CHAPTER X. A COLLEMENT IS CONFERENCE. PART I. The perlate and his ward were met at the doors of Stolzfeld's by the Archbishop of Trithes in person, and the welcome they received left nothing to be desired in point of cordiality. There were many servants, male and female, about the castle, but no show of armed men. The Countess was conducted to a room whose outlook fascinated her. It occupied one entire floor of a square tower, with windows facing the four points of the compass, and from this height she could view the Rhine up to the stern old castle of Marksburg, and down past Koblenz to her own realm of Seyon, where at board of the river, though the stronghold from which she ruled this domain, was hidden by the hills ending in Ehrenbreitstein. When she descended, on being called Mittengesen, she was introduced to a sister of the Archbishop of Trithes, a grave elderly woman, and to the Archbishop's niece, a lady about ten years older than Hildegund. Neither of these grand dames had much to say, and the conversation at the meal rested chiefly with the two Archbishops. Indeed, had the Countess but known it, her presence there was a great disappointment to the two noble women, for the close relationship of the Younger to the Archbishop of Trithes rendered it impossible that she should be offered the honour about to be bestowed upon the Younger and more beautiful Countess von Seyne. The Archbishop of Mayans, though a resident of the castle, partook a refreshment in the smallest room of the suite reserved for him, where he was waited upon by his own servants and catered for by his own cook. When the great Rhine Salmon, smoking hot, was placed upon the table, Cologne was generous in his praise of it, and related again, for the information of his host and household, the story of the English princess who had partaken of a similar fish, doubtless in this same room. Despite the historical bill of fair, and the mildly exhilarating qualities of the excellent oboevessiler wine, whose delicate reddish colour the sentimental Archbishop compared to the blush on a bride's cheeks, the social aspect of the midday refraction was overshadowed by an almost indefinable sense of impending danger. In the pseudo-genial conversation of the two Archbishops there was something forced. The attitude of the elderly hostess was one of unreleaved gloom. After a few conventional greetings to her young guest, she spoke no more during the meal. Her daughter, who sat beside the countess on the opposite side of the table from his lordship of Cologne, merely answered yes or no to the comments of the Lady of Sain praising the romantic situation of the castle, its unique qualities of architecture, and the splendid outlook from its paddlements, eulogies which began enthusiastically enough, but finally faded away into silence, chilled by a reception so unfriendly. Thus cast back upon her own thoughts, the girl grew more and more uneasy as the peculiar features of the occasion became clearer in her own mind. Here was her revered, beloved friend forcing hilarity which she knew he could not feel, breaking bread and drinking wine with a colleague while three thousand of his armed men peered down on the roof that sheltered him. Brady had a signal to pounce upon stolent belts like birds of prey, capturing, and if necessary, slaying. She remembered the hearty cheers that welcomed them on their arrival at Koblenz, yet every man who thus boisterously greeted them, waving his bonnet in the air, was doubtless an enemy. The very secrecy, the unknown nature of the danger, depressed her more and more as she thought of it.  The deadly weapons concealed in a church of Christ, all this grim reality of a faith she held dear had never been hinted at by the gentle nuns among whom she had lived so happily for the greater part of her life. At last her somber hostess Rose, and Hildegund, with a sigh of relief, followed her example. The Archbishop of Cologne gallantly held back the curtain at the doorway, and bowed low when the three ladies passed through. The silent hostess conducted her guest to a parlor on the same floor as the dining-room, a parlor from which opened another door connecting it with a small night's hall, the Kleiner Ritesal in which the court of the Archbishop's was to be held. The Archbishop's sister did not enter the parlor, but here took formal farewell of Countess von Seynne, who turned to the sole occupant of the room, her kinsman and counsellor, Father Ambrose. Were you not asked to dine with us, she inquired? Yes, but I thought it better to refuse. First, in case the three Archbishop's might have something confidential to say to you, and second, because at best I am poor company at a banquet. Indeed, you need not have been so thoughtful. First, as you say, there were not three Archbishop's present, but only two, and neither said anything to me that all the world might not hear. Second, the rest of the company, the sister and the niece of Trebs, were so doleful that you would have proved a hilarious companion compared with them. Did my guardian make any statement to you yesterday afternoon that revealed the object of this coming court? None whatever. Our conversation related entirely to your estate and my management of it. We spoke of crops, of cultivation, and of vineyards. You have no knowledge, then, of the reason why we are summoned hither?  I don't think I am wholly in the dark, murmured the Countess, though I know nothing definite. You surmise, in spite of your guardian's claimer, that the discussion will pertain to your recovery the town of Lintz? Perhaps, but not likely. Did you say anything of your journey to Frankfurt? Not a word. I understood from you that no mention should be made of my visit unless his lordship asked questions proving he was aware of it, in which case I was to tell the truth. You were quite right, father. Did my guardian ask you to accompany us to Stolzenfels? Assuredly, or I should not have entered. What reason did he give, and what instructions did he lay upon you? He thought you should have by your side someone akin to you. His instructions were that in no circumstances was I to offer any remark upon the proceedings. Indeed, I am not allowed to speak unless an answer to a question directly put to me, and then in the fewest possible words. Hildegund ceased her cross-examination, and seated herself by a window which gave a view of the steep mountainside behind the castle, where, sheltered by the thick, dark forest, she knew that her guardian's men lay in ambush. She shuddered slightly, wondering what was the meaning of these preparations, and in the deep silence became aware of the accelerated beating of her heart. She felt but little reassured by the presence of her kinsmen, whose lips moved without a murmur, and whose grave eyes seemed fixed on futurity, meditating the mystery of the next world, and completely oblivious to the realities of the earth he inhabited. She turned her troubled gaze once more to the green forest, and after a long lapse of time the dual reveries were broken by the entrance of an official, gorgeously apparalled. This functionary bowed low and said, with great solemnity, Madame, the courts of my lords, the archbishop, awaits your presence. The Kleinerdurtisal occupied a fine position on the riverside front of Stolvenfeld's, its windows giving a view of the Rhine, with a strong castle of Lanak overhanging the mouth of the Laan, and the more ornamental slosh Mottensburg at the upper end of the Oberlandstein. The latter edifice, built by a former elector of Mayans, was rarely occupied by the present archbishop, but as he said in the central chair of the court, he had the advantage of being able to look across the river at his own house should it please him to do so. The three archbishops were standing behind the long table when the countess entered, thus acknowledging that she who came into their presence, young and beautiful, was a very great lady by right of dissent and rank. She acknowledged their courtesy by a graceful inclination of the head, and the three princes of the church responded, each with a bow, that of Mayans, scarcely perceptible, that of Trebs, deferential and courtly, that of Cologne, with a friendly smile of encouragement. In the center of the hall opposite the long table had been placed an immense chair, taken from the grand Rittersal, ornamented with gilded carving, and covered in richly colored Genoa velvet. It looked like a throne, which indeed it was, used only on occasions when royalty visited the castle. To this sumptuous seat, the scarcely less gorgeous functionary conducted the girl, and when she had taken her place, the three archbishops seated themselves. The glorified menial then bent himself until his forehead nearly touched the floor, and silently departed. Father Ambrose, his course ill-cut clothes of somber color in striking contrast to the richness of costume worn by the others, stood humbly beside the chair which supported his kin's woman. The Countess gave a quick glance at the archbishop of Amayant's, then lowered her eyes. Cologne she had known all her life. Trebs she had met that day and rather liked, although feeling she could not esteem him as she did her guardian. But a thrill of fear followed her swift look at the man in the center. A face of great strength, she said to herself, but his thin, straight lips, tightly compressed, seemed cruel, as well as determined. With a flash of comprehension she understood now her