“I am ready to see him,” was the reply.
His Highness took another heavy pinch of snuff.
A tall, military looking man, somewhat over middle age, and of resolute countenance, entered. He made a low bow and then drew himself erect.
“Be seated,” said his Highness, as he himself resumed his chair. The Governor of Freiburg obeyed.
“You bring news of Brissach, Governor?”
“Yes, your Highness.”
“Your informant?”
“My valet, your Highness. He has been a soldier, and possesses a keen power of observation. He succeeded in getting into the Old Town several times on the pretence of purchasing wines. The French are busy strengthening the fortifications, but discipline is lax, and as there are over twelve hundred labourers employed in the works there is considerable disorder in the town.”
“Good. What is the strength of the garrison?”