Page:Zawis and Kunigunde (1895).djvu/184

 from the presence and lawless activity of military depredators who had established themselves in various strong places, and rendered traffic perilous, and in many directions impossible. To the suppression of this brigandage Zawis directed his energetic efforts. His first selection of an officer to suppress these disorders rested on Duke Nicolas, partly as son of the late king, partly as an experienced captain, and partly as an avowed advocate of the imperial policy.

“To you, valiant duke, the king commits the suppression of these culprits,” declared Zawis, “well knowing your soldier fidelity, and your adherence to the royal house.”

“The commission does me honor,” replied Nicolas; “but I presume the selection is made in default of a more confidential person.”

“I know of none whom I more willingly confide in,” answered Zawis. “To whom does your valor allude?”

“ProbabyProbably [sic] the malefactors’ retreat at Olmütz can answer your question,” insolently replied the duke. “The fellow attempted to play the ambassador, and earned a dungeon for his presumption. He has left his lady love to mourn by his effrontery.”

“You will proceed to execute your commission,” replied Zawis; and the king expects full obedience and prompt report of your proceedings.”

Here unexpectedly flashed the intelligence of Drda’s imprisonment. The fact had been closely concealed; and Nicolas had been the instigator. “He bears about him the tokens of his illegitimate origin,”