guardian's warning not to thwart him. It was easy to credit the acknowledged fact that this man dominated the other two. Nevertheless, when he spoke his voice was surprisingly mild. Madame, he said, we are met here in an hour of grave anxiety. The Emperor, who has been ill for some time, is now upon his deathbed, and the physicians who attend him inform me that at any moment we may be called upon to elect his successor. That successor has already been chosen. Chosen, I may add, in an informal manner, but his selection is not likely to be cancelled, unless by some act of his own which would cause us to reconsider our decision. Our adoption was made very recently in my castle of Ehrenfeld's, and we are come together again in the castle of my brother Trebs, not in our sacred office as Archbishop's, but in our secular capacity as electors of the Empire, to determine a matter which we consider of almost equal importance. It is our privilege to bestow upon you the highest honour that may be conferred on any woman in the realm, the position of Empress. When you have signified your acceptance of this great elevation, I must put to you several questions concerning your future duties to the State, and these are embodied in a document which you will be asked to sign. The Countess did not raise her eyes. While the Archbishop was speaking, the colour flamed up in her cheeks, but faded away again, and her guardian, who watched her very intently across the table, saw her face become so pale that he feared she was about to faint. However, she rallied, and at last looked up, not at her dark-browed questioner, but at the Archbishop of Cologne. May I know, she said, in a voice scarcely audible. Who is my future husband? Surely, surely, replied her guardian soothingly, but the Elector of Mayance is our spokesman here, and you must address your question to his lordship.  He sat there imperturbable, refusing the beseechment of her eyes, and thus forced her to repeat her question, though to him it took another form. My Lord, who is to be the next Emperor? Countess von Sen. I fear that in modifying my opening address to accord with the comprehension of a girl, but recently emerged from convent life, I have led you into an error. The court of electors is not convened for the purpose of securing your consent, but with the duty of imposing upon you a command. It is not for you to ask questions, but to answer them. You mean that I am to marry this unknown man, whether I will or no? That is my meaning.  Very well, she said, ask your questions, and I will answer them. Before I put any question, I must have your consent to my first proposition. That is quite unnecessary, my Lord. When you hear my answers to your questions, you will very speedily withdraw your first proposition. The elector of Triz, who had been shifting uneasily in his chair, now leaned forward and spoke in an ingratiating manner. Countess, you are a neighbour of mine, although you live on the opposite side of the river, and I am honoured in receiving you as my guest. As guest and neighbour, I appeal to you on our behalf, be assured that we wish nothing but your very greatest good and happiness. The spark in her eyes died down, and they beamed kindly on the courtier-elector. You see before you three old bachelors, quite unversed in the ways of women.  My disquietude, my Lord, is caused by the refusal to utter the single name I have asked for. Am I a peasant girl to be handed over to the hind that makes the highest offer? Not so! No such thought entered our minds. The name is, of course, a secret at the present moment, and I quite appreciate the reluctance of my Lord of Mayans to mention it. But I think, in this instance, an exception may safely be made, and I now appeal to his Lordship to enlighten the Countess. Mayans answered indifferently, I do not agree with you. But we are here three electors of equal power, and two can always outvote one. The elector of Cologne smiled slightly. He had seen this comedy enacted before, and never objected to it. The carrying of some unimportant point in opposition to their chief always gave Treves a certain sense of independence. My Lord of Cologne, said the latter, bending forward and addressing the man at the other end of the table, do you not agree with me? Certainly, replied Cologne with some courteness. In that case, continued Treves, I take it upon myself to announce to you, madam, that the young man chosen for our future ruler is Prince Roland, only son of the dying emperor. The hands of the Countess nervously clutched at the soft velvet on the arms of her chair. I thank you, she said, addressing Treves, and speaking as calmly as though she were Mayans himself. May I ask you if this marriage was proposed to the young man? Treves looked up nervously at the stern face of Mayans, who nodded to him. As much as to say, you are doing well, go on. Yes, replied Treves, was my name concealed from him? No. Had he ever heard of me before? Surely, replied the diplomatic Treves, for the fame of the Countess von Sen has traveled further than her modesty will admit. Did he agree? Instantly, joyfully it seemed to me. In any case, he has never seen me, continued the Countess. Did he make any inquiry, whether I was tall or short, old or young, rich or poor, beautiful or ugly? He seemed very well satisfied with our choice. Treves had his elbows on the table, leaning forward with open palms supporting his chin. He had spoken throughout in the most ingratiating manner, his tone soft and hunted. He was so evidently pleased with his own diplomacy, that even the eye of the stern Mayans twinkled maliciously when the girl turned impossibly toward the other end of the table and cried, Guardian, tell me the truth. I know this young man accepted me as if I were a sack of grain, his whole mind intent on one thing only, to secure for himself the position of Emperor. Is it not so? It is not so, Countess, said Cologne solemnly. Prince Roland, it is true, made no stipulation regarding you. I was sure of it. Any Gretchen in Germany would have done just as well. I was merely part of the bargain he was compelled to make with you. And now I announced to the court that no power on earth will induce me to marry Prince Roland. I claimed the right of my womanhood to wed only the man whom I love, and who loves me. Mayans gave utterance to an exclamation that might be coarsely described as a snort of contempt. The Elector of Treves was leaning back in his chair, discomforted by her abrupt desertion of him. The Elector of Cologne now leaned forward, dismayed at the turn affairs had taken, deep anxiety visible on his brow. Countess von Sehn, he began, and thus his word realized how deeply she had offended. In all my life I never met any young man whom pressed me so favorably as Prince Roland of Germany. If I possessed a daughter whom I dearly loved, I could wish her no better fortune than to marry so honest a youth as he. The very point you make against him should have told most strongly in his favor with a young girl. My reading of his character is that so far as concerns the love you spoke of, he knows as little of it as yourself, and thus he agreed to our proposal with a seeming indifference which you entirely misjudge. If you, then, have any belief in my goodwill towards you, in my deep anxiety for your welfare and happiness, I implore you to agree to the suggestion my lord of manse has made. You speak of love knowing nothing concerning it. I call to your remembrance the fact that one noble lady of your race may have foregone the happiness that love perhaps brings, in her desire for the advancement of one whom she loved so truly that she chose for her guide the more subdued but steadier star of duty. The case is presented to you, my dear, in different form, and I feel assured that duty and love will shine together. As the venerable Archbishop spoke with such deep earnestness, in a voice she loved so well, the girl buried her face in her hands, and he could see the tears trickle between her fingers. A silence followed her guardian's appeal, disturbed only by the agitated breathing of Hildegund. The cold voice of the elector of Mayans broke the stillness, like a breath from a glacier. Do you consent, madame? Yes, gasped the girl, her shoulders quivering with emotion, but she did not look up. I fear that the object of this convocation was like to be forgotten in the gush of sentiment issuing from both sides of me. This is a business meeting and not a love-feast.  The girl dashed the tears from her eyes and sat up straight, grasping with nervous hands the arms of the throne as if to steady herself against the coming ordeal. I scarcely heard what you said. Do you consent to marry Prince Rowland of Germany? I have consented, she replied firmly. Will you use your influence with him that he may carry out the behest of the three Archbishops? Yes, if the behests are for the good of the country. I cannot accept any qualifications. Therefore I repeat my question. Will you use your influence with him that he may carry out the behest of the three Archbishops? I can have no influence with such a man. Answer my question, madame. Say yes, hillagund, pleaded cologne.  