There was a separate entrance to the portion occupied by the count, and a sentry stood always at the door.
The day after his arrival Malcolm watched the door from a distance throughout the whole day, but none entered or came out.

The next morning he resumed his watch at a much earlier hour, and presently had the satisfaction of seeing a woman in the attire of a domestic issue from the door.

She was carrying a basket, and was evidently bent upon purchasing the supplies for the day.

He followed her to the market, and, after watching her make her purchases, he followed her until, on her return, she entered a street where but few people were about.

There he quickened his pace and overtook her.
"You are the attendant of the Countess of Mansfeld, are you not ?" he said.
"I am," she replied; "but what is that to you ?" "I will tell you presently," Malcolm replied, "but in the first place please inform me whether you are her only attendant, and in the next place how long you have been in her service.