company, drank.

"You did not divide the money, Greusel?"

"No, Roland. We gave each man five hundred thalers, to keep as best he
might. We then concealed the rest of the gold between the bottom of the
boat and its inner planking. Ebearhard and I construed your orders
somewhat liberally, conceiving it was your desire to get our treasure
and ourselves safely into Frankfort."

"Quite right," corroborated Roland.

"When morning came upon us, we soon discovered that the whole country
was aroused, because of the destruction of Furstenberg and the looting
of Sonneck. No one knew where the next raid would strike, and therefore
the whole country-side was in a turmoil. Now, the only fact known to the
despoiled was that a long black barge had appeared in front of the
Castle while the attack was made from behind. We realized that it would
be impossible for us to go up the river except in darkness, so in case
of a search we concealed the treasure where it was not likely to be come
at, and each day lay quiet at an unfrequented part of the river, rowing
all night. Not until we reached the Main did we venture on a daylight
voyage. It was agreed among us unanimously that the money should be
placed in Herr Goebel's keeping until you returned."

"That was all excellently done," commented Roland. "I have just been to
see Herr Goebel, and was surprised to learn how much we had actually
taken. And now I ask you to make a great sacrifice. This city is
starving. If we give that gold to its relief, the merchants of Frankfort
will contribute an equal amount. I do not know how long such a total
will keep the wolves from the doors of Frankfort; probably for six
months. I shall learn definitely to-morrow." Here Roland outlined his
plan of relief, which was received in silence.

Kurzbold spoke up.

"I should like to know how much the total is?"

"That is a matter with which you have nothing to do," growled Greusel;
then, turning to Roland, who had not yet taken a seat, he said: "So far
as my share is concerned, I agree."

"I agree," added Ebearhard; and so it went down along each side of the
table until eighteen had spoken.

Kurzbold rose with a smile on his face.

"I don't know how it is, ex-Captain, that the moment you come among us
there seems to arise a spirit of disputation."

"Curiously enough, Herr Kurzbold, that same thought arose in my mind as
I listened to your hilarity before I entered. I beg to add, for your
satisfaction