Manasés paused, and then after making a few steps in the room, resumed,--
"The Duchess Clemence is secretly staying at the castle."
"Yes."
"She must go to Cluny to-morrow; you will accompany her."
The order disconcerted Antonio, who had proposed visiting Hermengarde on the ensuing day, in company with Pietro.
"I am ready to obey you, my lord," he replied, after a moment's reflection.
"When you are at Cluny," continued Manasés, "keep your ears and eyes open; let nothing escape you. Watch, above all, the prelates who reside there, and see upon what terms Henry and Alexander appear to be. Mingle with the servants of the house, for you must know every nook and corner in it, and the vassals will suspect nothing."
"You will be satisfied with me, my lord."
"But, take care, the Italian roads are infested with banditti, and Clemence cannot travel without an escort."
"You need have no apprehension on that score; the best sword in Germany will accompany her."