I meant my peril only: you've a roof,
And I have none; I merely seek a covert.

_Wer._ Rightly; for how should such a wretch as I
Have gold?

_Gab._ Scarce honestly, to say the truth on't, 60
Although I almost wish you had the Baron's.

_Wer._ Dare you insinuate?

_Gab._ What?

_Wer._ Are you aware
To whom you speak?

_Gab._ No; and I am not used
Greatly to care. (_A noise heard without_.) But hark! they come!

_Wer._ Who come?

_Gab._ The Intendant and his man-hounds after me:
I'd face them--but it were in vain to expect
Justice at hands like theirs. Where shall I go?
But show me any place. I do assure you,
If there be faith in man, I am most guiltless:
Think if it were your own case!

_Wer._ (_aside_). Oh, just God! 70
Thy hell is not hereafter! Am I dust still?

_Gab._ I see you're moved; and it shows well in you:
I may live to requite it.

_Wer._ Are you not
A spy of Stralenheim's?

_Gab._ Not I! and if
I were, what is there to espy in you?
Although, I recollect, his frequent question
About you and your spouse might lead to some
Suspicion; but you best know--what--and why.
I am his deadliest foe.

_Wer._ _You?_

_Gab._ After such
A treatment for the service which in part 80
I rendered him, I am his enemy:
If you are not his friend you will assist me.

_Wer._ I will.

_Gab._ But how?

_Wer._ (_showing the panel_). There is a secret spring:
Remember, I discovered it by chance,
And used it but for safety.

_Gab._ Open it,
And I will use it for the same.

_Wer._ I found it,
As I have said: it leads through winding walls,
(So thick as to bear paths within their ribs,
Yet lose no jot of strength or stateliness,)
And hollow cells, and obscure niches, to 90
I know not whither; you must not advance:
Give me your word.

_Gab._ It is unecessary:
How should I make my way in darkness through
A Gothic labyrinth of unknown windings?