CHAPTER XXII.
LEAVE-TAKING.
Every one in the castle retired to rest early except Rudolf, who remained up for a long time.

The fire burnt cosily on the hearth, and there he sat before the fire till past midnight, reflecting on the past and on the future.

To speak of his thoughts would be treachery.

There are secrets which are better left at the bottom of men's hearts.
Towards midnight a great hubbub arose in the castle, and servants began rushing up and down stairs.

Rudolf, who was still half dressed, went out into the corridor, and came face to face with old Paul.
"What is the matter ?" said he.
The old servant would have spoken, but his lips were sealed; he shivered convulsively, like one who would fain cry and cannot.