“We shall see,” replied Jörgel. He rose from his rough wooden seat, drew on his boots, and put on his waistcoat. His aunt hastily set things in order, and had hardly finished when steps were heard on the stairs, and the herculean figure of Veit of Mörsperg entered and saluted them with a roaring “Good day!” He shook Jörgel’s hand and roughly slapped Brigitte on her bent back.
“I bring you good news,” he said, stroking his great beard.
Jörgel’s face brightened up. “You look as happy as if you were breaking into some rich merchant’s treasure box,” said Jörgel, with difficulty restraining his curiosity.
“It is something better than that,” said Veit, as he sat down upon the bed. “The Zurich oligarchy has come to an end.”
“Is that true?” shouted Jörgel. “Then the mob of the workshops may be in the Council.”
“Seven hundred patricians have united against the aristocratic city regime,” replied Veit.
“They are few compared with the crowds in the guilds and corporations,” said Brigitte.
“Be patient! I know still more,” said Veit. “The patricians have very wisely united with the counts of Rupperschwyl, who will invade the city; and other knights near by are to join them.”
“And I fancy that you will have the same honor,” said Jörgel.
“You are right,” replied Veit; “and as I am going to join, I advise you to do the same.”