Rauthgundis and Wachis had made themselves thoroughly acquainted with the pine-grove where the faithful freedman was to wait with the charger of Dietrich of Bern.
And it was with the confidence which completed preparations always lend to a stout heart, that Rauthgundis returned to the dwelling of the gaoler.
But she turned pale when the latter rushed to meet her with an air of desperation, and dragged her across the threshold.
Once in the room, he threw himself on his knees before her, beating his breast with his fists and tearing his grey hair.
For some time he could find no words.
"Speak," cried Rauthgundis, pressing her hand to her wildly-beating heart. "Is he dead?"
"No; but flight is impossible! all is lost! all is lost! An hour ago the Prefect came, and went down to the King. As usual, I opened both doors for him, the passage and the prison door, and then----"
"Well?"
"Then he took both keys from me, saying he would keep them in future himself."
"And thou gavest them up!" said Rauthgundis, grinding her teeth.