"It was indeed a subtle temptation," and Petrescu turned slowly to look at his companion.
"The truth shall quickly be put to the test," said Ellerey. "Give me wine, a full measure, to put new strength in me. Is mine to be the only voice raised in her defence? Are you all so ready to believe evil of the woman who has served your Princess so well? I stake my honor that with her Maritza is safe."
"True; but speak less harshly, Captain," whispered Petrescu. "These men are our friends; do not anger them."
"He from whom I had the news ever speaks the truth," said the man who had told the story. "He has never failed us in the past."
"Has the Countess ever failed you in the past?" Ellerey cried. "Shame on you all for the thought. Her loyalty shall be proved on the instant."
"You can do nothing to-night," said Petrescu.
"Soldiers are in every street," said a chorus of voices.
"Therefore give me wine to renew my strength," Ellerey cried, and he seized the tankard held out to him.
"It is madness to go now," said Petrescu.
"For you, perhaps, for you, but not for me. Man—man, do not you understand? Besides the woman whose truth I would vindicate, is not Maritza there? She once gave me life yonder in the hills; even less than love would repay such a debt as that. To-morrow, comrades, we may fight side by side in the streets of Sturatzberg, but this hour is my own. Let me pass. It is death to rebel or soldier who seeks to stay me to-night." And throwing down the empty tankard, he went quickly to the door, followed by Baron Petrescu and Stefan.