The old woman's head drooped.
"You are not the only one! Thousands have suffered in this world, and have died, and their ashes are scattered by the winds. Like you, thousands are moaning in slavery--my forefathers, grandfather, father, kings. I am the last of their race. The German has driven me from my home."
Cosel drew a gold coin from her purse, and handed it to the old woman.
"I don't take alms," said she; "you will pay differently; everything is reckoned above."
And raising her hands, she walked into the meadows.
During this conversation, Cosel's companions had been standing at a little distance, admiring her courage. Now none dared ask why she looked so pale and thoughtful. She mounted her horse, but she dropped the rein and allowed the animal to guide her.
They continued to ride forward, but slowly. Then from afar high towers appeared in sight.
"That is Stolpen," said the equerry.
An hour's more riding and they reached the castle. The King's cavalcade was standing opposite the rock of basalt, waiting for the Countess, whom they had seen while she was still at a distance.
Augustus advanced to meet her with a smile of welcome.