Should the emperor hold me in durance your mother will try and join you ere long at Nuremberg." While the count was embracing Thekla, as she bravely but in vain tried to suppress her tears, the countess opened the door, and glanced into the anteroom to see that all was clear and the attendant in her own apartment.

Then she returned, kissed her daughter fondly, and placed her hand in Malcolm's, saying to the latter, "God bless you, dear friend! Take her quickly away for her sake and ours." One last adieu and Malcolm and Thekla stood alone in the anteroom.
"Now, Thekla," he said firmly, "be brave, the danger is at hand, and your safety and escape from your fate, and my life, depend upon your calmness.

Do you carry this basket of tools and play your part as my apprentice.

Just as we open the door drop the basket and I will rate you soundly for your carelessness.

Keep your head down, and do not let the light which swings over the door fall upon your face." For a minute or two Thekla stood struggling to master her emotions.