Oh, guardian, guardian! she cried. I have done everything I can. And all for you. All for you. I cannot stand any more. This is torture to me. Let me go home, and another day when I am calmer I will answer your questions. The perturbed Archbishop sat back again with a deep sigh. The ignorance of women with which his colleague of Trebs had credited all three was being amazingly dispelled. He could not understand why this girl should show such emotion at the thought of marrying the heir to the throne when assured that the young man was all that any reasonable woman could desire. End of Chapter 10 Part 1 Recording by Todd Chapter 10 Part 2 of The Swordmaker This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. The Swordmaker by Robert Barr Chapter 10 A Calamitous Conference Part 2 Madam, I prayed you give your attention to me, said the unimpassioned voice of Mayance. I have listened to your conversation with my colleagues, and the patience I exhibited will, I hope, be credited to me. This matter of business, he emphasized the word, must be settled to-day, and to clear away all misapprehension I desire to say that your guardian has really no influence on this matter. It was settled before you came into the room. You are merely allowed a choice of two outcomes. First, marriage with Prince Rowland. Second, imprisonment in false castle, situated in the middle of the Rhine. What is that? demanded the Countess. I am tired of repeating my statements. You would imprison me? A Countess of Sain? Again the tears evaporated, and in their place came the smoldering fire bequeathed to her by the Crusaders, and, if the truth must be known, by Rhine robbers as well. Yes, Madam. A predecessor of mine once hanged one of your ancestors. It is not true, cried the girl in blazing wrath. It was the Emperor Rudolph who hanged him, the same Emperor that chastised an Archbishop of Mayance, and brought him, cringing to his knees, begging for pardon, which the Emperor contemptuous flung to him. You dare not imprison me? Refuse to marry Prince Rowland and learn, said the Archbishop very quietly. The girl sprang to her feet, a quiver with anger. I too refuse. Prince Rowland has hoodwing to three of you.  Added to that a drunkard as his father is, and above all a hypocrite as his father is not, yet clever enough with all his vices to cause him three men whose vile rule has ruined Frankfurt and left the broad rind empty of its life-giving commerce. She waved her hand toward the vacant river. The Archbishop of Cologne was the first to rise, horror-stricken. The girl is mad, he murmured. Trees rose also. But my aunt set still a sour smile on his lips, yet a twinkle of admiration in his eyes. No, my poor guardian, I am not mad! she cried regarding him with a smile, her wrath subsiding as quickly as it had risen. What I say is true, and it may be that our meeting, turbulent as it has been, will prevent you from making a great mistake. He whom you would put on the throne is not the man you think. My dear Ward, cry cologne, how can you make such accusations against him? What should a girl living its occlusion as you live know of what is passing in Frankfurt? It seems strange, guardian, but it is true, nevertheless. Sit down again, I beg of you, and you, my Lord of Trees. Even my Lord of Mayans will, I think, comprehend my abhorrence when such a proposal was made to me, and I hope, my Lord, you will forgive my outburst of anger just now. She heard the trembling trees, mutter. Mayans never forgives. Now, Father Ambrose, come forward. Why? asked Ambrose, waking from his reverie. Tell them your experiences in Frankfurt. I am not allowed to speak, objected the monk. Speak, speak, cry cologne. What, sir, have you had to do with this girl's misleading? I thought, he said wistfully to his kin's woman, that I was not to mention my visit to Frankfurt, unless my Lord the Archbishop brought up the subject. Have you not been listening to these proceedings? cried the girl impatiently. The subject is brought up before three Archbishops, instead of before one. Tell your Lordships what you know of Prince Roland. Father Ambrose, with a deep sigh, began his recital, to which trees and cologne listened with ever-increasing amazement, while the sullen Mayans sat back in his chair. Face imperturbable, but the thin lips closing firmer and firmer as the narrative went on. When the monologue ended, his reverence of cologne was the first to speak. In the name of heaven, why did you not tell me all this yesterday? Father Ambrose looked helplessly at his kin's woman, but made no reply. I forbade him, my Lord, said the girl proudly, and for the first time addressing him by a formal title, as if from now on he was to be reckoned with her enemies. I alone am responsible for the journey to Frankfurt and its consequences whatever they may be. You invoked the name of heaven just now, my Lord, and I would have you know that I am convinced heaven itself intervened on my behalf to expose the real character of Prince Roland, who has successfully diluted three men like yourselves, supposed to be astute. The Archbishop turned upon her sorrowful eyes, troubled yet kindly. My dear Countess, he said, I have not ventured to censure you. Nevertheless I am, or have been, your guardian, and should, I think, have been consulted before you committed yourself to an action that threatens disaster to our plans. The girl replied, still with a hot tear so lately assumed. I do not dispute my wardship, and have more than once thanked you for your care of me. But at this crisis of my life, a crisis transforming me instantly from a girl to a woman, you fail me seeing me here at bay. I wish to spend a month or two at the capital city, but before troubling you with such a request I determined to learn whether or not the state of Frankfurt was as disturbed as rumour alleged. Finding matters there to be hopeless, the project of a visit was at once abandoned, and knowing nothing of the honour about to be conferred on Prince Rowland I thought it best to keep what had been discovered regarding his character a secret between the Reverend Father and myself. I dare say an attempt will be made to cast doubt on the Reverend Father's story, and perhaps my three judges may convince themselves of its falseness, but they cannot convince me, and I tell you finally and formally that no power on earth will induce me to marry a marauder and a thief. This announcement effectually silenced the one friend she possessed among the three. Mayance slowly turned his head and looked upon the colleague at his right as much as to say, do you wish to add your quota to this inconsequential talk? Trees at the silent appeal leaned forward and spoke to the perturbed monk, who knew that, in some way he did not quite understand, affairs were drifting towards a catastrophe. Father Ambrose began the elector of trees. Would you kindly tell us the exact date when this encounter at the bridge took place? Saint Cyril's Day, replied Father Ambrose. And during the night of that day you were incarcerated in the cellar among the wine casks? Yes, my lord. Would it surprise you to know, Father Ambrose, that during Saint Cyril's Day, and for many days previous to that date, Prince Rowland was a close prisoner in his lordship of Mayance's strong castle of Ehrensfels, and that it was quite impossible for you to have met him in Frankfurt or anywhere else. And nevertheless I did meet him, persisted Father Ambrose, with the quiet obstancy of a mild man. Trees smiled. Where did you lodge in Frankfurt, Father? At the Benedictine Monastery in Sushenhausen. Do the good brethren supply their guests with a potent wine? Frankfurt is, and always has been, the chief market of that exhilarating but illusion-creating beverage. The cheeks of the countess flushed crimson at this insinuation on her kinsman's sobriety. The old monk's hand rested on the arm of her throne, and she placed her own hand upon his, as if to encourage him to resent the implied slender. After all, there were two sains, hardly pressed by these ruthless potentates. But Ambrose answered mildly, It may be that the monastery contains wine, my lord, and doubtless the wine is good, but during my visit I did not taste it. Cross examination at an end, the lord of Mainz spoke scarcely above a whisper, a trace of weariness in his manner. My lords, he said, we have wandered from the subject. The romance by Father Ambrose is but indifferently interesting, and nothing at all to the point. Even a child may understand what has happened, for it is merely a case of mistaken identity, and my sympathy goes out entirely towards the unknown, a man who knew his own mind, and being naturally indignant at an interference both persistent and uncalled for, quite rightly a mirrored the meddler among the casks, probably shrewd enough to see that this practiser of temperance would not interfere with their integrity.  