But hark! ere the fateful vows are spoken there is a clatter of galloping hoofs, a manly form rushes in, hurls the groom insensible to the ground, snatches away the bride and before any can interfere, is off on a coal-black steed, his bride before him.

Let him follow who dares! The boy had a voice of remarkable range and clearness, and he rendered the song with a verve and dramatic force remarkable in one of his age.

The song was received with wild cheers and loud demands for more.

The boy was about to refuse, when through the crowding faces, all aglow with enthusiastic delight, he saw the scowling face of Rosenblatt.

A fierce rage seized him.