And now farewell, my child. Let us not stand talking, for
the quicker a parting is over the better. May God in heaven bless
you and keep you! Malcolm knows all my wishes concerning you, and
when I am not with you trust yourself to his advice and guidance as
you would to mine. There, my darling, do not break down. You must
be brave for all our sakes. Should the emperor hold me in durance
your mother will try and join you ere long at Nuremberg."
While the count was embracing Thekla, as she bravely but in vain
tried to suppress her tears, the countess opened the door, and glanced
into the anteroom to see that all was clear and the attendant in
her own apartment. Then she returned, kissed her daughter fondly,
and placed her hand in Malcolm's, saying to the latter, "God bless
you, dear friend! Take her quickly away for her sake and ours."
One last adieu and Malcolm and Thekla stood alone in the anteroom.
"Now, Thekla," he said firmly, "be brave, the danger is at hand,
and your safety and escape from your fate, and my life, depend upon
your calmness. Do you carry this basket of tools and play your part
as my apprentice. Just as we open the door drop the basket and I
will rate you soundly for your carelessness. Keep your head down,
and do not let the light which swings over the door fall upon your
face.''
For a minute or two Thekla stood struggling to master her emotions.
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