Even should they shut the gates, we can reduce the town, and as all the rest of Flanders is with you, surely a short delay will not matter." "You know not these Flemings as well as I do," Van Artevelde replied; "they are surly dogs, but they always listen to my voice, and are ready enough to do my bidding.

When I once speak to them you will see how they will smooth their backs and do as I ask them." Walter said no more, but as he saw everywhere lowering brows from window and doorway as they rode through the streets he had doubts whether the power of Van Artevelde's eloquence would have the magical potency he had expected from it.
When the party arrived at the splendid dwelling of the great demagogue, messengers were instantly sent out to all his friends and retainers.

A hundred and forty persons soon assembled, and while Van Artevelde was debating with them as to the best steps to be taken, Walter opened the casement and looked out into the street.

It was already crowded with the people, whose silent and quiet demeanor seemed to bode no good.

Arms were freely displayed among them, and Walter saw men passing to and fro evidently giving instructions.
"I am sorry to disturb you, Master Artevelde," he said, returning to the room where the council was being held, "but methinks that it would wise to bar the doors and windows, and to put yourself in a posture of defence, for a great crowd is gathering without, for the most part armed, and as it seems to me with evil intentions." A glance from the windows confirmed Walter's statements, and the doors and windows were speedily barricaded.