personage, not the solitary, abandoned one, who rode outside there on
the road, up and down, not knowing which way to turn. He would now be
prudent, he would play with men. He said he had separated from
Sonnenkamp, because the latter would not give up to him, and devote a
large sum for a pious purpose. He had the right to say this, he
thought, for he had desired that it should be done. This was what he
would now maintain; Manna's refusal was by this means put out of sight,
and his obstinate adherence to Sonnenkamp had in it a sort of religious
consecration.

The Priest reminded Pranken that to-day was the time for the church
conference, and he was expected to be there.

Pranken took leave.

Fraeulein Perini returned to the Villa, wearing a proud smile. Odd
people, these Germans! She would at any rate stay until she had got
enough for herself; she did not want to leave empty-handed.

Pranken rode off. He passed the villa which had belonged to the
Cabinetsrath. Ah! they were prudent, they had secured their part of the
booty before the decision. Why were you so simple, so considerate, and
so trustful?

He put up his horse at the station, and rode in the cars to the city
where the Bishop lived. He was expected there; but how was he to
present himself to the company? He came, luckily, just as the meeting
had broken up. He was received with marked consideration at the palace
of the Bishop; and he was glad to feel that there was still honor for
him in the world: and here he came to a hurried resolve.

Here, also, Bella's messenger overtook him.

He set out, and reached Wolfsgarten. The first person he met was the
Banker, who told him, with great emotion, that Clodwig was very ill.
Pranken looked haughtily at the man; but he had good breeding enough to
address him civilly.

He came to Bella. After she had told him of Clodwig's illness, she
lauded Pranken as the only true freeman in remaining true to
Sonnenkamp.

Pranken pressed his lips together, but made no reply. It was not the
time now to make known what had happened, and the conclusion he had
formed. And, when Bella asked him why he seemed so disturbed, he could
give no answer.

"Why were you not at the trial? Have you come from Villa Eden? How are
they there?" asked Bella.

"I don't know," Pranken finally replied.

Yes, how are they at Villa Eden!

CHAPTER XI.

SMOKE AND DESOLATION AT THE VILLA.