majesty's welfare; but I surmise that the -news he has now received of him may bring more cheerfulness to his brow -than has been seen there of late."</p> - -<p>"Doubtless that will be the case," remarked Rudolph, with a deep sigh. -"Do you know to what particular part of the business of state Baron von -Brunfels bends his energies?"</p> - -<p>"Particularly to the army, my Lord. He has greatly increased it, drawing -men mainly from Southern Germany, and placing in command of them -officers who come from the Emperor's own part of the country. It is said -he is raising a company of archers,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[Pg 322]</a></span> not armed with the cross-bow, but -with a thin weapon held in one hand, so marvellously inaccurate that -when the regiment practices near Frankfort the people round about fly to -their houses, saying there is little security for life while that -company is abroad, as no prophet can predict where their shafts will -alight. Prayers are offered that this company be disbanded, or that -Providence will confer greater blessings on their marksmanship than has -hitherto been vouchsafed."</p> - -<p>"Ah, it is a pity we cannot lend the Baron our good archer, who would do -more for the efficiency of the company than much devotion. Does rumour -give any reason for this increase of the army, or has Baron von Brunfels -said anything regarding its purpose?"</p> - -<p>"It is believed that a large reinforcement will presently be sent to the -Emperor in Palestine, when the men are more accustomed to their duties."</p> - -<p>"A most scandalous waste of human lives," cried the Black Count, -sternly. "German men should fight their enemies at home or on the -borders of German land. Of what benefit are the desert sands to us, even -should we win them?"</p> - -<p>The monk seemed shocked at this, and devoutly crossed himself, but made -no reply. Tekla flashed an indignant look at her uncle, but spoke -instead to Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"My Lord," she said, "you seem more interested in the Baron than in the -Emperor. I wish to hear of his Majesty's campaign in the Holy Land."</p> - -<p>"True, Countess, I had forgotten myself, and I beg you to pardon me. The -Baron is a very dear friend of mine, as I have said, but I will have -speech with our visitor later concerning him. Now, Father, what of the -Emperor?"</p> - -<p>"His Majesty, the Emperor, has proven himself a warrior not only of -great personal bravery, but one who is a redoubted general as well. He -has displayed marvellous knowledge of the arts of war, and has<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[Pg 323]</a></span> routed -the infidels, horse and foot, wherever he encountered them, scattering -them like chaff before the wind. Threescore of their bravest leaders has -he slain with his own hand, until now his very name spreads terror -throughout the land. When it is known he leads the Christian host, the -Saracens fly without giving battle, and cannot be lured into the field -to face him."</p> - -<p>"In God's name, then," cried the irate Count, "why doesn't he take -Palestine with his own hand, and return so that he may reduce at least -two of his truculent Princes to order and some respect for him? Germany -is languishing for a ruler of such prowess. Told you the Archbishops of -all this?"</p> - -<p>"I did, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"And what said they?"</p> - -<p>"They prayed that he might be long spared to perform such deeds in the -Holy Land, and are about to offer Mass in honour of his victories over -the heathen."</p> - -<p>"I can well believe it. If masses will keep him in the East he will -never return to Germany. I have no patience with such old wives' tales."</p> - -<p>The Count rose from his bench and strode from the room, saying to -Steinmetz as he departed:</p> - -<p>"See that this relator of fables is carefully deposited outside the -walls in the way he came, and allow no loitering in the courtyard."</p> - -<p>"My Lord," cried Rodolph as the Count approached the door, "I wish to -have some converse with the good Father alone, and I desire to offer him -refreshment before he departs from us. Have I your sanction?"</p> - -<p>The Black Count paused near the door and looked back at the assemblage -before answering. Then he said:</p> - -<p>"Captain Steinmetz, you will obey his Lordship's orders as faithfully as -if they came from me."</p> - -<p>With this command he withdrew from the room. The ladies also rose and -bent their heads to receive the blessing of the monk, thanking him for -what he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[Pg 324]</a></span> had told them, and expressing a wish that this should not be -his last visit to the castle.</p> - -<p>Refreshments were placed on the table, to which the monk, on being -invited, devoted himself with right good will. Rodolph requested Captain -Steinmetz to leave them alone together.</p> - -<p>"Are you the only messenger Baron von Brunfels sends forth from -Frankfort?" asked Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord, there are many of us. One goes east, another west, and so -in all directions. It is the desire of Baron von Brunfels that the -people know as speedily as possible of the deeds done by their brave -Emperor."</p> - -<p>"A most loyal and laudable intention, which will be well carried out if -all the messengers are as faithful and competent as you are, Father. Do -you return instantly to Frankfort?"</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord. I go now up the Moselle to Treves, and so back in a -southerly direction to the capital."</p> - -<p>"I ask you, then, to change your plans, and return forthwith to -Frankfort."</p> - -<p>"'Twould be contrary to the orders of my Lord of Brunfels. I dare not -disobey him."</p> - -<p>"Nevertheless, I request you to do so, and I give you my assurance that -you will be the most welcome visitor the Baron has received this many a -day, and that he himself will tell you so, blessing you for your -disobedience."</p> - -<p>"If the news you have to send is so important to him, I might venture to -change my route, but as I shall have to suffer if a mistake is made, -while you are safe in this castle, I must judge of the importance of -your message by hearing it."</p> - -<p>"Friendship lends importance to tidings that may seem trivial to a -stranger. The Baron is my most intimate friend, therefore I ask of you -to remember carefully and relate accurately what I have to send him. -Tell him the silk merchant whom he accompanied to Treves is well, and is -now in Castle Thuron."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[Pg 325]</a></span></p><p>"I carry not news of silk merchants, but of Emperors," cried the monk -resentfully, for, despite his calling, even his humility was offended by -the sudden descent from the highest to the lowest, in a country where -rank was so greatly esteemed.</p> - -<p>"Remember, Father, that the founder of our Holy Church was the son of a -carpenter."</p> - -<p>"He was the Son of God."</p> - -<p>"Most true, but reputed to be what I say, and his Apostles were poor -fishermen. Therefore it may well be that when you carry news of a silk -merchant you are no less ignoble a messenger than when you carry news of -an Emperor. Tell the Baron the silk merchant sends him greeting, and -asks him to persevere in the augmenting of the army, which the silk -merchant hopes will, from its very strength and efficiency, prove to be, -not an engine of war, but an assurance of peace. To be thus effective, -however, it must be undeniably stronger than any forces that may combine -against it. Say that the West and the North have combined, which fact he -probably already knows. The Baron is, therefore, not to interfere in any -struggle that may be going on, but rather to keep a close watch upon it, -and to have everything ready when a command is sent him. Have you given -strict heed to my message, good Father? Repeat it to me."</p> - -<p>"Baron von Brunfels is to be made aware that the silk merchant who -accompanied him to Treves is at present in Castle Thuron. The army is to -be increased and made more efficient. The West and the North have -combined, which I take to mean, that Europe is as one against the -Saracen, and that the Emperor's army is to be made stronger than the -combination, so that when he gives the command, he will be at the head -of a force superior to all others sent out, and may thus bring the war -to an end without further blood being shed, through the mere terror of -his name, supplemented by an army so redoubtable."</p> - -<p>"I beg you to colour not your message with your own explanations but to -attend more strictly to the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_326" id="Page_326">[Pg 326]</a></span> exact words I give you. Say that when -further news of the Emperor comes to him, he is to send you again to -Castle Thuron, and he may give you instructions that will be for my ear -alone. You will, therefore, be careful, if you value the good opinion of -the Baron, to keep strictly apart the message for me and the general -intelligence which you recite to the Archbishops. Say that the silk -merchant is in safe quarters, and thinks it better to make no premature -attempt to leave Thuron. The main thing at present is to get together as -many troops as will outnumber two to one the forces of the West and the -North. All this is not done in a day. Do you go back to the -Archbishops?"</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord. I intended to journey up the Moselle."</p> - -<p>"Are you afoot?"</p> - -<p>"The Baron von Brunfels, wishing me speed, gave me a horse, to which I -am only now becoming accustomed. I left it at the village below in care -of a soldier, it being my intention to travel to-night to the valley of -the Brodenbach, and rest at the castle of Ehrenburg."</p> - -<p>"Ehrenburg can wait for its news of the Emperor. Go, therefore, up the -Brodenbach valley as was your first determination, but continue on past -the castle until you come to the Frankfort road. Rest then if you must, -but know that the sooner you reach Frankfort the better will you please -the Baron."</p> - -<p>Rodolph called to Steinmetz, who again blindfolded the monk, and -accompanied by Emperor and captain the Palmer was set once more outside -the walls, and disappeared in the night down the hill towards Alken.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_327" id="Page_327">[Pg 327]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXII.</span> <span class="smaller">"FOR YOUR LOVE I WOULD DEFY FATE."</span></h2> - -<p>The Countess Tekla spent the greater portion of her time waiting upon -her aunt, who, never having known a true friend in her life before, -clung to the girl with a pathetic insistence, unhappy if Tekla was out -of her sight. The natural positions of the two seemed reversed; the -elder woman leaning dependently on the younger, and looking to her for -protection, as a child looks to its mother. When Tekla was busy in the -courtyard garden her aunt would sit on the balcony and watch her every -movement with a dumb, tender affection that was most touching. The elder -rarely spoke, and never smiled except when Tekla looked up to her with a -smile on her own pretty lips.</p> - -<p>Rodolph often wished the aunt were not quite so much the shadow of the -niece, but there was such love between the two women that he never -ventured to suggest to Tekla his hope that he might be permitted now and -then to enjoy her companionship unshared. He worked with her in the -garden, and often said that he expected to make horticulture his -occupation when the siege was over, so expert had he become under the -charming instruction of his fair teacher.</p> - -<p>When winter intervened, and the spring came again, Rodolph jokingly -suggested that they should plant grain instead of flowers, as there was -still no sign that the Archbishops were becoming tired of their -undertaking. The second winter passed, and a second spring found the -living line around the castle still intact, thus Rodolph's former jest -began to take a grimmer meaning, for provisions were indeed running low, -and the two years' supply, which seemed at first <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_328" id="Page_328">[Pg 328]</a></span>almost inexhaustible, -was now coming to an end, yet not a pound of wheat or a gallon of wine -had succeeded in getting through the cordon drawn by the stubborn -Archbishops. Rodolph had counted on a quarrel between the two commanders -ere this, but there was no indication of dissension in the opposing -camp. The bitter persistence of the siege he laid to the account of the -Archbishop of Treves, and in this he was right. There was, however, one -grain of consolation in its continuance; so long as the armies of the -Archbishops were encircling Thuron, they were out of mischief elsewhere, -and the rest of Germany was at peace. Rodolph could not help thinking -that if it came to a fight the troops would hardly be as warlike as they -had shown themselves two years before, when the siege began, for the -sound of revelry came up each night from the camp, and the idle men were -industriously drinking their thousand gallons of wine each day, which -tended more to hilarity than discipline. Nevertheless, they held tightly -to the castle, and there was no relaxing of the lines that surrounded -it. On several occasions attempts were made to get through by one or -other belonging to the garrison, but in each case without success. The -deserters were turned back, the officers refusing even to make prisoners -of them.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile the Emperor periodically received news from the capital, and -was compelled also to listen to long-winded mythical accounts of his own -bravery in the East, which did much credit to the fictional power of the -romancer in Frankfort who put the stories together. When at last it was -reported to him that the army centred in Frankfort, and at other points -within easy call of the capital, was fit to cope successfully with all -opposition, the Emperor resolved to quit the castle by stealth if -possible, and if that proved impracticable, to send word when next the -monk came, telling Brunfels to lead the army in person up the Moselle -and raise the siege of Thuron. His hope, however, was to get away from -the castle and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_329" id="Page_329">[Pg 329]</a></span> himself give the command to the Archbishops to cease -their warfare.</p> - -<p>But another matter occupied his mind, almost to the exclusion of the -great affairs of state, which should perhaps have had his undivided -attention, because of their paramount importance. This interest held him -a willing prisoner in Thuron, and it may be some excuse for his -inaction—for his reluctance in showing himself a real and not a nominal -Emperor—that he was less than thirty years of age. Before he quitted -Thuron, therefore, he desired to know whether the Countess Tekla -regarded him as a dear friend or a dearer lover. It was his right to -come at the head of his army and demand the girl, for even if she had, -when sorely pressed, rebelled against being bestowed upon an equal in -rank and wealth in the person of Count Bertrich, yet, whatever her -personal inclinations might be, she could not deny the suit of the -Emperor, were he as ugly as Calaban, as old as Methuselah, and as wicked -as Beelzebub. Such a refusal would have been unheard of under the feudal -law, and would certainly not have been allowed by the upholders of it. -But Rodolph was in the mind to keep all prerogatives of his position for -other purposes, and trust to his own qualities in pursuing the course -that Cupid had marked out for him. If the girl cared nothing for him as -Lord Rodolph, he would not ask her to bestow her affection upon the -Emperor.</p> - -<p>The moon was shining brightly over the Moselle valley when he determined -to escape from the castle, and as he had resolved to take the archer and -Conrad with him, not only as a bodyguard, but in order that there might -be less demand on the almost empty larder of the castle, he had to wait -for a night when the moon was obscured, or until it grew older and rose -later. It would be impossible for the three of them to get away when -night was as light as day; indeed experience had proved the futility of -even one attempting to quit the stronghold; but the Emperor was imbued -with the belief that he could succeed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_330" id="Page_330">[Pg 330]</a></span> where others had failed. The -archer had formulated a plan for their escape in conjunction with his -friend Roger Kent, who was now on guard at a portion of the line in the -Thaurand valley after midnight, and although Surrey had had as yet no -chance of consulting his friend, he surmised there would be little -difficulty in persuading him to turn a blind eye and a deaf ear up the -valley for a few minutes to accommodate an old comrade.</p> - -<p>Things were at this pass when, one afternoon, Rodolph was with the -Countess Tekla in the garden while the girl's aunt sat on the balcony -watching them.</p> - -<p>"My Lady," said Rodolph, in a low voice, "I have serious complaint to -make of you."</p> - -<p>"Of me, my Lord," asked the girl, in surprise, glancing swiftly up at -him.</p> - -<p>"Yes, Countess. While we have each, even to Count Heinrich himself, -taken turns in keeping watch and ward on the battlements, you have never -shouldered pike and marched up and down the promenade. Yet is there -reason for that. Your doing so would attract rather than repel the -enemy, so perhaps we were wise in allowing you to work in the garden -instead. Still, you should at least encourage those on guard, and as -this promises to be a beautiful night, and as I pace the battlements -until the stroke of twelve, I beg of you to come upon the parapet soon -after our evening meal and bear me company for an hour or so. I make it -a question of duty, if I cannot persuade you else."</p> - -<p>"I am not one to shirk from duty," said the Countess, brightly, "so upon -that basis will I assist you to repel the invaders. Besides, I wish to -see the valley bathed in the moonlight, and have long desired to venture -on the battlements, and would have done so before now had not my uncle -forbidden it. But that was long since, and perhaps he apprehends no -danger at this time."</p> - -<p>"The ramparts are as safe as the quietest street in Frankfort, and I do -assure you that the valley in the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_331" id="Page_331">[Pg 331]</a></span> moonlight is most lovely and well -worth gazing upon. I may, then, look forward to your coming?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, unless my uncle or aunt object."</p> - -<p>"They will not object, especially if you do not ask their permission, -which I beg you not to do. Just make the venture, and I will guarantee -that no one will have aught to say against your presence on the platform -of the west wall."</p> - -<p>And thus it came about that the Countess Tekla, with a fleecy white -scarf thrown over her fair head, reaching down to her waist, looking as -if it had been woven from the moonbeams themselves, walked on the stone -terrace that night with Lord Rodolph of Hapsburg, and then was the time, -had the Archbishops been looking for a favourable opportunity of attack, -to charge upon the fortress, for never since the world began was watch -so carelessly kept in ancient stronghold, as when these two young people -guarded grim Castle Thuron.</p> - -<p>"This reminds me of another night," said Rodolph. "The moon shone as -brightly, and the river flowed on as peacefully under its mild radiance. -Does your recollection join with mine?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. It was the night we left Treves."</p> - -<p>"Together."</p> - -<p>Tekla looked up at him, then gently murmured a repetition of the word.</p> - -<p>"It was an idyllic voyage," he continued, "whose remembrance lingers as -does the fragrance of a precious flower. Its dangers seem to have faded -away, and only the charm remains. The recollection of it is like a -beautiful dream: a vision of Heaven rather than an actuality of earth."</p> - -<p>The Countess Tekla paused in her walk, and clasping her hands over her -breast, gazed up the valley at the winding ribbon of silver far below, -the glamour and soft witchery of the moonlight in the lustre of her -eyes.</p> - -<p>"There can be nothing more beautiful in the world than the Moselle," she -said, slowly.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_332" id="Page_332">[Pg 332]</a></span></p><p>"It is indeed an enchanted river, but that night it looked upon a -beauty superior to its own."</p> - -<p>"I shall not pretend ignorance of your meaning, my Lord, and so take the -compliment to myself, undeserving of it though I may be. But my -treatment of you then was, I fear, a sad blemish on whatever of beauty I -may possess. I see you now standing on the rock by the margin of the -stream, to which my petulance and suspicion unwarrantably banished you. -I often think of my injustice, pain mingling with pleasure in the -remembrance, which is unaccountable, for I should dwell on the incident -with regret only, yet it passes my comprehension that I experience -felicity in conning it over. You looked like an indignant god of the -Moselle, standing there silent in the moonlight, and even although I -deeply distrusted you then—you must remember I had not seen you until -that moment—I felt as if I were a culprit, refusing to pay just toll as -I floated on the river you guarded."</p> - -<p>"Ah, Countess, payment deferred makes heavy demand when time for -settlement ultimately comes. The river god now asks for toll, with two -years' interest, compounded and compounded, due."</p> - -<p>"Alas!" cried the Countess, arching her eyebrows, and spreading out her -empty hands, accompanying the word with a little nervous laugh, "I fear -I am bankrupt. Should this siege succeed, as it seems like to do——"</p> - -<p>"What siege, my Lady?"</p> - -<p>"The siege of Castle Thuron," she answered, looking sideways at him. "Is -there another?"</p> - -<p>"I had another in my mind at the moment. I trust that it too will be -successful, or rather that it will be successful and the Archbishops' -effort fail. But if Thuron falls, what then, my Lady?"</p> - -<p>"Then am I bankrupt, for my lands will be confiscated and other grievous -things may happen. With lands and castles gone, how can I pay the river -god his fee, even were he generous to forego his rightful interest, -twice or thrice compounded?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_333" id="Page_333">[Pg 333]</a></span></p><p>"The gods, my Lady, traffic not in castles nor in lands. Were these -tendered, free of fee or vassalage, your river god would value them no -more than the lump of rock he stood upon, and would proclaim to all the -Moselle valley his charge was still unsatisfied."</p> - -<p>"Then he is no god, but a Frankfort usurer."</p> - -<p>"That he is indeed, my Lady; rapacious, exacting, demanding that to -which he has no rightful claim, yet still demanding. And worse than any -mortgage broker, because he knows no debt has been incurred, but the -reverse, for such slight service as he rendered was a pleasure to him, -and he knew himself deeply the debtor in that it was accepted of him. -And yet, my Lady, this confessed cozening knave implores recompense so -far above his merits, that there is this to say in his behalf: his -tongue, more modest than his thoughts, hesitates to formulate in words -his arrogant petition. I stand here landless and castleless, but I hope -a gentleman, and if any man question that I am as noble as the -Archbishop himself I will dispute his contention with my sword; brushing -aside all thought of the possessions that may come to you or to me, are -you content, my Lady Tekla, to place your hand in my empty palm and say, -'Rodolph, I take you for my future husband'?"</p> - -<p>He stood with both hands outstretched, and she a little distance from -him, her head bowed, once venturing to dart a swift glance at him, again -scrutinising the silent stones lying in the moonlight at her feet. Then -suddenly she placed both her hands in his, and cried breathlessly:</p> - -<p>"Rodolph, Rodolph, it were a foolish bargain for you, and I cannot have -it so. Wait, wait a little, till I know whether I have what should be -mine; whether I am to be as poor as any village maiden in Alken yonder; -then ask me, Rodolph. In either case ask me then, and I will answer -you."</p> - -<p>"No, Tekla, answer me now—now."</p> - -<p>"You are young, Rodolph. Oh, why must I be wise for two?—your way is to -make, and I must not retard<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_334" id="Page_334">[Pg 334]</a></span> your career. You join a tottering house: my -only relative cannot hold his own with his single sword. I feel disaster -hovering over us, and yet so shallow a maid am I, that I came joyously -forth to be with you on this promenade, unheeding of impending calamity. -Think what you do, my Lord: the powerful Archbishops are your enemies, -and there is no kin of mine to befriend you. Wait, wait, wait."</p> - -<p>"I have already waited—for two years have I waited; I want my answer -now, Tekla."</p> - -<p>"No, no. This madness is of the moonlight. They say the moon, when it -shines brightly—our talk of the river spirits has made us blind to -practical things, and so I seem to be myself one of the Rhine maidens -who lure men on to destruction. I will not be the Lorelei of the -Moselle. Let me go, my Lord: I should not have come here to the -battlements in the moonlight, for reason has fled from us. You shall not -blight your noble career for one so ill-fated as I. See what I have -already done. My uncle besieged this two years, and now certain of -defeat. You imprisoned here when you should have been making your way in -the East, or in Germany, where, with your bravery, your name would have -rung throughout the land. I will not embroil you with the Archbishops, -and perhaps with the Emperor himself. Go forth, Lord Rodolph, from this -doomed house, and come to me, if you still wish, when I shall not retard -you."</p> - -<p>"My career I shall look to with satisfied mind and heart, if first I -have assurance from you that all is well with my love. I have no fears -for my future. I willingly stayed my career at a single sight of you, -for I came to Treves to see the Archbishop, and not to look upon the -Countess Tekla. It seems to me amazing that there ever was a time when I -had to say to my comrade, 'Who is she?' yet such was indeed the case, -for when I should have been gazing at Arnold von Isenberg, my thoughts -and glances were all for the lady who rode by his side. My being in the -skiff was no accident, as you thought, but the result of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_335" id="Page_335">[Pg 335]</a></span> careful -planning, with a craft worthy of Arnold himself. I came here willingly, -eagerly, and not through inadvertence, and Thuron never held so -complacent a prisoner, nor one who so welcomed captivity as I, less held -by its adamantine walls than by your silken bondage, if my glad -restraint merit so harsh a name. Tekla, I love you at dawn, at mid-day, -in darkness, or in moonlight; all's one to me. How is it with you, my -lady of the silver light?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, with me, with me, Rodolph, what need to answer that which all may -see so plainly? What need for you to ask, when every glance that fell -from my eyes upon you must have betrayed me? Oh, my knight of the -water-lapped rock, I loved you ever since first I saw you standing -there, flinging your abandoned sword at my feet, for the protection of -one so cruel and unjust. And now must my foolish fondness drag you down -with me into the torrent that may overwhelm us both? Rodolph, Rodolph, I -cry to you beware, for I cannot protest longer, and am so selfish that, -for your love, I would defy fate; so ungenerous that while my lips warn -you my heart hopes you will not heed. Oh, Rodolph, I have loved you -since the world began."