"My daughter," he said, "has been severely punished for visiting the court without my permission." "Do you think so?" asked Erwin. "Do you doubt it, my lord Count?" "From what I have just learned, her marriage with Pietro Nigri has been definitely settled for some time," remarked the young German. "The project is abandoned; Hermengarde will never be the wife of Pietro Nigri." "Still, the Consul, who appears to be an honorable man, and who for a few hours has been my prisoner, tells a very different story." "Because he is ignorant of certain facts. It is true that, a few years ago, a marriage between our children was contemplated. But I have never spoken to Hermengarde on the matter, and I know that Pietro's manners have in some way of late displeased her. Besides, after your visit to Castellamare, she herself informed me that she would never be his wife, and as my intention is in no way to coerce her inclinations, she is perfectly free." This revelation changed at once Rechberg's expression, and in his delight he almost threw himself into Bonello's arms; but suddenly his countenance fell as he thought of Hermengarde still a prisoner in Milan. "My daughter will leave the city to-day," Bonello hastily added. "Gherardo Nigri is your prisoner, and Pietro will not refuse to exchange Hermengarde for his father." Before Rechberg could answer, the Chancellor entered, and after a hurried glance at Bonello, saluted the Count, with many warm thanks for his opportune assistance during the battle. "I merely did my duty," replied Erwin, "and am delighted that you have come out of it safely." "I escaped myself," said Dassel, gravely; "but fully two-thirds of my men have fallen. May God rest their souls! With his thanks, His Majesty has also commissioned me to deliver you a message. The influential consul Gherardo Nigri has, I have heard, fallen into your hands. The Emperor requests that you will deliver him up to himself." "I regret that I cannot comply with His Majesty's wishes. Nigri is already at liberty." "What!" cried Dassel; "you have already sent him back to Milan?" "He has not yet gone, but he will be dispatched shortly." "Do not be too hasty; at least, wait until I have informed the Emperor!" and the courtier hurriedly left the room. "My lord Count," said Guido, who had anxiously listened to the conversation, "you will do wisely in acceding to His Majesty's desires." "Not at all," answered Rechberg; "the prisoner belongs to me, and to me only!" At this moment the Chancellor reappeared. "The Emperor desires your immediate presence," he said. "Very well, my lord; I will obey at once. As for you, my lord Bonello, go to the consul Nigri and inform him upon what conditions he can obtain his release. Gero, show this gentleman the way to Berthold's quarters; I will be there soon myself."