"Then hear what I have to tell you. Ask no questions, require no intelligence and explanations. Hear my warning, and act accordingly. Count Schwarzenberg plots against your life!"
"Do you believe that?" said the Electoral Prince, smiling.
"He has invited you to a feast, which is to take place on Sunday. At that feast you are to be poisoned."
The Electoral Prince started, and a transient flush gleamed upon his cheeks. "Whence know you that, Gabriel Nietzel?"
"I beseech you ask me no questions, but believe me. Will your highness do so?—dare I speak further?"
"Well, I will believe you. Speak further, Master Gabriel."
"I told you thus much, that you were to be poisoned at Count Adam von Schwarzenberg's banquet. The count's valet has been bribed by him; he will have the honor of waiting upon you at the feast, and he will therefore present to you all you eat or drink, even down to the bread. Do not accept them from him, your highness, especially the bread."
"I shall at least eat nothing, Gabriel Nietzel."
"When he sees that, he will offer you some fruit or viand which will prove hurtful to you. The count's valet must not stand behind your seat, that is the principal thing; another must take his place, another, on whose fidelity you may rely."
"Who is that other? Where is the man to be found in these parts on whose fidelity I may rely?"