</p> - -<p>The young man, suddenly releasing her imprisoned hands, clasped the girl -unresisting to him and on her trembling dewy lips pressed, long and -tenderly, their first kiss; she, with a deep sigh, closing her eyes, and -resigning herself to his tenderness. For him, no less than for her, the -moment was supreme, and it seemed as if the world had faded from them -and they stood alone in delirious space together. The tent of the -Archbishops, precursor of the great Cathedral, shone white in the -moonlight, looking in calm unconsciousness at the plans of its august -builders crumbling to pieces, through the action of a man and woman.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_336" id="Page_336">[Pg 336]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXIII.</span> <span class="smaller">A GRIM INTERRUPTION TO A LOVER'S MEETING.</span></h2> - -<p>Not on the battlements alone did lovers meet. At nearly the same hour of -the night after the ill-kept guard on the promenade, Conrad set forth to -greet Hilda, as had been his custom for many evenings during the past -two years. The girl stole quietly up among the sadly trampled grape -vines to a corner of the castle which the two had made their own. There -was an angle in the wall under the northern tower which was in darkness -whether the moon shone or no, and above this stone alcove, the -machicolated wall gave Conrad an opportunity for descent unseen, which -would not have been possible from the promenade itself, except on dark -nights. Here he placed his rope, and thus he slipped silently down to -meet the girl who crept up from the village for the pleasure of holding -whispered converse with him. When it had become evident that the castle -was to be starved into submission, there was no further talk of Hilda -returning to her old service. The girl would at least have plenty to eat -in the village, which could not be guaranteed to her in the castle, and -although Hilda would have run the risk of starving had she been allowed -to return, the Countess herself felt she could not, in justice to those -beleaguered with her, allow the tire woman to leave her present lodging.</p> - -<p>Of late, although they stood in the shadow, Hilda's sharp eyes noted the -ever-increasing gauntness of Conrad, who, like all within the castle, -except the two ladies, was placed on short rations, and at last the girl -brought up with her, without saving anything, cakes of her own baking -from the village, and although at first Conrad thought of sharing his -good fortune<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_337" id="Page_337">[Pg 337]</a></span> with his comrades, reflection showed him that this could -not be done without endangering the secret of their rendezvous. Thus -their retreat in the secluded embrasure of the silent walls had become a -nocturnal picnic, Hilda watching her lover with tender solicitude while -he ate, sure for one night at least he should not starve. She begged him -to let her come oftener, but he, fearing discovery, would not permit -this, for her passing through the lines too frequently might raise -suspicion in the camp, where the greatest precautions were taken to -permit no supplies to pass the cordon, in which task the besiegers were -amazingly successful.</p> - -<p>Their time of meeting was early in the evening, while the Count and his -household were at their last meal of the day, as at that hour there was -less chance of interruption, and there was also the advantage that Hilda -could return to Alken before it grew late.</p> - -<p>Conrad had finished his welcome repast and the two stood in the darkness -together, the gloom perhaps made the more intense because it contrasted -so strongly with the sloping hillside flooded with bright moonlight, -when Hilda's quick ear, ever on the alert for a sound on the wall above -or the earth beneath them, heard a stealthy step, and she whispered -suddenly:</p> - -<p>"Hush! Some one is approaching along the west side."</p> - -<p>They remained breathless a few moments listening, and Conrad was about -to say he heard nothing, when round the corner came a muffled stooped -figure, which, although it was in darkness itself, stood out like a -black silhouette against the moonlit hills opposite. With a thrill of -fear Conrad recognised the evil face of Captain Steinmetz, peering with -anxious eyes ahead of him, luckily not in their direction, but towards -the plantation that clothed the hillside where the vineyard ended. At -first he thought the captain had discovered something of the meeting in -the corner, but it was soon evident that officer had no suspicion, -thinking himself entirely alone.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_338" id="Page_338">[Pg 338]</a></span></p><p>The two stood there in acute suspense, with Steinmetz before them, -almost within touching distance, did Conrad but reach out his hand. -While they trembled thus, scarce daring to breathe, they saw emerging -from the plantation, two figures, also cloaked, who paused at the edge -of the wood, and on the captain giving utterance to a low sibilant sound -like the soft hissing of a serpent, the two darted quickly across the -band of moonlight and stood beside the captain in the shadow of the -great north tower.</p> - -<p>"Have you brought the money?" were the first words of Steinmetz, spoken -under his breath, but as distinctly heard by Conrad and his companion as -by those to whom the remark was addressed.</p> - -<p>"We have brought three bags of it, Captain," said the foremost man. "The -rest will be given you when the castle is ours."</p> - -<p>"But that is not according to the bargain," protested Steinmetz.</p> - -<p>"It is according to the command of the Archbishop," replied the other, -with a shrug of his shoulders. "His Lordship is under the impression -that you can trust him with quite as much faith as he can trust you. If -you deal fair and honourably towards us, there will be no fear that you -will be cozened out of the rest of the money. If not—well, you will be -three weighty bags of gold to the good, but I warn you, there will be -little opportunity of enjoying it, for the Archbishop will exact stern -interest when the castle ultimately falls, as fall it must."</p> - -<p>"A bargain is a bargain," muttered Steinmetz, in no good humour.</p> - -<p>"The Archbishop will keep it, and if you stand by your word, the -remainder of the money will be paid you to-morrow night. So that is not -long to wait, for you will have but small chance of spending it in the -interval. Your hesitation gives colour to the Archbishop's suspicions -that you intend to play him false. I would I were so sure of as much -gold in so short a time, if you mean fair."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_339" id="Page_339">[Pg 339]</a></span></p><p>"Oh, I mean fair enough, and will take the gold, but I like not this -distrust of a man's motives."</p> - -<p>"It is remarkable," replied the other, nonchalantly, "that the -Archbishop should be suspicious of you. I confess I do not understand it -myself, but I am simply the messenger, and merely lay down the orders of -my master. Do you take the money?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, unless you now say you have forgotten to bring it, and that I must -deliver up the castle for nothing, and whistle for payment."</p> - -<p>"No; the gold is here. You accept the Archbishop's terms, then?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, since it is his will to drive so cautious a bargain."</p> - -<p>The other turned to his fellow and took from him three well-filled bags, -each about half the size of a man's head, and these he passed to the -captain, who concealed them under his cloak. When the folds of the cloak -had fallen over and covered the treasure, the ambassador of the -Archbishop said:</p> - -<p>"What are your final instructions regarding the assault on the castle?"</p> - -<p>"I have caused to be removed from the gates the bags of sand and earth, -for I have had communication with the Black Count, telling him there is -no fear of an attack, and that we must hold ourselves in readiness, -before hunger too much weakens us, to open the gates and sally forth to -cut our way through the lines, and so escape. In this he agrees with me, -and even while I speak the gates are free, and may be opened by any one -from the inside. If you have your men in readiness to-morrow night when -the bell tolls twelve, taking care to keep them unseen and under cover -in the forest before the gates, until about an hour after midnight, when -the moon begins to throw the shadow of the wood nearly to the wall, you -can approach silently and with caution, when you will find the gates -push open at a touch. We change guard at midnight, and it may be half an -hour after that time before I will have opportunity to undo the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_340" id="Page_340">[Pg 340]</a></span> bars -and bolts and leave the gates swinging freely. I shall give orders to -the sentinel to keep himself at the end of the battlements near this -tower, still it will be as well if you observe caution until you are in -the castle. I shall dispose the men-at-arms within so that you need not -fear much opposition, for they are at best half starved, and will have -little pluck to fight; but it is best to secure at once the body of the -Count, who may otherwise rally them and give you more trouble than you -look for. With reasonable luck, and all precaution, there need not be a -blow struck, but if you bungle and raise a premature alarm, you are like -to stir a hornet's nest, unless you secure at once Black Heinrich and -the young man Rodolph, who is his lieutenant, and who can fight like the -fiend himself. He it was who brought the Countess Tekla from Treves, and -I think the Archbishop will be glad to have hold of him, and should give -me extra pay for his capture."</p> - -<p>Conrad had stood with dropped jaw, listening to this black treachery so -calmly enunciated by the captain, whose oath laid it upon him to protect -the lives of those he was thus coolly selling for gold. Conrad remained -motionless until the reference to the capture of his master was made, -then, forgetting where he was and the great need of secrecy, he strode -forward before Hilda could restrain him and cried, his voice quivering -with anger:</p> - -<p>"You traitorous devil! Captain Judas!"</p> - -<p>The three men jumped as if the Black Count himself had unexpectedly -sprung upon them, each whipping out his sword. Hilda, with a moan, sank -almost senseless to the ground at the angle of the walls, where she lay -unnoticed. Conrad being unarmed, saw that he would have no chance -against three, whose swords were already at his throat, so he sprang -aside from the well swung blade of the captain, flung himself on one of -the Archbishop's men, and wrested his weapon from him, the other, -baffled by the darkness and bewildered by the suddenness of the crisis, -was thus unable to come to the assistance of his colleague.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_341" id="Page_341">[Pg 341]</a></span> Defending -himself from the onslaught of Captain Steinmetz, Conrad raised his voice -and shouted:</p> - -<p>"Help! Turn out the guard! Treason! Treason!"</p> - -<p>Along the top of the battlements were heard the hurried footsteps of the -sentinel, who cried as he ran:</p> - -<p>"An attack! To arms; to arms!"</p> - -<p>The keen-witted captain saw that not a moment was to be lost, or -destruction would fall on him. He turned savagely to the envoys and -said:</p> - -<p>"Fly at once. Leave me to deal with this. You must not be seen."</p> - -<p>The ambassadors, nothing loth to be quit of a situation so unforeseen -and so dangerous, fled to the plantation and disappeared. Steinmetz -easily parried the blows of Conrad, who was unused to the handling of a -sword, and when the sentinel looked over the wall, the captain said, -sternly and authoritatively:</p> - -<p>"Cease your foolish shouting. Open the gates and send me here six armed -men as quickly as possible. Then come and stand on the wall at this -corner. I have other commands for you."</p> - -<p>"Shall I call his Lordship the Count?"</p> - -<p>"No. Obey at once, and attend strictly to what I have said to you."</p> - -<p>The sentinel departed, trailing his pike behind him. A few moments later -the six men with drawn swords came running along the western wall, to -the spot where their master was holding off the infuriated Conrad.</p> - -<p>"Seize this traitor," cried Steinmetz, "and gag him. Then conduct him to -the courtyard, where he is to be hanged forthwith. Sentinel, search the -battlements and find the ladder by which this rascal got out of the -fortress."</p> - -<p>The six men, with their gagged prisoner, now marched back the way they -had come, Captain Steinmetz, pleased with his own resourcefulness in a -difficult situation, striding after them.</p> - -<p>"Here is the rope dangling from the parapet," shouted the sentinel.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_342" id="Page_342">[Pg 342]</a></span></p><p>"Then bring it with you to the courtyard. I have use for it," cried the -captain, over his shoulder.</p> - -<p>Hilda, moaning hysterically, yet fearful she would discover herself, -crouched along the wall in the shadow, following the cortége marching to -the open gates. She was shrewd enough to recognise the fact that if she -was to save her lover she must act quickly, and, if possible, get to the -Black Count himself, or failing him, to Rodolph. She knew there could be -no appeal to Captain Steinmetz, who must kill the witness of his -treachery, and that speedily, if he were to save his own head. She -slipped in behind the procession before the gates were closed, and kept -craftily in the rear of the excited throng who crowded round the -prisoner and their captain. She saw the sentinel coming down from the -battlements with the fatal rope in his hand, and heard as in a dream the -captain telling his indignant followers of their comrade's treachery. -Waiting to hear no more the girl ran like a hare, easily unseen, for all -attention was being paid to the captain's words, while curses were -muttered against the gagged and helpless man, to the main doorway and up -the stair, nearly upsetting Surrey, who came out of the great hall with -some trenchers in his hand. The Count sat moody at the head of the -table, with the others in their usual positions. To their surprise, -there burst in upon them a wild, dishevelled, frantic creature, whom, at -the moment, none of them recognised.</p> - -<p>"Oh, my Lord! My Lord!" she cried; "they are hanging Conrad in the -courtyard. Oh, my Lord, save him! Save him!"</p> - -<p>The Black Count started up in sudden anger, and roared with an oath:</p> - -<p>"What if they are? He deserves it, I doubt not. Get you gone. How dare -you come screeching here like a night owl? Take this beldame away to a -mad house!" he shouted to the archer, who had entered, anxious to learn -what exciting event was going forward.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_343" id="Page_343">[Pg 343]</a></span></p><p>"It is Hilda! It is Hilda!" cried the Countess Tekla, springing to her -feet, and rushing to the frightened girl. "Hilda, what is it? Speak -calmly. You are safe here."</p> - -<p>"Oh, my Lady, it is Conrad who is in danger. Save him, save him. I -cannot talk or it will be too late. Steinmetz is hanging him. The -captain sold the castle to the Archbishop, and Conrad saw it done. -Therefore he is killing Conrad. Oh, make haste, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"What is that?" roared the Black Count. "Steinmetz a traitor? It is a -lie!"</p> - -<p>"Let us see to it at once, my Lord," said Rodolph, sternly, "The thing -does not seem to me so incredible."</p> - -<p>Count Heinrich grasped a naked sword, and with it in his hand, strode to -the door bareheaded as he was, his great shock of shaggy coal-black hair -seeming to bristle in anger. Rodolph, also picking up a sword, quickly -followed him. The Count jangled down the stone steps, and, emerging into -the courtyard, beheld a striking scene. Notwithstanding the bright -moonlight, part of the courtyard was in darkness, and men stood there -holding lighted torches above their heads, whose yellow flaring rays -mingled strangely with the pure white beams of the moon. The gates were -now shut, and the space within the walls was clamorous with excited men, -most of whom were gazing upward at a man astride a piece of timber that -projected from the castle wall, bidding him make haste. He had the rope -between his teeth, and was working his way to the end of the beam, -somewhat over-cautious, perhaps fearing a fall on the hard flags -beneath. Steinmetz, who shot forth curt commands, palpably nervous with -impatience, feeling the necessity for a regular execution before -witnesses, yet cursing the inevitable slowness of the proceedings, kept -an eye on the doorway, and was thus the first to see the coming of the -Black Count, whose mottled face in the glare of the torches looked like -a death's head. The captain started, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_344" id="Page_344">[Pg 344]</a></span> clenched and unclenched his -hands in an agony of anxiety, yet he knew his master could have no -suspicion of the real state of the case, and he counted on his impulse -to hang the man first and make inquiry after. It was not the Count's -coming he so much feared as that of the man who followed him, for he -knew the cool mastery of Lord Rodolph, who would perhaps insist on the -ungagging of the prisoner, and the hearing of his version. If then he -could get Conrad partly throttled while making explanations to his -master, all might yet be well, even were the gag removed, and so after -the first spasm of surprise at the unexpected coming of the Black Count, -he breathed easier, casting an evil eye on Rodolph, ready to resent his -interference, and to inflame the Count against him, if, as he rightly -surmised, there was not too great a liking between the two. Conrad -swayed slightly from side to side as he stood bound and gagged, the loop -of the rope round his neck. His face was ghastly in its pallor, and -looked as if life had already left it, the wanness of its appearance -being heightened by a trickle of blood which flowed down his chin from -the spot where the rude putting in of the gag had cut his lip.</p> - -<p>The tall nobleman came forward with martial stride, his men falling into -immediate silence as they noticed his presence among them. When he spoke -it was with a level calmness for which Rodolph was not prepared, after -the outburst that almost immediately preceded it in the hall. The Count -looked lowering at his officer, and said:</p> - -<p>"What have we here, Captain Steinmetz?"</p> - -<p>"A traitor, my Lord. I have, for some time, suspected him, and to-night -kept watch upon him. He slipped down the walls by this rope which the -sentinel but a few moments since found there. I came upon him -trafficking with two emissaries of the Archbishop, and when I called to -the sentinel, all three fell upon me. This man himself, when the guards -came to my rescue, was fighting with a sword belonging to the -Archbishop. My lieutenant here, who disarmed him,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_345" id="Page_345">[Pg 345]</a></span> informs me that it is -a Treves blade, and he will tell you that he took it from him."</p> - -<p>"That is true, my Lord," said the lieutenant, when the Count darted a -piercing glance at him.</p> - -<p>"In what is this man a traitor, Captain Steinmetz?" next asked the Black -Count, still speaking with moderation.</p> - -<p>"I heard him agree to deliver up the castle to the Archbishop's troops, -letting them come over the wall by the same rope which he had used, -while he himself stood sentry, and delivered us up by giving no alarm."</p> - -<p>"Why this haste with his execution, Captain Steinmetz? Am I not still -Lord of Thuron, with the power of life and death over those within?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord, but if we are to be free from treachery, sharp punishment -should fall on the offender. I myself caught him red-handed, and my -lieutenant, as he has told you, took from him a traitorous sword of -Treves. For less than that, I cut off the head of a better man before -the siege began."</p> - -<p>"True, so you did. This man has sold us, then? Search him, and let us -see at how much we are valued by their august Lordships."</p> - -<p>Two men at a nod from the Count fell upon Conrad and brought forth all -there was to be found on him, a pitiful handful of small coins. These, -at the Count's command, the searchers poured into the huge open palm of -his Lordship, who looked closely at the pieces, demanding that a torch -be held near him, while he made the examination.</p> - -<p>When it was finished the inspector thrust forth his open hand toward the -captain, saying:</p> - -<p>"This is not traitorous money. Every coin has my own effigy on it, -which, if unlovely, is still honest? What say you to that, Captain -Steinmetz?"</p> - -<p>"My Lord, the money was not paid to him, but promised when the castle -was delivered."</p> - -<p>"Ah, Captain Steinmetz, there your own good heart deceives you. You know -so little of treachery that you think all men equally innocent. That is -not<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_346" id="Page_346">[Pg 346]</a></span> the way of the world, honest Steinmetz, for a traitor is ever a -suspicious villain, and demands not a few paltry pieces of silver, but -the yellow gold paid in hand. Strike a traitor, Captain Steinmetz, and -he jingles with gold."</p> - -<p>As the Black Count spoke his voice gradually rose to a tone of such -menace that more than one standing near him trembled, and a paleness of -apprehension swept over the captain's hardened face. Heinrich, with a -sweep of his hand, scattered the coins clattering to the stones, and -with the flat of his drawn sword struck the captain quickly, first on -one side, then the other. An intense stillness pervaded the courtyard; -every man seemed transformed into stone, and stood there motionless, -dimly perceiving that something ominous was in the air, yet not -understanding the drift of events. As each blow fell, a chink of coins -broke the silence. The captain half drew his own sword, and cast a quick -glance over his shoulder at the gates.</p> - -<p>"The gates are closed, Steinmetz," roared the Count, losing all control -of himself in his wild rage. "Lieutenant, see that they are securely -barred and guarded. Pikes here! Lower, and surround this traitor."</p> - -<p>The lancemen jumped alertly at the word of command, and instantly a -bristling array of levelled pikes circled the doomed captain, who, -seeing the game was up and escape impossible, folded his arms across his -breast and stood there making no outcry.</p> - -<p>"Unbind this man. Take the gag from his mouth and the rope from his -neck. Now, fellow, is it true that you were outside the walls? What were -you doing there?"</p> - -<p>Conrad stood speechless, apparently in a dazed condition, looking about -him like one in a dream, but when the Emperor spoke kindly to him, he -moistened his dry lips, and drew the back of his hand across his chin.</p> - -<p>"What did you say?" he asked, turning his eyes upon his master.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_347" id="Page_347">[Pg 347]</a></span></p><p>"My Lord, the Count, wishes to know if it is true that you were outside -the walls, and asks why you were there."</p> - -<p>"I went to meet Hilda, who had come up from Alken."</p> - -<p>"Then you disobeyed orders, and have deserved the fright you got," broke -in the Count. "How came you with a Treves blade?"</p> - -<p>"I wrested it from one of the Archbishop's men when the captain fell on -me. I tried to defend myself and called for the guard, but when it came -it arrested and gagged me."</p> - -<p>"What is the truth of this selling of the castle?"</p> - -<p>"The captain was to unbar the gates an hour after guard-changing -to-morrow night, and the Archbishop's troops were to enter silently. He -told them to be certain to secure your Lordship first, otherwise you -might rally the men and defeat the soldiers, even though they got -inside."</p> - -<p>The Black Count almost smiled as he heard this compliment paid him, and -he cast a malignant glance at the silent captain.</p> - -<p>"Yes," he cried, "the opening of the gates seems more likely than the -climbing of the wall. Now search Steinmetz as you searched his prisoner, -and let us see what you discover. I think I heard the chime of coin in -his neighbourhood."</p> - -<p>Without resistance the searchers brought forth the three bags of gold, -one of which the Count tore open, pouring the yellow pieces into his -palm as he had done with Conrad's silver. His eyes lit up again with the -insane frenzy which now and then shone in them, as he gazed down at the -coins, on each of which was the head of his old enemy, Arnold von -Isenberg. Scattering the money from his hand as if it had suddenly -become red hot, he seized the three bags one after another and dashed -them in fury on the stones, where they burst, sending the gold like a -shower of sparks from a smith's anvil all over the courtyard. Men's eyes -glittered at the sight, but such was their<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_348" id="Page_348">[Pg 348]</a></span> terror of the Black Count -that no one moved a muscle as this wealth rolled at their feet.</p> - -<p>"Steinmetz," shouted the Count, "draw your sword and cast it on the -stones. No man can take it, for none amongst us is so low and vile but -he would be contaminated by the touch of it."</p> - -<p>Captain Steinmetz drew his sword and flung it ringing at his master's -feet. The Count stamped on it near the hilt and shattered the blade like -an icicle. Turning to the followers he cried:</p> - -<p>"You see this man has sold us. What should be the fate of such a -traitor?"</p> - -<p>With one voice the men shouted:</p> - -<p>"He should be hanged with the rope he designed for the other."</p> - -<p>The Count pondered a moment with lowering brows, then said, his face as -malignant as that of a demon:</p> - -<p>"Not so. My good brother of Treves has bought him, and I am too honest a -trader to cheat the holy Archbishop, God bless him, of his purchase. We -shall bind our worthy captain and straightway deliver him, as goods duly -bargained for, to his owner, von Isenberg. Tear off his cloak and bind -him, leaving his legs free that he may walk."</p> - -<p>Surprise and delight gleamed in the captain's eyes. Merely to be -delivered to the Archbishop of Treves, was getting well out of a -predicament he had come to look upon as fatal. In spite of their fear of -the master of Thuron, there were murmurs at this unexampled clemency, -and Rodolph gave voice to the general feeling.</p> - -<p>"I think, my Lord, that his treachery, not to speak of his usage of an -innocent man, is inadequately punished by simply handing him over to the -Archbishop, who assuredly will not molest him further."</p> - -<p>But the Count made no answer. When the elbows of the criminal were -securely bound, Heinrich said;</p> - -<p>"Lieutenant, select a dozen of your best catapult men as guard to the -prisoner. Bring with you the rope and take this Archbishop's man under -close<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_349" id="Page_349">[Pg 349]</a></span> watch to the top of the north tower. Let a torchbearer precede -us. Follow us, my Lord Rodolph, and you, fellow, who came so near to -hanging."</p> - -<p>When they reached the top of the north tower, Captain Steinmetz, with -sudden premonition of his fate, now for the first time cried aloud for -mercy, but the Count paid no heed to him. From this tower could best be -descried the awful depth of the Thaurand's chasm, made the more terrible -by the partial illumination of the moon adding a seeming vastness to the -gulf, which the clearer light of day dispelled. The profound and narrow -valley appeared gloomy and unfathomable, and on the opposite height -above it gleamed the great white tent of the Archbishops.</p> - -<p>"Bend back the catapult," commanded the Count.</p> - -<p>The stalwart men threw themselves on the levers, and slowly worked back -the tremendous arms of the engine, which bent grudgingly, groaning from -long disuse. At last the claw-like clutches which held the incurvated -beams in place until released by a jerk of the rope, snapped into -position, and the catapult men, rising and straightening their backs -from the levers, drew hand across perspiring brow.</p> - -<p>"Take up the rope," said the Count to Conrad, who with visible -reluctance lifted the release rope, and stood holding it.</p> - -<p>"Now force this traitor's head between his knees. Double up his legs, -and tie him into a ball. The Archbishop must not complain that we -deliver goods slovenly."