't cry out, nor would
it do me much good. When they let me loose again, there was nothing to
be seen. Even the limper, in spite of all my search, had got off and
was not to be found. When I came nearer the houses I awoke every body
with my shouts, telling them to go and watch the warehouse, and scour
after the rogues."

"And I," cried Conrad, "have lugged the commander in chief of the
cutpurses by the throat, that sapient soothsayer that was playing off
his pranks with his match the other day at your forge."

Then they all set off again telling their stories, shouting and
screaming, just as noisily as before. Edward however gave orders what
all were to do; the stranger was to be watcht, the stolen goods to be
taken into the house, and everybody was to be quiet, not to disturb
their old master's rest, should he be still asleep. He himself
hastened with a few others to the warehouse, to arrange matters there,
and, if possible, to find out more about the thieves.

* * * * *

Edward found marks of blood in the warehouse and on the ground
without, and he and his companions followed them. Anon they lost sight
of them, then discovered them again in a thicket on one side, and a
little after in one of the bypaths. Edward walkt on with anxious
feelings; a boding prest upon his heart; he was unwilling to confess
his misgivings even to himself. Ere long however they turned to
certainty; for the traces led to the house of Eleazar, which lay on a
green slope. When they got up to it they found all the neighbours
already in motion; people were coming from the town; the priest of the
parish was just passing through the door. Within everything was in
confusion, and a physician and surgeon were busy upstairs.

Edward left his companions without, and with a beating heart opened
the chamber door. Eleazar was lying pale and with ghastly features in
his bed. His wound had just been examined, and a bandage placed on it.
Everybody in the room, the physician, surgeon, priest, and servants
lookt frightened and distrest; for there was something in this
accident so mysterious and terrible that no one could help being
struck with awe by it.

The surgeon, whom Edward took aside, shook his head, and assured him
that all assistance was in vain; the patient would hardly live through
the day. Eleazar now raised himself out of his stupour, lookt round,
and perceived Edward. "Aha!" he cried with a strained and faint vo