"How did you get out?" said the king.

"By the window, sire. And I flew here to throw myself at your
majesty's feet, and to beg for mercy and protection."

"I promised you protection and help in case of your detection--I
will fulfil my promise. What are your wishes. Let us see if they can
be realized."

"Will your majesty give me some sure place of refuge where Count
Puebla's threats cannot harm me?"

"You will remain here in the dwelling of the castle-warder until a
suitable residence can be found for you. What next? What plans have
you made for the future?"

"I would humbly beseech your majesty to give me some position in
your land worthy of my station, such as your highness promised me."

"You remember too many of my promises," said the king, shrugging his
shoulders.

"Your majesty will not grant me the promised position?" said Count
Weingarten, tremblingly.

"I remember no such promise," said Frederick. "Men of your stamp are
paid, but not rewarded. I have made use of your treachery; but you
are, nevertheless, in my eyes a traitor, and I will have none such
in my service."