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 Lord Boppo were here.” Then addressing Pietro, he said: “I must exact a serious service. I must commission you to Hungary if possible to discover Lord Boppo and release him.” “I feel honored by the commission,” replied Pietro, “and as my solemn principle excludes oaths at all times, so I believe it renders asseverations of fidelity unnecessary.”

“Be prepared,” said Zawis; “I may need your courage and prudence on more momentous embassies afterwards.”

Being warden of the fortress, Lord Witek kept close watch during the following night. When all was dark and still he observed approaching him on the rampart, or rather a portion of wall connecting two of the towers, which, with other works built square, formed the fence without an outer encircling line, three dark figures. Instantly giving the challenge, one figure advanced and said: “By virtue of my commission I have the right to inspect all castles within my jurisdiction at any hour.” “By whose commission?” sharply returned Lord Witek. “By commission of my Lord Bruno of Olmütz, countersigned by his majesty the emperor, now Lord of Bohemia,” retorted Brother Primus. “I recognize no such commission,” fiercely answered Lord Witek. “Ho, guard!” Speedily six stout fellows sprang forward from the adjoining towers.

“Conduct these men to their apartments instantly,” ordered the warden; “and permit no further dark inspection of these ramparts; especially,” he added pointedly, “on this side, where an enemy, if any there