on account of the distance which separated
them.

The followers of Don Alonso were now reduced to a very limited number,
but he perceived on their countenances the noble expression of resigned
courage and high-minded patriotism. A sad smile of satisfaction was on
his lip, as with a firm voice, he exclaimed:--

"Christians, this standard must be planted on the highest point we can
attain." Then after a pause he added, pointing to the little plain;
"Behold your grave!---- advance boldly--there is the last stage of our
existence--and if any one returns to Granada, he may tell the queen that
Alonso de Aguilar has redeemed his pledge."

These words were electric--the countenances of his companions
brightened, and they seemed to acquire new vigour from the example of
their noble leader. They dealt their blows with increased energy, and
after a terrific struggle, they at length reached the fatal plain.
There they halted at the goal of their glorious career, and Alonso de
Aguilar planting the standard of the cross firmly on the ground, placed
himself near a rock which he caused to be surrounded by his men. There
the devoted warriors resolved to await their fate.

The Moors now rushed on them from all parts with a ferocious joy. But
many were those who fell before they could succeed in mastering the
brave and infuriated Christians. Man to man they fought, and round the
rock the gallant soldiers gradually fell. The heroism of the Spaniards
might protract, but could not avert their fall. Aguilar at length beheld
himself alone amongst a heap of his fallen men; his armour was broken in
many places, and stained with the life-blood which flowed through the
crevices; with his left hand he grasped the remains of a banner, and
supported himself against the rock, while his right still continued to
wield his ponderous sword. The numerous assailants looked with dread
and awe on the redoubtable champion, and for some time seemed to be
rivetted to the place. But a host was gathering around to rush at once
upon the formidable foe, when a giant figure made his way through the
crowd, crying aloud--

"Yield thee, Christian, for the Moors know how to respect courage like
thine."

"Yield! Never will I yield to a rebel. I am Alonso de Aguilar."

"Thanks to the prophet!" cried the Moor; "look then on thy
irreconcileable foe!--I am El Feri de Benastepar."

Aguilar saw the Moor-chief with the fortitude of a noble heart, and
rising superior to