</p> - -<p>Steinmetz screamed aloud, and cried that such punishment was inhuman; -even the guard hesitated, but an oath from the Black Count and a fierce -glare flung about him, put springs into their bodies, and they fell on -their late captain, smothering his cries, jamming down his head as they -had been directed to do, finally tying him into a bundle that looked -like nothing human. The wails of the doomed man in this constrained -position would have cried mercy to any less savage than the Count.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_350" id="Page_350">[Pg 350]</a></span></p><p>"Place him on the catapult."</p> - -<p>Two men picked him up and flung him into the jaws of the waiting monster -with as little ceremony as if he were a sack of corn.</p> - -<p>"Pull the rope, fellow."</p> - -<p>Conrad stood motionless, gazing with horror at the furious Count.</p> - -<p>"Stop, stop," cried Rodolph. "I protest against this cruelty. It is -never your intention to launch him into eternity in such ghastly -fashion. This is fiendish torture, not justice."</p> - -<p>The Count, with the snarl of a wild beast, sprang forward, seized the -rope from Conrad's nerveless fingers, jerked the mechanism loose before -any could move to prevent him, and the great beams shot out like the -arms of a man swimming. The human bundle was hurled forth into space, -giving vent to a long continued shriek, that struck terror into every -heart but that of the man who stood with the rope in his hand, his -exultant face turned triumphantly upward in the moonlight. The shriek, -continually lessening, rose and fell as the victim's head revolved round -and round in its course through the air.</p> - -<p>The human projectile disappeared long before it reached the earth, and -every one stood motionless awaiting the crash which they thought would -come to them in the still night air across the valley, but the Count -sprang forward, and standing at the parapet, shook his clenched fist -toward the sky, filling the valley with a madman's laughter which came -echoing back to them from the opposite cliffs, as if there were in the -hills a cave full of malignant maniacs.</p> - -<p>"There, Arnold von Isenberg," he roared, "the gold is in my courtyard; -the merchandise is in your camp."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_351" id="Page_351">[Pg 351]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXIV.</span> <span class="smaller">THE BLACK COUNT'S DEFIANCE.</span></h2> - -<p>During the two years that the siege lasted, the Archbishops did not -remain in their camp on the heights as pertinaciously as their soldiers -had to cling to the line around the castle. Konrad von Hochstaden spent -much of his time at Cologne and Arnold von Isenberg in Treves. Frequent -messengers kept the latter aware that nothing in particular was -happening, but the former had no such interest in the progress of the -contest, and was content to visit the camp at widely infrequent -intervals. The Lord of Cologne became somewhat tired of being reminded -by his colleague that the siege, as then conducted, was following the -lines laid down by himself, and not those which would better have -pleased the more aggressive Lord of Treves. Whenever Konrad, grudging -the expense and inconvenience of keeping so many of his men in an -occupation so barren of results, grumbled at the fruitlessness of their -endeavours, the other called his attention to the fact that this -bloodless method of conquest originated not in Treves but in Cologne. -All this tended towards irritation, and the communications between the -two allies were marked by an acerbity that was as deplorable as it was -inevitable.</p> - -<p>In reply to the complaints of the Archbishop of Cologne, his friend of -Treves advised him to lay the corner-stone of his Cathedral, and -progress with its construction, leaving the conduct of the siege to -those more eager for war than for the building of churches, but Konrad -von Hochstaden held that he could not begin such an edifice while his -hands were imbrued<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_352" id="Page_352">[Pg 352]</a></span> with blood. Arnold replied cynically that in so far -as that was concerned his Lordship might go on with his architecture, -for the siege was as bloodless as a pilgrimage. When nearly two years -had been consumed in sitting before Thuron, the Archbishop of Cologne -declared his patience exhausted, and sent a message to Treves with the -announcement that he would appear in camp on a certain day and return to -Cologne with his men behind him. This message brought Arnold von -Isenberg from Treves to the camp some days in advance of his partner, -and as he was himself tiring of the contest, he opened negotiations with -Captain Steinmetz for the betrayal of the castle. The money was sent on -the day that his Lordship of Cologne arrived, and next night, or the -night after, at latest, the Archbishop of Treves expected to have the -Black Count at his mercy.</p> - -<p>The two Princes met that day at dinner, and greeted each other with -somewhat distant courtesy. As the meal went on, and the wine flagons -were emptied with greater frequency, conversation became less reserved -and more emphatic than during the earlier part of the feast. The wine, -so far from producing friendliness between the august confederates, had -rather an opposite effect, and, as the hum of conversation deepened into -one continuous roar, there was an undertone, acrid and ominous, of -enmity and distrust. At the long table there were perhaps thirty men on -each side. The chair at the head of the board was empty, for such was -the jealousy between the two dignitaries that neither would concede to -the other the right to sit there if both were present. When either the -Archbishop of Treves or his brother of Cologne was in camp alone, he sat -in the chair of state at the head of the table, but now one had his -place on the right hand side and the other sat facing him. Next to -Treves was Count Bertrich, after him the secretary of the Archbishop, -then down the table on that side were all the various officers of -Treves, according to their rank. In like manner the followers of the -Archbishop<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_353" id="Page_353">[Pg 353]</a></span> of Cologne were placed, and thus there were, fronting each -other, two hostile rows of drinking men, theoretically allies. As the -wine flowed freely, the assemblage resembled two lines of combatants, -who only waited the disappearance of the table from between them to fly -at each other's throats. Exception, however, must be made of Arnold von -Isenberg himself, whose attitude was coolly and scrupulously correct, -and in the heated throng he was the only one who maintained control over -voice and gesture; who answered questions quietly and put them with -careful moderation of speech. Yet it would have been difficult for an -unprejudiced observer to understand thoroughly the motives that actuated -the astute Archbishop of Treves, for while his own example had a -restraining effect on the impulses of his men, and as a matter of fact -on his opponents as well, he would, when matters seemed about to mend, -interject some sneering, cutting phrase, all the more unbearable because -it was peacefully uttered, sometimes with a glimmer of a smile about his -thin lips, that would once more put his brother of Cologne into a -towering rage, and thus, while apparently quenching the fire, he was in -reality adding fuel to it. When Konrad, goaded beyond endurance by some -taunt, gave forcible expression to his anger, Arnold would look across -the table at him with a pained and anxious expression, of which -child-like innocence seemed the distinguishing characteristic, as if he -could not understand what had so grievously disturbed his worthy -colleague.</p> - -<p>Konrad von Hochstaden drank more than was his custom. He had resolved -that night to withdraw his forces, a determination of which he had given -Treves full notice, in writing sent by special messenger, but Arnold -continued to ignore this communication, and when von Hochstaden -endeavoured to bring on a discussion with reference to their approaching -severance, the other jauntily waived the subject aside, treating it as -if it were a good-natured pleasantry which did not merit serious -consideration. Thus rebuffed, the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_354" id="Page_354">[Pg 354]</a></span>Archbishop of Cologne drank deeply, -so that when the time for action came, he would have made up for his -natural deficiency of courage by a temporary bravery drawn from the -flagon. Arnold, as was his invariable custom, drank sparingly, sipping -the wine occasionally rather than drinking it, and thus the two nominal -friends, but actual foes, sat in contra-position to each other, the one -getting redder and redder in the face and louder and louder in the -voice, the other with firm hand on his appetites and even tones in his -speech.</p> - -<p>"Well," cried Konrad von Hochstaden, raising his flagon aloft, "here's -good luck and speedy success to the Archbishop of Treves, in the -reducing of the Black Count's castle, now that he is about to set -himself to the task alone."</p> - -<p>"Thank you," replied Arnold von Isenberg, "if I were indeed alone the -siege would soon be ended."</p> - -<p>"What mean you by that, my Lord?" asked Cologne, flushing with anger. -"Have I then hampered your attack? I wish to God you had said as much -two years ago. I was willing enough to withdraw."</p> - -<p>"I have never made complaint, my Lord, of your lack of energy in -retreat," replied Arnold with a smile and a bow, and a general air of -saying the most polite thing that could readily come to a man's tongue.</p> - -<p>Konrad, glaring menacingly at his foe, half rose in his place, and put -his right hand to the hilt of the sword by his side.</p> - -<p>"Now by the three Kings of Cologne—" he cried, but the other -interrupted him, saying with gentle suggestion:</p> - -<p>"And add the Holy Coat of Treves, in token of our amicable compact. When -I swear, which is seldom, so few occasions being worth the effort, I -always use the Coat and the Kings in conjunction, as tending towards -strength in their union, and as evidence of the loyalty of my -partnership with the guardian of the bones of the Magi, presented by -Frederick Barbarossa, God rest his soul, to Archbishop von Dassele of -Cologne, God rest <i>his</i> soul also, something less than<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_355" id="Page_355">[Pg 355]</a></span> a century ago. -You will find great merit, my Lord, in swearing by the combination."</p> - -<p>"Our partnership, Arnold of Treves, is at an end, a fact of which I have -already formally given you intimation. It is at an end because of -continued deceit and treachery in the compact."</p> - -<p>"You grieve me deeply by your confession, my Lord, and I am loath to -credit anything to your disadvantage, even though the admission come -from your own lips. Had another made such charge against you, he should -have had to answer personally to me. I hold your honor as dearly as my -own."</p> - -<p>"I cannot pretend to follow your subtleties. I am an outspoken man, and -do not feign friendship where there is none. Confession? Charge against -me? I do not know what you mean."</p> - -<p>"There are but two to our compact, my Lord. You say there has been -treachery in it. There has been none on my part, therefore if truth -dwells in your statement, and—I am put in the invidious position of -being compelled to believe either that you have been treacherous or that -you speak falsely—the deceit must have been practised by you. So I -termed your remark a confession, and added in deep humility, that I was -slow to believe it. I know of no deceit on your part, as I know of none -on my own."</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Cologne stood for a moment staring at his antagonist, -then thrusting his half-drawn sword back into its scabbard, he sank -again into his seat, and took a long draught from the flagon with -shaking hand. Many of his followers drank as deeply as himself, and were -clamorous, shouting boisterously when he spoke; but others looked with -anxiety towards their leader, fearing an outbreak, the consequences of -which no one could foretell.</p> - -<p>"You have used deceit, and not I," said the Archbishop of Cologne. "You -said this siege would last but a short time, while at the end of two -years we are no nearer the possession of the castle than when we began."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_356" id="Page_356">[Pg 356]</a></span></p><p>"We are two years nearer," replied the Lord of Treves, calmly, "but I -made no predictions regarding the length of the siege when it began. The -bloodless environment of the castle was your plan, and not mine. I had -little belief in your method, and have less now, but I fell in with it -to please you, and I regret to find that after two years' constant -endeavour to meet your approval, I have apparently failed. But, although -I may have hopes of saintship being the reward of my life-long patience -and moderation, I have never pretended to the mantle of a prophet; -therefore, I hazarded no opinion with reference to the duration of the -siege."</p> - -<p>"You said Heinrich of Thuron was but imperfectly provisioned; that he -did not have time to fill his castle with grain. In that you must admit -you were wrong."</p> - -<p>"We are fallible creatures, my Lord, which statement I make in all -deference, willing instantly to withdraw it, if you object to being -placed in a category in which I am compelled to include myself. I formed -an opinion of the Black Count's resources from reports brought to me. -These reports apparently contained mis-statements; therefore my -deductions from them were wrong. In that there was error of judgment, -but you spoke of wilful deceit—an entirely different matter, and a -mistake on your part for which you are, doubtless, eagerly waiting -opportunity to apologise."</p> - -<p>"No apology is due from me. In spite of your verbal trickery, I have -been deluded and cozened from the first; that I say, and that I adhere -to. Still, of what avail is talk——"</p> - -<p>"True, true," murmured Arnold, gently. "You were ever a man of action, -my Lord."</p> - -<p>"I shall be a man of action now; I have been too long quiescent!" cried -von Hochstaden, again half-drawing his sword and springing to his feet -with a celerity that might not have been expected from one who had had -the flagon so constantly under tribute. "I shall now leave this camp and -bring with me every<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_357" id="Page_357">[Pg 357]</a></span> officer and man that is mine. They are as weary of -this business as I am, and will be glad to follow. You may then get -others to be your dupes."</p> - -<p>Count Bertrich, who had with difficulty kept his hot temper in hand -during this dialogue, now leaped upright, and flashing out the sword -that was by his side, smote the table with the hilt of it, as he -shouted:</p> - -<p>"My Lord of Cologne, twice you have made a feeble attempt to draw your -reluctant weapon; if you had kept your eyes on me you would have seen -how easily the trick is done. My over-lord does not choose to chastise -you for your insolence to him, but I would have you know there are good -blades here ready to meet those of your men, the moment he gives the -signal. If you want to appeal to the sword, in God's name have the -courage to draw it; if you rest on argument and reason, then keep your -seat and address my Lord of Treves with that respect which his position -as Prince of the Church demands."</p> - -<p>At this wild cheers burst from the men of Treves. Each warrior stood up, -and there was a bristling hedge of swords held in the air above their -heads. The men of Cologne rose also, but hesitatingly, not actuated by -the instantaneous impulse which brought such quick action into play on -the other side of the table. The Archbishop of Treves alone remained -seated, a cynical smile parting his lips. He raised his hand as if to -pronounce benediction, and by a slight motion of it, soothed and quelled -the disturbance in a manner almost magical. The swords, seemingly of -their own accord, returned to their scabbards, and one by one the -wearers seated themselves.</p> - -<p>"You see, my Lord," he said, in a low voice, "how quickly a bad example -influences those who look on. Your hand to the hilt brought steel into -view even before a good half of your own formidable weapon was visible. -My trusty captain has asked you, with all a soldier's bluntness, which a -champion like yourself will be first to excuse, to be seated. May I, in -the utmost humility, associate myself with his desire?<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_358" id="Page_358">[Pg 358]</a></span> The sword, alas, -has its uses, still it is but a cumbrous instrument at a dinner table. -You were speaking, I think, of withdrawing your men, but in the tumult, -I fear, I missed your peroration."</p> - -<p>Cologne thrust his weapon back into its scabbard, but he nevertheless -remained standing.</p> - -<p>"If the tongue were a weapon——"</p> - -<p>"It is, in a measure."</p> - -<p>"—I would grant that you are master of it," said von Hochstaden.</p> - -<p>"I thank you for the compliment, and its generosity gives me hope that -we are about to come to an amicable understanding."</p> - -<p>"We have already come to an understanding, and if you consider it -amicable, the better am I pleased. To-night I withdraw my troops."</p> - -<p>"And why?"</p> - -<p>"The reasons I have already set down in my communication to you at -Treves."</p> - -<p>"I do not recall them; at least my remembrance is, that on perusing them -they did not seem to me to justify a withdrawal. Would you, therefore, -for our present enlightenment, recount the most important clauses of -your letter?"</p> - -<p>"One reason will suffice. I cannot consent to have my troops longer -engaged in a futile enterprise."</p> - -<p>"Ah, yes. I recollect now that such an excuse for cowardice seemed -entirely indefensible."</p> - -<p>"For cowardice, my Lord?"</p> - -<p>"Call it what you will. I shall not quarrel about terms; withdrawal is, -I think, your favourite word. However, to please you, I acted instantly -in the matter, and will therefore be in possession of the castle -to-morrow night, or, making allowances for accidents, the night -following. Accordingly, my Lord, you shall not withdraw your troops, but -will enjoy the pleasures of conquest with me."</p> - -<p>"You will possess Thuron so soon?"</p> - -<p>"Of a surety."</p> - -<p>"If you are so certain of that, why did you<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_359" id="Page_359">[Pg 359]</a></span> not inform me of the -prospect, I being an ally of yours?"</p> - -<p>"It is not my custom to spread my plans abroad. You were in Cologne, -probably most devoutly occupied, and I hesitated to obtrude worldly -affairs on your attention. Had you been here, and had you expressed any -curiosity in the matter, I should have satisfied it, as I do now."</p> - -<p>"Frankly, my Lord, I do not believe you. This is but another of your -crafty tricks to keep my men at your beck and call. I have had enough of -such foolery, and am not to be again deluded. If this taking of Thuron -can be so speedily accomplished now, why was it not done six months or a -year ago?"</p> - -<p>"I shall charge to the potency of the wine the insinuation made against -my probity, and will therefore pass it by. Your method of siege, my -Lord, was a plant of slow growth. I have but grafted upon it a little -sprig of my own, which is now blossoming and will to-morrow bear fruit: -an exceedingly swift maturity. Six months ago, your slow growing stem -was not ready to receive a graft; now it is, and there all's said. I -therefore count confidently on your co-operation."</p> - -<p>"I shall not rob your Lordship of the full glory of success. You shall -have no co-operation from me."</p> - -<p>"You still do not believe what I say, perhaps?"</p> - -<p>"Perhaps."</p> - -<p>"I am not given to substantiating my statements, but in this instance, -such is my warm friendship for you, I will change an old habit and -shortly furnish you with proof. I am momentarily expecting the return of -my messengers, and you will hear from their lips that the castle has -been bought and paid for, and that it will be in our possession at a -given time, perhaps not more than twenty-four hours hence."</p> - -<p>"Your messengers will report to you alone, my Lord, for I shall not stay -to question them," cried von Hochstaden. "Up, men of Cologne, we have -waited here too long. To the North, to the North!"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_360" id="Page_360">[Pg 360]</a></span></p><p>The Archbishop of Treves, seeing that a crisis had come, leaned -forward, and sharply hissed the word,</p> - -<p>"Swords!"</p> - -<p>The single syllable might have been an incantation, so quickly was it -acted upon. It was evidently a prearranged signal, for the moment it was -uttered, every man on the Treves side of the table whipped out his -blade, and placed its point at the throat of the man who sat opposite -him. None were so drunk as not to know that a single lunge forward on -the part of the assailants would cause the simultaneous deaths of the -followers of Cologne. Each, sobered by the sudden menace and the -presence of a grave danger, sat motionless as if turned to stone. His -Lordship of Cologne stood uncertainly, and cast a wavering eye down -along the bridge of steel that spanned the table. His serene Lordship of -Treves sat in his place, an ill-omened glitter in his piercing eye, -while his thin bloodless lips were compressed into a straight line. -After an interval of silence he spoke in silky tones:</p> - -<p>"I see, my Lord, that it is unnecessary for me to caution your men not -to move hand to hilt until some friendly arrangement is come to between -you and me. The air has been thick with threats for some time past; it -is well that definite action should clear it. How easy would it be for -me to give another brief signal and thus end the lives of all your -followers in this tent? With you a prisoner, word could be sent to the -camp, and your unsuspecting soldiers would be prisoners as well. Thus -might I act were I a bloody-minded warrior, but I thank my Maker, and -you may well join your thanks with mine, that I am ever a man of peace, -rarely using forceful measures except when compelled to do so. Perhaps -you will consent to reconsider your decision, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Go on with your treacherous butchery, cut-throat of Treves, and see -what good you reap from it."</p> - -<p>"It is easy for you, my Lord, to say go on, when your throat is -unthreatened, but I grieve for those who must be victims of your -stubbornness. In case<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_361" id="Page_361">[Pg 361]</a></span> you may imagine that the cut-throat of Treves -will hesitate when it comes to your own august person, I beg to remind -your Lordship that an ancestor of mine slew a predecessor of yours."</p> - -<p>"Say murdered, and you will be nearer the mark."</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Treves spread out his hands in conciliatory fashion -and, bowing slightly, replied,</p> - -<p>"Well, murdered then, if it please you. I am always willing to concede -to a disputant his own choice of words."</p> - -<p>Von Hochstaden's secretary, standing at his master's elbow, filled with -alarm at the threatening aspect of affairs, pleaded in whispers with him -to give way, but the prelate, with an angry motion of his hand, waved -the subordinate aside, bidding him hold his peace.</p> - -<p>The good Ambrose, with uplifted eyes and paled face, prayed that heaven -might send peace to that sorely divided camp. Heaven replied in its own -way, but in a manner which made the startled occupants of the tent -imagine that the prayer had been literally answered. The Archbishop of -Cologne was about to speak when there was an impact on the end of the -tent which first made it bulge suddenly in, then the cloth ripped with a -loud report, and there shot swiftly along the line of swords, sweeping -many of them jangling from the hands of their owners, a nondescript -bundle that sped hurtling down the table, coming to rest against the -heavy chair at the head, with a woeful groan like the rending of a soul -from a body; a groan that struck wild terror into every heart, so -supernatural did it seem, giving appalling indication that there was yet -life in the shapeless heap when it was hurled against the tent. Even the -Archbishop of Treves, for the first time that evening, sprang in quick -alarm to his feet, as the living projectile dropped from the end of the -table into the empty chair, and lay there motionless. The men of -Cologne, who had been seated breathless, with the sharp points of the -swords at their throats, now took swift advantage of the amazing -intervention, and, throwing themselves backwards,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_362" id="Page_362">[Pg 362]</a></span> jumped upright, -plucked blade from scabbard, and stood at least on equal terms with -their foes, but having thus prepared themselves for defence, all -remained silent and motionless, awe-struck by the astounding -interruption.</p> - -<p>Through the tattered rent in the end of the tent came the sound of -distant laughter, like the laughter of some fiend suspended in the sky, -and then all distinctly heard the words:</p> - -<p>"There, Arnold von Isenberg! The gold is in my courtyard; the -merchandise is in your camp!"</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_363" id="Page_363">[Pg 363]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXV.</span> <span class="smaller">THE NIGHT ESCAPE OF THE EMPEROR.</span></h2> - -<p>When the Black Count had shouted his defiance to the tent of the -Archbishop, he stood there in the calm moonlight with his clenched fist -raised high above his head, while a deep silence held in thrall all who -were on the roof of the northern tower. Suddenly his upstretched hand -dropped to his side, and the wild exultation faded from his fiery eyes. -He turned, and curtly bidding the others to follow, clanked down the -circular stone stair, and presently entered the courtyard he had so -recently quitted. All his men there assembled stood motionless as he had -left them. The yellow bits of gold lay where they had fallen, no man -having had the courage to stoop and pick up a single coin.</p> - -<p>Heinrich flashed a contemptuous glance at the scattered metal, and said:</p> - -<p>"Lieutenant, see that this trash is gathered up. Give half of it to the -honest fellow who discovered the plot, and divide the rest among -yourselves. You will take temporary command until I have further -investigated this treachery."</p> - -<p>"My Lord," interrupted Rodolph, "Conrad is my man, and I will myself -undertake to compensate him for what he has undergone. I beg of you to -divide the Archbishop's gold entirely among those who have stood so -faithfully by the castle. If you give orders to that effect, I would be -glad to have a word with you in private."</p> - -<p>"What is done, is done," replied the Black Count, frowning. "There is -little good in further talk about it. I mean with regard to the sending -away of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_364" id="Page_364">[Pg 364]</a></span> traitor; that's past praying for; the dividing of the gold -shall be according to your wish."</p> - -<p>"What is done, is done, as you most truly say, and I have no comment to -make upon it. If a man is to be killed, and Steinmetz richly merited -death, I suppose it matters little how his taking off is accomplished so -that it be speedy, and none can complain that he was kept long in -suspense. I shall have the honour of following you to the council -chamber, my Lord."</p> - -<p>The Black Count strode up the stone steps and entered the now deserted -room, turning round upon his guest with some apprehension on his brow.</p> - -<p>"Well, my Lord," he said, and from his tones had departed all their -former truculence.