large pieces, each bearing the name of Otakar, were offered by one and another for each rich prize as soon as a possessor had violently asserted his right of seizure. Garments of fur covered the persons of burly robbers, and pelisses of white and scarlet silk adorned the figures of abandoned and unkempt women.
While this scene was being watched by the amazed strangers, another body of plunderers reached the camp by the road that led towards the March. They brought with them several wagon loads of household and wardrobe stuff, and sacks of meal, with meat and cheese and wine. The plunder was evidently only beginning, and much more might be expected. With special glee the new-comers exhibited several chalices of silver, patens of the same material, and lamps and ecclesiastical vestments. In gratification seemingly of especial hatred, the chalices were flung on the ground and stamped on. As this procedure was slow and ineffectual, the vessels were set wherever a projecting rock was found and pounded with stone until all shape had as nearly as possible disappeared. A coat of mail formed of rings and with a Greek cross worked of steel plates on the breast was adopted by a lusty ruffan, who donned the manly garment to exhibit it in mockery to the crowd. At length the wine was distributed, and a scene of ghastly hilarity soon ensued. Through want of vessels the ruffans employed their united hands held to their mouths at the wrists, and had the costly beverage poured thus into their throats. Rough familiar-
