face, the dwelling-place of all that was grand and worthy and
terrible. The two captains bowed low and dropped their weapons.

"I ought to know you," continued Alba, looking at them with his
sparkling eyes. "Yes, truly, I know you well, you are the two young
heroes at the battle of Tunis. God be praised that two such brave
warriors, whom I had given up for lost, are still alive; but tell me,
what is this affair of honor that has turned your good swords against
each other? For I hope you will not hesitate to declare to me the
cause of your knightly contest."

They complied with the great duke's behest. Both the noble youths
related the whole circumstances, from the evening previous to their
embarkation up to the present moment, while Alba remained between
them, in silent thought, almost motionless, like some equestrian
statue.




CHAPTER XIX.



The Captains had already long finished their story, and the duke
still remained silent and motionless, in deep reflection. At last he
began to speak, and addressed them as follows:

"May God and his holy word help me, my young knights, when I say that
I consider, after my best and most conscientious belief, that this