'I have forgotten,' said he suddenly turning from the door to Faustina, 'to ask you how you stand with Sulkowski? To-morrow he ascends the throne, and to-morrow also Brühl will either return to Thuringia or accept the position of a lackey in order to overthrow him at the opportune moment. Brühl and Padre Guarini are the best of friends.'
Hasse called 'hush!' Watzdorf suddenly covered his mouth with his hand.
'Is it not allowed? I am silent then.'
Faustina was confused. 'Signore,' said she, coming near him, 'you are incorrigible. Be careful.'
She placed a finger on his lips.
'I fear nothing,' said Watzdorf sighing. 'I have no other ambition than to remain an honest man, and should they put me in Königstein I will not be tempted to change my opinion, it is worth something.'
'I hope you may not be your own prophet,' said Hasse clasping his hand. 'Think what you please, but say nothing.'
'There would be no merit if I did not try to spread my thoughts among people,' answered Watzdorf already at the door. 'I wish you a very good-night.'
And he disappeared.
'There is no doubt that he will end in Königstein, or if there should be no room for him there, then in Sonnenstein or Pleissenburg.'