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THE COUNCIL BANQUET
55

Close by, another officer still grasped the oak pole that bore on a cross bar the imperial eagle. Beside him stood a handsome youth with features resembling those of the chief personage, and he still guarded the banner of the cross which had marked the position of the commander-in-chief during the day. At a short distance and towards the rear, surrounded by a group evidently of another nationality, stood a stalwart person, clad in Bohemian garb, and even still bearing, through forgetfulness, the white and red sash of that nationality. He seemed to be a prisoner, but treated with consideration as a person to be reserved, but not openly avowed. On approaching this group, Solomon and his friends were met by Don Abraham. “I have sent for you,” said the officer, “because we fear that the emperor is injured, although he will not acknowledge it. He was desperately assailed and unhorsed during the fight, and almost trampled to death. He protected his face with his shield. His horse was killed and his danger seemed extreme, until a fresh horse was supplied. Your first duty will be to prescribe for the emperor, if you find any injuries have been sustained.” At this point the emperor’s eye fell on the approaching strangers and was at once fixed on the old man. The two looked at each other, but not in enmity. Don Abraham interposed. “The most renowned physician and master of the medical art in your highness’ dominions is fortunately present, and is prepared to relieve us of our anxieties if you will permit his services,” he said.