'My dear Signora,' he said, 'these are dreams and visions. I am going, but I myself asked for leave of absence; I have no enemies and I am sure of the King's heart. Be assured it is gossip, flying round the court like mosquitoes about the marshes. Believe me, I am not blind and it is difficult to fool me and still more difficult to get rid of me.'
He began to laugh. He wished to withdraw when Faustina exclaimed:
'Count, is it possible that you are so blind? Your noble character does not admit of treachery which everybody sees.'
'Because all that has no sense. Brühl would not dare, even had he such allies as the Queen and the venerable Padre.'
Faustina lowered her head and said slowly:
'Therefore that which is destined is unavoidable. Chi a la morte è destinato, muore santo o disperato. Addio, signor conte and may Providence guide you and bring you back. Do not stay long away. You may recollect Faustina's warning, but it will be too late.'
The Count took hold of her hand.
'Beautiful and good-hearted signora,' he said, 'I am very grateful to you, for that which you have done is the proof of a good heart. I know how to appreciate it. But things are not as bad as you imagine. I can call the King my best friend; I trust him and shall not be disappointed! Be easy about me!'
Faustina said nothing more; the Count saluted her.
But he changed his plans and ordered his men to bear him to Brühl's palace.