"I shall expect to receive occasional reports of his progress. Let him be taught to respect me as his benefactor, and once a year I desire him to spend a week or two with me, in order that by wise counsels and salutary advice, I may assist the holy church in her noble work. Remember, too," and here the Count's features assumed a threatening look, "that this act of to-day is done by the authority of his majesty the Czar, who will hold you accountable for the strict observance of all you have promised."
The priest bowed his head humbly.
"I reverence the church, your excellency," he answered, "but above all I owe allegiance to its spiritual head, the Czar."
All preliminaries having been arranged, Jacob was sent for. The priest, who not unnaturally expected to see a young man, was greatly surprised at the appearance of this puny child. He concealed his astonishment as well as possible, merely observing:
"I presume, your excellency, this is my future pupil."
"It is, and may he prove worthy of his eminent teacher."
"Come, my boy," said the priest, taking the mystified Jacob by the hand; "say good-by to your benefactors."
But Jacob, upon whom the sombre-robed, grim-visaged stranger did not make a favorable impression, broke from his hold and took refuge in the skirts of the Countess, as the most compassionate of the company.
"Don't let them take me away," he sobbed. "Let me remain with you."
"Be a good boy and he will take you home to your papa and mamma," said the Countess, with the best intentions in the world.