For these reasons I am selecting you to do a deed of trust, one of great importance to me.

I am informed by Walther that you are from Lorraine and that your name is Castel." "Yes, Your Highness, I'm Jean Castel and I was born near Metz, a subject of His Imperial Highness, the German Emperor, the Winner of Victories." Auersperg smiled and continued to stroke his great brown beard.

The young peasant pleased him.

Though of humble station and ignorant of the higher world he was undoubtedly keen and intelligent.

He was just the man for his task, and fortune had put this useful tool in his hand.
"Go back to the stables, Castel," he said, "and make ready for the high duty to which I am going to assign you.