For this journey I will put all such thoughts aside, and will regard Thekla as my merry playfellow of the last three years.

But after I have once placed her in safety I shall thenceforward think of her as my wife who is to be, and will watch over her safety as over my greatest treasure, trusting that in some happy change of times and circumstances you yourself and the dear countess, whom I already regard almost as my parents, will give her to me." "So be it," the count said solemnly.

"My blessing on you both should I ne'er see you again.

I can meet whatever fate may be before me with constancy and comfort now that her future is assured--but here they come." The door opened, and the countess appeared, followed by Thekla, shrinking behind her mother's skirts in her boyish attire.
"You will pass well," the count said gravely, for he knew that jest now would jar upon her.

"Keep that cap well down over your eyes, and try and assume a little more of the jaunty and impudent air of a boy.
Fortunately it will be dark below, and the sentry will not be able to mark how fair is your skin and how delicate your hands.