lightning enveloped the group, and scathed the bleeding body of the huntsman; but Hendrick nevertheless lifted up the head, and with his companions gave three victorious shouts; he then thrust the point of his spear into the neck, and, remounting his horse, rode away from the plain with his associates, bearing before him, unconsciously, the head of his once dearest friend.
“They made their way directly to Fiendenheim, and were received joyfully by the villagers, who ran to inform Count Albert. The lord received the spoil in form, admiring its ghastly look, and directed his seneschal to make out the deed of gift, of four acres of land, to Hendrick the wolf-slayer, to him and his heirs for ever. He then bade the fortunate huntsman choose the maiden he liked best for his bride, and bring her to him on the following morning, as he intended to bestow upon her a marriage portion.
“Hendrick, notwithstanding the fatigue he had undergone since day-break, could not resist the pleasure of communicating his success to the beauty, and of claiming her promise. He therefore quitted Fiendenheim, and took the direction of the Brockencragg level, with almost as much speed as if engaged in another chase. The
