Suddenly a harsh sound broke the quietness of all into a
confusion of noises. Dong! Dong! - it was the great alarm-bell
from Melchior's Tower.

The Baron started at the sound. He sat for a moment or two with
his hand clinched upon the arm of his seat as though about to
rise, then he sunk back into his chair again.

All the others had risen tumultuously from the table, and now
stood looking at him, awaiting his orders.

"For my sake, Conrad," said the Baroness again.

Dong! Dong! rang the alarm-bell. The Baron sat with his eyes
bent upon the floor, scowling blackly.

The Baroness took his hand in both of hers. "For my sake," she
pleaded, and the tears filled her blue eyes as she looked up at
him, "do not go this time."

>From the courtyard without came the sound of horses' hoofs
clashing against the stone pavement, and those in the hall stood
watching and wondering at this strange delay of the Lord Baron.
Just then the door opened and one came pushing past the rest; it
was the one-eyed Hans. He came straight to where the Baron sat,
and, leaning over, whispered something into his master's ear.

"For my sake," implored the Baroness again; but the scale was
turned. The Baron pushed back his chair heavily and rose to his