ched the fields beyond the wood, the dawn of morning
tinged the horizon; and having gained a better road, they rode on at a
brisk pace, and soon got a sight of the glimmering of the Neckar, not
far from the high vaulted bridge which they were to pass. At this
moment Albert, happening to look round, perceived a considerable number
of horsemen coming towards them. He immediately made it known to his
companions, who, counting above twenty-five horses, felt assured they
could be no other than a party of cavalry of the League; the Duke's men
having been dispersed, it was not likely any stragglers were in this
neighbourhood.

These men, however, appeared not to remark the Duke's small retinue. To
gain the bridge with the least possible delay, before they were hailed
and questioned by this party, was of the utmost importance. The fifer
of Hardt hastened on before, the Duke and his faithful knights followed
in full trot, and as they increased their distance from the Leaguists,
each felt lighter at heart, for they all were less anxious about their
own lives than to secure the escape of Ulerich.

Having reached the bridge, and arrived on the middle of it, which was
highly arched, twelve men sprang forward from behind the walls, armed
with spears, swords, and guns, arresting the Duke's further progress.
Perceiving he was discovered, he made a sign to his followers to
retreat. Lichtenstein and Schweinsberg, being the two last, turned
their horses, to retrace their steps, but to their dismay found
themselves hemmed in by the cavalry they had first seen, who had
galloped up in their rear, and at this instant occupied the entrance to
the bridge.

It was still too dark to be able to distinguish the enemy with
precision, who were, however, not backward in making themselves known.
"Surrender yourself, Duke of Wuertemberg," cried a voice, which appeared
familiar to the knights; "you have no chance of escape."

"Who are you, to whom Wuertemberg should surrender?" answered the Duke,
with a furious voice, whilst he drew his sword; "you are no knight, for
you don't sit on horseback."

"I am Doctor Calmus," replied the other, "and am ready to return the
many kind acts I have received from you. I am a knight, for you
yourself created me a donkey knight, and in return I will now dub you
the knight without horse. Dismount, I say, in the name of the most
illustrious League."

"Give me room, Hans," whispered the Duke, with a suppressed voice