Page:Sienkiewicz - The knights of the cross.djvu/481

Rh "For what purpose?"

Matsko's face took on a cunning expression immediately, and looked like the face of an old fox.

"For this purpose, that he should give me a letter of such kind that I may travel safely through the country of the Order, and, in case of need, rescue Zbyshko."

"Is that worthy of knightly honor? asked the princess, with a smile.

"It is," answered Matsko in tones of decision. "Were I, for example, to fall on him from behind, without calling on the man to turn, I should disgrace myself; but to trick an enemy in time of peace by quick wit is no disgrace to any one."

"Then I will make you acquainted," said the princess.

So she beckoned to Lichtenstein, and presented Matsko; thinking that even were Lichtenstein to recognize him, no great harm would come of that.

But Lichtenstein did not recognize Matsko, for really he had seen him in a helmet on the Tynets road, and afterward had spoken with him only once, and that in the evening when Matsko came to him to beg pardon for Zbyshko's offence.

Still he bowed rather haughtily; but when he saw behind the knight two splendid, richly dressed attendants, he thought that no ordinary noble could have such, and his face brightened somewhat, though he did not cease to curve his lips haughtily, as he did always when not dealing with ruling persons.

"This knight is going to Malborg," said the princess. "I myself will recommend him to the favor of the Grand Master; but he, hearing of the authority which you enjoy in the Order, would like to have a letter from you also."

Then she turned to the bishop. Lichtenstein fixed his cold, steel eyes on Matsko and asked,—

"What motive inclines you, sir, to visit our pious and modest capital?"

"A pious and an honest motive," answered Matsko, raising his glance; "were it otherwise, the gracious lady would not have vouched for me. But, in addition to sacred vows, I should like also to become acquainted with your Grand Master, who makes peace on earth, and is most renowned in the world of knighthood."

"He for whom the gracious princess, your lady and benefactress, gives guarantee will not complain of our modest entertainment; but as to the Master, it will be difficult to