The countess seemed inclined to dismay this curt order, but a beseeching look for her now thoroughly frightened guardian changed her intention, and she rose to her feet. Madam, the greatest honor which it is in the power of this empire to bestow upon a woman has been proffered to you, and rejected with unnecessary heat. I beg, therefore, to inform you, that in the judgment of this court you are considered unworthy of the exalted position which, before knowing your true character, it was intended you should fill. The various columnities you have poured upon the innocent head of Prince Rowland amount in effect to High Treason. Pardon my lord! cried the Archbishop of Cologne. Your contention will hold neither in law nor in fact. High Treason is an offense that can be committed only against the realm as a whole, or against its ruler and person. Prince Rowland is not yet emperor of Germany, and however much we may regret the language used in his disparagement, it has arisen through a misunderstanding quite patent to us all. A good but dreamy man made a mistake, which, however deplorable, has been put forward with a sincerity that none of us can question. Indeed it was the intention of Father Ambrose to keep his supposed knowledge a secret, and you both saw with what evident reluctance he spoke when commanded to do so by my colleague of Trives. Whatever justice there may be in disappointing Father Ambrose, there is none at all for exaggerated censure upon my lady, the Countess of Sain, and before pronouncing a further censure, I beg your lordship to take into consideration the circumstances of the case by which a young girl, without any previous warning or preparation, is called upon suddenly to make the most momentous decision of her life. I say it is to her ladyship's credit that she refused the highest station in the land in the interest of what she supposed to be, however erroneously, the cause of honesty, sobriety, and on my ad of Christianity, qualities for which we three men should stand.  I know that, my lord of Treves, and my appeal is to the temporal law. Prince Roland, despite his high lineage, is merely a citizen of the empire and a subject of his majesty, the Emperor. It is therefore impossible that the crime of treason can be committed against him. During this protest and discussion, the Elector of Mainz had leaned back again in his usual attitude of tired indifference. His keen eyes almost closed. When he spoke he made no reference to what either of his two confrairs had said. Madam, he began without raising his voice, it is the sentence of this court that you shall be imprisoned during its pleasure in the castle of false Grafenstein, which stands on a rock in the middle of the Rhine. Under the guardianship of the false Grafenstelech, who will be responsible for your safekeeping, I hope you will listen to the devout counsel of his excellent wife to such effect that, when next you are privileged to meet a court so highly constituted as this, you may be better instructed regarding the language with which it should be addressed. You are permitted to take with you two waiting women, chosen by yourself from your own household, but all communication with the outside world is forbidden. You said something to the effect that this court dared not pronounce such sentence against you, but if you possessed that wisdom you so conspicuously lack, you might have surmised that a power which ventured to imprison the future Emperor of this land would not hesitate to place in Durantz a mere Countess von Sen. The Countess bowed her head slightly, and without protest sat down again. The Elector of Cologne arose. My Lord, I raised a point of law which has been ignored. This is the proper time to raise it, replied Mainz, and you shall be instantly satisfied. This court is confident to give its decision upon any point of law. If my Lord of Treves agrees with me, your objection is disallowed. I agree, said the Elector of Treves. My Lord of Cologne, said Mainz, turning towards the person addressed, the decision of the court is against you. Hildegard was already learning a lesson. Though dazed by the verdict, she could not but admire the quiet conversational tone adopted by the three men before her as compared with her own late vehemence. The decision of the court is not unexpected, said Cologne, and I regret that I am compelled to appeal. To whom will you appeal, inquired Mainz mildly. The Emperor, as you know, is quite unfit for the transaction of public business, and even if such were not the case, would hesitate to overturn a decision given by a majority of this court. I appeal, replied Cologne, to a power that even emperors must obey, the power of physical force.  The Elector of Cologne was so taken aback by this almost whispered remark that he was momentarily struck speechless. A sudden pallor swept the usual readiness from his face. The Lord of Mainz gently inclined his head as if awaiting an answer, and when it did not come went on impassively. I may inform you, my Lord, that my army occupies the capital city of Frankfurt, able and ready to quell any disturbance that may be caused by the announcement of the Emperor's death. But there are still plenty of seasoned troops ready to uphold the decisions of this court. When your spies scour the country in the forest and along the river almost to the gates of my city of Mainz, they appeared to labour under the illusion that I could move my soldiers only overland. Naturally they met no sign of such an incursion, because I had requisitioned a hundred barges which I found empty in the river Mainz by Frankfurt. These were floated down the Mainz to Mainz, and there received their quota of a hundred men each. The night being dark, they came down the Rhine, it seems, quite unobserved, and are now concealed in the mouth of the river Lawn directly opposite this castle. When my flag is hoisted on the staff of the Mainz Tower, this flotilla will be at the landing below us within half an hour. You doubtless have made similar arrangements for bringing your three thousand down upon Stolzenfels, but the gates of this castle are now closed. Indeed Stolzenfels was put into condition to withstand a siege very shortly after you and your ward entered it, and it is garrisoned by two hundred fighting men, kindly provided at my suggestion by my brother of trees. I doubt if his capture is possible, even though you gave the signal, which we will not allow. Of course your plan of capturing trees in myself was a good one, could it be carried out, or a man in jeopardy will always compromise, and as I estimate you are in that position, I should be glad to know what arrangement you propose. The Archbishop of Cologne did not reply, but stood with bent head and frowning brow. It was the Countess von Sain who, rising, spoke. My Archbishop of Mainz, she said, I could never forgive myself if through action of mind a fatal struggle took place between my countrymen. I have no desire to enact the part of Helen of Troy. I am therefore ready and willing to be imprisoned, or to Mary Prince Rowan of Frankfurt, whichever alternative you command, so long as no disadvantage comes to my friend, his Lordship of Cologne. Madame, said Mayant Swavly, there are not now two alternatives, as you suppose. In such case, your Highness, I betake myself instantly to fault Castle, and I ask that my guardian be allowed to escort me on the journey. Madame, your determination is approved, and your request granted. But as the business for which the three electors were convened is not yet accomplished, I request you to withdraw until such time as an agreement has been arrived at. Father Ambrose is permitted to accompany you. The gallant elector of Trees sprang at once to his feet, pleading for the privilege of conducting the Countess to the apartments of his sister and her daughter. As the door to the ante-row opened, the elector of Cologne, whose eyes followed his departing ward, did not fail to observe that the lobby was strong with armed men, and he realized now, if he had not done so from Mayant's observation, how completely he was trapped. Even had a hundred thousand of his soldiers stood in readiness on the hills. It was impossible for him to give the signal, bringing them to his rescue. A few minutes later the elector of Trees returned, and took his place at Mayant's right hand. The latter spoke as though the conference had been unanimous and amiable. Now that we three are alone together, I think we shall discuss our problems under a feeling of less apprehension if the small army in the forest has bade Godspeed on its way to Cologne. Such being the case, he went on, turning to Cologne, would you kindly write an order to that effect to your commander? And inform him that we three electors wish to review your troops from the northern balcony, and bid them fall past from the hills to the river road. They are to cross the Moselle by the old bridge, and so return to your city. You will perhaps pledge faith that no signal will be made to your officers as they pass us? I make this appeal with the greater confidence, since you are well aware three thousand men would but destroy themselves in any attempt to capture this castle, with an army of ten thousand on their flank to annihilate them. Do you agree? I agree," replied Cologne. He wrote out the order required, and handed it to Mayant's, who scrutinized the document with some care before passing it on to Trees. Mayant's addressed Cologne in his blend as tones. Would you kindly instruct our colleague how to get that message safely into the hands of your commander? If he will have it sent to the head of my small escort, ordering him to take it directly up the hill behind this castle, until he comes to my sentinels, whom he knows personally, they will allow him to pass through, and deliver my written command to the officer in charge. This being done, and Trev's once more returned, Mayant said, I am sure we all agree that the Countess von Seine, however admirable in other respects, possesses an independent mind and a determined will, rendering her quite unsuited for the station we intended her to occupy. I think her guardian must be convinced now, even though he had little suspicion of it before, that this lady would not easily be influenced by any considerations we might place before her. The regrettable