"Before I warn the king," he said, with calm composure, "I must be
convinced of the truth of the story myself, and I acknowledge to you
that I am not convinced, cannot understand your motives for seeking
the destruction of Baron von Trenck."

"Ah! you search into our motives--you mistrust us," cried Zetto,
hastily. "Well, we will prove to you that we trust you, by telling
you our secret. You know the story of the inheritance of Trenck?"

"He is the only heir of the pandour chieftain, Franz von Trenck."

"Correct. And do you know the history of this pandour chieftain
Trenck?"

"I have heard a confused and uncertain statement, but nothing
definite or reliable."

"It is, however, a very interesting and instructive story, and shows
how far a man with a determined will and great energy can reach,
when his thoughts are directed to one end. Baron Trenck wished to be
rich, immensely rich--that was the aim of his life. Seduced by his
love of money, he became the captain of a band of robbers, then a
murderer, a church-robber; from that a brave soldier, and, at last,
a holy penitent. Robbing and plundering every-where, he succeeded in
collecting millions. The pandour chieftain Trenck soon became so
rich, that he excited the envy of the noblest and wealthiest men in
the kingdom, so rich that he was able to lend large sums of money to
the powerful and influential Baron Lowenwalde. You see, baron, it
only needs a determined will to become rich."