"The count is in a hurry," continued Herr Bernat, "for he may have to ride at the head of a company of militia to the war in less than three weeks."
Here the cruel needle thrust its point into the fair worker's rosy finger.
Herr Bernat smiled roguishly; and said:
"Would n't you like to hear the name of the bride, my pretty sister Katinka?"
"If it is no secret," was the indifferent response.
"It is no secret for me, and I am allowed to repeat it. The charming lady Count Vavel intends to wed is—Katharina Landsknechtsschild!"
The baroness suddenly dropped her embroidery, sprang to her feet, and surveyed the smiling emissary with her brows drawn into a frown.
"It is quite true," continued Herr Bernat. "Count Vavel sent me here to beg you to answer the words he spoke to you on an eventful occasion. Do you remember them?"
The lady's countenance did not brighten as she replied:
"Yes, I remember the words; but between them and my reply there is a veil that separates the two."