"Richilda," said Beatrice, entering her private chamber, "can you not point out some knight whom I can intrust with a message of importance?"
"The whole army is at your Majesty's orders," replied the waiting-maid.
"No! no! I mean a good sword, on whom I can entirely depend."
"What does your Majesty think of the knight Goswin? He is brave, discreet, and would ride to Egypt for your Majesty."
The Empress' clear and musical laugh rang through the room.
"You are crazy, Richilda! Goswin, that vulgar soldier! Upon my word, he would be a beautiful messenger."
"Pardon, madam; I had no intention of offending you; but, not to be guilty of another mistake, it would be well if I knew your Majesty's intentions."
"Ah! you are curious! But after all, you may as well know all. I have long desired to see this Hermengarde, who has so dazzled with her beauty all the knights who have met her. I think of sending a brilliant embassy to invite her to my court."
"A most excellent idea," said Richilda.
"I have heard a great deal of her noble efforts in her father's behalf, and I am curious of knowing intimately one whose filial devotion I have so much admired."