Both the Saxon chiefs were made prisoners at the same moment, and each

under circumstances expressive of his character. Cedric, the instant

that an enemy appeared, launched at him his remaining javelin, which,

taking better effect than that which he had hurled at Fangs, nailed the

man against an oak-tree that happened to be close behind him. Thus far

successful, Cedric spurred his horse against a second, drawing his sword

at the same time, and striking with such inconsiderate fury, that

his weapon encountered a thick branch which hung over him, and he

was disarmed by the violence of his own blow. He was instantly made

prisoner, and pulled from his horse by two or three of the banditti who

crowded around him. Athelstane shared his captivity, his bridle having

been seized, and he himself forcibly dismounted, long before he could

draw his weapon, or assume any posture of effectual defence.

The attendants, embarrassed with baggage, surprised and terrified at the

fate of their masters, fell an easy prey to the assailants; while

the Lady Rowena, in the centre of the cavalcade, and the Jew and his

daughter in the rear, experienced the same misfortune.

Of all the train none escaped except Wamba, who showed upon the

occasion much more courage than those who pretended to greater sense. He

possessed himself of a sword belonging to one of the domestics, who was

just drawing it with a tardy and irresolute hand, laid it about him like

a lion, drove back several who approached him, and made a brave though

ineffectual attempt to succour his master. Finding himself overpowered,

the Jester at length threw himself from his horse, plunged into the

thicket, and, favoured by the general confusion, escaped from the scene

of action. Yet the valiant Jester, as soon as he found himself safe,

hesitated more than once whether he should not turn back and share the

captivity of a master to whom he was sincerely attached.

"I have heard men talk of the blessings of freedom," he said to himself,

"but I wish any wise man would teach me what use to make of it now that

I have it."

As he pronounced these words aloud, a voice very near him called out in

a low and cautious tone, "Wamba!" and, at the same time, a dog, which he

recognised to be Fangs, jumped up and fawned upon him. "Gurth!" answered

Wamba, with the same caution, and the swineherd immediately stood before

him.

"What is the matter?" said he eagerly; "what mean these cries, and that

clashing of swords?"




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