ed
them as safe, and he fears a failure. In that he is right; a vain
attempt at flight would be much more prejudicial to him than to yield
himself without opposition. Well, I will see that he has now a sure
chance to escape, and you may believe he will be cunning enough to take
advantage of it. You may say this much to his highness the duke."

"But do not forget that the duke commanded us not to betray his
intention to prepare these opportunities by a single word. This course
would compromise the duke and all of us."

"I understand perfectly," said Von Halber; "I will speak eloquently by
deeds, and not with words."

True to this intention, Von Halber, after having partaken of a gay
dinner with Trenck and several officers, left his house, accompanied by
all his servants.

"The horses must be exercised," said he; and, as he was unmarried, no
one remained in the house but Trenck.

"You will be my house-guard for several hours," said the officer to
Trenck, who was standing at the door as he drove off. "I hope no one
will come to disturb your solitude. My officers all accompany me, and I
have no acquaintance in this little village. You will be entirely alone,
and if, on my return, I find that you have disappeared in mist and
fog, I shall believe that ennui has extinguished you--reduced you to a
bodiless nothing."

"Well, I think he must have understood that," said Von Halber, as he
dashed down the street, followed by his staff. "He must be blind and
deaf if he does not flee from the fate before him."

Trenck, alas, had not understood. He believed in no danger, and did not,
therefore, see the necessity for flight. He found this quiet, lonely
house inexpressibly wearisome. He wandered through the rooms, seeking
some object of interest, or some book which would enable him to pass
the tedious hours. The cavalry officer was a gallant and experienced
soldier, but he was no scholar, and had nothing to do with books.
Trenck's search was in vain. Discontented and restless, he wandered
about, and at last entered the little court which led to the stable. A
welcome sound fell on his ears, and made his heart beat joyfully; with
rapid steps he entered the stable. Two splendid horses stood in
the stalls, snorting and stamping impatiently; they were evidently
riding-horses, for near them hung saddles and bridles. Their nostrils
dilated proudly as they threw their heads back to breathe the fresh
air which rushed in at the open door.