And just as before, he got out and approached the French pickets outside the city on horseback. But once they were through to the gate he stopped and took off his hat. 'I should dearly like to pass one more evening with you, cousin,' he said to Anna. 'But I have decided that it would be better if I returned at once. I do not know what may happen in the space of the next day.' 'Oh you must,' said Anna at the coach window. 'I am sure Emilia is already anxious for you. And we will shift very well for ourselves tonight.' 'Sir,' said Maria, over Anna's shoulder. 'I shall always carry good memories of your house, and of the people in it.' He bowed. 'And I wish you good speed to Erzberg. Only be sure that you start early in the morning.' He placed his hat once more upon his head, turned his horse and rode away down the track, followed by his groom. Maria watched him go, riding with his shoulders straight and his head high, back towards the ragged pickets of his oppressors. When he was set down upon the judgement seat, his wife sent unto him, saying Have thou nothing to do with that innocent man .
