The streets were less crowded now than they had been during the last twenty-four hours. Numbers of people, tired by the fighting and excitement, had gone to rest; others, shocked by the excesses committed, had withdrawn; and indeed the broadening daylight made every one look more or less ashamed of the night's events.
From the talk of the rioters we learned that the emperor had left Schönbrunn with his family for Olmutz, and that Count Auersperg had sent four thousand troops to form an escort. The rest of the army had been stationed in the gardens of the Schwartzenberg and Belvidere palaces on heights commanding the city.
But for the order to cease firing, these same soldiers would most likely have nipped the insurrection in the bud.
Still we did not meet Rakoczy; but a scrap of paper pushed beneath the door of our room relieved our anxiety concerning him.
"8 a.m.--Call again later. Don't leave before seeing me.--J.R."
"Now we can go to bed with easy minds," I said, passing the paper to Stephen.
We were both exceedingly tired, and having once fallen asleep, knew nothing further till awakened by a loud knocking.
"Rakoczy," murmured Stephen lazily. "Let him in, George. There's no more rest for us."
"The Joyous" now began to troll forth a Magyar hunting-song, and the sound of the rich, full notes put all sleep to flight. Dressing hastily, I went into the sitting-room and opened the door.
Street fighting and loss of sleep appeared to have little effect on our companion. His handsome face was bright and cheerful as usual, and bidding me finish my toilet, he continued his song.