Rekindle in my wavering soul your blind, undoubting, earnest faith in Christ and in His church: at once the source of your noblest deeds on earth, your brightest hopes in heaven! Oh, let it open for me, as it was wont to do for you; and I will struggle with fire and sword against its enemies! Hear me, the son of countless generations, the sole heir of your thoughts, your courage, your virtues, and your faults!
The castle bell sounds twelve.
It is the appointed hour: I am prepared!
An old and faithful servant, Jacob, enters, fully armed.
Jacob. My lord, the person whom your excellency expects is in the castle.
The Man. Admit him here.
Exit Jacob.
He reappears, announcing Pancratius, and again retires.
Pancratius. Count Henry, I salute you! The word 'count' sounds strangely on my lips.
He seats himself, throws off his cloak and liberty cap, and fastens his eyes on the pillar on which hang the arms and shield.