e Imperialists, and
that Saxe-Lauenburg is a prisoner. Bid him march on this place with his
force, take it by assault, and leave not one of the assassins of my lord
living within its walls."

"You will run no risk, I hope, for your share in this adventure,"
Malcolm said.

"It matters little to me," the old man replied. "My life is worthless,
and I would gladly die in the thought that I have brought retribution on
the head of the murderers of my master. But they will not suspect me. I
shall lock the door behind us, and place the key again in the girdle of
the drunken guard, and then return to my own chamber."

Quietly Malcolm and his conductor made their way through the castle and
out into the courtyard. Then they entered the stables.

"This is the horse," the steward said, again uncovering his lantern. "Is
he not a splendid animal? He was my master's favourite, and sooner than
that his murderers should ride him I would cut the throat of the noble
beast with my dagger; but he has a better mission in carrying the
avenger of his master's blood. And now farewell. The rest is in your
own hands. May Heaven give you good fortune." So saying, the old man set
down his lantern and left Malcolm alone.

The latter, after examining the saddle and bridle, and seeing that every
buckle was firm and in its place, extinguished the light, and waited
patiently for morning. In two hours a faint light began to show itself.
Stronger and stronger it grew until it was broad day. Still there were
but few sounds of life and movement in the castle. Presently, however,
the noise of footsteps and voices was heard in the courtyard.

Although apprehensive that at any moment the stable door might open,
Malcolm still delayed his start, as it would be fatal were he to set out
before the opening of the gates. At last he felt sure that they must
be opened to admit the country people coming in with supplies for the
market. He had donned his helmet before leaving his cell, and he now
quietly opened the stable door, sprang into the saddle, and rode boldly
out.

Several soldiers were loitering about the courtyard. Some were washing
at the trough and bathing their heads beneath the fountain to get rid
of the fumes of the wine they had indulged in overnight. Others were
cleaning their arms.

The sudden appearance of a mounted officer armed from head to foot
caused a general pause in their occupation, although none had any
suspicion that the splendidly