incidents of this conference have probably instilled into her mind a certain prejudice against us. Here for the first time the Elector of Cologne laughed. It is highly probable, my lord, he said, and indeed your moderate way of putting the case is unanswerable. Her ladyship, as an Empress, under our influence is out of the question. I therefore make a proposal with some confidence, quite certain it will please you both. I venture to nominate for the position of Empress that very demure and silent lady, who is niece of my brother the Elector of Treves. Treves strangled a gasp in its berth, but could not suppress the light of ambition that suddenly leaped into his eyes. The elevation of his widowed sister's child to the imperial throne was an advantage so tremendous, and came about so unexpectedly, that for the moment his slow brain was numbed by the glorious prospect, it seemed incredible that Cologne had actually put forward such a proposition. The eyes of Mayant availed themselves almost a shutting point, but in no other manner did emotion show. Like a flash his alert mind saw the full port of the bombshell Cologne had so carelessly tossed between himself and his henchmen. Cologne, having lost everything, had now proved clever enough to set by the ears those who overruled him by their united vote. If this girl were made Empress, she would be entirely under the influence of her uncle, of whose household she had been a pliant member ever since childhood. Yet what was Mayas to do? Should he object to the nomination, he would at once obliterate the unswerving loyalty of Treves, and if this happened, Treves and Cologne joining would outvote him, and his objection would prove futile. He would enrage Treves without caring his own point, and he knew that he held his position only because of the dog-like fidelity of the weaker man. Slow anger rose in his heart as he pictured the conditions of the future. Whatever influence he sought to exert upon the emperor by the indirect assistance of the Empress, must be gutted through the complacency of Treves, who would gradually come to appreciate his own increased importance. All this passed through the mind of Mayas, and his decision had been arrived at before Treves recovered his composure. It gives me great pleasure, said the elector of Mayas, firmly suppressing the malignancy of his glance toward the man seated at his left. It gives me very great pleasure indeed to second so admirable a nomination, the more so that I am thus permitted to offer my congratulations to an esteemed colleague and a valued friend. My Lord of Treves, I trust that you will make this nomination unanimous, for, to my delight, his lordship of Cologne anticipated, by a few moments, the proposal I was about to submit to you. My Lord! stammered Treves, finding his voice with difficulty. I, I, of course, will agree to whatever court decides. I, I thank you, my Lord, and you too, my brother of Cologne. Then cried Mayas, almost joyfully. The task for which we are convened is accomplished, and I declare this court adjourned. He rose from his chair. The overjoyed prince on his right took no thought of the fact that their chairman had not called upon the lady that she might receive the decision of the conclave and answer the questions to be put to her. But Cologne perceived the omission, and knew that from that moment Mayas would set his subtlety at work to nullify the nomination. Even though his bombshell had not exploded and the other two electors were apparently greater friends than ever, Cologne had achieved his immediate object and was satisfied. Through the open windows came the sound of the steady tramping of disciplined men, and the metallic clash of armour and arms in transit. Ah, now! cried Mayas, we will enjoy the advantage of reviewing the brave troops of Cologne. Lead the way, my Lord of Treves! You know the castle better than we do. The proud Treves, treading on air, guided his guests to the northern balcony. End of Chapter 10 Recording by Todd Chapter 11 of The Swordmaker This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Kevin Mears The Swordmaker by Robert Barr, Chapter 11 Gold galore that takes to itself wings In the thick darkness, Roland paced up and down the east bank of the Rhine at a spot midway between Assmann Schwausen and Ehrenfels. The night was intensely silent. Its stillness merely accentuated by the gentle ripple of the water current against the barge's blunt nose, which pointed upstream. Standing motionless as a statue, the massive figure of Captain Blumenfels appeared in deeper blackness against the inky hills on the other side of the Rhine. Long sweeps lay parallel to the bulwarks of the barge, and stalwart men were at their post, waiting the word of command to handle these exaggerated oars in defiance of wind and tide. On this occasion, however, the tide only would be against them, for the strong southern breeze was wholly favorable. Their voyage that night would be short but strenuous, merely crossing the river and tying up against the opposite bank. But the Rhine swirled powerfully round the rock of Ehrenfels above them, and the men at the sweeps must pull vigorously if they were not to be carried down into premature danger. Roland, who when they left Frankfurt was in point of time the youngest member of the guild, now seemed, if one could distinguish him through the gloom of night, to have become years older. And there was an added dignity in his bearing, for although now but a potential free-boater, he had received assurance that he would eventually be elected emperor. He had sent word that morning to Grusel at the Golden Anchor, bidding him to get together his men, and lead them up to the barge not later than an hour before the moon rose, for Roland was anxious to reach the other side of the Rhine unseen from the other shore. He cautioned Grusel to make this march a silent one, and this order Joseph at first found some difficulty in carrying out. But in any case he need have entertained no fear. The strong red wine of Assmannschwausen is a potent liquid, and the inhabitants of the town were accustomed to song and laughter on the one street of the place at all hours of the night. When they arrived the men were quiet enough, and speedily stowed themselves away in their quarters at the stern of the barge, whereupon, Roland, the last to swing aboard, waved his hand at the captain to cast off. The nose of the boat was shoved away from land, and then the powerful sweeps dipped into the water. Slowly but surely she made her way across the river, silent and invisible from either bank. The current, however, swept them down opposite the twinkling lights of Assmannschwausen, after which in the more tranquil waters of the western shore they round steadily upstream for about half a league, and then, with ropes tied round trees growing at the water's edge, laid up for the remainder of the night. Roland now counseled his company to enjoy what sleep was possible, as they would be roused at the first glint of daybreak. So, with great good nature, each man wrapped himself up in his cloak and laid down on the cabin floor. When the eastern sky became gray, the slumberers were awakened, and a ration of bread and wine served to each. The captain already had received his instructions, and the men, discarding their cloaks, followed their leader into the still gloomy forest. Here, with as little noise as might be, they climbed the steep, wooded hill, and arriving at something almost like a path a hundred yards up from the river, they turned to the right and so marched, no man speaking above a whisper. The forest became lighter and lighter, and at last Roland, holding up his hand to sign caution, turned to the left from the path, and further up into the unbroken forest. They had traversed perhaps a league when another silent order brought them to a standstill, and peering through the trees to the east, the men caught glimpses of the grand gray battlements of that famous stronghold, Rhinestine. Seeing at the corner nearest them a square tower, next a meticulated curtain of wall, and a largest square tower almost as high as the first hanging over the precipice that descended into the Rhine. Inside this impregnable enclosure rose a great bulk of the castle itself, in near at hand the massive square keep, with an octagonal turret at the southeast corner, the top of which was the highest point of the stronghold. Although a round tower rising directly over the Rhine was not much lower. Roland, advancing through the trees, but motioning his men to remain where they were, peered across the battlements and down at the entrance gate. Baron von Hohenfeld sat so secure in his elevated robber's nest, which he deemed invincible, and indeed the cliff on which it stood, nearly a hundred yards high made it so if approached from the Rhine. That he kept only one man on watch, and the sentinel was stationed on the elevated platform of the round tower. Roland saw him yawn wearily as he leaned up against his tall lance, and was glad to learn that even one man kept guard, for at first he feared that all within the castle were asleep, the round tower until Roland had shifted his position to the north, being blotted out by the nearest square dungeon keep. Now satisfied he signaled his men to sit down, which they did. He himself took up a position behind a tree where, unseen, he could watch the man with the lance. So indolent was the sentry that Roland began to fear the barge