When taking leave of Bruno, the intendant said:
"Now I know how great a heart you have."
Bruno merely nodded in reply. He did not object. It might be well if the intendant were to say the same thing at court.
When they repaired to the carriage, the whole region was obscured by a misty rain; neither mountain nor lake were distinguishable. Just as they were starting, Bruno called Baum to him and gave him his coat with a red collar, for Baum was to mount Bruno's horse and ride it home. The intendant rode back, accompanied by Baum. He told the lackey to remain beside him, instead of following.
"These are fearful goings on," said Baum, addressing the intendant.
"Yes, terrible. I think the mother of the drowned girl must be crazed."
"Sir," resumed Baum, "there is something I should like to speak to you about. I think that maybe the countess isn't drowned, after all. The court physician has laughed at me, but I have a clue, and--"
The report of a gun was heard. Baum fell from his horse.
"I've hit you this time!" cried a voice.
Thomas rushed forth from the thicket.