On nearing the town all were directed to dismount, to tear up the horse-cloths, and to muffle the feet of their horses.

Then the journey was resumed, and so careless was the watch kept by the French that they passed through the sentries unobserved, and reached in safety the gate from which they had issued.

As they neared it they were challenged from the walls, and a shout of joy was heard when Walter replied that the countess herself was present.

The gates were opened and the party entered.

The news of their return rapidly ran through the town, and the inhabitants, hastily attiring themselves, ran into the streets, filled with joy.