Helga had busied herself, since our guest's departure,
in preparing small comforts for my journey; now she came to me to
say good-by. Although she tried to hide all signs of it, I
detected an uneasiness in her manner. She did not like these
errands of mine, imagining dangers and risks of which I saw no
likelihood. I would not give in to her mood, and, as I kissed
her, I bade her expect me back in a few days' time. Not even to
her did I speak of the new and more dangerous burden that I
carried, although I was aware that she enjoyed a full measure of
the queen's confidence.
"My love to King Rudolf, the real King Rudolf," said she. "Though
you carry what will make him think little of my love."
"I have no desire he should think too much of it, sweet," said I.
She caught me by the hands, and looked up in my face.
"What a friend you are, aren't you, Fritz?" said she. "You
worship Mr. Rassendyll. I know you think I should worship him
too, if he asked me. Well, I shouldn't. I am foolish enough to
have my own idol." All my modesty did not let me doubt who her
idol might be. Suddenly she drew near to me and whispered in my
ear. I think that our own happiness brought to her a sudden keen
sympathy with her mistress.
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