</p> - -<p>"I have to ask your permission to leave the castle to-night. The time is -ripe for my departure, and I think during the commotion that will -inevitably ensue in the enemy's camp after the receipt of your startling -message, I may the more surely make my way through the lines. I shall, -with as little delay as need be, bring up my own men, and I imagine we -will have small difficulty in raising the siege, or at least in getting -through to you some necessary provender, if you can but hold out for a -few days longer."</p> - -<p>"How many men answer to your command?"</p> - -<p>"Enough to make their Lordships regret that my followers are thrown in -the scale against them."</p> - -<p>For a moment an elated gleam of hope lit up the dark eye of the Count, -but it soon died away as unbelief in the other's ability to do what he -had promised reasserted itself.</p> - -<p>"You have been here for two years: your men are now most likely -scattered, or may indeed be in the Archbishop's own camp. When the hand -of the master is withdrawn, his mercenaries look to themselves!"</p> - -<p>"True, my Lord; but I have been in constant communication with my trusty -lieutenant, and he now informs me that everything is ready."</p> - -<p>"How can you have been in communication with him?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_365" id="Page_365">[Pg 365]</a></span></p><p>"The good monk, my Lord, was my secret messenger."</p> - -<p>"Ah! That accounts for his frequent visits, then. Well, go, in God's -name, if you think you can benefit us. I trust you all the more because -I believe there is one within these walls whom you would wish to see -neither harmed nor starved. I am not blind, although I say little."</p> - -<p>"You are right, my Lord, and your observation has not misled you. But I -would like you to credit this; that even if there were none such, I -would gladly come to your aid, on your account as well. I propose to -take Conrad and the archer with me, for we may arrive at blows in the -getting away, and I wish two followers in whom I have confidence. -Besides, the departure of three will relieve, to that extent, the -slender resources of the castle. I hope I have your approval of my -project."</p> - -<p>"Surely, surely. May prosperity attend you, and may I meet you at my own -gate with your lancemen at your back. You will be most heartily -welcome."</p> - -<p>The two shook hands and parted with much cordiality. Rodolph made his -way to his room in the tower, followed by Conrad. There they found the -archer, seemingly in deep dejection.</p> - -<p>"Well," cried Rodolph, "are you returned already? What luck have you had -with the poet?"</p> - -<p>"Roger is as stubborn as a mule, my Lord, and insists that his oath to -the Archbishop will not allow him to let me pass through the lines. A -plague on his good principles. I never let my principles interfere with -the serving of a friend."</p> - -<p>"Is it so, honest John? You would, then, at the request of Roger, allow -me to be captured by the Archbishops?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, no, my Lord," replied the archer, in astonishment at the bare -suggestion. "Not for all the friends that were ever weaned in England -would I betray your Lordship."</p> - -<p>"I am sure of it. Therefore must we not be too<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_366" id="Page_366">[Pg 366]</a></span> severe on the poet if he -refuses to do for one friend what you would not do for a whole regiment -of them. Where is our faithful rhymester on guard?"</p> - -<p>"He stands in the valley of the Thaurand, in a most excellent position -for our escape, and that is the pity of it, curses on his stubbornness. -We could slip through to the stream and either up the opposite hill or -along the water course to the Moselle quite unmolested, once we were -past the lines. If your honour commands me to do it, I will send an -arrow through his unfriendly heart, although I must say I would loosen -string with grief and bitterness in my own; then we may pass unchecked."</p> - -<p>"No, no. Such a trial shall not be put upon you. The arrow is silent, -and if it be necessary we will send it through the heart of another on -the line, and step over his body. But it is best to attain our object -bloodlessly, if possible, for a man killed may cause the hue and cry to -be raised after us. Has Roger no poetry to recite to you? No new verses -or changes in the old, regarding which he wishes your sage opinions?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, he has plenty of new verse, curse him, but I told him I would not -wait to hear, saying I believed him no true poet at all, thus leaving -him in deep melancholy, leaning on his bow regardless of the strain upon -it, as I bent my way up the hill."</p> - -<p>"'Tis a pity author and critic should part in anger. Will you then make -your way to him again, taking your bow and a well-filled quiver with -you. Apologise for your remarks reflecting on his quality as poet; say -your bad temper made you speak, and not your critical judgment. Induce -him to recite all that is new in his composition, and also some of the -old verses, until you hear my signal on the other side of the valley. -Then break his bow so that he may not injure you, and fly to us. During -the recital we will steal through as silently as we can, trusting to the -poet's fervour of genius for our being unseen and unheard. Win to us -then if you can; should this be <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_367" id="Page_367">[Pg 367]</a></span>impossible, Conrad and I will have to -make our way down the Moselle without you. I will give you an hour to -make your peace with the offended Roger, then, when you hear the night -bird's cry, know that we are about to steal through the lines. Keep -Roger busily engaged without rest until the cry comes to you again from -the other side of the valley. If he discover us and is about to give the -alarm, I trust that you will let friendship fly to the winds for a short -time and promptly throttle him, escaping after, as best you may."</p> - -<p>"I will do all I can, even if I have to wring his long neck," said the -archer, buckling quiver to his back and taking up his bow. When he had -gone Rodolph turned to Conrad.</p> - -<p>"Hilda has had a somewhat exciting evening of it, and will be glad to -have assurance that you are unhurt. Seek her out, therefore, and bid her -farewell for a few days. Ask her, so that you may not be interrupted -during your parting, to deliver a message to the Countess Tekla from me. -Tell the Countess that I am on the battlements and beg of her indulgence -that she meet me there. I value you so highly, Conrad, that I will -myself engage the Countess in conversation, so that Hilda may not be -called upon by her Ladyship, until your conference is ended. Thus I hope -to merit the gratitude of both Hilda and yourself."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, my Lord," said Conrad, with a smile as he departed on his -mission.</p> - -<p>The young Emperor, his hands clasped behind him, paced up and down the -broad promenade in the moonlight. He was now at last on the eve of -achievement; about to return to his capital and take his rightful place -at the head of the State. An army awaited him, quietly accumulated and -efficiently drilled. This huge weapon was ready to his hand to be -wielded absolutely as pleased him, for the good or for the evil of his -country. The young man pondered gravely on the situation. What would be -the result?<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_368" id="Page_368">[Pg 368]</a></span> Bloodshed and civil war, or peace and prosperity in the -land? Would the Archbishops fight when he ordered the siege to be -raised, or would they obey his command? Only a few more moonlight nights -lay between him and this knowledge. As he meditated on his danger and -hopes, the white slender figure of the Countess came up the steps to the -promenade, and he rushed forward to meet her with both hands -outstretched.</p> - -<p>"Ah, Tekla," he said, "it is kind of you to come."</p> - -<p>The girl put her hands in his, but there was an expression of concern on -her face.</p> - -<p>"What has uncle done with Captain Steinmetz?" she asked.</p> - -<p>"He was a traitor," said Rodolph, sternly.</p> - -<p>"I know, I know, but for long he was in my uncle's service, and he has -been these two years one of our defenders. Perhaps, half starved, he -succumbed to the temptation of a moment. His years of good faith should -not be forgotten at this time. Is he in prison?"</p> - -<p>"No. The Black Count bound him and sent him, with a warlike message, to -the Archbishop of Treves."</p> - -<p>"Oh," cried the girl, much relieved, "I am glad that nothing more severe -was done. I feared my uncle, in his just anger, might have acted -harshly, but I think you have had a good influence on him, Rodolph. I -have noted, with gladness, how he defers to you."</p> - -<p>"I suppose we influence more or less all those with whom we come into -contact. I should be glad to believe that I had a benign effect upon his -conduct, but, before arriving at a definite conclusion in the matter, I -shall await further proof of his Lordship's leaning towards clemency and -softness of speech."</p> - -<p>"What further proof could you wish than the incident to-night? I assure -you, and you are yourself very well aware, that two years ago, yes, and -often since then, my uncle would have killed Steinmetz on evidence of -such treachery."</p> - -<p>"I think he would have deserved his fate, Tekla;<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_369" id="Page_369">[Pg 369]</a></span> and now I beg of you -dismiss the traitor for ever from your mind, and give your unworthy -lover some space in your thoughts. I am about to quit the castle, and I -ask your good wishes in my venture. I hope shortly to return at the head -of my own men, and have some influence on the siege if I have little -with your uncle."</p> - -<p>"To leave the castle? Does my uncle know?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, and he cordially approves my scheme. Furthermore, he has no doubts -about my loyalty, for he says he is cognizant of the fact that I leave -one within the castle to whom I shall be most eager to return, which is, -indeed, the case, my Tekla."</p> - -<p>"He knows that also, does he?" replied the girl, blushing, and hiding -her blushes on the shoulder of her lover.</p> - -<p>Rodolph, bending over and caressing her, undid a knot of ribbon at her -throat, kissing the white neck thus laid bare.</p> - -<p>"I shall wear your colours on my arm, Tekla, till I return, if you will -but tie them there and entangle your good wishes with the knot."</p> - -<p>The girl tied the shred of ribbon on his arm, daintily pressing her lips -to the knot when it was in place.</p> - -<p>"There," she cried, looking up at him with moist and glistening eyes, -"that will bring you safely to me; but, Rodolph, you will be careful and -not rash. Do not jeopardise your own safety for—for us. I fear your men -are but few, and if that is the case, do not, I beg of you, adventure -life in a hopeless enterprise. Let us rather surrender and throw -ourselves on the mercy of the Archbishop."</p> - -<p>"I should scarcely care to trust to his tender heart, but you may be -sure I shall use all caution. I think my men will be ample in number for -the task I shall set to them, and in any case we will be strong in the -justice of our cause and the prayers of our Lady. And now Tekla, I must -be gone and trust myself to the outcome of the night. I hear Conrad -<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_370" id="Page_370">[Pg 370]</a></span>approaching with a clumsy noisiness that betokens a desire to deal with -others as he would be dealt with himself. His coming shows that the -moment of parting is at hand, for another awaits us, and our success -depends on our being at our post in the valley at the exact time, so -kiss me, my Tekla, before the faithful head of Conrad appears above the -battlements."</p> - -<p>The kiss and others to supplement it were given and taken.</p> - -<p>"We shall always remember these battlements, Rodolph," she whispered to -him.</p> - -<p>When Conrad at last came, Rodolph and he disappeared over the wall -together: Tekla, leaning against the parapet, little as she imagined it, -bade farewell for ever to her Knight of the Moselle. It was destined -that the next lover she was to meet would be no unknown Lord, but the -Emperor of Germany himself.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_371" id="Page_371">[Pg 371]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXVI.</span> <span class="smaller">THE FIVE BILLETLESS ARROWS.</span></h2> - -<p>The bowman, with characteristic caution, stole down the hill until he -neared the line, wound so tightly round the castle. Here his -circumspection redoubled, and, trailing his bow after him, he crawled on -hands and knees towards his friend, Roger Kent, who, with bowed head, -marched to and fro along his accustomed beat. The poet seemed in a state -of blank despondency, but whether on account of the slanders of an -unsympathetic world, or for the reason that he had parted in discordant -terms from his comrade, John Surrey could not tell. A warble from the -forest caused the sentinel to raise his head and peer into the denseness -of the thicket. The moon showed his face to be alert and expectant, -expressions which changed into a look of joy when the warble was -repeated and he saw emerge from the plantation the rotund figure of his -friend and critic. The latter motioned him to come out of the moonlight -into the shadow, and the unsuspicious Roger, casting a glance round him, -seeing the coast clear, approached until the gloom of the wood fell over -him, then stood, realising that, after all, the insult had not been of -his bestowal, and that etiquette at least demanded from John some verbal -amends for his former verbal buffets, if there was to be peace between -them.</p> - -<p>"Roger," said John, "I could not sleep until I had told you how sorry I -am that my roughness of speech gave you good cause for offence, and I -beg you to think no more of my words."</p> - -<p>"What you said," replied Roger, dolefully, "was no doubt true enough. I -have been thinking over<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_372" id="Page_372">[Pg 372]</a></span> your estimate of my poems, and I fear I have, -in my enthusiasm, at various times given you the idea that I held them -in high esteem myself; but alas, no one knows better than I what poor -trash they are, and I recited them to you that I might profit by your -criticism. I cannot find fault with an honest opinion."</p> - -<p>"It was not an honest opinion," cried John, fervently. "I was -disappointed that you refused to pleasure my master by allowing him to -get free of the castle, but he has said that you were quite right to -stand by your oath and showed me that, in your place, I would have done -the same. Ah, he has a high opinion of poets, my master."</p> - -<p>"Has he so? Then am I the more unfortunate that I cannot aid him to -escape. I would I had taken the oath with him instead of under the -Archbishop, whom I have never seen, but such are the fortunes of war, -and one of the many blessings of peace is that then a man is at liberty -to do what he will for a friend, as I think I have well set forth in a -verse conned over in my mind since you left me, which I shall entitle, -'Peace boweth to Friendship.'"</p> - -<p>"Let me hear it, Roger, in token of your forgiveness, for what I said to -you a while since was but the reflex of my disappointment, and in no -wise an indication of my true mind."</p> - -<p>"The verse is but a trivial one at best," said Roger, in a tone of great -complacency that rather belied his words, "and is, you must remember, -not yet polished as it will be when I indite it on papyrus; still I have -to admit that even in its present unfinished shape it contains the germ -of what may be an epic. It runs thus——"</p> - -<p>And here he repeated the lines sonorously, while his comrade listened -with rapt attention beaming on his upturned countenance.</p> - -<p>After this felicitous introduction the two sat down together, the -sentinel rising now and then to cast a look about him, resolved that -even the delights of a discussion upon poesy should not make him -neglect<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_373" id="Page_373">[Pg 373]</a></span> the business he had in hand, but the night was still, with the -castle and camp wrapped in equal silence. At last John's quick ear -caught the low signal that told him Rodolph and Conrad were waiting to -make good their way through the line, broken at this point by a literary -conference. John looked sharply at his friend, wondering whether or no -he also had heard the sound, but the other babbled serenely on.</p> - -<p>"You remember the poems you delivered that night at the foot of the wall -long ago, when you so unjustly charged me with being asleep, because, I -suppose, your first verses were on 'Sleep?' Recite them again in the -order you then arranged them, if you can, and I will tell you whether -you have improved the lines or not."</p> - -<p>The author rapturously began, and he had no complaint to make regarding -his listener's lack of attention. John seemed fascinated, and fixed his -eyes on the speaker with a keen inquiry that was most flattering. Never -had reciter so absorbed an audience, and the poet went on like one -inspired. He glowed with the enthusiasm of his varying themes, and his -voice was at times thrilled with the pathos or the tenderness of his -changing subjects. Once, indeed, he stopped abruptly in the middle of a -quatrain, and whispered, alarmed:</p> - -<p>"What was that? A twig snapped; I am sure of it. Did you hear nothing?"</p> - -<p>"Nothing, Roger, but the most marvellous lines that ever man was -privileged to listen to. Go on, for God's sake, and do not keep me thus -deprived of the remainder. What follows: what follows, Roger?"</p> - -<p>"Ah, John," cried the poet, beaming upon him, "you have the true feeling -for poesy; why was the gift of expression denied you?"</p> - -<p>"It is a question I cannot answer, but if I fail to make an arrow, I can -judge it rightly when it is made. Perhaps if I were a poet myself I -could not so well appreciate the verses with which you delight the -world."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_374" id="Page_374">[Pg 374]</a></span></p><p>"True. I have met other versifiers who were so lacking in all valuation -of genius that instead of listening to some of my best efforts they -would insist on disturbing me with their own poor doggerel, which was -entirely devoid of any just reason for existence. You would hear more of -this poem, then?"</p> - -<p>"I would not lose a word of it for all the wine between here and Treves. -Go on, I beg you, for I never before heard the like of it."</p> - -<p>The syllables of the poet flowed like the sweet purling of a stream, and -finally, through it all, John's straining ears caught again the signal, -but this time from the opposite side of the moonlit Thaurand valley, -high up on the hill, which intimated to him that his comrades were at -last safe, and that they were making their way across the rocky headland -which jutted out between the Thaurand and the Moselle to the north of -the spot where the talker and the listener sat, and thus Rodolph and -Conrad had avoided the danger of going down the valley and past the end -of the village, which was thronged with the Archbishop's men. John -Surrey still sat there until he thought his comrades had had time to -reach the bank of the river, knowing that then if he were captured or -killed, they, at least, would be free from molestation, for it had been -arranged that they were to wait but a short time for him, and, on the -first symptom of alarm, make the best of their way down the Moselle, -with such speed as was possible. Two more poems were recited, and at the -end of the last, John Surrey rose and placed his hands on Roger's -shoulder, his friend, the poet, rising also.</p> - -<p>"If it should so chance, Roger, that I do not live to tell you this -again, mark well my last words. The verse you have rhymed to me will -live long after our two heads are low, if you can but get them on -parchment so that others may read them when we are gone. This is my true -belief, for there is something in them that touches me, although I -cannot explain why or what it is. I do not think I understand them, yet -am<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_375" id="Page_375">[Pg 375]</a></span> I pleased and soothed to listen to them, for the words run smoothly, -the one into the other, like music. This, Roger, is my firm opinion, and -perhaps my last, so remember it, and forget my petulance earlier in the -night. How many arrows have you, Roger?"</p> - -<p>"Arrows? The saints save us! What have arrows to do with poetry, John? I -carry five with me each night on guard, but have never yet had use for -any. But respecting that last poem, did you notice——"</p> - -<p>"Roger, old friend, good-bye."</p> - -<p>Saying this with trembling voice, John Surrey leaped down the hillside -towards the stream, his stout body ill adapted to the recklessness of -his descent, leaving the other standing open-mouthed in amazement, -chagrin coming over him with the surmise that all this listening to his -verse had been a mere cheat; yet John's last words of praise rang -persistently and deliciously convincing in his ears. For a moment he -stood thus, then a realisation of his duty burst upon him, and he seized -bow, automatically placing an arrow accurately on the string.</p> - -<p>Headlong the rotund John plunged downwards, expecting a command to stop, -but no cry came. He splashed through the little stream, and knew that in -his slow ascent up the steep crumbling hill, the moon would be shining -full on his broad back, making him a target that would delight the heart -of any archer who ever drew string to ear. He shivered in spite of his -courage, in fear of the sudden pang which he himself had so often and so -light-heartedly dealt, but the shiver was because his back was toward -the danger, and he told himself that he would have faced certain death -with equanimity could he but see the missile that was to slay him. He -toiled panting up the hill, the ground crumbling under his feet and -making progress doubly slow and tiresome, wondering why the shaft did -not come. At last there was a swift hum at his right ear like the sharp -baritone of an enraged wasp. Into the earth, on a level with his nose, -an arrow buried itself up to the feather on its shank. He<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_376" id="Page_376">[Pg 376]</a></span> almost -fancied he felt the sting of it, and his hand went up to his ear without -thought on his part. He turned round for one brief moment, and waved his -hand to the tall man across the valley, then struggled up as before. The -second arrow came as close to his left ear, struck a ledge of rock and -glanced out of sight. Still John laboured on and up. After a similar -interval had passed and the distant bowman saw he did not intend to -stop, the third arrow passed his side, grazing his doublet on a level -with his panting heart. The hill seemed steeper and steeper, and John -breathed as if his breast would burst, the breath coming hot as steam -from his parched throat. He seemed intuitively to know when the next -arrow would come, and it came exactly on the moment, not passing him as -the others had done, but tearing his doublet and hanging there between -the skin and the cloth, yet so far as John could tell in the excitement -of the moment not cutting his flesh. He paused, turned, and lying back -against the hill, gasped:</p> - -<p>"Lord, Roger, what a marksman you are!"</p> - -<p>Even his lack of breath could not disguise the admiration in his tone. -The tall archer on the further side leaned forward as he saw the other -apparently fall, but he made no outcry. There was still one arrow left, -and he held it notched on the string. The fugitive lay where he had sunk -to the ground, and closed his eyes as he rested, drawing in long -draughts of air while his heart beat like the drumming of a partridge's -wing. It was but a short distance now to the crest of the ridge, and -once over that he was safe, but he was under no delusion that he could -reach shelter if the other cared to use his remaining shaft. The belief -became fixed in his mind that he would be killed at the last moment, -just as he reached the apex, for he knew Roger would not have the heart -to slay him sooner. He rose slowly, waved his hand, and set himself -resolutely to the remainder of the task. The time passed at which the -last arrow should have come, but still the bowman seemed to hesitate. So -exhausted<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_377" id="Page_377">[Pg 377]</a></span> was the climber that he struggled up the last few yards of -the terrible ascent on his hands and knees, grovelling like some wild -beast, the sweat from his forehead drenching his eyes and blinding him. -With a final effort he stood on the ridge, turned round, and in a panic -of rapidly accumulated fear was about to precipitate himself down the -opposite slope when he was saved the trouble of the effort, for the last -arrow rang against his glittering steel cap, the impact flinging him on -the loose rubble, half stunned by the blow. Through his brain rang the -thought, repeated and repeated:</p> - -<p>"Roger has preferred his friend to his oath."</p> - -<p>After a time he began to fear he was really slain, and to convince -himself that life was still in him, rose slowly, standing at last on the -crest of the ridge, waving his arms. Roger had remained like a statue -after his last shaft had sped, his gaze fixed on the spot where his -friend had fallen. When he saw that Surrey was indeed alive, he sat down -and buried his face in his hands.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_378" id="Page_378">[Pg 378]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXVII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE TRAITOR AND HIS PRICE.</span></h2> - -<p>Of all those gathered in the large tent, the Archbishop of Treves was -the first to realise that the bundle which had so unexpectedly dropped -down upon them, as it were, from the skies, was a man. The dismal groan -of agony which had marked the sweep of the strange missile along the -table, followed by the distant words from the direction of the castle, -caused von Isenberg to fear that his envoy had been captured by the -Black Count, probably betrayed by the captain, and had thus been flung -back defiantly to his master by means of the tower catapult. Whilst the -others stood horrified and amazed, crossing themselves devoutly, the -Archbishop gave a quick command to Bertrich.</p> - -<p>"It is a man, inhumanly bound, and thrown thus to his death. Cut the -cords that imprison him. Call hither a physician, although I fear -nothing can be done for him."</p> - -<p>Two of Bertrich's men lifted the bundle from the chair and placed it on -the table. Bertrich himself, drawing a dagger, at once severed the -ropes, and the body, of its own accord, relaxed and straightened out, -the limbs falling into a natural position after their constraint. To all -appearances the man was dead. They turned him over, his ghastly purple -face appearing uppermost in view of those who craned their necks to see.</p> - -<p>"It is Steinmetz, captain of the castle," said Bertrich, who recognised -him.</p> - -<p>"The man we bought?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_379" id="Page_379">[Pg 379]</a></span></p><p>"Ah." The Archbishop's interjection was long drawn out. "That explains -the words we heard. The mission has been bungled, and probably the -envoys are prisoners."</p> - -<p>But as he spoke the physician entered, followed by the envoys -themselves, who had just arrived up the hill from their interrupted -conference. The physician announced that the man was not dead, but he -gave little hope of his recovery after such frightful usage. He did -recover, nevertheless, and lived to build the chapel on the Bladenburg, -standing exactly where the great tent stood, to mark the spot where he -had fallen and had been so miraculously saved, his descent being broken -by the tent itself. The Archbishop enriched the traitor, as he enriched -all those who served him, whether they were successful or the reverse, -and part of this ill-gotten gold Steinmetz expended in the erection of -the stone chapel, thus showing gratitude to the saint who had intervened -on his behalf in the hour of his direst strait.