"What does he think of the count's condition?"
"He finds it more satisfactory, monseigneur."
"Does he think Count Frantz can support the fatigues of the journey without danger?"
"Major Butler, go and give the order at once to prepare one of my travelling carriages."
"This evening at six o'clock you will depart with Count Frantz. Here is the guide for your route," added the prince, handing to his aid the note he had just written.
"Major Butler, you will not wait long for the proofs of my satisfaction if you accomplish, with your usual devotion and firmness, the mission I entrust to you."
"I know it, but I also know that, once recovering from his present dejection, and being no longer restrained by his respect for me, Count Frantz will certainly try to escape from your care along the route, and to get back to Paris at any risk. If this misfortune happens, sir, take care, for all my resentment will fall on you."
"I am certain that I shall not be undeserving of the kindness of your Highness."
"I hope so. Do not forget, too, to write to me twice a day until you reach the frontier."
"Upon your arrival on the territory of the Rhine provinces, send a despatch to the military authority."
"The end of your journey reached, you will inform me, and you will receive new orders from me."
At this moment the prince, hearing a light knock at the door, said to the major:
Another aide-de-camp handed the officer a letter, and said, in a low voice:
"The envoy from Mexico has just sent this letter for his Highness."
The major presented the letter to the prince, informing him whence it came.
"I recommend to you once more the strictest vigilance, Major Butler," said the archduke, putting aside the letter from the Mexican envoy without opening it. "You will answer to me in conducting Count Frantz to the frontier."
"Go, major, I accept your word, I know its value. If you keep it, you will have only cause for congratulation. So, make your preparation to leave at six o'clock promptly. Diesbach will provide you with the money necessary for your journey."
"Say to Colonel Heidelberg that, after a few minutes, he can introduce the envoy of Mexico and the person who accompanies him."
The officer bowed profoundly, and went out.