gratitude, had sunk into a slumber, he began, as well as the
darkness would allow, to bind up the wounds of his friend.
During this anxious task, while the dark boughs of the trees
murmured over their heads, and the rippling of the stream was
heard from afar, Froda, in a low voice, made known to his
brother-in-arms to the service of what lady he was bound.
Edwald listened with deep attention, but at last he said
tenderly, "Trust me, the noble Princess Aslauga will not
resent it, if you pledge yourself to this earthly beauty in
faithful love. Ah! even now doubtless you are sinning in the
dreams of Hildegardis, richly-gifted and happy knight! I will
not stand in your way with my vain wishes; I see now clearly
that she can never, never love me. Therefore I will this very
day hasten to the war which so many valiant knights of Germany
are waging in the heathen land of Prussia, and the black
cross, which distinguishes them for warriors of the Church, I
will lay as the best balm on my throbbing heart. Take, then,
dear Froda, that fair hand which you have won in battle, and
live henceforth a life of surpassing happiness and joy."

"Edwald," said Froda, gravely, "this is the first time that I
ever heard one word from your lips which a true knight could
not fulfil. Do as it pleases you towards the fair and haughty
Hildegardis, but Aslauga remains my mistress ever, and no
other do I desire in life or death." The youth was startled
by these stern words, and made no reply. Both, without saying
more to each other, watched through the night in solemn
thought.

The next morning, when the rising sun shone brightly over the