"Then you must do this. Return at once to Friessen with all possible speed—you and Captain von Krugen. Take the duke away anywhere, and lodge him in a place of safety. If neither of you can think of a better place, carry him to Gramberg; but one of you will probably know of some place where he can be kept as a hostage. If I cannot hold him prisoner our last hope is gone."
"She will never say——"
"I trust no woman again in a thing of this sort. Put him where she cannot tell any one where he is. You will have to ride all the way, I expect. No matter. Take the best horses in the stables here and ride them to a standstill, if necessary. You must go at a hand-gallop the whole way: or perhaps you can get a special train to Spenitz. Anything, but for God's sake go—and at once. You can deal with the woman afterward."
I called up von Krugen, and gave him the hurried orders.
"Remember at any cost to keep him a prisoner, and let me know where he is."
These were my last words to the two, and spoken with almost fierce earnestness. As I turned from them I beckoned Steinitz to me.
"I am going to speak to that woman in a dark domino. When I leave her watch her as you would watch the devil, and let me know where she goes and to whom she speaks."
I went back to Clara Weylin.
"Will you give me an interview presently?" I asked, very quietly, adding significantly, "It will be safer."
"I am not afraid of you," she replied scornfully.