Soon Zaklika noticed that Wehlen began to visit the Countess quite often, to talk with her while she was in the garden. Zaklika was obliged to play draughts with the uncle and to chat with him. Henry was constantly rushing about, and by his redoubled energy and some preparations that he easily noticed, Zaklika guessed that the flight was soon to be attempted. Not being in the secret, he did not want to interfere, but once he whispered to the youth,--
"For Heaven's sake, have a care, captain. I do not know your thoughts and plans, but I am afraid that the others may notice, as I have, some unusual preparations."
Wehlen was a little bit frightened; he took hold of Zaklika's arm, led him to a remote corner, and asked,--
"What have you noticed, then?"
"Well, I have noticed that you are preparing some salto mortale."
"I do not understand what you mean," said Wehlen. "The whole thing is that I am madly in love."
"You must try not to show that love to others, and not let them see what I see."
The same day Zaklika went to the tower and found Cosel walking about feverishly, wearing a different dress than usual.
"Zaklika," she said, "do not interfere with anything--be blind. Play with the old commandant. In case of alarm, keep him as long as possible."
"If you succeed in escaping, what shall I do then?" asked Zaklika.