When Macko heard the loud protestations and oaths of Arnold, he resolved, since nothing else could be obtained, to take what was previously offered. Turning to Wolfgang he said:
“Then, I beg one more favor—permit me to acquaint my nephew; I am sure he will see the wisdom of remaining with his wife, while I go with you. At all events, permit me to let him know that he has nothing to say against it, for it is your will.”
“Well, it is all the same to me,” replied Wolfgang. “But let us talk about the ransom which your nephew must bring for himself and you. Because all depends on that.”
“About ransom?” inquired Macko, who would have preferred to postpone that conversation to a later period. “Have we not time enough to talk about it? Where a belted knight is concerned his word is of equal val