</p> - -<p>The chief of the two envoys told von Isenberg how their meeting with the -captain under the walls of the castle had been interrupted. The gold had -been given to Steinmetz, they said, and this the Archbishop believed, -because he had heard the wild cry of the Black Count.</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Treves turned to his colleague of Cologne, and said:</p> - -<p>"This unlooked-for incident may make an entire change in my plans. I -must have further information before deciding what I shall do. If -Steinmetz lives, and is in his right mind, we shall, for the first time, -have accurate tidings of the state of things in the interior of Thuron. -It may be that the Count has supplies we know not of; if such is the -case, and if you still hold it well to raise the siege, we will then -leave this place together, you for Cologne, I for Treves. I trust, my -Lord, that you will agree to do nothing definite until we have further -consultation with each other."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_380" id="Page_380">[Pg 380]</a></span></p><p>"I will so agree," replied the Archbishop of Cologne.</p> - -<p>With this the high dignitaries parted for the night, to meet next -morning in the conference tent. Day had broken before the unfortunate -Steinmetz was able to speak. All his former truculence had departed, and -although his bones were whole, thanks to the intercepting tent, his -nervous system was shattered, and he seemed but a wreck of the bold -soldier he had once been. When brought before the two Archbishops, -supported by a man on either side of him, there was alarmed apprehension -in his roving eyes, and he started at the slightest sound.</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Treves questioned him gently, speaking in a soothing -monotone.</p> - -<p>"I surmise that you were thrown hither from the catapult on the north -tower. Was that the case?"</p> - -<p>The captain bowed and shuddered, making no audible reply.</p> - -<p>"Your master, then, discovered that you intended surrendering the castle -to me. How did this knowledge come to him?"</p> - -<p>Captain Steinmetz moistened his lips and in halting words related what -had occurred in the courtyard of the castle.</p> - -<p>"The money sent by me has therefore been lost to you?" said the -Archbishop, when the recital was finished.</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"I would like to say that I make the loss mine, and will pay to you the -whole sum originally agreed upon, as I am convinced you have done your -best to terminate a struggle which, so far as Count Heinrich is -concerned, was hopeless from the first. I have some curiosity to know -how near starvation is to those within the castle."</p> - -<p>Captain Steinmetz hesitated.</p> - -<p>"There are two reasons why you may be loath to answer truthfully. The -first is loyalty to your late master, but circumstances have caused me -to apprehend that this consideration does not press heavily<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_381" id="Page_381">[Pg 381]</a></span> upon you. -The second is that if starvation is within measurable distance, you may -imagine that I repent paying good gold for a place shortly to be mine -for nothing. It was to remove this impression that I stated to you a -moment ago that the stipulated amount will be paid in full, not -deducting the coins scattered in the castle yard. Therefore, answer -truly; how stands Thuron as regards famine?"</p> - -<p>"Famine is now there, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"You mean they are already on short rations?"</p> - -<p>"We have been on short rations for a long time past. I mean there is not -enough food to keep the garrison alive for another ten days."</p> - -<p>"You are sure of that?"</p> - -<p>"Absolutely sure, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"Were you never able to get into the castle even a scant supply from -outside our lines?"</p> - -<p>"We tried it often enough, but never succeeded."</p> - -<p>"Ah," ejaculated the Archbishop with satisfaction; then turning to his -Lordship of Cologne, he added:</p> - -<p>"That is a compliment to our united forces, my Lord. I like to see a -thing well done, when it is attempted, although I confess a more active -campaign would have pleased me better. This close blockade, therefore, I -look upon as a triumph more personal to yourself, perhaps, than to me."</p> - -<p>"I trust my natural humility of mind will keep me from being too proud -of it," replied his Lordship of Cologne, in dubious tones.</p> - -<p>"You think, then, that Thuron cannot hold out many days longer?" -continued Treves, again addressing Steinmetz.</p> - -<p>"If the surrounding line is held as tightly as it has been," answered -the captain, "Count Heinrich must surrender or starve."</p> - -<p>"I see you are exhausted and will question you no more. You may retire."</p> - -<p>Captain Steinmetz, assisted by his two supporters, left the Archbishops -together. Arnold von Isenberg sat silent in his place, making no comment -on the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_382" id="Page_382">[Pg 382]</a></span> cross-examination. Conrad von Hochstaden walked up and down the -tent with bowed head, absorbed in thought. He was apparently waiting for -the Lord of Treves to speak first, but the other sat motionless and -speechless, narrowly watching the movements of his reluctant ally.</p> - -<p>"I suppose," said von Hochstaden at last, pausing in his promenade, -"that you now expect me to remain in co-operation with you until the -castle falls."</p> - -<p>"I am not sure that I expect anything. I am waiting to hear your views, -as all the circumstances of the case are now before you. I admit that I -am disappointed over the failure of my latest plan; still, such is the -risk all must run who attempt anything. The man who never fails is the -man who never tries."</p> - -<p>"If I could be sure this fellow speaks the truth——"</p> - -<p>"He does speak the truth."</p> - -<p>"How can you know?"</p> - -<p>"Because it is not to his interest to tell a lie. He has placed the -period of proving his words too near at hand to make dealing with -fiction entirely safe. A prophet who sets a day for the fulfilment of -his prediction must be either a true seer or a fool. Steinmetz is no -fool."</p> - -<p>"You think, perhaps, that I should be a fool to stand by you for two -years and withdraw when the task is within ten days of completion."</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Treves spread out his hands deprecatingly, and -slightly shrugged his shoulders.</p> - -<p>"I should hesitate before I ventured to express an opinion in terms so -strong as those you have suggested: I wait rather to hear your own -judgment, hoping the verdict will be one with which I can cordially and -conscientiously agree."</p> - -<p>"Very well. It would be an act of folly to withdraw now that we are -apparently within sight of the goal. I will, therefore, double the time -held to be required, and will remain your faithful ally for twenty days -longer. If, at the end of that period, the castle is not in your -possession, you will place no obstacle<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_383" id="Page_383">[Pg 383]</a></span> in the way of my retirement to -Cologne. If that does not meet with your approval, then make a proposal -to me."</p> - -<p>"I agree, and would have agreed had you placed the limit at ten days, so -confident am I that the garrison of Thuron are at this moment in the -direst straits. If unforeseen circumstances make it necessary for you to -retire at the end of twenty days, I also will retire at the same time, -and thus we will share defeat as we would have shared victory. -Meanwhile, I suggest that until the twenty days have expired, it is -necessary for both you and me to remain in this camp, for the castle may -fall at any moment, and I desire that we march through its gates -together, and raise the flag of Cologne on one tower and the flag of -Treves on the other. I trust there is nothing impending that will make -your return to Cologne, during this time, imperative?"</p> - -<p>"No. It is not necessary for me to be in Cologne until the middle of -August. I have set the fourteenth of that month as the day on which the -corner stone of my cathedral is to be laid, and I wish to have my hands -free of blood and myself free from feud before then, so that God's -blessing may rest on the edifice."</p> - -<p>"Such a condition is most exemplary and most necessary," said the -Archbishop of Treves, with some suspicion of a sneer in his tone. "I -make no doubt but your cathedral will be a beautiful building, and -thrice blessed in the admitted sanctity of its founder. Well; we shall -have ample time for the cleansing of hands before the fourteenth, not -that there has been much blood to smear them for the past two years, but -if your mind is ill at ease, I shall be happy, in the interests of good -architecture, to be your confessor, and send you to the laying of the -foundation stone fully absolved. It is then agreed that for twenty days -we remain partners."</p> - -<p>Thus the two Archbishops concluded their bargain, thinking perhaps of -many events that might intervene<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_384" id="Page_384">[Pg 384]</a></span> between their hope and its -realisation, but giving no thought to the real thunder-cloud that had -been gathering so long to the south of them, and having no knowledge of -a young man at that moment making his way through the forest to the east -of the Rhine, his face set direct for Frankfort.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_385" id="Page_385">[Pg 385]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXVIII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE INCOGNITO FALLS.</span></h2> - -<p>John Surrey, the archer, stumbled wearily down the crumbling shale of -the steep hill, guided by the low signal cry that sounded at intervals -from the edge of the Moselle. He found, on arriving breathless at the -river, that Conrad had secured a boat, which, pole in hand, he held -against the bank while Rodolph stood on shore impatiently awaiting the -coming of his henchman. They were too near Alken for any conversation to -take place, and the moment Surrey arrived, the Emperor stepped into the -skiff, motioning the archer to follow. Conrad pushed the boat away from -the bank, and standing upright, poled it down stream, keeping close to -the southern shore, so as to be in the deep shadow of the hills. There -was, however, little need for extreme caution. The whole attention of -the besieging forces was concentrated in keeping intact the line around -the castle, and no thought was given to what was passing outside that -circle. The contest had been going on so long that the country had come -to look upon it as the natural condition of the locality, and ordinary -traffic up and down the river went to and fro as usual. Three men were -therefore unlikely to attract much attention merely because they were -floating along the stream to that great thoroughfare of commerce, the -lordly Rhine. The distance to Coblentz being slightly more than four -leagues, and the current tolerably swift, the Emperor expected to reach -the larger river before the day dawned, short as the nights were, and in -this he was not disappointed. The expedition passed unchallenged into -the Rhine, and continued across that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_386" id="Page_386">[Pg 386]</a></span> river, coming to land opposite -Coblentz. Here the archer, who had slept soundly during the voyage, set -out to forage for food, while Conrad, his pouch well filled with the -gold of the Archbishop of Treves, a quantity of the coin having been -taken for use while they were within his Lordship's sphere of influence, -began his search for three riding horses that would carry the party to -Frankfort. The purchase was speedily effected, for there was a depot on -each side of the river for the sale or hiring of steeds, merchants from -Treves going by one bank to Mayence or along the other to Frankfort -being the chief customers of these horse dealers. Conrad was instructed -to proclaim himself an emissary of the Archbishop of Treves, should he -be questioned, and the Emperor rightly anticipated that no one would -undertake to molest the minion of so powerful and haughty a Prince. But -Rodolph, not being certain what state of feeling existed between the -Archbishop of Mayence and his proud brother of Treves, now in active -alliance with Cologne, was not so sure that a proclamation of dependence -on Treves would serve to protect them further up the river, and so -resolved to avoid the Rhine route, striking instead across the country -direct to Frankfort, taking as his path the hypotenuse of that huge -triangle, at the three extreme points of which stood Frankfort, Mayence, -and Coblentz. The distance as the crow flies is scarcely more than -seventeen leagues, but Rodolph knew the way would be rough, up hill and -down, with numerous streams to ford, and finally the Taurus range to -cross, but the course seemed safer than risking detention by the -Archbishop of Mayence, or by some stupid, obstinate robber Baron along -the banks of the Rhine.</p> - -<p>The early dawn was just breaking as, having finished the -hastily-prepared meal—the first satisfactory and full repast the archer -or Rodolph had enjoyed for some days—the three set off up the Rhine -until the Lahn was crossed; then they struck into the pathless forest. -At various points they engaged woodmen or<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_387" id="Page_387">[Pg 387]</a></span> charcoal burners to guide -them, dismissing a man when he came to the limit of his local knowledge, -and securing another when another was to be found. The legend of that -journey remained in the district for many a long day, for each guide, -instead of being cast aside with a blow for his trouble, as was the -custom of the country, was given a bright gold coin with the effigy of -the Archbishop upon it, each piece representing untold wealth to the -happy possessor. It came ultimately to be rumoured that it was the -Emperor himself who made this golden pilgrimage, and how such rumour had -its origin no one can rightly surmise; but, although the tale is -devoutly believed by the peasantry, careful historians have proved -conclusively that it is a myth, for they show that the Emperor was then -returning triumphantly from the Holy Land, and consequently must have -approached Frankfort from the east, and not from the north.</p> - -<p>When the sun was at its highest altitude the party halted and rested for -two hours or more in a rude hamlet on the borders of a stream in the -depths of the forest; there they had their second meal, afterwards -proceeding on their journey. Having secured a guide in the village, -Rodolph was anxious to reach the foot of the Taurus mountains before -night, for there he was confident they would come on the Roman road that -led over the range directly into Frankfort. This they accomplished, and -once they were on the road all fear of losing their way left them. It -had now become merely a question of endurance so far as the horses were -concerned. Conrad made no complaint, doing all that was required of him -without grumbling, apparently untouched by fatigue; but the two years of -inactivity in the castle had left the stout archer, never a good -horseman, entirely unprepared for such exercise. He besought his master -to rest for the night at the foot of the Taurus and continue their -expedition in the morning.</p> - -<p>"I know something of cities, my Lord," he said, "and have been present -at the taking of many. We<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_388" id="Page_388">[Pg 388]</a></span> will not be allowed within the gates to-night -even if we reach the walls. Therefore will it be useless for us to -proceed further, for our horses are well nigh exhausted as it is, and no -wonder, for the poor brutes have come through more to-day than any -animal should be called upon to endure in such space of time. Besides, -as I have said, the gates will be closed and you could not get in were -you the Archbishop himself."</p> - -<p>"We shall be the readier to enter in the morning," answered Rodolph -sleepily, drowsing by the fire on which their supper was being prepared.</p> - -<p>"But, my Lord, outside the walls there are usually gathered rough -characters,—Egyptians and cut throats, who, for the sake of one of our -gold pieces, will murder us all without compunction and with but small -chance of being punished for it, not that punishment would matter to us -who lay there robbed with our throats sundered. Here we may sleep safe, -but a man's life is not worth a broken arrow outside the walls of -Frankfort in the night time with the gates closed."</p> - -<p>"I know Frankfort well, having being a resident of the city, so it is -unlikely you can give me information regarding it. You must not forget -that while we eat freely here our comrades in Thuron starve; therefore, -we reach Frankfort sometime between now and dawn, the sooner to dispatch -sustenance and help to our friends, if it prove to be in our power to -send them aid."</p> - -<p>"Oh, I am as anxious as any can be to send help to Thuron, and food as -well, but nothing can be done in a sleeping city, and, if we are -ourselves killed in our hurry, that will be small comfort to the Black -Count and those with him. I am for making haste with caution."</p> - -<p>"If you are tired, my good archer, have the courage to admit it, and -then rest you here, to follow when your convenience suits."</p> - -<p>"I am not tired, at least not more so than a man<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_389" id="Page_389">[Pg 389]</a></span> may without shame -confess, who has come such a heathenish journey; but I see not the use -of such eagerness to reach a city that will be sound asleep when we get -there."</p> - -<p>"Then we will awaken it, and so we may consider the discussion ended."</p> - -<p>With many groans the archer got him on his patient horse again, and -during the journey tried various devices to make travelling easier for -himself. He sat sideways on the animal, with his feet dangling now on -the right and now on the left. Then he tried to lie down but nearly fell -off; then he sat with face to the rear, but this brought no -amelioration. At last he rolled himself to the ground and swore he would -walk the rest of the distance; indeed it was easy to keep pace with the -jaded beasts who were now mounting the steep acclivity that leads to the -heights of the range. At the summit the moon shone full on the wide -plain below, and the Emperor almost persuaded himself that he saw the -ancient city of Frankfort. They passed, with some caution, the -stronghold of Konigstein, frowning down upon them in the moonlight, -looking like a castle of white marble, and the Emperor breathed a sigh -of relief when it was well in the rear with the trio still unmolested.</p> - -<p>When at length the north gate of the capital was reached they found it -in truth barred against them, as the archer had so confidently -predicted. Rodolph rapped thrice upon it with the hilt of his sword.</p> - -<p>"You might as well try to hammer down the wall," said a figure that rose -out of the shadow. "They will not open. We have tried it."</p> - -<p>"It is folly to open to any chance comer in a fortified town," grumbled -the archer. "I knew well how it would be."</p> - -<p>But as he spoke three raps were heard on the inner side of the gate, -which Rodolph immediately answered with two, whereupon a small door at -the side was opened slightly, and a voice asked:</p> - -<p>"Who knocks?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_390" id="Page_390">[Pg 390]</a></span></p><p>"The silk merchant," answered Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"Travelling from where?"</p> - -<p>"Travelling from Treves."</p> - -<p>At once the small gate was closed and the bolts drawn from the larger -leaves, which were then slowly swung apart.</p> - -<p>A crowd had rapidly gathered at the sound of the blows on the gate, and -now tried to press through, but two soldiers with pikes beat them back. -When Conrad and the archer had followed their master, the gates were -closed and barred again. The three horsemen found themselves under a -dark echoing archway of stone, from the black mouth of which was given a -view of a narrow moonlit street.</p> - -<p>"You have a guide here for me?" said Rodolph.</p> - -<p>"Yes, my Lord. He is to take you to the Golden Flagon."</p> - -<p>"That is right. Let him lead on at once, for we have had a long -journey."</p> - -<p>A soldier stepped out into the light and the three followed him. He led -them through the narrow winding streets of the city, flanked by tall -houses whose overhanging gables caused the thoroughfares to seem more -cramped than they actually were. At last he came to a street so much -wider than the others that it might have been termed a square, and on -one side of it stood the hostelry, from whose front the golden flagon -swung in token of the good wine to be had within. Here all was silent, -and the three horsemen sat where they were, while the soldier hammered -with the end of his pike against a door. When it was opened there was a -whispered colloquy, and then some sleepy stable boys were roused to take -charge of the horses of the belated guests, while the landlord himself -invited them to enter.</p> - -<p>Rodolph swung himself from his exhausted steed, the others following his -example; the archer, who had ridden from the summit of the Taurus, -descending with painful slowness and extreme care.</p> - -<p>"Take supper here," said Rodolph to his men,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_391" id="Page_391">[Pg 391]</a></span> "and then to rest. I am -sure you need it. Do not leave this house until I come or send for you. -And now good-night."</p> - -<p>"Are you not coming in also, my Lord?" asked Conrad, in surprise.</p> - -<p>"No. My night's work is just beginning."</p> - -<p>"Then I shall go with you, my Lord."</p> - -<p>"No. Rest now, for I may need you early in the morning. Soldier, you are -to be my guide for a short distance farther."</p> - -<p>The soldier bowed and apparently needed no further instruction, for he -led Rodolph through his capital until at length they came to a small -portal at the rear of the Emperor's palace.</p> - -<p>"This is the place, my Lord," he said, resting pike on butt and standing -in attitude of attention.</p> - -<p>Rodolph knocked thrice against the door, which signal was answered as it -had been at the gate. Again he announced himself as the silk merchant -from Treves, and so was admitted. Dismissing the soldier, Rodolph -proceeded along a narrow passage and then up a stair into a wider hall. -He was now on familiar ground, and walked briskly without hesitation -until he approached a wide entrance, outside which two soldiers stood on -guard.</p> - -<p>The Emperor drew his enveloping cloak more closely about him, for his -worn costume was not in such condition as befitted a monarch, but the -ample cloak covered it's defects. The soldiers saluted and Rodolph -passed between them into a large ante-chamber, in which, late as it was, -a number of officers and messengers sat on benches round the walls, -while a group of the higher ranks stood talking together in low tones. -The room of Baron von Brunfels was beyond, and at the communication -between the two apartments heavy crimson curtains of great thickness -hung, their tasseled fringes spreading over the floor. Here two soldiers -also stood, fully armed. On the entrance of the Emperor all who were -seated sprang instantly to their feet, making low obeisance, which<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_392" id="Page_392">[Pg 392]</a></span> his -Majesty acknowledged with an inclination of the head.</p> - -<p>"Is Baron von Brunfels within?" asked Rodolph, addressing the senior -General.</p> - -<p>"Yes, your Majesty."</p> - -<p>"Alone?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, your Majesty."</p> - -<p>"I will enter unannounced."</p> - -<p>The heavy curtain was held back for him, and the Emperor passed through. -So thick were the walls that the recess between the outer and inner -curtains might almost itself be termed a small apartment. Motioning away -the attendant, who would have drawn back the inner curtains also, the -Emperor himself drew them aside and entered.</p> - -<p>At a large table, littered with documents and lit by a small Roman lamp, -sat a haggard, careworn man, at whom Rodolph had to look twice or thrice -before he recognised his faithful servitor and firm and loyal friend, -Baron von Brunfels. His dark hair had become sprinkled with grey since -Rodolph last saw him, and as the Emperor stood motionless with his back -against the crimson hangings the great love he felt for the man lit up -his eyes, while remembrance of the anxiety he must have caused the Baron -by an abrupt and long unexplained disappearance gave Rodolph a thrill of -pain. He had never before realised what that disappearance had meant for -Baron von Brunfels. Although there was no sound in the room, the Baron -looked suddenly up, craned forward and peered across the table, gazing -with startled anxiety into the comparative darkness at the other end of -the room. The Emperor, with clanking spurs, took a rapid step or two -forward.</p> - -<p>"Rodolph!" cried Brunfels, in a husky undertone, springing to his feet. -He seemed about to advance, but something failed within him, and he -leaned heavily against the table, crying, with a sob in his voice:</p> - -<p>"I thank God! I thank God!"</p> - -<p>The young Emperor strode quickly to his friend,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_393" id="Page_393">[Pg 393]</a></span> his hands upraised, and -brought them down on the shoulders of the Baron, whom he drew towards -him in a cordial embrace.</p> - -<p>"My old friend," he said, repressing with difficulty the emotion that -threatened to overmaster him. "My dear old friend, you are not more glad -to see me than I am to see you. But I have brought an insistent -personage with me other than Rodolph, and he clamours for attention."</p> - -<p>"He! Whom?" replied the Baron, looking about him with apprehension, -fearing that his friendly greeting might have had a witness, and that -thus unwittingly he had embarrassed his sovereign.</p> - -<p>"The Emperor is here, Brunfels, with weighty matters on his mind that -will permit of no delay. The Emperor has at last arrived; I doubt if you -have ever met him before."</p> - -<p>"He will have most cordial welcome and support from me."</p> - -<p>"He counts upon you, as on no other in the world. How many men have you -encamped on the Rhine?"</p> - -<p>"Forty thousand, your Majesty."</p> - -<p>"Above or below Mayence?"</p> - -<p>"Above. I thought it well not to pass Mayence until I received your -Majesty's definite order."</p> - -<p>"You were right. They are in divisions of ten thousand men, competently -commanded, if I accurately understood your message. Detach ten thousand -at once under the commander in whom you have most confidence, and send -them along the Roman road to Treves. My officer will announce to -whomsoever he finds in command there that I am about to pay a visit of -state to his Lordship of Treves, and that my men are to enter and occupy -the town until my arrival."</p> - -<p>"If they meet opposition are they to attack Treves and capture it?"</p> - -<p>"They will not be opposed. They go in the name of the Emperor, the -overlord of the Archbishop. If the Archbishop himself is there he will -not be so <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_394" id="Page_394">[Pg 394]</a></span>foolish as to oppose the entrance of my troops; if he is not -there I doubt if any subordinate will have the courage to embroil him -with his sovereign in his absence. However, if the unexpected happens -and my troops are refused admittance, let them encamp quietly on the -plain between Treves and Zurlauben until I arrive, not giving battle -unless they are themselves attacked. In that case they are to take -Treves if they can. Send a horseman at once with these orders, and see -that this detachment is away before daybreak if possible. The other -three battalions are to proceed immediately down the Rhine to Coblentz. -No one on the road will dispute the passage of thirty thousand men, but -if opposition takes shape they are to go through to Coblentz at all -cost. Reaching Coblentz ten thousand men are to march to Cologne on -exactly the same terms as the division that has gone to Treves. The -remaining twenty thousand are to halt at Coblentz until we come up with -them, although it is likely we shall overtake them before they reach -there. Have you a thousand well-mounted men?"