CHAPTER VII. THE FLIGHT OF THE COUNTESS.
"It is the Countess Tekla herself," cried Conrad, at the window.
"Then unbar at once and do not keep her waiting," commanded the Emperor, eagerly.
The bolts were instantly drawn back and the door thrown open.
"Oh, Conrad," whispered Hilda, flinging the veil over her shoulder, thus disclosing her face. She paused in the midst of her speech when she saw a stranger standing there.
"It is Hilda," said Conrad, to the Emperor. "Why do you masquerade as the Countess, Hilda?"
"It was her ladyship's wish. You are to take me in the boat with you immediately. The Countess awaits us at the watersteps."
The trap-door was open, and the Emperor descended, saying, hastily, "Come, Conrad."
"He is no boatman," whispered Hilda, holding back in alarm. "Who is——"
"Hush!" breathed Conrad, "trust to me and come."