It will
not appear extraordinary, therefore, that the cavaliers were
attacked by a gang of these stragglers, in the midst of the
forest. They defended themselves with bravery, but were nearly
overpowered when the count's retinue arrived to their assistance.
At sight of them the robbers fled, but not until the count had
received a mortal wound. He was slowly and carefully conveyed
back to the city of Wurtzburg, and a friar summoned from a
neighboring convent who was famous for his skill in administering
to both soul and body; but half of his skill was superfluous; the
moments of the unfortunate count were numbered.
With his dying breath he entreated his friend to repair instantly
to the castle of Landshort and explain the fatal cause of his not
keeping his appointment with his bride. Though not the most
ardent of lovers, he was one of the most punctilious of men, and
appeared earnestly solicitous that his mission should be speedily
and courteously executed. "Unless this is done," said he, "I
shall not sleep quietly in my grave." He repeated these last
words with peculiar solemnity. A request at a moment so
impressive admitted no hesitation. Starkenfaust endeavored to
soothe him to calmness, promised faithfully to execute his wish,
and gave him his hand in solemn pledge.
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