</p> - -<p>"Five thousand, your Majesty, and more if you need them."</p> - -<p>"In the morning, draw up across the square opposite the Palace a -thousand picked men. They are to be my bodyguard, and with them I shall -ride to Coblentz. I shall ride my best white charger, and I trust my -silver armour has not been allowed to rust. I confess, Brunfels, that I -am resolved to undertake this initial state journey through my empire -with something more of pomp than has been my custom, for although I care -as little for the trappings of imperial power as any monk in my realm, -yet display is not without its effect on the minds of many, and I have -set to myself the task of not only overmastering the two Archbishops but -out-dazzling them in splendour as well. We have brute force on our side, -which is an argument they have used so often themselves that they will -have no difficulty in understanding it when they find it opposed to -them; let us have, then, in addition to that, the gorgeousness which -gives decorative effect to power."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_395" id="Page_395">[Pg 395]</a></span></p><p>Baron von Brunfels glanced shrewdly at his master, a slight smile -parting his lips, the first that had come to them for nigh upon two -years.</p> - -<p>"The splendour has been provided as well as the force, your Majesty. Am -I to take it as a fact that the Countess Tekla is within the fortress of -Thuron, as has been rumoured? You made no mention of the lady in your -messages, and I could only guess that such was the case, because the -monk who carried our despatches reported that a lady of marvellous -beauty sat at your table."</p> - -<p>The Emperor's eye twinkled as he answered.</p> - -<p>"The Countess Tekla is within the walls of Thuron, and before many days, -old Brunfels, the Empress Tekla will be within the walls of Frankfort. -You will shortly see such a wedding, Baron, in this stately city, that I -am sure it will shake your firm resolution to remain a bachelor. She is -the divinest maid, Siegfried, that ever trod this earth, and for her -sake I will be Emperor in fact as well as in name."</p> - -<p>"The Empress shall command, as she fully merits, our utmost devotion, -your Majesty."</p> - -<p>"That is right, old warrior; get your courtly phrases in train, for I -expect we shall have little fighting to interfere with their use. -Indeed, I confidently look for the assistance of all three Archbishops -at the ceremony, and the especial blessing of the high prelate of -Treves. And now, my good Brunfels, see that these orders are carried -through without a moment's delay. Give out that the Emperor has returned -triumphant from the Holy Land; this news, once set on its way, will soon -spread faster than we can travel. I will now to bed, for I wish to be -early on the road to-morrow."</p> - -<p>Baron von Brunfels led the Emperor to a room not far from his own, in -which stood a luxuriantly appointed couch, and Rodolph waited no -formality, but threw himself on the rich coverlet, booted and spurred as -he was. Before his friend could turn away to give effect to the commands -bestowed upon him, the Emperor was sound asleep.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_396" id="Page_396">[Pg 396]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXIX.</span> <span class="smaller">THE EMPEROR AT THE HEAD OF HIS ARMY.</span></h2> - -<p>Tired as John Surrey was when Rodolph left him with Conrad, the archer -ordered a meal to be served to them, for he was ever ready to eat -heartily. From the table the two travellers went to their well-earned -rest, and slumber came to them speedily.</p> - -<p>When they awoke in the morning they found the inn in a commotion, and at -breakfast the ever-curious archer inquired the cause. The innkeeper -himself waited upon them, imagining their quality to be of no common -order, in spite of their tattered apparel, for his commands regarding -the care he was to take of whomsoever the soldier brought to him in the -night or in the day had come from the Palace itself.</p> - -<p>"Oh, there is brave news," cried the elated host. "The Emperor is -returned from the East, and the town has put on all its finery to -welcome him. Flags are flying everywhere, and the whole population is -afoot. A great body of horsemen, such as we have never seen in Frankfort -before, is drawn up in the Palace Square, and even they are not -sufficient to keep the people back. One of my men, who went mad, like -all the rest of the town, has just come back from the square and he saw -the Emperor himself, and so could not wait, but hurried here to tell us -about it. The people made such acclamation that the Emperor came out on -the platform which runs along the facade of the Palace, and stood before -them. Gottlieb says his Majesty, Heaven shower its blessings upon him, -was clad from head to foot in silver armour, and looked like a statue of -a stalwart war god. There is a scarlet cross on his breast, which, I -doubt not, has<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_397" id="Page_397">[Pg 397]</a></span> wrought terror in the heart of many a heathen, and there -is a purple cloak hanging from his shoulders. Gottlieb says that no man -in all Germany may be compared with him, so grand and kinglike he looks. -The horsemen, in spite of all discipline, waved their swords in the air, -and roared at the top of their voices, while the people raised one -continuous shout that we heard plainly where I stand. I hope he has -given the Saracen such a thrashing he will not have to turn eastward -again in years to come, as trade is ever dull when the Emperor is away. -For two years there has been little coming and going, and the Court at -Frankfort has been as quiet as if the monarch were dead and they had not -elected his successor."</p> - -<p>"It must be a gallant show," said the archer, "and if I were not -commanded to wait here till my orders come, I would go and see it. Dare -we risk it, think you, Conrad?"</p> - -<p>"I was told to stay here, and here I stay," answered Conrad, stoutly.</p> - -<p>"'Tis a good military resolve, and would be commended by all the -authorities, but nevertheless I should dearly like to see the Emperor."</p> - -<p>"So should I; but unless his Majesty comes to us I see not how we are to -go to him."</p> - -<p>"There is nothing easier," said their host. "It is said that his Majesty -marches shortly through the western gate to review his troops now on the -Rhine, for there has lately been a great gathering of them by the river, -and his way thither is through this square and past this door. They are -even now clearing the road and lining it with armed men. The officer in -front has just said that my guests are to be specially favoured, and -that a space will be open at my door where you may stand, with none to -obstruct your view. I am myself thought much of at Court, although it -may sound like boasting to proclaim the fact; nevertheless, when -distinguished strangers like yourselves arrive, I have before now -received orders to attend to their wants when it is not convenient,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_398" id="Page_398">[Pg 398]</a></span> -through reasons of state, into which I have no right to inquire, to -lodge them at the Palace. And thus I wait upon you myself, which is far -from being my custom, though you might think otherwise did I not make -the reason plain. I have asked no question of you further than how you -like your food prepared and served; but I take you to be men of -importance, and, without flattery, I may say of myself that I know a man -of quality when I see him, even though his clothes be somewhat the worse -for wear."</p> - -<p>"In this instance, good host, I fear your shrewdness does you a -dis-service if you take us to be aught but what we are—plain, common -folk, having no connection either with King or with Court."</p> - -<p>"It is, of course, not for me to inquire closely regarding your affairs -or your standing in the empire, but what you say to me goes no further, -for I am one who meddles not in the doings of others, so long as bills -for lodging and eating are duly paid, and, in addition, I am no -gossiper, being indeed a man of few words."</p> - -<p>"I am but an indifferent talker myself," admitted the archer, "and would -have been of more account in the world had I a better conceit of my own -merits and possessed the words with which to convey some knowledge of -the same to others. But if a belief that we are more worthy of -consideration lead you to provide so well for us, as far as meat and -drink are concerned, this wine being the best I ever set lips to, in -heaven's name, then, persons of quality we are, and so shall we remain -while guests of yours."</p> - -<p>The landlord chuckled and nodded his head sagely.</p> - -<p>"A droop of the eyelids is as good as a wag of the tongue with me, and I -fully understand you, though it please you to speak lightly of your own -worth. I had no doubt of it from the first, for I knew that common folk -are not let through a Frankfort gate at midnight, if their coming is -unwelcome to the Court."</p> - -<p>"By my favourite Saint," cried the archer, as if an unaccustomed idea -had penetrated his not too alert<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_399" id="Page_399">[Pg 399]</a></span> mind, "there is something in that, -Conrad, though it had not occurred to me before. You remember how I -dreaded the closed gate, and how the others at the foot of the walls -said they could not get through, yet three raps from my Lord's hilt sent -bolts flying as if he held a wizard's wand. 'Tis most like my Lord is -well known at Court, aye, and well thought of, too."</p> - -<p>"That is no news," replied Conrad, quietly. "You yourself heard him tell -the Black Count he knew the Emperor."</p> - -<p>"True. So I did, but I did not believe it until now."</p> - -<p>The increasing shouts had drawn the incurious landlord from the room, -and he now returned in high excitement.</p> - -<p>"The Emperor comes at the head of his horsemen. There is not a moment to -lose, and you will have as good a view of him as though you were one of -his followers; better, indeed, than if you were among the troop of -horse. But come at once."</p> - -<p>Conrad immediately sprang to his feet, but the archer hung back a moment -to take another huge mouthful of the black bread and to drain his flagon -to the dregs. Then, drawing the back of his hand across his mouth, he -followed the others, hastily gulping down his food as he went.</p> - -<p>The city had indeed undergone a sudden transformation that well deserved -all the landlord's eulogies.</p> - -<p>From every window and from every projection of the many-gabled street -hung rainbow-coloured lengths of silk or more common cloth. Flags flew -from every staff, and cheering men clung perilously to the roofs and -eaves of the buildings, or wherever precarious foothold could be found. -Opposite the Golden Flagon a dense crowd was massed, but the cleared way -led directly past the door of the inn and gave colour to the assertion -of the landlord that his hostelry was indeed favoured by the Court. A -continuous line of pikemen, standing shoulder to shoulder,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_400" id="Page_400">[Pg 400]</a></span> kept back -the jubilant throng, whose volleys of acclamation rang upwards and -joined the cheers from the house-tops.</p> - -<p>The most inspiriting sight was the advance of the cavalry, a superb body -of men splendidly mounted, who came two and two because of the -narrowness of some of the streets, but who, with military precision that -betokened accurate drilling, deployed on entering the square, until they -marched in ranks of six, the sun glittering on their polished -breast-plates, and touching with fire the points of their lances. In -front of them came the Emperor and suite, Baron von Brunfels riding by -his sovereign's side. The Emperor was mounted on a snow-white charger, -and his noble bearing quite justified the unbounded enthusiasm of the -people. As the imposing cavalcade approached, the archer with a low cry -of amazement clutched the arm of his comrade, while Conrad stared with -open mouth at the resplendent monarch.</p> - -<p>"My God!" cried John Surrey. "It is Lord Rodolph. How has he dared to -impersonate the absent Emperor and befool all these people?"</p> - -<p>Conrad was so filled with astonishment at the remarkable spectacle that -for the moment he was speechless.</p> - -<p>"Can it be he?" continued the more voluble archer, "or has that good -wine affected our sight, as it sometimes does. He casts no glance -towards us, and seems more stern than ever I saw him, except when he -fought the Black Count?"</p> - -<p>"Fought the Black Count?" said Conrad, turning to his friend. "When did -he do that?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, I have gone mad and am talking at random. Can my Lord Rodolph have -been really the Emperor, and does that explain the quick opening of the -gates and the babble of the landlord? It is as likely as that Lord -Rodolph should rashly masquerade as the Emperor in a town where the -Emperor must be well known. No. We are dreaming, Conrad, or more drunk -than ever before."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_401" id="Page_401">[Pg 401]</a></span></p><p>"I am neither drunk nor asleep. Lord Rodolph is indeed the Emperor. -There beside him is the Baron von Brunfels, my former master in Treves, -who asked you to send an arrow through me, and all know the Baron is the -Emperor's closest friend."</p> - -<p>"I did not recognise him, but then I had no such cause to remember as -you had."</p> - -<p>An officer rode up to the two and cried out:</p> - -<p>"Who are you, fellows, to stand covered when your Emperor passes?"</p> - -<p>"E' God, he is no Emperor of mine. I am an Englishman," said the archer, -defiantly; but he nevertheless removed his steel cap and stood -uncovered, as did Conrad.</p> - -<p>The Emperor paused before them, and the procession behind him came to an -instant stand. Rodolph with difficulty repressed a smile as he looked -down upon his former followers. The officer was about to lay hold of the -archer for his truculent reply and his disrespectful behaviour, but -Rodolph held up his hand and the other fell back.</p> - -<p>"I think," said Rodolph, doubtfully, "I have seen you before."</p> - -<p>"In truth, my Lord—that is, your Majesty," replied Surrey, scratching -his bare, perplexed head, while he held his steel cap upturned under his -other arm, "I am less certain that I ever met your Lordship—again I -mean, your Majesty,—before."</p> - -<p>"It may be I am mistaken, but you seem to me a silent man, not prone to -talk, especially of the affairs of others, and I take you to be an -archer from the packet of arrows on your back. I have need of a skilful, -modest man, and I possess a regiment of archers awaiting your -instruction. Having hoped to meet you again I gave certain commands -concerning you, one of which is that my treasurer fill with gold your -head piece, which you hold so awkwardly and invitingly; so, see to it -that they give you good measure; if they do not, make complaint to me -when I return. Still, I give you fair choice, and should you prefer to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_402" id="Page_402">[Pg 402]</a></span> -ride with me for several days to come, you shall have your wish, if you -but give it utterance."</p> - -<p>A rueful grimace came over the archer's face at the mention of -horsemanship.</p> - -<p>"I am well content, my Majesty—I mean your Lord—I will give the -regiment the instruction they perhaps need, your Majesty."</p> - -<p>"This is the skilful fellow I told you of. Take charge of him and see -that he has no cause to be dissatisfied with his change of position."</p> - -<p>To Conrad, Baron von Brunfels spoke:</p> - -<p>"There is a led horse for you in the baggage train. Mount it and follow -us. Come to my tent to-night when we encamp, and you will be fitted with -apparel more suited to your new station. I hear a good account of you, -and understand it is his Majesty's pleasure that you are to meet great -advancement."</p> - -<p>Conrad bowed low without reply, and took his place behind the troop, -which now without further halt marched through the western gate and thus -rapidly on its way, overtaking the foot soldiers of the army before -nightfall.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_403" id="Page_403">[Pg 403]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XL.</span> <span class="smaller">THE ARCHBISHOPS ENVIRONED WITH A RING OF IRON.</span></h2> - -<p>It would perhaps be wrong to censure the two Archbishops for military -neglect in failing to take note of anything that was happening except in -the very limited space which was encircled by their combined forces. The -siege had gone on for so long that it had become largely a matter for -routine. The Emperor was supposed to be in the far East, and their -Lordships had been kept continually informed of his valorous doings in -that distant region, but even if he had been in his capital it is little -likely that the august prelates would have paid much heed to his -vicinity, for it had been a long time since the powerful princes who -ruled in Treves and Cologne had taken account of the commands, much less -the desires, of their nominal overlord at Frankfort. It may seem strange -that the news of a largely increased force at the capital had not -reached them, but news at best travelled slowly, even when specially -sent, and in this case it had to pass through the territory of the -Archbishop of Mayence, and he, if he knew what was going on at -Frankfort, would not have felt it his duty to communicate the -intelligence to one who had been his open enemy, or to the other who had -deserted him.</p> - -<p>Thus, then, it came about that the first intimation the Archbishops had -of impending calamity from outside was the appearance of the soldiers of -the Emperor on the plain at the edge of which their camp was set, while -other troops were seen marching up the valley of the Moselle. The -progress of the newcomers was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_404" id="Page_404">[Pg 404]</a></span> so rapid that simultaneous tidings of -their approach came from several quarters at once, and before the fourth -messenger had told his tale, a final one came from Alken, saying a -company had gone up the valley of the Thaurand, and had cut off -communication between the camp of their Lordships and the force which -was besieging the castle. While the Archbishop of Cologne was listening -in wonder to this account of the entirely unexpected advent of an -outside army, his more astute brother of Treves at once saw that the -camp was surrounded, and remembered that, although his own forces around -Thuron might be strong enough to repel the invaders, yet there was no -officer among them with sufficient authority to command his troops to -fight, unless he had orders to that effect from the Archbishop himself. -This situation lent seriousness to the position of their Lordships, who -might thus be taken prisoners while their own armies lay idle, almost -within calling distance.</p> - -<p>"What does this incursion mean?" asked the Archbishop of Cologne, "and -what is to be done in the face of it?"</p> - -<p>"Neither of these questions can I answer at this moment. It cannot be -that his Lordship of Mayence has made common cause with Heinrich of -Thuron, and has had the temerity to put this small force against ours, -yet our long futile lingering here may have given him a scant respect -for us, which is not without a basis of reason."</p> - -<p>They were together in the large tent, and before Konrad von Hochstaden -could reply, word was brought that Baron von Brunfels, accompanied by a -strong escort, had ridden into camp and demanded audience.</p> - -<p>"Ay!" cried the Prince of Treves, "it is Brunfels, then, whom we have to -thank for this surprise. The Emperor's long absence has encouraged him -to strike a blow on his own account. He will not be difficult to deal -with, for he has no show of right in attacking nobles of higher station -than his own, unless by the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_405" id="Page_405">[Pg 405]</a></span> Emperor's direct command, and he himself -would be the first to counsel his Majesty against so grave a blunder."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps the Emperor has sent him such permission."</p> - -<p>"It may be, but I doubt it. I remember now that when Brunfels was last -in Treves I refused to see him, yet, if he resented that as a rebuff, he -has taken long to bring his anger to a heat. He is a cautious man, and a -dangerous one. I would much rather meet your friend of Mayence. We will -admit him and set conjecture at rest."</p> - -<p>When Baron von Brunfels entered, he bowed low to each of the prelates, -who returned his salutation with dignified courtesy.</p> - -<p>"Your Lordships will pardon me if I plunge at once into my mission -without introduction, as the matter with which I am charged is urgent. I -am commanded by his Majesty, Rodolph of Hapsburg, Emperor of Germany, to -see that an immediate injunction is placed upon the commander of the -besieging forces around Thuron, ordering him to permit the passing of -food and wine through the lines for the consumption of those in the -beleaguered stronghold. The laden horses will presently reach Alken, and -it is his Majesty's wish that they proceed to the castle without -interruption."</p> - -<p>"It is most remarkable that the Emperor should have found occasion to -send from the Holy Land instructions so minute regarding the -re-victualling of a castle on the Moselle," said the Archbishop of -Treves, in his most icy tone. "Am I at fault if I infer that the -imperial message has been coloured somewhat during transmission?"</p> - -<p>"My Lord, you are evidently not aware that his Majesty is now encamped -within less than half a league of this spot. May I urge upon your -consideration that there is danger in delay."</p> - -<p>"Danger? To whom?"</p> - -<p>"I am a plain spoken man, my Lord and I find<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_406" id="Page_406">[Pg 406]</a></span> a difficulty in impressing -upon you the seriousness of the situation, in terms suitable for me to -use in addressing you. His Majesty is at the head of a force which, -compared with that under your joint command, is overwhelming. Your camp -is at this moment surrounded, and the messenger you send will be -compelled to carry a passport from his Majesty before he gets word with -your general. I therefore counsel you to make haste in forwarding the -message, for, if the convoy reaches your lines before the messenger, it -will force its way through to the castle gates, and thus we may have -unnecessary bloodshed to deplore."</p> - -<p>"Let us have no bloodshed," said the Archbishop of Cologne, speaking for -the first time. "If the situation stands as Baron von Brunfels describes -it, resistance is useless."</p> - -<p>"I assure you such is the case, my Lord of Cologne, and I thank you for -your suggestion. I again implore you to give the order I ask for."</p> - -<p>"Softly, softly," said the Archbishop of Treves, in his smoothest -manner. "This haste appears to me more suspicious than convincing. I -must ask to see the Emperor before I can believe so readily that he has -returned at a moment so critical."</p> - -<p>"The moment is so critical, my Lord, that I ignore your reflection on my -truthfulness, and, as regards seeing His Majesty, my next office is to -command the immediate attendance of both your Lordships to make -explanation satisfactory to him regarding this siege."</p> - -<p>"If the Emperor desires explanation from me he may come to my city of -Treves and ask for it."</p> - -<p>"My Lord, I deeply regret my inability to convince you of the peril in -which you stand, and which you insist, to my sorrow, upon augmenting. I -would his Majesty had sent one more skilful in the use of words. It is -no part of my duty to inform you that Treves is at this moment in the -possession of the imperial troops, as also is the city of Cologne. It -seems you cannot understand that, for the first time since <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_407" id="Page_407">[Pg 407]</a></span>Frederick -Barbarossa, Germany has an emperor. Your angry sovereign I have with -difficulty constrained to give you a hearing, and now my mission has -failed. Your camp is surrounded, your troops are outnumbered, your -cities are taken, yet you stand here wasting the few moments allowed you -to show some inclination of obedience, and thus give your friends an -opportunity of interceding on your behalf with his Majesty."</p> - -<p>"Treves taken?" murmured von Isenberg, like a man speaking in a dream.</p> - -<p>"I bid you farewell," continued the emissary of the Emperor, "and return -to his Majesty to report the lack of success which has attended my -mission."</p> - -<p>"Stop! Stop!" cried von Hochstaden. "I will accompany you to the -Emperor's headquarters. The siege has been carried on against my will; -indeed I should never have engaged in it were it not that I was assured -the castle would be delivered to us when we sat down in force before it, -and even then I assisted merely to uphold the feudal law which had been -violated by Black Heinrich. His Majesty was absent, and I held it but -the bare duty of a good vassal to make a stand for rightful authority, -when the Emperor was not here to assert his privileges."</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Treves cast one malignant glance of intense hatred at -his timorous ally, who was so palpably eager to save himself at the -expense of his partner. He scorned, however, to make reply, and remained -silent while von Brunfels spoke.</p> - -<p>"Such is not the understanding his Majesty has of the beginning of the -contest. He is informed that Count Heinrich appealed to his Emperor and -yours, yet you immediately attacked the Count, and I, acting for the -Emperor in his absence, have received no notice of the appeal, nor have -I had any communication with either of you regarding this siege during -the two years it has been in progress. I trust you will be able to -convince his Majesty that his present view of the case is based on -inaccurate information."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_408" id="Page_408">[Pg 408]</a></span></p><p>"I admit——" began the trembling Archbishop of Cologne, but his -colleague interrupted him.</p> - -<p>"We admit nothing. We shall wait upon the Emperor together, for in this -matter my doughty auxiliary and I stand or fall in company. What has -been done has been done after mutual consultations, and with the consent -of both. If then we are to be threatened, I ask you to inform his -Majesty that we shall appeal direct to the Pope, and I think the young -Emperor will be ill-advised to bring on a contest between himself and -the Holy Church, for such conflicts have resulted disastrously for -monarchs before now, even when they were more firmly seated on their -thrones than Rodolph of Hapsburg is on his."</p> - -<p>"My Lord, I am dismayed to find that what I have said has been construed -into a threat. Such was not my intention, and I beg you to believe that -anything approaching a menace would bring censure on me from his -Majesty, and in the launching of it I should be gravely exceeding my -commission. Nevertheless, I cannot be blind to the fact that your words -bear distinct defiance against his Majesty the Emperor, but as I have -myself so far fallen short of my purpose, which was not to intimidate, -but to impress upon you the plight in which you stand, I shall forget -your words and consider them unsaid, extending to you that merciful -construction of your language which I hope you, in turn, will kindly -bestow upon me."</p> - -<p>"I ask no consideration from you, my Lord of Brunfels. What I have said, -I have said. I shall appeal to the Pope and place myself under his -august protection. Any action taken against me is an action against the -Holy Church, and the consequences must fall on whose head they may, be -it that of Baron or that of Emperor."</p> - -<p>"I the more deeply regret this decision that I have already had -communication with his Holiness the Pope upon the matter in question."