errupted Lichtenstein;
"you must not remain on this spot, my Lord, your life is in danger; go
back, go back; send us your orders from yonder tree, (pointing to one
at a distance,) where you will be in safety; this position belongs to
us alone."

The Duke turned to him, and answered, with an air of proud dignity,
"Where did you ever hear that a Wuertemberger retreated when the enemy
had sounded the attack? My ancestors never knew what fear was, and
their posterity shall also, like them, never betray the motto,
'Fearless and true!' Observe how the brow of the mountain becomes
darker and darker with their numerous bodies of men. Do you see that
white cloud on yonder hill, tortoise? do you hear it crack? that's the
thunder of artillery, that pours into our ranks. If you have a clear
conscience at this moment, make up your accounts with this world; for
no one would give a penny for your life."

"Let us say a prayer," said Maxx von Schweinsberg, "and then at them,
in God's name."

The Duke piously raised his hands and eyes towards heaven, and his
companions following his example, they said their prayers, imploring
the aid of the Almighty in the justice of their cause. This was the
general custom of the good old times, before the battle commenced. The
thunder of the enemy's artillery contrasted terribly with the deep
silence which reigned about this group, now engaged in soliciting God's
protection. Each appeared deeply impressed with the solemnity of the
few moments which were perhaps left to them in this world, except the
chancellor Ambrosius Bolland, who clasped his hands, whilst his eyes
were not directed in faith to heaven, but wandered to the enemy's
heights. His trembling body, as he observed the fire and smoke of each
gun from the League, proved that his soul was not leaning upon Him who
makes his sun to shine upon the good and upon the evil.

When Ulerich von Wuertemberg and those around him had finished their
solemn duty, he drew his sword, which was immediately followed by the
rest, and in a moment a thousand blades glittered in the sun. "The
lansquenet are already engaged," said he, casting his eagle eye rapidly
down the valley. He now issued his orders with a cool determined voice,
and, addressing George von Hewen, directed him to support them with a
thousand infantry. Turning then to Schweinsberg, he said, "Take eight
hundred men to the skirt of the wood, and remain there till further
directions. Reinhart vo