The girl's only answer was a deep sigh.
His Excellency led his god-daughter downstairs, and placed her in the coach which was waiting for them. And little Mariska returned home in state.
Janosics, the castellan, met his Excellency at the gate of the Assembly House, and bareheaded, bowed low before him.
"What about the prisoner, Ráby?" asked the governor shortly.
"He is already conveyed to number three on the first floor, your Excellency," was the respectful answer.
His Excellency nodded, took his companion by the hand, and led her indoors.
Tárhalmy knew nothing, and was astonished beyond measure at seeing the governor with his daughter.
"I'm bringing your little deserter back," said her god-father, jestingly. "Don't be angry with her! Judge the case for yourself; she came upon me unawares with her cause, and who could withstand such pleading, eh?"
The head-notary now understood. Father and daughter looked for a minute at each other, then the girl threw her arms round his neck.
He kissed her forehead, and whispered: