They then proceeded to a sumptuously furnished apartment, where Hermengarde was awaiting them. She rose as they entered, and greeted Antonio with a friendly smile. As she resumed her seat, Hedwige placed two chairs for the visitors. "This is my friend Antonio, noble lady," said Pietro; "he accompanied Count Rechberg to Cluny, and I had the good fortune to meet him in the street." "I am happy, my lord Pietro, to receive your friend. But what business has brought Count Rechberg here?" "He came with the Duchess of Saxony, who, divorced and banished by her husband, has sought the Pope's protection.--It was a duty he owed to chivalry," the Italian added, "and the more meritorious that Rechberg travelled without, or rather against the consent of the Emperor." "I hope that his generosity will not put him in disfavor with Barbarossa?" "I am unable to say anything positive on this point; but I imagine that Frederic will endeavor to preserve the friendship of one who is about to be allied to one of the most powerful houses of France." Hermengarde started. "From what Rechberg tells me," continued Antonio, "the Count of Champagne is expected with his daughter to-day. It is possible that the young Count will retire with the Countess to her father's estates." "Can I not see the Count, Antonio?" asked Hermengarde; "he saved my father's life, and we are under great obligations to him." "It appears to me rather difficult, noble lady. Women are admitted within the convent only once a week, and I doubt that the Count will tarry here long; still, if you so desire, I will inform him of your wishes." "I beg you to do so, sir, and as soon as possible." "I am entirely at your orders, noble lady. But if I mistake not, here comes the Count of Champagne." The blast of a trumpet and the clatter of horses, resounded in the street. The Count and a numerous retinue was passing along the road, and at a few paces in his rear, Richenza was riding along in a showy costume. Hermengarde stood motionless, as though her strength was about to fail her, but, with a violent effort, she recovered herself, and dismissed her visitors. "Be kind enough to remember my request, knight," she said to Antonio; "perhaps you can bring me the Count's answer this evening?" "I repeat, madam, that I am entirely at your command," replied the Italian, bowing himself out of the room. "I say, my friend, you don't mean to tell him anything, do you?" said Nigri to the other. "What are you thinking about? I will tell her tomorrow, that the Count will neither come to her, nor receive her visit. We shall see then what will happen. It is a capital joke after all, to lead people about by the nose in this way! But we must be prepared for everything; suppose that Hermengarde meets the German?" "Then I will put an end to the joke with a single blow!" said Pietro, sullenly. "Well, that is your lookout, not mine. Expect me here to-morrow," said Antonio.