"Indeed!" she said unmovedly. "At the present moment I am seeking a safe-conduct to Thüringen, for myself and two persons in whom I am interested."
"To what part?"
"To Eisenach, or, if not, then to any point on the frontiers!"
"And your business, madame?"
"To restore my friends to their families, and rest, after the horrors to which you have subjected us, Count."
Tilly made no sign of displeasure. The air of amused courtesy still sat in his eyes, in his manner.
"How long have you been in Magdeburg?" he asked.
"Ten days, reckoned by time," she said with meaning.
"You must have changed into a cat, or an owl, to get into the city ten days ago!" he said, surveying her calmly. "Yes. It was possible to you. Now, are you ready to start at once?"
"Within an hour, Count!"