s they lowered the rope and
slid down into the yard. Quietly they undid the bolts of the gate and
issued into the lane. The mantles were provided with hoods, as few of
the lower class of Flemings wore any other head-covering.

Drawing these hoods well over their heads so as to shade their faces the
two sallied out from the lane. They were soon in one of the principal
streets, which was crowded with people. Bands of weavers, butchers,
skinners, and others were parading the streets shouting and singing in
honour of their victory and of the downfall and death of him whom they
had but a few days before regarded as the mainstay of Flanders. Many of
the better class of burghers stood in groups in the streets and talked
in low and rather frightened voices of the consequences which the deed
of blood would bring upon the city. On the one hand Edward might march
upon it with his army to avenge the murder of his ally. Upon the other
hand they were now committed to France. Their former ruler would return,
and all the imposts and burdens against which they had rebelled would
again be laid upon the city.

"What shall we do now?" Ralph asked, "for assuredly there will be no
issue by the gates."

"We must possess ourselves of a length of rope if possible, and make our
escape over the wall. How to get one I know not, for the shops are all
closed, and even were it not so I could not venture in to purchase any,
for my speech would betray us at once. Let us separate, and each see
whether he can find what we want. We will meet again at the entrance
to this church in an hour's time. One or other of us may find what we
seek."

Walter searched in vain. Wherever he saw the door of a yard open he
peered in, but in no case could he see any signs of rope. At the end of
the hour he returned to their rendezvous. Ralph was already there.

"I have found nothing, Ralph. Have you had better fortune?"

"That have I, Master Walter, and was back nigh an hour since. Scarce had
I left you when in a back street I came upon a quiet hostelry, and in
the courtyard were standing half a dozen teams of cattle. Doubtless
their owners had brought hay or corn into the city, and when the tumult
arose and the gates were closed found themselves unable to escape. The
masters were all drinking within, so without more ado I cut off the
ropes which served as traces for the oxen, and have them wound round my
body under my mantle. There must be twenty yards at least, and