"Is there such a means?"
"Yes. I have already told you that there is another faction, quiet but powerful, which is ours, and we, or, rather, you, have the means of binding it to you yet more closely."
And now Pranken told how he had promised to be present, almost immediately, at a council held by the nobles of this ecclesiastical province (which extended beyond the limits of the principality), in the archiepiscopal palace. The proceedings of this convocation were to be strictly confidential. Its object was to confer on the ways and means of rendering the Pope military assistance.
"You do not intend entering the papal army?" asked Sonnenkamp.
"I would, if I were not bound by the ties of duty, of honor, of love, to remain here at my post."
"That is fine, very fine. Excuse my interruption. And why do you impart this to me? I am not of the nobility, and have no place in this council."
"You belong to them, and will be present."
"I belong to them? I shall be present?"
"I will be brief. You will give a sum sufficient for the formation of a regiment, and I can assure you, I have security for your being not only unmolested, but crowned with honors."
"And, having given the money, can I remain here in honor?" Sonnenkamp said with a smile.