"Call no man happy before his death," muttered Hartmut under his breath.
"A very wise remark, and one not quite new to me. But you sometimes have something in your eyes which frightens me. Do not be offended, Hartmut; but you look like a demon at this moment."
Rojanow made no answer.
The road now left the forest, and yonder Furstenstein rose into view, where the ducal colors floated in the morning breeze. Half an hour later the carriage rolled into the castle court, where an animated scene reigned.
The entire force of servants was at hand; saddle horses and carriages were ready, and the greater number of invited guests had already arrived.
The start took place at the appointed hour, and the bright light of the sun, breaking through the mist, shone resplendent on the imposing cavalcade as it moved down the Schlossberg.
The Duke and Duchess led the party; then followed the numerous suite and the whole assembly of guests, and the grooms in full livery who were permitted to go.
Out through the sunny autumn morning into the forests and heights of the hunting preserves, where it soon became lively. Firing resounded on all sides; the flying game broke through the thickets or sped across the openings, now alone and now in droves, only to be reached finally by a ball; and the usually quiet forest gave back the echo of the chase.
The Chief Forester had ordered out the entire forester staff of the Wald, and had made all arrangements so excellently that it brought him great honor to lead the chase, which was not marred by any accident.
Toward noon a rendezvous was held at Bucheneck, a small ducal forest lodge situated in the midst of the Wald, and which could afford shelter in case of unfavorable weather. This was not necessary to-day, for the weather had turned out to be fine, only a little too warm for an October day. The sun burned so hotly as to render it unpleasant at luncheon, which was partaken of out of doors; but otherwise all passed off happily and unceremoniously, and a gay scene developed upon the large green meadow, at the border of which Bucheneck was situated.