would pass by unnoticed. Not for months had any sailing craft appeared on the river, and doubtless the warden regarded his office as both useless and wearsome. Brighter and brighter became the eastern sky, and at last a tinge of red appeared above the hills across the silent Rhine. Suddenly the guardian straightened up, then shading his eyes with his right hand. He leaned over the battlements, peering to the south. A moment later the stillness was rent by a lusty shout, and the man disappeared as if he had fallen through a trapdoor. Presently the notes of a bugle echoed within the walls, followed by clashes of armor and the buzzing sound of men, as though a waspness had been disturbed. Half a dozen came into sight on top of the various towers and battlements, glanced at the river, and vanished as hastily as the sentinel had done. At last the gates came ponderously open, and the first three men to emerge were on horseback, one of them hastily getting into an outer garment. But the well-trained horses, who knew their business quite as thoroughly as their riders, for they were accustomed to plunge into the river if any barge disobeyed the order commanding it to halt, turned from the gate and dashed down the steep road that descended through the forest. The men at arms poured forth with sword or pike, and in turn went out of sight. They appeared to be leaderless, dashing forward in no particular formation. Yet like the horses they knew their business. All this turmoil was not without its effect on Rowland's following, who edged forward on hands and knees to discover what was going on, everyone breathless with excitement. But they saw their leader cool and motionless, counting on his fingers the number of men who passed out, for he knew exactly how many fighters the castle contained. Not yet, not yet, he whispered. Finally three lordly individuals strode out. Officers there were splendid clothing indicated them to be, and the trio followed the others. Ah, quite Rowland, old Baron Hugo drank too deeply last night to be so early a stirrer. He was speaking aloud now. Take warning from that, my lads, and never allow wine to interfere with business. Follow me, but cautiously, one after the other in single file, and look to your footing. Tis perilous steep between here and the gate, and indeed, so they found it, but all reached the level of forecut and safety, and so through the open portal. Close and bar those gates was the next command instantly obeyed, down the stone steps of the castle. Puffing and grunting came a gigantic obese individual. His face bloated with excess, his eyes bleary with the leaves of too much wine. He was struggling into his doublet, assisted by a terrified old valet, and was swearing most deplorably. Seeing the crowd at the gate, and half blindly mistaking them for his own men, he ward. What do you there, you hounds? To the river, every man of you, and curse your leprous, indolent souls. Wine the fiend's name. But here came to an abrupt stop on the lowest step, the sting of a sword's point at his throat, and now, out of breath, his purple face became mottled. Good morning to you, Baron Hugo von Hohenfels. These men whom you address, so coarsely, obey no orders but mine. And who, imp of Satan, are you? sputtered the old man. By profession, a hangman. From our fastness in the hills, seeing a barge float down the river, we thought it likely that you would leave the castle undefended, and so came to execute the Prince of Robbers. The Baron was quaking like a huge jelly. It was evident that, although noted for his cruelty, he was at heart a coward.  Our outlaws, you are outlaws from the Hunstruck! How clever of you, Baron, to recognize us at once. Now you know what is to expect. Grusel unwound the rope I gave you last night. I will show you its purpose. Grusel did as he was requested without comment. But Eberhardt approached closely to his chief and whispered, Why was ought to violence? We have no quarrel with this elephant, tis his gold we want and to hang him as a waste of time. Hush, Eberhardt, commanded Roland sternly. The greater includes the less. I know this man, and am taking the quickest way to his treasure-house. Eberhardt fell back. But by this time the useful Grusel had made a loop of the rope and threw it like a cravat around the Baron's neck. No, no, no! cried the frightened nobleman. Tis not my life you seek. That is of no use to such as you. And besides, I have never harmed the outlaws. That is a lie, said Roland. You sent an expedition against us just a year ago. To us not I, protested Hoenn Fells. But the pirate of Falkenburg, still no matter. I'll buy my life from you. I am a wealthy man. How much? asked Roland, hesitating. More than all of you can carry away. In gold? Of a charity in gold. Where are the keys of your treasury? In my chamber I will bring them to you. And the Baron turned to mount the steps again. Not so, cried Roland, stand where you are and send your man for them. If they are not here before I count to score, you hang.  The Baron told the trembling valet where to find the keys. Grusel, you and Eberhard accompany him. And at the first sign of treachery, or any attempt to give alarm, run him through with your swords. Does your man know where the treasury is? he continued to the Baron. Oh yes, yes. How is your gold bestowed? In leather and bags. Good. Grusel. Take sixteen of the men and bring down into the courtyard all the gold you can carry. Then we will estimate whether or not it is sufficient to buy the Baron's life, for I hold him in high esteem. He is a valuable man. Say to it that there is no delay, Grusel. And never lose sight of this valet. Bring him back laden with gold. They all disappeared within the castle, led by the old servitor. Sit you down Baron, said Roland genially. You seem agitated, for which there is no cause should there prove to be enough gold to outweigh you. The ponderous noble seated himself with a weary sigh. And pray to the good Lord above us, went on Roland, that your men will not return before this transaction is completed, for if they do, my first duty will be to strangle you. Even gold will not save you in that case. But still, you have another chance for your life. Should such an untoward event take place, shout at them through the closed gates that they must return to the edge of the river until you join them. Then if they obey, you are spared. Remember, I beg of you, the uselessness of an outcry, for we are in possession of rhinestine. And you know that the castle is unassailable from without. The Baron groaned. Do not be hasty with your cord, he said dejectedly. I will follow your command. The robbers, however, did not return. But the treasure-searchers did, piling the bags in the courtyard, and again Hohenfeld's groaned dismally at the site. Roland indicated certain sacks with the point of his sword, ordering them to be opened.  Now, my lads, he cried, oblige the Baron by burdening yourselves with this weight of metal. Then we shall make for the Hunstruck, open the gates, lead the men to the point where we halted Grussel, and there await me. The rich company departed, and Roland beguiled the time and the weariness of the Baron by a light and interesting conversation, to which there is neither reply nor interruption. At last, having allowed time for his band to reach their former halting place, he took the rope from the Baron's neck, tied the old robber's hands behind him, then bound his feet, cutting the rope and lengths with his sword. He served the trembling valet in the same way, shutting him up within the castle, and locking the door with the largest key in the bunch, which bunch he threw down beside his lordship. Baron von Hohenfels, he said, I have kept my word with you, and now bid farewell. I leave you out of doors because you seem rather scant of breath, for which complaint fresh air is beneficial. Adieu, my lord Baron. The Baron said nothing as Roland, with a sweep of his bonnet, took leave of him. Climbed the steep path and joined his waiting men. He led them along the hillside through the forest for some distance, then descended to the water's edge. The river was blank, so they all sat down under the trees, out of sight, leaving one man on watch. Here Roland spent a very anxious half-hour, mitigated by the knowledge that the men of Rheinstein were little versed in woodcraft, and so might not be able to trace the fugitives. It was likely they would make a dash in quite the opposite direction, towards the Hunstruck, because Hohenfels believed they were outlaws from that district, and did not in any way associate them with the plundered barge. But if the robbers of Rheinstein took a fancy to sink the barge, and act only too frequently committed, then were Roland and his company in a quandary, without food or means of crossing the river. However, he was sure that Captain Blumenfels would follow his instructions, which were to offer no resistance, but rather assist the looters in their exactions. Within a league, said Roland to his men, stand three pirate castles, Rheinstein, which we have just left, Thalkenburg, but a short distance below, and then Soneck. If nothing happens to the barge, I expect to finish with all three before nightfall, for the strongholds being so close together we must work rapidly, and not allow our doings to leap in advance of us. But suppose, said Kurtzbold, that Hohenfels men hold the barge at the landing for their own use. We will wait here for another