"First hear what a great service we ask of you. You must prepare yourself to hear a short story. I am still weak and have put my strength to a severe test to-day, Maria must speak for me." The young wife fulfilled this task quietly and clearly, closing with the words: "The messenger we need, I have found myself. You must be he, Junker Georg." Henrica had not interrupted the burgomaster's wife; but now said warmly "I have only made your acquaintance to-day, but I trust you entirely. A few hours ago, black would have been my color, but if you will be my knight, I'll choose cheerful green, for I now begin to hope again. Will you venture to take the ride for me?" Hitherto Georg had gazed silently at the floor. Now he raised his head, saying: "If I can obtain leave of absence, I will place myself at your disposal; --but my lady's color is blue, and I am permitted to wear no other." Henrica's lips quivered slightly, but the young nobleman continued: "Captain Van der Laen is my superior officer. I'll speak to him at once." "And if he says no?" asked Maria. Henrica interrupted her and answered haughtily: "Then I beg you to send me Herr Wilhelm, the musician." Georg bowed and went to the tavern. As soon as the ladies were alone, the young girl asked: "Do you know Herr von Dornburg's lady?" "How should I?" replied Maria. "Give yourself a little rest, Fraulein. As soon as the Junker comes back, I'll bring him to you." The young wife left the room and seated herself at the spinning-wheel with Barbara. Georg kept them waiting a long time, but at midnight again appeared, accompanied by two companions. It was not within the limits of the captain's authority to grant him a leave of absence for several weeks--the journey to Italy would have required that length of time--but the Junker had consulted the musician, and the latter had found the right man, with whom Wilhelm speedily made the necessary arrangements, and brought him without delay: it was the old steward, Belotti. CHAPTER XXVI. On the morning of the following day the spacious shooting-grounds, situated not far from the White Gate, between the Rapenburg and the city- wall, presented a busy scene, for by a decree of the council the citizens and inhabitants, without exception, no matter whether they were poor or rich, of noble or plebeian birth, were to take a solemn oath to be loyal to the Prince and the good cause.