was well closed, and nothing made him recognizable.  Proud and yet modest he advanced to the Empress; bowed on one knee before her seat, and begged for the favor of a waltz with the Queen of the festival.  And she allowed his request.  With light and graceful steps he danced through the long saloon, with the sovereign who thought never to have found a more dexterous and excellent dancer.  But also by the grace of his manner, and fine conversation he knew to win the Queen, and she graciously accorded him a second dance for which he begged, a third, and a fourth, as well as others were not refused him.  How all regarded the happy dancer, how many envied him the high favor; how increased curiosity, who the masked knight could be.

“Also the Emperor became more and more excited with curiosity, and with great suspense one awaited the hour, when according to mask-law, each masked guest must make himself known.  This moment came, but although all other unmasked; the secret knight still refused to allow his features to be seen, till at last the Queen driven by curiosity, and vexed at the obstinate refusal; commanded him to open his Vizier.  He opened it, and none of the high ladies and knights knew him.  But from the crowded spectators, 2 officials advanced, who recognized the black dancer, and horror and terror spread in the saloon, as they said who the supposed knight was.  It was the executioner of Bergen.  But glowing with rage, the King commanded to seize the criminal and lead him to death, who had ventured to dance, with the queen; so disgraced the Empress, and insulted the crown.  The culpable threw himself at the Emperor, and said—­

“’Indeed I have heavily sinned against all noble guests assembled here, but most heavily against you my sovereign and my queen.  The Queen is insulted by my haughtiness equal to treason, but no punishment even blood, will not be able to wash out the disgrace, which you have suffered by me.  Therefore oh King! allow me to propose a remedy, to efface the shame, and to render it as if not done.  Draw your sword and knight me, then I will throw down my gauntlet, to everyone who dares to speak disrespectfully of my king.’

“The Emperor was surprised at this bold proposal, however it appeared the wisest to him; ’You are a knave he replied after a moment’s consideration, however your advice is good, and displays prudence, as your offense shows adventurous courage.  Well then, and gave him the knight-stroke so I raise you to nobility, who begged for grace for your offense now kneels before me, rise as knight; knavish you have acted, and Knave of Bergen shall you be called henceforth, and gladly the Black knight rose; three cheers were given in honor of the Emperor, and loud cries of joy testified the approbation with which the Queen danced still once with the Knave of Bergen.”

Chapter II
Heidelberg
[Landing a Monarch at Heidelberg]