I know not why I send to you, nor does the count know that I am writing, nor does it seem possible that any aid can come to us, seeing that we are here in the heart of Bohemia, and that Wallenstein's army lies between us and you.

But somehow in my heart I have a hope that you may aid us, and at any rate I know that you will sympathize with us greatly.

I feel sure that if there be any mode in which we may be aided it will be seized by your ready wit.

And now adieu! This letter will be brought to you by a messenger who will be hired by a woman who attends us, and who has a kind heart as well as an eye to her own interests.

Send back by the messenger some token which she may pass on to me, that I may know that you have received it.