</p> - -<p>"Ha! With what result?"</p> - -<p>"When the siege was begun, I considered it my<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_409" id="Page_409">[Pg 409]</a></span> duty, in the interest of -the absent Emperor, to obtain some decision from the Pope that might be -an aid to his Majesty on his return. I sent an envoy to Rome and -acquainted his Holiness with the cause of the quarrel, in so far as it -was understood by me, informing him that the siege had been entered -upon, asking him whether or not the Emperor was to believe that the -conduct of your Lordships had the sanction and support of his Holiness. -The reply to my message stated that it was impossible for his Holiness -to judge who was in the right or who was in the wrong, as he had heard -nothing of your Lordships' side of the matter."</p> - -<p>"A most just and admirable decision."</p> - -<p>"Commendable and cautious, as I thought at the time, but still erring, -if anything, on the side of vagueness."</p> - -<p>"I cannot permit you to criticise the message of his Holiness in my -presence, Baron von Brunfels. The answer was clarity itself."</p> - -<p>"The second message undoubtedly was, and perhaps its receipt made me -place less than true value on the first. When the siege had continued a -year and a half without visible result, I thought it my duty to send -another message to the Pope giving him a brief outline of the situation. -I said that Count Heinrich apparently held you both powerless. I feared -that if you could do nothing against one of the humblest of your -vassals, there was little to be expected were you suddenly confronted -with the power of the empire. I informed his Holiness that there was now -collected in and near the capital a well-drilled force of nearly a -hundred thousand men, all animated by the wildest enthusiasm for their -Emperor, to whose return they were most impatiently looking forward. I -implored his Holiness to give me his view of the case, so that I might -be properly equipped for advising his Majesty upon his arrival, saying -that I feared the gravest complications, because war had been waged in -his Majesty's dominions without his consent, adding<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_410" id="Page_410">[Pg 410]</a></span> that his Majesty -might decide you were rebels caught red-handed, and might, alas, treat -you as such."</p> - -<p>"Your account did not lack a spice of partizanship and exaggeration."</p> - -<p>"I endeavoured to adhere strictly to the truth. The army at Frankfort -was larger than I stated, and its numbers were being continually -increased. My prediction regarding his Majesty's opinion of the siege -has been more than fulfilled."</p> - -<p>"No matter. What said his Holiness the Pope?"</p> - -<p>"His answer was a marvel of close and accurate reasoning. He said he -divided your authority under two heads, namely, the spiritual and the -temporal. In one section he assumed responsibility; in the other he -disclaimed it. What you did as Archbishop of the Church was his concern; -your acts as an elector of the Empire you must answer for to his -Majesty, to whom he sent his blessing. He had made inquiry regarding -your quarrel with Count Heinrich, and so far as he understood it, no -question affecting the Church had arisen. Count Heinrich had been -charged with a violation of the Feudal Law, and had therefore appealed -to the Emperor, and not to the Pope, as would have been the case had the -dispute been ecclesiastical. His Holiness regarded your alliance as a -military union between the electors of Treves and Cologne, and not as a -spiritual conjunction of the Archbishops of those two cities. The duty -then devolved upon the Emperor to deal with the two electors, and if the -result unfortunately caused a vacancy in the Archbishoprics of Treves -and Cologne, his Holiness would be pleased to appoint to those august -offices two prelates who would be <i>personæ gratæ</i> to his Majesty."</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Treves remained silent, a deep frown on his brow, his -thin lips tightly compressed. During the interesting recital, he glanced -darkly and suspiciously at the narrator several times, but he evidently -saw no reason to doubt the accuracy of the report, in fact the account -bore internal evidence of its correctness, for he knew the cautious -nature of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_411" id="Page_411">[Pg 411]</a></span> Pontiff, and was well aware that His Holiness desired to -have on the side of the Church the strong and winning hand.</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Cologne, however, was voluble in his praise of the -pontifical decision.</p> - -<p>"A most able exposition," he cried. "Would that I had heard it when it -was delivered. I have been misled and deceived from the first. It was -not my wish to continue the siege, and I am here now under coercion. -That I can prove to his Majesty, and I beg your intercession, Baron von -Brunfels, explaining to his Majesty that I am here, and have been here, -against my will. If I had known that his Holiness, the Pope, had given -such a decision—an admirable and most excellent laying down of the -law—I would at once have withdrawn my men, even if we had to cut our -way through all opposition. Pray so inform his Majesty. Why did you not -place before us the expression from his Holiness, Baron; then all this -difficulty might have been avoided?"</p> - -<p>"I had not the honour to serve your Lordships. I acted throughout in the -interests of his Majesty, the Emperor, whose vassal I am. May I now for -the last time ask you to give me the order I previously requested from -you?"</p> - -<p>"Surely, surely," cried von Hochstaden, "and that at once. My Lord of -Treves, it is your men who compose the line near the village, therefore -I beseech you to give the order. I would immediately give it myself," he -added, turning to von Brunfels, "but I have little authority in the -camp, and I might not be obeyed. If your laden horses will approach the -castle from the other side, I will bestow instruction upon my Captain -there to permit them to pass."</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Treves looked on in sullen silence and made no -observation, but neither did he take the action required of him. A -messenger entered breathless with the news that a force flying the -imperial flag had broken the line near the village, and that a convoy of -burdened animals was now <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_412" id="Page_412">[Pg 412]</a></span>mounting the slope towards the gates of the -castle. The Archbishop of Cologne wrung his hands, and, almost on the -verge of tears, bemoaned the unfortunate occurrence, calling on Heaven -and all present to witness that he was not the cause of it. The -impassive mask of the Archbishop of Treves gave no indication regarding -the nature of the thoughts that were passing through his mind.</p> - -<p>"My Lords," said von Brunfels impressively, "whoever is to blame, the -action I feared has taken place, while we were wasting precious moments -in useless talk. The second part of my mission is still to be -accomplished, and I wish it a better ending than that which has attended -the first. I command you, in the name of the Emperor, to appear together -before him at high noon in the royal tent now erected on this plain. You -will come prepared to answer truthfully all questions put to you, and -his Majesty will listen patiently to whatever explanation you are -pleased to offer for your grave infraction of the Feudal Law. I entreat -you to believe that nothing but instant and abject submission will be of -avail."</p> - -<p>"His Majesty shall have it from me," earnestly alleged the Archbishop of -Cologne.</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Treves made no comment, but gravely inclined his head, -as the envoy of the Emperor took his departure.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_413" id="Page_413">[Pg 413]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XLI.</span> <span class="smaller">"WHY HAVE YOU DARED TO LEVY WAR?"</span></h2> - -<p>Large as was the tent of the Archbishops, it could not compare in size -or splendour with the imperial pavilion. This canopy was not square like -the shelter of their august Lordships, but oval in shape, and over its -peaked roof flew the great standard which signified not only that the -erection stood on imperial soil, but also indicated the personal -presence of the Emperor under its folds. For the time being, that -pavilion was the capital of the land. In it were collected the head of -the State and his favoured councillors.</p> - -<p>At each of the numerous stakes which held in place the many ropes -supporting the roof, stood a soldier, his tall weapon perpendicular -beside him, and these lances, on whose glittering points the high sun -sparkled, formed a palisade around the tent. Approach to the royal -pavilion was only possible down a long avenue composed of mounted men, -who sat impassive in two extended lines under the hot sun.</p> - -<p>The interior of the great tent was hung with priceless tapestries and -rich stuffs from the East, which softened the light that came from the -sides and roof. At the further end from the entrance was a semi-circular -dais, rendered accessible by three steps, and on this platform had been -placed, under an awning of purple, a throne, on the apex of the high -carved back of which rested a golden crown, a beautiful specimen of the -skilled craftsmanship of Nuremburg, where it had been made for the -Emperor Henry IV. during his residence in that famous city of the -empire. The hard ground which formed the floor of the tent was covered -by soft rugs, making noiseless the footfalls of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_414" id="Page_414">[Pg 414]</a></span> those within. The -Emperor, seated on his throne, had on either hand those high nobles of -the realm who had flocked to his standard when the news of his return -had spread like wildfire, and who, perhaps because he did not need their -help, had made lavish proffers to him of all the forces at their -command. These offers he had received with a graciousness that charmed -all the would-be givers, and although he declined assistance, he somehow -managed to make it felt that this prompt support was most gratifying to -him. The nobles were delighted with the reception accorded them, and saw -that they had in the Emperor a liege who appreciated their worth; so -held themselves proudly, as was their right, for most of them at one -time or another had been treated with haughty scorn by those proud and -powerful Prelates who for generations had been the real rulers of the -country. At the immediate right of the Emperor stood Baron von Brunfels, -a man universally esteemed by all who knew him, a stickler for the -privileges of his order, and yet the last in the empire who would -infringe on the rights of others. During the march down the Rhine, -nobles had joined the imperial forces at various points, coming from all -quarters, for what purpose they themselves only knew, but apparently -with the sole intention of being of service to his Majesty in whatever -expedition he was undertaking, the cause of which they could but guess. -So much at least was to be gathered from their warm expressions of -loyalty, which did not diminish on their viewing the formidable force -which his Majesty commanded.</p> - -<p>At the Emperor's left hand stood the Archbishop of Mayence, who, on -hearing that his Majesty was to pass down the Rhine, had hastily -collected his army, and as hastily disbanded it when there marched -through his town thirty thousand men, to be followed shortly by the -Emperor himself, accompanied by a regiment of horse that alone -outnumbered the little company which the Archbishop was able to assemble -at the moment.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_415" id="Page_415">[Pg 415]</a></span></p><p>Thus it was that the Archbishop contented himself by greeting his -Sovereign with merely a group of his clergy behind him, humbly placing -the good city of Mayence unreservedly at the disposal of the Emperor, -and begging permission to extend his benediction upon the expedition -that had swung so jauntily along the stoned-paved river-front of the -town, asking no one's leave, and making the air ring with patriotic -songs. The Emperor had dismounted, standing with bowed head to receive -the Prelate's blessing, and afterwards extended a cordial invitation to -his Lordship to accompany him, which overture was gratefully accepted. -Thus the Prelate stood on the Emperor's left, and the nobles were -pleased to note that this position seemed to indicate that, while his -Majesty welcomed the co-operation of the Church, still it would not be -paramount in his counsels, as one of their own order occupied the first -place.</p> - -<p>Some rumour of what was about to occur had gone forth, and as the moment -approached at which the Archbishops were to appear before the throne, to -plead perhaps for their lives, the face of his Lordship of Mayence was a -study that might have afforded satisfaction to a physiognomist. He -endeavoured to assume that air of superior righteousness which so well -becomes a somewhat expansive and benign countenance. Occasionally a -smirk of satisfaction appeared, only to be smoothed instantly away, -giving place to an expression of that deep resignation which is -frequently bestowed, like a benediction, on a good man called upon to -endure a sight of the humiliation of his enemies. He clasped his fat -fingers before him—he was rather corpulent, and his hands had thus a -resting place—essaying to compose his placid features into an unctuous -semblance that betokened dim knowledge of the wickedness which is -rampant in this world, and a solemn grief for the same, mitigated by a -subdued confidence that virtue has other rewards than the mere -satisfaction of possession.</p> - -<p>On the dais and on its steps, and along each wall,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_416" id="Page_416">[Pg 416]</a></span> nobles were grouped -according to their degree, while in the centre, between the dais and the -entrance to the tent, a wide space was left vacant until their Lordships -of Treves and Cologne should arrive, which they did promptly at the hour -named. They came in unattended, save by their two secretaries, the large -escort which accompanied them from their camp being, by order of von -Brunfels, halted outside the pavilion.</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Treves turned an unflinching look upon his sovereign, -whom he now beheld for the first time, but the Prelate of Cologne took -time by the forelock, and, without waiting to be addressed, flung -himself prostrate on the lower steps of the dais, crying:</p> - -<p>"Your Gracious Majesty, I implore your pardon. I have been deeply to -blame, and bitterly do I regret my fault. Had I known that my action was -contrary to your Majesty's will, I would have abandoned all my offices -and honours, retiring humbly to the poorest monastery in my -Archbishopric rather than have offended your Majesty."</p> - -<p>Rodolph seemed taken aback by the unexpected and abject impetuosity of -his Lordship of Cologne, and for a moment he sat silent, gazing with -compassion in his glance upon the grovelling figure of the man at his -feet. When at last he spoke, his accent was kindly.</p> - -<p>"My Lord, I ask you to arise. We are all prone to error, and a man can -but say, 'I am culpable, and I regret it.' If he make amends in after -conduct there is little to be said against him, and I have small -inclination to enact the implacable judge, hoping myself for mercy -rather than for justice, as our Holy Church gives us assurance to -expect. Rise, therefore, my Lord, and make answer to some questions I -wish now to propound to you. Are you content to return to your fair city -of Cologne and there busy yourself with what pertains to your office of -Archbishop, leaving me to deal with such nobles as Count Heinrich, -should their punishment become necessary?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_417" id="Page_417">[Pg 417]</a></span></p><p>"I am more than content, your Majesty," replied the Archbishop -fervently, once again upon his feet, although, with bowed head, he held -himself most contritely.</p> - -<p>"Are you content to permit the men in your command, now under arms -around Thuron, to join my army and renounce allegiance to you?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, your Majesty, and also those in Cologne, if such is your Majesty's -pleasure."</p> - -<p>"I have sent to Cologne ten thousand men, who are there to do fitting -honour to your high office, and you will thus be saved the trouble of -supporting a larger force than is necessary for your personal -requirements. You have no objection to this arrangement, I trust?"</p> - -<p>"None in the least, your Majesty, and as I take this to mean that your -gracious clemency is about to be extended to me, I most loyally and -gratefully thank your Majesty."</p> - -<p>"Then there is no more to be said, my Lord. Will you take your place at -my left, in company with your brother of Mayence, who is, I see, eager -to give you a cordial welcome."</p> - -<p>The Archbishop von Hochstaden took station beside the Archbishop of -Mayence, but such admirable control did the Prelate of the Upper Rhine -possess over his emotions, that no one would have suspected him of undue -delectation in receiving a penitent sinner back into the circle of the -righteous.</p> - -<p>"My Lord of Treves," said the Emperor, "you have heard the terms on -which I have consented to overlook the transgression against my rightful -authority committed by your friend and ally. This knowledge will, I -hope, make our conference brief. I therefore grant you a hearing."</p> - -<p>"I have to thank your Majesty for the privilege, but I am somewhat at a -loss to know what use to make of it. I was called hither for the purpose -of answering certain questions which I was led to understand your -Majesty would ask, and the unnecessary caution was given me that I -should make truthful rejoinder.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_418" id="Page_418">[Pg 418]</a></span> If, then, your Majesty will further -favour me with the questions, I shall reply to the best of my poor -ability."</p> - -<p>"Oh, stands the case so, my Lord? You shall not be kept waiting. Why -have you dared to levy war in my dominion with my permission neither -asked nor received?"</p> - -<p>"I acted strictly within my rights. Heinrich of Thuron is my vassal. He -connived at the escape or abduction of my ward, the Countess Tekla, who, -flying from my strictly lawful control, sought refuge in Thuron. My -demand for her restoration was illegally refused, therefore I besieged -the castle, and it would long since have been a heap of ruins had I not -been fool enough to link myself with the craven coward to whom you have -just given place by your imperial side."</p> - -<p>"Was demand for restoration made of the Count before you attacked him?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, your Majesty; made and refused."</p> - -<p>"Am I right in stating that when such demand was made and refused, the -Count appealed to his Sovereign and yours?"</p> - -<p>"I heard nothing of such an appeal."</p> - -<p>"Who was your envoy?"</p> - -<p>"Count Bertrich."</p> - -<p>"Where is Count Bertrich now?"</p> - -<p>"He is at the head of my escort, outside this tent, having been refused -admission."</p> - -<p>"Let him be called."</p> - -<p>An intense silence had reigned during this colloquy between the Emperor -and the Archbishop. All eyes were now turned toward the entrance, and -presently Count Bertrich, accompanied by the messenger sent for him, -came in, and took his place before the dais near the spot where his -master stood. The Count blinked for a few moments, coming as he did from -the brilliant sunshine outside into the comparative obscurity of the -tent. At last he glanced about him, seeing many there whom he knew, all -standing silent as if something ominous had happened or was expected to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_419" id="Page_419">[Pg 419]</a></span> -happen; finally his eye rested on the Emperor, and a look of amazed -incredulity came into his face on beholding before him the young man -whose life he had attempted. Ruddy as he was, the colour partially left -his cheeks, and he stared, open-eyed, at his Sovereign, receiving, -however, no glance of recognition in return. The Emperor sat -imperturbable, his face stern and inscrutable, giving the warrior time -to collect himself, then he spoke calmly.</p> - -<p>"I am told you are the envoy who carried the ultimatum of his Lordship -of Treves to Heinrich, Count of Thuron."</p> - -<p>"I was the envoy, your Majesty."</p> - -<p>"Is it a fact that the Count, in refusing the demand to give up his -castle to his Lordship, appealed to the Emperor?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, your Majesty."</p> - -<p>"Is it true that you claimed for your master special authority from the -Emperor, and that Count Heinrich said he would deliver up his stronghold -on the production of that authority?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, your Majesty."</p> - -<p>"Of course you acquainted your master with such important incidents?"</p> - -<p>"No, your Majesty. I immediately attacked the castle in defiance of the -wishes of my Lord of Treves, and entirely without his sanction. I alone -am to blame for the beginning of hostilities, from which, once begun, my -Lord could not withdraw without loss of prestige."</p> - -<p>"You did not then inform him of Count Heinrich's appeal until after your -unsuccessful assault?"</p> - -<p>"I have no remembrance of ever so informing him, your Majesty. Shortly -after the first attack I was wounded in the mouth and could not speak -for many days."</p> - -<p>"You have entirely recovered, I am pleased to see, and no doubt your -present speaking is much to the liking of the Archbishop. You -shamelessly admit, then, that you deceived your master, and at the same<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_420" id="Page_420">[Pg 420]</a></span> -time gravely wronged Count Heinrich of Thuron by neglecting to report -his appeal."</p> - -<p>"I fully admit it, your Majesty, and am prepared to suffer for my -crime."</p> - -<p>"Arrest this man, and see to it that he has no communication with any, -until sentence is passed upon him."</p> - -<p>The Archbishop of Treves, who had been visibly uneasy during the latter -part of this cross-examination, now intervened.</p> - -<p>"Your Majesty, permit me to mend an answer I gave to you. When I replied -that I knew nothing of such an appeal as Heinrich of Thuron is said to -have made——"</p> - -<p>"Said to have made, my Lord? The appeal is proven through the mouth of -your own envoy. It seems that the caution to speak the truth, of which -you complained, has been more than justified. I warn you, my Lord, that -you are treading on dangerous ground in thus attempting to juggle with -me."</p> - -<p>"I beg to say, your Majesty, that two years have passed since the events -under discussion took place, and men's memories are sometimes at fault -when even shorter periods are in question. For instance, my trusty ally, -who leaped so quickly into your Majesty's favour, doubtless forgets that -a few brief days since he bound himself solemnly to stand or fall with -me, whereas he has fallen alone—at your Majesty's feet."</p> - -<p>"I was coerced," explained Von Hochstaden.</p> - -<p>"There also your remembrance fails you, my valourous Lord. It was your -own proposition. But all this has nothing to do with the point in -argument, and it may be that Count Bertrich's loyalty has clouded his -memory, while it is possible that my own recollection has not been of -the best in dealing with doings long past, these doings having -connection with so unscrupulous a man as Heinrich of Thuron. His appeal -I did not consider as anything but a ruse to gain time. He well knew -that your Majesty was thousands of leagues away and that it would be -long<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_421" id="Page_421">[Pg 421]</a></span> before his petition could be heard; in truth, for two years, as -has been shown by your present return. Therefore, I paid no heed to an -invocation that was on the face of it dishonest. When Count Bertrich -says he acted without my orders he speaks the technical truth, but -everything he did had my most cordial approval, then and now; and, as I -have said before, if we had not been harnessed with a poltroon, we -should have had the castle within five days. It is futile, then, to -punish this underling, and let the chief culprit go, if my action be -adjudged censurable."</p> - -<p>"Your action is adjudged a crime."</p> - -<p>"Then I plead that, in justice, Count Bertrich should not suffer, being -under my command."</p> - -<p>"Your Lordship is not logical. Count Bertrich has himself confessed that -he acted without your sanction. Your crime is that you approved of an -illegal action, not that you gave illegal orders, which, it seems, you -did not."</p> - -<p>What motion the proud Prelate might have made at this juncture which -would have led to his inevitable destruction, can only be surmised, but, -happily for him, he cast a glance at his brethren of Cologne and -Mayence, and detected on their faces ill-concealed looks of triumph. It -meant much to them that the Lion of Treves should accomplish his own -ruin, and the stern face of the Emperor indicated that unqualified -submission must be made to him, if, indeed, such submission were not -already too long delayed. That brief gleam of triumph on the face of his -late ally saved von Isenberg. His manner instantly changed.</p> - -<p>"Your Majesty," he said in a penitential tone, "I am compelled to -confess that I am illogical, and that the case against me is but too -clear, looking at it from your Majesty's higher point of view, -unburdened by the prejudice, and, perhaps I should add with shame, the -hatred which has enveloped me. I have no excuse to offer, and there is -nothing left for me to hope, except that the clemency which you so -generously bestowed on others you may extend to—Count Bertrich."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_422" id="Page_422">[Pg 422]</a></span></p><p>The Emperor's face lightened, and something almost approaching a smile -touched his lips as he saw that the haughty Archbishop, in spite of his -evident intention to sue for favour when he began, could not bring -himself to beg for any save a friend. The Emperor ignored his lack of -pleading for himself, and said:</p> - -<p>"Are you content to return to Treves and accept the protection which my -soldiers will deem it an honour to supply?"</p> - -<p>"I am content, your Majesty."</p> - -<p>"Are you content to allow your men now gathered round Thuron to join -those under my standard?"</p> - -<p>"I am content, your Majesty."</p> - -<p>"Are you content to give up the guardianship of the Countess Tekla?"</p> - -<p>"It has brought me little profit and some loss of prestige, so I am well -rid of it. I am content, your Majesty."</p> - -<p>The Emperor rose from his throne and descended the steps of the dais, -extending his hand.</p> - -<p>"My Lord Archbishop," he said, "I hope from this day forward to count -you one of my friends."</p> - -<p>"In truth, your Majesty," replied von Isenberg dryly, "I would rather -have you my friend than my enemy."</p> - -<p>"It is a sentiment which finds an echo in my own breast," responded the -Emperor with undeniable amity, and casting a sharp glance on Count -Bertrich, he added: "Is that defective memory of yours local or general, -my Lord Count?"</p> - -<p>"It is universal, your Majesty. Men whom I have met two years ago I -could not recognise to-day."</p> - -<p>"Ah! Such misfortunes, deplorable as they may seem, are not without -their compensation, my Lord."</p> - -<p>Saying this, the Emperor mounted the dais, and in a few brief sentences -made congratulatory reference to the peaceable adjustment, thus -dismissing the assemblage.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_423" id="Page_423">[Pg 423]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XLII.</span> <span class="smaller">TEKLA REPLENISHES HER WARDROBE.