half hour, replied Roland, and then, if we see nothing of the boat, proceed along the water's edge until we learn what has become of her. I do not think the thieves will interfere with the barge, as they have not been angered either by disobedience of their orders to land, or resistance after the barge is by the shore. Besides, I count on the fact that the officers at least, will be anxious to let the barge proceed, hoping other laden boats may follow, and indeed, I think for this reason they will be much more moderate in their looting than we have been. Before he had finished speaking, the man on watch by the water announced the barge in sight, floating down with the current. At this they all emerged from the forest, Captain Blumenfels carefully scanning the shore, saw them once, and turned the boat's head toward the spot where they stood. The bags of gold were bolted away in the stout lockers extending on each side of the cabin. While this was being done, Roland gave minute instructions to the Captain regarding the next item on the program, and once more entered the forest with his men. The task before them was more difficult than the spoiling of Rhinestine, because the huge bulk of Falkenburg stood on a summit of treeless rock. The castle itself, a gigantic oblong grey mass, with a slender square campanile some distance from it, rising high above its battlements on the slope that went down towards the Rhine, forming thus an excellent watchtower. But although the conical hill of rock was bare of the large trees that surrounded Rhinestine, there were plenty of boulders and shrubbery behind which cover could be sought. On this occasion the marauding guild could not secure a position on level with the battlements of the castle, as had been the case behind Rhinestine, and furthermore they were compelled to make their dash for the gate uphill. But these disadvantages were counterbalanced by the fact that Falkenburg was situated much higher than Rhinestine, and was further away from the river so that when the garrison descended to the water's edge, it could not return as speedily as was the case with Hohenfell's men. Rhinestine stood directly over the water, and only 260 feet above it, while comparatively speaking, Falkenburg was back in the country. Still all of these castles had been so long unmolested and considered themselves so secure that adequate watching had fallen into abeyance, and at Falkenburg guard was kept by one lone man on the tall campanile. The attacking party saw no one on the battlements of the castle, so worked their way round the hill until the man on the tower was hidden from them by the bulk of the castle itself, and thus they crawled like lizards from bush to bush, from stone to stone, and from rock ledge to rock ledge, taking their time and not deserting one position of obscurity until another was decided upon. The fact that the watchman was upon the Rhine side of the castle greatly favored a stealthy approach from any landward point. At last the alarm was given, the gate opened, and as it proved, every man in the castle went headlong down the hill. The amateur cracksman therefore had everything going their way, and while this at first seemed an advantage, they speedily found it the reverse. For although they wandered from room to room, the treasure could not be discovered. The interior of Falkenburg was unknown to Rowland, this being one of the strongholds where he had been compelled to sleep in an outhouse. At last they found the door to the treasure chamber. For Rowland suggested it was probably in a similar position to that at Rhinestine, and those who had accompanied Hohenfels Valley made search according to this hint, and were rewarded by coming upon a door so stoutly locked that all their efforts to force it open were fruitless. Deeply disappointed with a number of the men grumbling savagely, they were compelled to withdraw empty-handed, warned by approaching shouts that the garrison was returning. So the men crawled away as they had come, and made for the river where on this occasion the boat already awaited them. The lord of Falkenburg proved as moderate in his executions as the men of Rhinestine. Many bales had been cut open, and the thieves with the knowledge of cloth weavers selected in every case only the best goods. But of these had taken merely enough for one costume each. Although the company had made so early a beginning, it was past noon by the time they reached the barge on the second occasion. A substantial meal was served, for every man was ravenously hungry. Besides being disgusted to learn that there were ups and downs even in the trade of thievery. Early in the afternoon they made for the delicate castle of Sonak, whose slender turrets stood out beautifully against the blue sky. Here excellent cover was found within sight of the doorway, for Sonak stood alone on its rock without the protection of a wall. In this case the experience of Rhinestine was repeated, with the exception that it was not the master of the castle they encountered. But a frightened warder who, with a sharp sword to influence him, produced keys and opened the treasury. Not nearly so large a hall of gold was made as in the first instance. Yet enough was obtained to constitute a most lucrative day's work, and with this they sought the barge in high spirits. They waited in the shadow of the hills until dusk, then quietly made their way across the river behind the shelter of the two islands, and so came to rest alongside the bank, just above the busy town of Lorch. Scarcely two leagues down the river from the berth they had occupied the night before. After the barge was tied up, Rowland walked on deck with the captain, listening to his account of events from the level of the river's surface. It proved that, all in all, Rowland could suggest no amendment of the day's proceedings. So far as Blumenfels was concerned, everything had gone without a hitch. As they promenaded thus, one of the men came forward and said rather cavalierly, Commander, your comrades wish to see you in the cabin. Rowland made no reply, but continued his conversation with the captain until he learned from that somewhat wettescent individual all he wished to know. Then he walked leisurely aft, and descended into the cabin where he found the eighteen seated on the lockers, as if the conclave were a deliberate body like the electors, who had come to some momentous decision. We have unanimously passed a resolution, said Kurtzbold, that the money shall be divided equally amongst us each evening. You do not object, I suppose? No, I don't object to your passing a resolution. Very good. We do not wish to waste time just now in the division, because we are going to launch, intending to celebrate our success with a banquet. Would Grussell, Aberhard, and yourself care to join us? I cannot speak for the other two, returned Rowland quietly. But personally I shall be unable to attend, as there are some plans for the future which need thinking over. In that case we shall not expect you, went on Kurtzbold, who seemed in no way grieved at the loss of his commander's company. Perhaps, suggested John Ginsbin. Our chief will drop in on us later in the evening. We learned at Asmondschwazen that the Crone is a very excellent tavern. So we shall sup there. How did you know we were going to stop at Lorch? asked Rowland, wondering if in any way they had heard he was to meet Goebel's emissary in this village. We were not sure, replied Ginsbin. But we have made inquiries concerning all the villages and castles down the Rhine, and I have taken notes. Ah, in that case you are well qualified as a guide. I may find occasion to use the knowledge thus acquired. We are all equally involved in this expedition, said Kurtzbold impatiently. And you must not imagine yourself the only person to be considered. But we lose time. What we wish, at the present moment, is that you will unlock one of these chests, and divide amongst us a bag of gold. The rest is to be partitioned when we return this evening. And after that, Herr Rowland, we shall not need to trouble you by asking for more money. Are the thirty-thalers I gave you the other day all spent, Herr Kurtzbold? No matter for that, replied this insupportant ex-president. The money in the lockers is ours, and we demand a portion of it now, with the remainder after the banquet. Without another word Rowland took the bunch of keys from his belt, opened one of the lockers, lifted out a bag of gold, untied the thongs, and poured out the coins on the lid of the chest, which he locked again. There is the money, he said to Kurtzbold. I shall send Grussel and Eberhard to share in its distribution, and thus you can invite them to your banquet. My own portion you may leave on the lid of the locker.  