His entertainer, however, did not take the hint. His brow was knitted in deep thought. At last he said, with a return to scepticism to his eyes:
"You spoke of being at Cochem. What did you there? Were you the guest of the Archbishop?"
"In a manner. A guest without his knowledge. The Countess and her party enjoyed the hospitality of Cochem last night."
"You amaze me. In your flight from Treves had you the actual temerity to make a hostel of the Archbishop's own palace?"
Again the Emperor laughed.
"It was not our intention to do so, but hospitality was forced upon us. At Bruttig I was, with some reluctance, compelled to slit the throat of Beilstein's captain in defence of the Countess, and, in the mêlée that followed, I had to proclaim the quality of the lady and demand protection from the Archbishop's troops there stationed. They conducted us to Cochem, and the Countess was received by the custodian of the castle there with a courtesy which seems to be entirely absent from such ceremonies further down the Moselle."
The Black Count grunted and the expression on his countenance was not pleasing to look upon. However, he did not pursue the subject, but called to an aged waiting servant and said:
"Conduct Lord Rodolph to the round guest-chamber."
"With your Lordship's permission," said Rodolph, "I would crave a word with the Countess Tekla. She has had recent trying experiences, and after the tension may come relapse. I would fain speak encouragingly to her, if you make no objection."
Heinrich threw back his lion head and laughed hoarsely.