</span></h2> - -<p>The Countess Tekla leaned long over the parapet of Castle Thuron, gazing -sadly into the night. The brilliant moonlight seemed a mockery of former -happiness, now that she stood bathed in it alone. Into the darkness of -the forest, into the uncertainty of the future, her lover had gone, -confident that his single arm would bring rescue to the besieged; and -the girl, melancholy as she was at the parting, felt as assured of his -success as if it were already accomplished. He had been compelled to -steal away in the shadow of the trees, as cautiously and secretly as if -he were on a mission of death, but she was sure he would return openly -and triumphantly as a champion of life. Her dreamy eyes lost sight of -the dark wood, and she saw in imagination her hero at the head of his -men break through the iron cordon which had so long encompassed the -castle, bringing, with ringing cheers, succour to the oppressed. At -last, with dimmed eyes and a deep sigh, the girl turned and beheld the -ghost-like vision of Hilda standing there, silently weeping.</p> - -<p>"Oh, Hilda, how you startled me. Why are you sorrowing?"</p> - -<p>"So many terrible things have happened to-night, my Lady, that I am -filled with fear. I weep because I have lost my lover," said Hilda, -simply.</p> - -<p>"Yes, Hilda, the cruel wood has hidden him, but he will soon return, so -have no fears. And, Hilda, listen. We are two women alone together, and -I think women are alike whatever their station; lady or serf, what can<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_424" id="Page_424">[Pg 424]</a></span> -they do but weep when their lovers leave them? My own eyes are wet, -Hilda, because my lover went with yours!"</p> - -<p>"The Lord Rodolph, my Lady?" exclaimed Hilda, her curiosity and -match-making instinct mastering her emotion.</p> - -<p>"The Lord Rodolph, Hilda."</p> - -<p>"Oh, my Lady, I am glad."</p> - -<p>"Are you, Hilda?" cried the girl, embracing her. "So am I. Now let us -forget our mutual grief in our mutual joy. Walk with me along this -promenade, here in the moonlight, and tell me about it. Where did you -meet, and what did he say to you? Do lovers talk the same language all -the world over? I believe they do; a language understood only by -themselves, and untranslatable to others. What did he tell you, Hilda?"</p> - -<p>"I do not remember, my Lady," said Hilda, as they walked together up and -down; Hilda with drooping head. "We met, and were with each other, and -seemed to want nothing more, and the words did not matter. Sometimes he -said the moon shone brightly, or, in the darkness, that the stars -twinkled, and yet I knew he was speaking of me and not of the moon or -the stars, and that I was thinking of him!"</p> - -<p>"Yes," said Tekla, with a sigh, "the moon shines and the stars twinkle -and we think how beautiful they are, but that is because he is here, for -now the moon shines as brightly for others, perhaps, but not for us, -because he is absent, and we see none of the former beauty in the -shining, but only the brilliant loneliness; the empty night."</p> - -<p>Hilda glanced timorously about her when her lady spoke of the night, for -the events of the evening had so unnerved her that even the thought of -her rescued lover could not turn her mind from the dangers which -surrounded them. Everything seemed peaceful, but everything had seemed -peaceful when Conrad was suddenly pounced upon, and all but hanged. She -shuddered and said tremblingly:</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_425" id="Page_425">[Pg 425]</a></span></p><p>"Is it safe for us to walk thus conspicuously on the battlements? Is it -not dangerous?"</p> - -<p>"Dangerous?" cried the Countess, clasping her hands, and gazing with -rapture along the promenade. "It is the most dangerous spot on earth, -Hilda, and the most delicious."</p> - -<p>"Then let us leave it, my Lady. An archer might mark us out, for the -enemy are doubtless lingering near, although unseen by us."</p> - -<p>"It is too late, Hilda. An archer has already marked me out and has shot -me through the heart, all on these battlements, yet I cared little, for -I had been mortally wounded before."</p> - -<p>Hilda looked with dismay at the Countess standing there oblivious to her -surroundings, forgetting even that she had a companion, the moonlight -enfolding her in its gentle radiance. From this wild talk of archers and -wounding, Hilda feared that reason had fled from her beloved mistress, -but the Countess, guessing her thought, turned suddenly toward her and -laughed.</p> - -<p>"Yes, Hilda, reason has deserted me, and I have before now on this spot -acted directly contrary to its teachings, and yet am I without regret. -But we must talk no more of lovers and the moonlight, nor even of the -subdued twinkling of the stars, and to show you how practical I am, I -will tell you what we are to do these coming few days, so that we may -think of nothing but that we have in hand. I have not yet told you, -Hilda, how glad I am that you are with me again, and how much I missed -you all these long months. I am so helpless without you, and these hands -are as useless—as useless——"</p> - -<p>"They are most beautiful, my Lady."</p> - -<p>"Yes, he said that, and it therefore must be true," murmured the -Countess, looking down at her fair hands as impartially as if they -belonged to someone else, as indeed they did. "What could he see in me, -Hilda, to wish for me? I am obstinate and unruly. I left my guardian in -a most unmaidenly manner; I am often defiant to all rightful authority, -and have<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_426" id="Page_426">[Pg 426]</a></span> rebelled when my uncle has commanded. He knows all this, for -he aided me in my flight, and he has seen me face my uncle in anger, and -yet—and yet—Why is it, Hilda?"</p> - -<p>"You are the most lovely lady on this earth, Countess Tekla."</p> - -<p>"That cannot be, for I have heard there are the fairest ladies in -Frankfort, at the Court, that man has ever looked upon, yet he came from -Frankfort, and from the Emperor's Court, and must have seen them. Even -were it true what you say, I would not have him love me for that alone. -I care for him, not because he is the noblest and best in all the land, -but because he is Rodolph, and he—perhaps he cares for me because I am -Tekla. It is all a mystery which I cannot fathom. I left my guardian -knowing nothing of Rodolph, and now it seems as if I must always have -known him, and that he was waiting for me, as in truth he was. But here -am I talking of him again, after saying I would think no more until he -returned. Oh yes, I remember now what I wished to tell you, when your -flattery about my hands set me off on the familiar path. Hilda, in this -castle I have made a wonderful discovery. Ah, I have made more than one -unlooked-for discovery since I inhabited Thuron, for nothing is more -wonderful or more entrancing than that I should have discovered his—Oh, -Hilda, shall I ever talk sanely again? I doubt it."</p> - -<p>"What discovery in the castle, my Lady?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, that there is here a veritable robber's cave, such as the minstrels -sing about."</p> - -<p>"Indeed, such is what they call the castle itself down in Alken."</p> - -<p>"Do they? I wonder why. Hilda, there is in Thuron an enchanted room; I -know it is enchanted, for the light is dim, and the ghosts of bygone -ladies haunt it continually."</p> - -<p>"Oh, my Lady," cried Hilda, horror-stricken. "You have not been near it, -I hope."</p> - -<p>"How could I keep out of it, or how blame the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_427" id="Page_427">[Pg 427]</a></span> poor ghosts for wandering -through it? The room is filled with the most wonderful webs of cloth, of -every dye, some filmy as spider's weaving, some thick as armour. Had one -the art to fashion it into women's garments, there is enough within that -room to clothe most richly all the ladies of the Court at Frankfort. How -came my uncle by this cloth, or what use can he have for it, I cannot -imagine, but I am sure the ghosts of all the ladies for whom the webs -were intended must haunt the place, sorrowful that they had never an -opportunity of wearing the unmade apparel. When I enter the room I wave -my hand and bid the ghosts begone, and then, being sorry for my cruelty, -I spread out the cloth so that they may see how beautiful it is and of -what rare texture, for the poor ghosts cannot do this by themselves. -Come with me, Hilda, and I will show you the room."</p> - -<p>"Oh no, no, my Lady. I dare not venture in it. I would rather face all -the Archbishop's troops than those dead ghosts."</p> - -<p>"Nonsense, child. There is really nothing there to fright you, and if I -can enter the room often and often alone, surely you will not hang back -when I am with you. You shall devise most lovely costumes for us both, -so that when our lovers return we shall enslave them anew, and in the -making of our robes we shall have something more practical to think of -than the glamour of the moonlight. Why did you not teach me to sew, -Hilda? I never knew what a useless creature I was until I stood among -all that rare assortment, enough to delight any woman's eye, and had no -skill in the fashioning of the smallest piece of it. Then did I sit down -and selfishly weep because you were not with me. And I have selected one -web of quiet hue, but rich in texture, finely spun, which you shall make -for my aunt, poor lady, who has never had anything to wear that she -might be proud of. Come, Hilda, bring a lamp to ward off the darkness, -and I shall keep the ghosts away from you."</p> - -<p>Hilda, encouraged by the presence of the Countess,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_428" id="Page_428">[Pg 428]</a></span> ventured into the -silken store-room, containing the unwilling tribute of many a merchant -to the potentate of Thuron, and once within the haunted chamber, was -soon so much absorbed in the cutting of the material selected, and the -fitting of it on the lovely model who posed before her, that all fear of -spiritual onlookers fled, and so deft was the fair seamstress in the -passion of her occupation that she would have measured and fitted even a -ghost if the apparition had presented itself before her with a -sepulchral request for a garment. When the attire of the Countess was -completed, the lady then began to wonder, not without an admixture of -apprehension, what her turbulent uncle would say when this mutilation of -his goods came to his knowledge, and so resolved to settle the question -once for all before Rodolph returned. Tekla entered the great dining -hall, arrayed in all her splendour, her heart fluttering with anxiety -regarding her reception, yet she was in a measure sustained by that -feeling of confidence which comes to those who know they are handsomely -attired. Heinrich's wife was so startled that she gasped in terror and -cast an apprehensive glance at her husband, as his niece glided with -apparent composure into the room. The Black Count himself looked up, but -noticing no difference, merely grumbled that Tekla was late and went on -with his scanty meal.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_429" id="Page_429">[Pg 429]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XLIII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE COUNTESS AND THE EMPEROR.</span></h2> - -<p>One morning word came hurriedly to the Count that there was a commotion -near Alken, an attack being feared. Heinrich ascended to the battlements -without haste and without enthusiasm. If an assault came he would repel -it if he could, but he had little heart in the prospect of a fight, and -as little hope of ultimate success. He had welcomed the departure of -Rodolph and his two companions, largely because their going left three -mouths less to feed, but he had such small faith in Rodolph's proffer of -rescue that all thought of the young man had already gone from his mind.</p> - -<p>Reaching the battlements, he saw on the plain to the south of the -village evidence of something unusual in progress. Bugles were blowing, -and men from the tents and the lines were hurriedly concentrating at a -point where they seemed called upon to oppose some unexpected force. A -man on horseback was listening to the protests of an officer of the -Archbishop, who gesticulated violently, and apparently all answer the -horseman made was to point to the flag which waved above him. What the -flag was that lazily floated above its staff, Heinrich could not make -out, but presently the horseman gave a signal to one of his buglers, and -a trumpet call rang along the valley, and was echoed mockingly from the -rocks opposite Alken. In a short space of time there came out from the -shelter of the village, along the river street, soldiers marching four -abreast, one line following another so closely that they seemed to tread -on each other's<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_430" id="Page_430">[Pg 430]</a></span> heels, quartette after quartette, as if the village -were some huge reservoir of men, and was belching them forth in such -numbers that there was little wonder the Archbishop's officers stood -helpless before this display of military power. At last the movement -stopped, and the soldiers were halted four deep, standing at ease with -their formidable array of lances bristling above them. Again the mounted -man seemed to prefer his request or command, and this time heed was -given it. The Archbishop's troops parted, leaving an open space, and -through this came, not the soldiers who had the moment before exhibited -their numbers, but laden animals with attendants, led by the officer on -horseback. The procession came up the zig-zag path that ended at the -castle gates, and every man of Thuron's garrison, who now clustered on -the walls, raised a simultaneous cheer. They recognised the move as a -break in the Archbishop's cordon, and vociferously acclaimed that help -and food were coming to them.</p> - -<p>Count Heinrich, however, was no optimist. His naturally suspicious mind -caused him to imagine that here was merely another trick of his enemy of -Treves, and he stood silent and grim, with arms folded across his -breast, watching distrustfully the ascending cavalcade; and thus he -remained until the trumpeter summoned the gate.</p> - -<p>The mounted officer rode boldly forward as if he feared no rebuff. -"Count Heinrich of Thuron," he cried to the motionless figure that stood -like a lowering statue on the platform above the gate. "I greet you in -the name of his Majesty, the Emperor, and am commanded by him to deliver -to you food and wine, which I bring with me. I await your orders -regarding their bestowal within your castle."</p> - -<p>"How am I to know that you come from the Emperor, his Majesty being at -this moment in Palestine."</p> - -<p>"The Emperor Rodolph has returned, my Lord, and is now at the head of -his army, gathered on the plain to the east of Thuron. His troops have -surrounded<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_431" id="Page_431">[Pg 431]</a></span> the camp of the Archbishops, and it is his Majesty's will -that this siege be immediately raised. My orders were to force a passage -through to your gates if resistance were offered, but that was not -necessary, as the Archbishops' officers made way for us when they found -themselves confronted by overwhelming opposition; besides, they lacked -orders from the Archbishops, who are now themselves besieged and cannot -communicate with their captains."</p> - -<p>A fierce fire lit up the eyes of the Black Count, and he glanced over -his shoulder in the direction of the Archbishops' camp to see if there -were any sign of the environment of which the imperial messenger spoke. -A low murmur, not unlike a growl, broke from his own men, impatient at -the delay. The animal was hungry and scented its food.</p> - -<p>"Open the gates," cried Heinrich, and the growl changed into a cheer -again. The Count knew that if this were a trap he had no option but to -fall into it, for they could not hold out longer. The gates were thrown -open and relief entered.</p> - -<p>Willing hands speedily unpacked the hampers. Many of the meats were -already prepared for the table, well cooked and temptingly garnished. It -required all the terror of the Count's eye to prevent his men from -rushing forward and helping themselves. The master of Thuron appreciated -the tension and saw that this was no time for delay or the display of -undue authority. "Make the parapets your table," he shouted, "and the -battlements your dining hall. You shall feast in sight of the -Archbishops, if they care to look on. Fall to, and wait no ceremony."</p> - -<p>Never was even Count Heinrich's command obeyed more promptly. The -Emperor had been thoughtful and had sent a staff of cooks, with the -material for their manipulation, and this was the more welcome when -Count Heinrich heard, with something like consternation, that it was the -Emperor's intention to visit Castle Thuron that day and dine with its -master. This was an honour for which Count Heinrich felt<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_432" id="Page_432">[Pg 432]</a></span> himself in no -way prepared, nor was it a distinction which he coveted. He paced the -large room gloomily when the envoy had left him, pondering over his -predicament, for he was not accustomed to the etiquette of courts, and -had little practice in the bending of the knee. Upon his dilemma there -suddenly intruded the radiant presence of his niece, aglow with -excitement. He glared moodily at her approach.</p> - -<p>"Is it true," she cried, "that the Emperor is to visit us?"</p> - -<p>"I fear so," growled the Count.</p> - -<p>"Fear so, Uncle? I am ashamed of you. How can you say you fear, when the -moment he returned from the East he came to your rescue, no doubt as -soon as my Lord Rodolph acquainted him with your position."</p> - -<p>"It is not likely Lord Rodolph had anything to do with it. I have heard -nothing of Lord Rodolph."</p> - -<p>"Nevertheless, you will soon hear of him, and he it was who caused this -quick rescue to be brought about. Rodolph will come to the castle by the -side of the Emperor, and I will not have him ashamed of us."</p> - -<p>"It matters not to me what Lord Rodolph thinks; if he has indeed had a -hand in this, I wish him well for it."</p> - -<p>"But the Emperor is coming! The Emperor is coming. Everything else gives -way to that. We shall see him and speak with him, and he shall know that -here are his most loyal subjects assembled. We must receive him -royally."</p> - -<p>"What can we do? He comes—well, let him come. He has sent his dinner -and the cooks to prepare it, so in God's name we will allow him to eat -it, since it belongs to him, but what further can we do? I can say -good-day to him, but if you expect me to bow and kneel and scrape to -him, by the Holy Coat, I will leave the castle first."</p> - -<p>"You shall do nothing of the kind. You shall put under my orders every -man you have; there is work enough for them all to do. Hilda, come -here."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_433" id="Page_433">[Pg 433]</a></span></p><p>Hilda, who had been standing at the door, came forward.</p> - -<p>"Hilda, throw open the ghost room and tell a dozen of the men to carry -down bales of cloth: the crimson silk to this room, the purple and blue -and scarlet webs to the courtyard."</p> - -<p>"What?" roared the Black Count. "What do you know of those bales?"</p> - -<p>"Everything, my Lord Uncle. I have rummaged all corners of the room and -am thoroughly conversant with what it contains. And, Hilda, tell them to -bring here the crimson silk first and I will show them how to festoon -it."</p> - -<p>"You are mad," cried her uncle, wrathfully, but standing before her -uncertain what to do.</p> - -<p>"Yes, with joy. I am to see the Emperor, and my Lord Rodolph, for I know -they come in company. And now, what can I do with you? Your armour -should be scoured, and—no, you are hopeless. I cannot festoon you with -red silk, my Uncle, so I shall not attempt to improve you. You look like -a great bear, and such indeed you are, but the Emperor, who is a fighter -himself, will esteem valour in whatever shape it presents itself. He may -have seen rougher men in the East, although I doubt it. Now go and tell -your garrison that I have taken charge of the castle until the Emperor -arrives, and wear just such a scowl as is now on your face when you -order them to obey me."</p> - -<p>The helpless man laughed scornfully, but nevertheless made no objection, -feeling that he had reached a situation which was beyond him, and that -possibly his confident niece would retrieve the honour of his house.</p> - -<p>In a marvellously short time, under Tekla's crisp direction, the -appearance of the castle was completely changed, and old Thuron would -not have known itself, so bravely was it decked with silk and bunting, -to the great depletion of his Lordship's stores. The Black Count made no -attempt to smarten himself and thus follow the example of his castle, -but wandered <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_434" id="Page_434">[Pg 434]</a></span>impatiently about, accoutred as he was and always had -been, not knowing what to do with himself, manifestly ill at ease, -alternately frowning and grimacing at the preparations and decorating -going on around him. Once there arose a cry that the Emperor was in -sight, and Tekla, in despair, wrung her hands that he came so soon, but -it was a false alarm, and Heinrich, going to the battlements, saw with a -savage joy that the cause of the commotion was the striking of the tents -belonging to the Archbishop's army. The two years' siege was at last -raised. The Black Count lifted his clenched fist towards the unoffending -sky and hoarsely cursed the departing legion.</p> - -<p>From her fear that his Majesty would come too soon, the Countess began -to apprehend that he would not come at all. The improvised carpet had -been laid between the castle doorway and the gates; broad red cloth -flanked by two webs of blue. Purple was looped over the archway, and -gaudy streamers floated from the walls.</p> - -<p>At last the detachment which had marched through the village began to -ascend the slope, and soon from castle gate to river bank they lined -each side of the way, forming an avenue of erect lances. Ringing cheers -sounded from the village, marking the imperial progress, for the whole -population of the country roundabout had turned out: even the opposite -banks of the Moselle were thronged by thousands who could not get -across.</p> - -<p>The Countess Tekla, accompanied by her aunt, stood on the battlements to -get thus the first view of the Emperor, although she had commanded her -uncle to be in readiness, the moment his Majesty appeared below, to take -his place at the open gate, where, supported by his two women folk, he -was to offer his Sovereign the castle and the devotion of all within it. -Presently horsemen appeared advancing past the southern end of the -village, numbering, perhaps, two score, then there was an interval, and -all onlookers knew at once it was the Emperor in his glittering <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_435" id="Page_435">[Pg 435]</a></span>armour -who rode the prancing white horse, with but one attendant by his side. -Following him came another troop of horse, and thus ascended to Castle -Thuron the Emperor Rodolph, who but a short time before had slipped away -from it, a fugitive in the night.</p> - -<p>Those manning the walls of the castle raised a great cheer when they saw -his Majesty, and Tekla could scarce refrain from clapping her hands at -the brave spectacle. The Black Count looked at the cavalcade with the -sombre discontent of one surveying a funeral procession, and Hilda -sighed when she saw but a single attendant accompanying the Emperor.</p> - -<p>"Uncle, if you will lead us down, we will now take our places at the -gate," said Tekla, her voice quavering with conflicting emotions.</p> - -<p>The Count obeyed in silence, and stood awkwardly, muttering low -maledictions at this mummery, yet knowing there was nothing before him -but endurance. His wife took up her position, trembling, at his right -and his niece at his left.</p> - -<p>The foremost horsemen ranged themselves on each side of the gate, their -evolutions, for the moment, concealing the chief personage from the view -of those standing in the portal. When the Emperor rode forward with -Conrad at his side, Tekla cried out as one in fear, then for a moment -leaned against her uncle for support. Heinrich looked at her white face, -not knowing what ailed her, and was about to speak roughly, as was his -custom, when she gasped hurriedly under her breath:</p> - -<p>"Uncle, uncle, look. Who is the Emperor?"</p> - -<p>The Black Count turned his gaze once more to the front and cried:</p> - -<p>"By my sins, it is no Emperor at all, but Lord Rodolph."</p> - -<p>Tekla, quicker of comprehension, whispered, holding bravely off the -faintness that had suddenly come upon her:</p> - -<p>"Lord Rodolph is the Emperor."</p> - -<p>Rodolph swung himself lightly from the horse <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_436" id="Page_436">[Pg 436]</a></span>before Conrad could put -hand to stirrup, and advanced quickly towards them, the cavalry coming -to a halt behind him.</p> - -<p>"My Lord Count," he cried, "you see how easy it is to take your castle -when a real warrior comes against it."</p> - -<p>The Count, having no answer at hand, made none, being troubled in his -mind whether or no he should kneel, but if this neglect to bend the knee -was a breach of Court etiquette, he was pleased to note that the Emperor -was little likely to take heed of it. His Majesty had eyes for none but -the Countess Tekla, who appeared indeed a queen in the stately robes -that became her so well. Rodolph seemed suddenly stricken dumb by her -beauty, for all the colour had fled from her face, leaving it like -chiselled marble, as she stood demurely with her eyes bent on the -ground.</p> - -<p>"Tekla," he murmured, taking her hand with deep reverence, and raising -it to his lips, "is the Prince who returns as welcome as the unknown -Lord would have been?"</p> - -<p>"Yes——your Majesty," whispered Tekla, casting a swift glance at him, -the colour again touching her cheeks.</p> - -<p>"And is Countess Tekla willing to become Empress Tekla?"</p> - -<p>"The delight of a loyal subject is to obey the imperial command," she -said, a smile coming at last to her lips.</p> - -<p>Again the Emperor raised her hand and kissed it.</p> - -<p>"I suppose," growled the Black Count, gruffly, "there is no further need -of my standing here like a fool."</p> - -<p>The Emperor laughed heartily, and the Countess Tekla joined him. The -tensity of the situation was at once relieved by the unmannerly remark -of the master of Thuron.</p> - -<p>"No, my Lord, no. What the Countess and I have to say to each other may -be very well said <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_437" id="Page_437">[Pg 437]</a></span>without listeners, and it is a pity a man should not -enter his own house without asking permission. Ah, Hilda," he continued -on seeing the girl, "I have made Conrad a Lord, and he tells me that in -spite of his nobility, he loves a maid of low degree, and so we shall -soon all be noble who once ventured our for tunes in a slight skiff on -the Moselle Tekla," he whispered, as they entered the castle together, -"you have now no guardian, for his Lordship of Treves willingly resigns -control over so rebellious a vassal. Peace reigneth in the land, and -there will be no fewer than three Archbishops at our marriage."</p> - -<hr /> - -<div class="box"> -<h2 class="uline"><i>No Field Collection is Complete<br />Without this Book</i></h2> - -<p class="bold2">A LITTLE BOOK <i>of</i><br />TRIBUNE VERSE</p> - -<hr class="smler" /> - -<p class="bold"><i>By</i> EUGENE FIELD</p> - -<hr class="smler" /> - -<p>Compiled and edited by <span class="smcap">Joseph G. Brown</span>, formerly city editor of the -<i>Denver Tribune</i>, and an intimate friend and associate of the poet -during the several years in which he was on the staff of that paper.</p> - -<p>This volume resurrects a literary treasure which has been buried for -many years in the forgotten files of a newspaper, and it is, as nearly -as it has been possible to make, an absolutely complete collection of -the hitherto unpublished poems of the gifted author.</p> - -<p>These poems are the early product of Field's genius. 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