I know more than I say, and Satan Laczi is not
the greatest robber in the world. Be on your guard!"
"I thank you."
"Does the Herr Count still believe that it was I and my comrades who
broke into the manor?"
"No; I am convinced that it was not you."
"Then my mission here is accomplished--"
"Not yet," interposed the count, stepping to a cupboard, and taking from
it a straw-covered bottle and a goblet. "Here,"--filling the goblet and
handing it to the robber,--"he who comes to my house as a guest must not
quit it without a parting glass."
"A strange guest, indeed!" responded the robber, taking the proffered
glass. "I came without knocking for admittance. But I performed a
masterpiece to-day; the Herr Count will find it out soon enough! I do
not drink to your welfare Herr Count, for my good wishes don't go for
much in heaven!"
The count seated himself at the table, and said: "Don't go just yet, my
friend; I want to give you a few words of advice. I believe you are a
good man at heart. Quit your present mode of life, which will ultimately
lead you--"
"Yes, I know--to the gallows and to hell," interposed the robber.
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