Convinced, that nothing but the fear of being surprised by the enemy could have induced the Castle’s inhabitants to observe such obstinate discretion, we waited for morning with the utmost impatience and anxiety. Perhaps the enemy might pursue the fugitives hither, and make himself master of the Castle, before our vassals could be summoned to its defence? perhaps, it might already have been attacked, and might be at that very moment in possession of the foe? I had left the Countess of Mayenfield but ill-protected. My anxiety to rescue my uncle and Count Ethelbert had induced me to leave no one behind, except our women, the old seneschal, the warder, and a few domestics. At break of day we again approached the Castle; we then perceived (what the extreme darkness of the night had before prevented our discovering) that the draw-bridge had not been raised. We crost it, and on approaching the gates had the satisfaction to see them opened for our admittance by the Seneschal. We were received by the weak old man with every appearance of alarm: the first questions which were asked on both sides related to our return unaccompanied, and to the ghastly appearance of the old man; but neither of us could restrain impatience sufficiently to give an answer. I hastened into the court yard, anxious to embrace my friend, and consult with her, what precautions should be taken for our future safety; but the first thing, which met my eyes on entering, was an heap of bleeding corses! I started back in horror, and wished to ask, what dreadful events had taken place in my absence; but fear and agony choaked my words. Besides, I was soon summoned to the assistance of Gertrude, at whose feet the Seneschal (who probably had exhausted his little remaining strength in opening the gates) had now fallen senseless. Yet while so many scenes of terror are reserved for my pen, why do I dwell with such minuteness on the first? I will not describe, how the whole shocking mystery gradually unfolded itself; I will rather state at once and briefly the total sum of my misfortune.