Presently he rode toward me, keeping his distance however. He lifted up his hand, saying:
"What did you in the castle?"
"I killed three of your friends," said I.
"What! You got to the cells?"
"Yes."
"And the king?"
"He was hurt by Detchard before I killed Detchard, but I pray that he lives."
"You fool!" said Rupert pleasantly.
"One thing more I did."
"And what's that?"
"I spared your life. I was behind you on the bridge, with a revolver in my hand."
"No? Faith, I was between two fires!"
"Get off your horse," I cried, "and fight like a man."
"Before a lady!" said he, pointing to the girl. "Fie, your Majesty!"
Then in my rage, hardly knowing what I did, I rushed at him. For a moment he seemed to waver. Then he reined his horse in and stood waiting for me. On I went in my folly. I seized
