"Temistocle," she said, "I have no money to give you, as I told you yesterday. But here is another stone, like the other. Take it, and arrange this matter as best you can."
Temistocle took the jewel and bowed to the ground, eying curiously the little case from which she had taken it.
"I have thought and combined everything," he said. "Your excellency will see that it is best you should go alone to the staircase; for, as we say, a mouse makes less noise than a rat. When you have descended, lock the door at the top behind you; and when you reach the foot of the staircase, keep that door open. I will have brought the old gentleman by that time, and you will let me in. I shall go out by the great gate."
"Why not go with me?" inquired Hedwig.
"Because, your excellency, one person is less likely to be seen than two. Your excellency will let me pass you. I will mount the staircase, unlock the upper door, and change the key to the other side. Then I will keep watch, and if anyone comes I will lock the door and slip away till he is gone."
"I do not like the plan," said Hedwig. "I would rather let myself in from the staircase."
"But suppose anyone were waiting on the inside, and saw you come back?"
"That is true. Give me the keys, Temistocle, and a taper and some matches."
"Your excellency is a paragon of courage," replied the servant, obsequiously. "Since yesterday I have carried the keys in my pocket. I will bring you the taper this evening."
"Bring it now. I wish to be ready."