"Richenza returns to her home, and you will be her escort," continued the stranger.
"I?"
"Barbarossa will give you the order himself."
"Very well; if he does, I shall decline the honor."
"You cannot."
"Do you advise me to accompany the Countess?"
"I do."
"But you have yourself reminded me of the inconstancy of the human heart."
"He who is on his guard has nothing to fear."
"I will not put myself in a false position."