"Stop!" cried Regina with evident reluctance. But it was too late. Oxenstjerna had with a sudden movement pulled back the hangings, and revealed a pale face with dark burning eyes, surmounted by a black leather skull-cap. The hangings were still further drawn back, and the whole features of the monk became visible; his hands were clasped round a crucifix of silver.
"Step forward, devoted father," said Oxenstjerna in a satirical tone. "A man of your merits should not remain in concealment. Your reverence has chosen a peculiar place for your evening devotions. With his Majesty's permission I will furnish you with a larger audience."
At the sound of the bell, Lieutenant Bertel with two men from the life-guards entered, and placed themselves on both sides of the exit with their long halberts.
The king looked at Lady Regina, but more sadness than anger was to be seen in his eyes. It pained him that so young and beautiful a girl could take part in such a detestable plot.
"Mercy, your Majesty! mercy for my father confessor! He is innocent!" cried the unhappy girl.
"Will your Majesty allow me to ask a few questions in your place?" said Oxenstjerna.
"Do as you think best, minister," said the king.
"Very well. What did your reverence come here for?"
"To bring back a great sinner to the true fold," said the monk hypocritically, with his eyes turned upwards.
"Really, one must say that you are very zealous. And for such a holy purpose you carry with you the image of the crucified Saviour?"