That evening, after Hans had finished telling the girls about his
visit, their father told them the legend of Count Frederick, a brave
and daring man who once lived in Heidelberg Castle.

Count Frederick was so brave and successful that he was called
"Frederick the Victorious."

Once upon a time he was attacked by the knights and bishops of the
Rhine, who had banded together against him. When he found what great
numbers of soldiers were attacking his castle, Count Frederick was
not frightened in the least. He armed his men with sharp daggers,
and marched boldly out against his foes.

They attacked the horses first of all. The daggers made short work,
and the knights were soon brought to the ground. Their armour was so
heavy that it was an easy matter then to make them prisoners and take
them into the castle.

But Frederick treated them most kindly. He ordered a great banquet
to be prepared, and invited his prisoners to gather around the board,
where all sorts of good things were served.

One thing only was lacking. There was no bread. The guests thought
it was because the servants had forgotten it, and one of them dared
to ask for a piece. Count Frederick at once turned toward his
steward and ordered the bread to be brought. Now his master had
privately talked with the steward and had told him what words to use
at this time.

"I am very sorry," said the steward, "but there is no bread."