Jerome, amazed to hear himself in a manner accused by his son, and
without foundation, knew not what to think. He could not
comprehend how Theodore had escaped, how he came to be armed, and
to encounter Frederic. Still he would not venture to ask any
questions that might tend to inflame Manfred's wrath against his
son. Jerome's silence convinced Manfred that he had contrived
Theodore's release.

"And is it thus, thou ungrateful old man," said the Prince,
addressing himself to the Friar, "that thou repayest mine and
Hippolita's bounties? And not content with traversing my heart's
nearest wishes, thou armest thy bastard, and bringest him into my
own castle to insult me!"

"My Lord," said Theodore, "you wrong my father: neither he nor I
are capable of harbouring a thought against your peace. Is it
insolence thus to surrender myself to your Highness's pleasure?"
added he, laying his sword respectfully at Manfred's feet. "Behold
my bosom; strike, my Lord, if you suspect that a disloyal thought
is lodged there. There is not a sentiment engraven on my heart
that does not venerate you and yours."

The grace and fervour with which Theodore uttered these words
interested every person present in his favour. Even Manfred was
touched--yet still possessed with his resemblance to Alfonso, his
admiration was dashed with secret horror.

"Rise," said he; "thy life is not my present purpose. But tell me
thy history, and how thou camest connected with this old traitor