"Keep some of the workmen back," said Fink to Anton, "and guard the castle and village. I will send the forester with his little militia to Kunau, and ride over thither myself first of all, with Karl and the servants."
He sprang to the stable and saddled his own horse, while Karl was getting ready that of the baron for himself.
"Look at the clouds, Herr von Fink," said Karl. "Take your cloak with you; we shall have a tremendous shower."
Fink called accordingly for his plaid, and the little band galloped off toward Kunau. When they entered the forest they remarked how stifling the atmosphere was. Even the rapid pace of their horses brought with it no relief.
"Look how restless the beasts are," said Karl. "My horse pricks his ears. There is something in the wood."
They stopped for a moment. "I hear a horse's tread, and a rustling among the branches."
The horse that Karl rode stretched out his neck and neighed loudly.
"It is an acquaintance—one of our own number," said Fink, looking at the animal. The branches of the young trees parted, and Lenore, mounted on her pony, sprang out and barred the way. "Halt! who goes there?" cried she, laughing.
"Hurrah! the young lady!" exclaimed Karl.
"The password?" cried Lenore, in true martial style.