Of course, the strength of my
position is that I have but carried out the formal request of their
three Lordships; a request which has never been rescinded."
Before she could reply the hour of twelve rang forth. The deferential
Herr Durnberg entered from the Wahlzimmer, and softly approached them.
"Your Highness," he said, "my Lords, the Electors, request your presence
in the Wahlzimmer."
"How many are there, Romer-meister?"
"There are four, your Highness; the three Archbishops and the Count
Palatine."
"Ah," breathed Roland, relieved that Mayence had not called up his
reserve, and assured now that the seventh Elector had not arrived. With
a glance of encouragement at his wife, Roland passed into the presence.
Herr Durnberg, anxious about the outcome, showed an inclination to close
the door and remain inside, but a very definite gesture from Mayence
wafted the good man to outer regions.
Mayence opened the proceedings.
"Yesterday I received a communication from your Highness, requesting me
to convene this Court.
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