You will go to the cabin and receive your share. They will also invite you to a banquet at the Crone. Except that invitation, and if possible, engage a private room, as you did in Asmondswausen, to prevent the men talking with any of the inhabitants. Keep them moistering there until the village has gone to bed, then convey them back to the bar just quietly as you can. A resolution has been passed that the money is to be divided amongst our warriors on their return, but I imagine that they will be in no condition to act as accountants when I have the pleasure of beholding them again. So if anything is said about the appointment, suggest a postponement of the ceremony until morning. I need not allow that I expect both of you to drink sparingly. For this advice I intend to follow myself. Rowland paced the deck, deep in thought until his difficult contingent departed toward the twinkling lights of the village. Then he went to the cabin, poured his share of the gold into his pouch, and followed the company at a distance to Lurch. He avoided the Crone, and after inquiring his way, stopped at the much smaller, hostillery, Murglursen. Here he gave his name, and asking if anyone waited for him, he was conducted upstairs to a room where he found her Kruger, just about to sit down to his supper. A stout lad, nearing twenty years of age, stood in the middle of the room, and from his appearance Rowland did not need the elder man's word for it that it was his son. I took the precaution of bringing him with me, said Kruger, as I thought two horsemen were better than one in the business I had undertaken. You were quite right, returned Rowland, and I congratulate you upon so stalwart a traveling companion. With your permission I shall order a meal and supper with you. Thus we may save time by talking while we eat, because you will need to depart as speedily as possible. You mean in the darkness, to-night? Yes. As soon as you can get away. There are urgent reasons why you should be on the road without delay. How came you here? On horseback. First down the main, then along the Rhine. Very well. In the darkness you will return by the way you came, but only as far as the castle of Ehrenfels. Three leagues from here. There you are to rouse up the custodian, and in safety spend the remainder of the night. Tomorrow morning he will furnish you with a guide, so conduct you through the forest of Weisbaden, and thence you shall know your way back to Frankfurt, which you should reach not later than evening. At this point the landlord who had been summoned came in. I will dine with my friends here, said Rowland, and I suppose I need not ask if you possess some of the good red wine of Lorch, which they tell me equals that of Asmonschwausen, of the very best mineur. The product of my own vineyard and I can therefore guarantee its sound, as for equalling that of Asmonschwausen, we have always considered it superior, and indeed many other good judges agree with us. Then bring me a stoop of it, and you will be enabled to add my opinion to that of the others. When the landlord produced the wine, Rowland wazed it to his lips and absorbed a hearty draught. This is indeed most excellent landlord, and does credit a like to your vines and your inn. I wish to send two large casks of so fine a wine to a merchant of my acquaintance in Frankfurt, and my friend, her Kruger, has promised to convey its thither. If you can spare me two casks of such excellent vintage, they will make an evenly balanced burden for the horse. Surely, mine heir! Choose two of those long casks, landlord, with bung holes of the largest of the sides. Do you possess such a thing as a pack saddle? Oh, yes. And you, my young friend, he said, turning to Kruger's son, wrote here on a saddle? No, interjected his father. I ride a saddle, but my son was forced to consent himself with a length of Ur-Gobel's coarse cloth, folded four times and strapped to the horse's back. Then the cloth may still be used as a cushion for the pack saddle, and you, my lad, will be compelled to walk, to which I dare venture you are well accustomed. The lad grinned, but made no objection. Now, landlord, while we eat, fill your casks with wine, then place the paddle sack on the back of this young man's horse, and the cask thereon, for I dare say you have men expert in such a manner. There are no better the length of the Rhine, said the landlord proudly. Lay the casks so that the bung holes are upward, and do not drive the bungs more tightly in place than is necessary, for they are to be extracted before Frankfurt is reached. That another friend of mine may profit from the wine. When this is done, bring me word, and let me know how much I owe you. The landlord gone, the three men fell to their meal. There is more gold, said Rowland, than I expected, and it is impossible even for two of you to carry it in bags attached to your belts. Besides, if you are molested such bestrol of it would prove most unsafe. A burden of wine, however, is too common either to attract notice or of our scupidity. I propose then, when we leave here, to bring you to the barge belonging to her gobel, and taking out the bungs, we will pour the gold into the barrels, letting the wine that is displaced overflow to the ground. Then we will stoutly drive in the bungs, and should the guards question you at the gates of Frankfurt, you may let them taste the wine if they insist, and I dare say it will contain no flavor of the metal. A most excellent suggestion, said Herr Kruger with enthusiasm. An admirable plan, for I confess I looked forward with some anxiety to this journey, laden down with bags of gold under my cloak. Yes, you are simply an honest drinker, tired of the white wine of Frankfurt, and providing yourself with the stronger fluid that Lorch produces. I am sure you will deliver the money safely to her gobel. Somewhat in drink, it is true. But, like the rest of us, none the worse for that when the fumes are gone. The repast finished, and all accounts liquidated. The trio left the inn and, leading the two horses, reached the barge without observation. Here the bungs were removed from the casks, and the three men assisted by the captain, quietly and speedily opened bag after bag, pouring the coins down into the wine, surely a unique alteration, a staunching even to so heady a fluid as the vintage of Lorch. From the whole amount will indiducted two thousand thailers, which he divided equally between two empty bags. This thousand thailers, he said to Kruger, is to be shared by your son and yourself, in addition to whatever you may receive from her gobel. The other you will hand to the custodian of Aaron fell's castle, saying it came from his friend Rowland, and is recompensed for the money he lent the other day. That will be an effective letter of introduction to him. Say that I ask him to send his son with you as a guide through the forest of Westbidden, and so good night and good luck to you. It was long after midnight when the guide came, moistering up from the bank of the Rhine to the barge. The moon had risen, and had given them sufficient light to steer a reasonably straight course without danger of falling into the water. Eberhard was with them, but Grusel walked rapidly ahead, so that he might say a few words to his chief before the others arrive. I succeeded in preventing their talking with any stranger, but they have taken aboard enough wine to make them very difficult and rather qualsome if thwarted. When I proposed that they should leave accounting until tomorrow morning, they first became suspicious, and then resented the imputation that they were not in a fit condition for such a task. I recommended therefore that you will allow them to divide the money tonight. It will allay their fears that some trick is to be played upon them, and if you hint at intoxication, they are likely to get out of hand. As it does not matter when the money is distributed, I counsel you to humor them tonight and postpone reasoning until tomorrow. I'll think about it, said Roland. They have brought several casks of wine and are taking turns and carrying them. Will you allow this wine to come aboard even if you're determined to throw it into the water tomorrow? Uh, yes, said Roland with a shrug of his shoulders. Cokes them into the cabin as quietly as possible, and keep them there if you can, for should they get on deck, we shall lose some of them in the river. Grusel turned his back to meet the bellowing mob, while Roland roused the captain and his men.  Make for this side of the larger island, and come to rest there for the remainder of the night. Command your rowers to put their whole force into the sweeps. This was done accordingly, and well done, as was the captain's custom. The late moon threw a ghostly light over the scene, and the barren island proved deserted and forbidding as the crew tied up the barge alongside. Most of the lights in Lorsch had gone out, and the town lay in the silence of pallid moonbeams, like a city of the dead. Roland stood on deck with Grusel and Eberhard by his side, the latter relenting the difficulties of the evening. They had been singing in the cabin during the passage across, and then came a lull in the roar from below, followed by a shout that beckoned danger. An instant later, the crowd came boiling up the short stair to the deck. Curse bold in command, all sorts drawn and glistening in the moonlight. You scoundrel! he cried to Roland.  I know that, replied Roland quietly. The money is in safekeeping, and will be honestly divided at the conclusion of this expedition. You thief! you robber! shouted Curse bold, flourishing his weapon. Quite accurate, replied Roland, unperturbed. I was once called a prince of thieves, when I did not deserve the title. Now I have earned it. You have earned the penalty of thieving, and we propose to throw you into the Rhine. Not, I trust, before you learn where the money is deposited. Drunk as they were, this consideration staggered them. But Curse bold was mad with rage and wine.  There's only three of them. Draw your swords, gentlemen, whispered Roland, flashing his own blade in the moonlight. Brucell and Eberhardt obeyed his command.