The governor tapped at a small grated trap in the door, and it was pulled aside.
At the grating a broad-shouldered fellow appeared, who touched his cap at the visitors.
"So that is Mathias," said the German gentleman.
"No, no," said the governor; "that is the gaoler who is shut up with him."
"What for?"
"So that he might be watched night and day; the authorities have doomed him to—"
"To what?"
"To death," replied the governor, in a low but impressive voice.
"He is young."
"In years, yes," answered the governor, "but old in crime. This man has been guilty of nearly every crime under the sun—brigandage is one of his least offences. His last exploit, however, is the worst."