I only give you instructions in case of the worst.

It troubles me terribly that I am forced to do anything which may possibly deprive you of my protection, but my duty to the country I serve compels me to take this step, which is one of supreme importance to our cause." It was long before Thekla was pacified, and Malcolm himself was deeply troubled at the thought that the girl might be left alone and unprotected in a strange place.

Still there appeared every probability that she would be able to remain there in safety until an opportunity should occur for her to make her way to Nuremberg.

It was with a heavy heart, caused far more by the thought of Thekla's position than of danger to himself, that he took his way to the castle; but he felt that his duty was imperative, and was at heart convinced that Wallenstein would eagerly embrace his offer.
It was not until midday that he was able to see the duke.

Wallenstein had been greatly angered as well as alarmed at the resistance which his scheme had met with on the previous evening.