"Very well; but is it the act of a brave man to attack a defenceless girl? Shame upon you!"
"Silence!" said the Unknown, interrupting him. "I deliver the lady of Castellamare from the power of those who are unworthy to possess such a treasure! The thoughtlessness of youth, perhaps a feeling of gratitude induced her, in her father's absence, to leave the castle and visit the tyrant's court. The lady shall remain under my protection until I can restore her to that of her father."
The Count stared at this man who, at all events, reassured him of Hermengarde's safety from all insult or danger.
"But by what right do you interfere in the matter," he said.
"It matters not; the right is mine, and I use it. Hermengarde has begged me to spare your life, and although I almost hate her for the request, I have consented; you are free.--Your gray head," continued the Lombard, turning to Gero, "assures me of your discretion; so listen attentively, for your master's sake, to what I am about to say. In an hour's time, you may untie him; we shall then have reached Milan, and it will be impossible to follow me. But take care not to let yourself be touched by his entreaties, for if he should pursue, I shall consider myself freed from my promise, and he shall die. Will you swear to obey me?"
"With all my heart," answered Gero; "and literally too!--Not to please you, but on my master's account."
"You are an honest fellow," said the knight. And drawing his poniard, he cut the ropes which bound the squire.
"By all the saints of paradise!" cried Erwin; "since you still have some chivalrous feelings left, will you accept my challenge?"
"With pleasure, when and where you will!"
"Whither can I send it?" asked Rechberg, eagerly.