e is no
danger whatever of their going off by themselves," said the officer,
trying to reassure him.

But Brother Martin only grew paler than before. "Herr Officer, I must
humbly beg that the guns be removed."

"With pleasure," replied Alexander, "if you will show me a room in
which my men may carry them and keep them dry."

Brother Martin hastened with alacrity into the house, and opened a room
in the basement. The murderous weapons were carried in by the
soldiers, the door was shut, and, to the great relief of the poor
elder, the key turned and put away safely in the officer's pocket.

Meanwhile, Hansen had not been able to repress his ridiculing remarks.
"It is enough to turn an honest soldier's heart around in his body to
listen to such stuff," he said. "Guns! As if we would carry anything
else! The man must be a fool."

Alexander divided his men into squads, to occupy the apartments where
they were to be accommodated with pallets of straw.

One of the married brothers now came up and addressed the captain.
"Herr Officer," he said modestly, "I have room in my house for a few
men. Will you allow me to accommodate four or six? I promise to give
them the very best that my poor house affords."

"With many thanks, kind sir," was the reply. "Please select from among
them those you would like to have; the poor drenched creatures will be
only too glad of your hospitality."

The man chose the first six which came to hand, and carried them off
with him. The ice being thus broken, one brother after another offered
to take in some of them, and pretty soon everything was satisfactorily
arranged. Another Brother begged to have the officers for his guests,
and with hearty hospitality withdrew to prepare the best of everything
the simple larder afforded for the entertainment of the strangers.

Clean white linen was spread over the table and refreshments of every
kind were brought out. Pretty soon the provision-wagon arrived. Meat
and vegetables were unpacked, and preparations were made to prepare the
evening meal. The pioneers commenced to take up the paving-stones in
the yard, in order to make a deep hollow in which to light the fire;
but Brother Martin rushed out perfectly horrified.

"Herr Captain, you surely will not allow your good people to kindle a
fire here in the yard? I beg that you will forbid it; there is no
knowing what mischief might result from it; and besides, it will ruin
the yard."

"But