The signal that it gave was understood at once by the group of jesters still surrounding the young Goth.

They turned, and retired without an instant's delay.

The last of their number had scarcely disappeared, when the same veteran who had spoken with Hermanric, on the departure of Goisvintha the evening before, entered and thus addressed him:-- 'You are commanded to post yourself with the division that now awaits you, at a place eastward of your present position, which will be shown you by a guide.

Make ready at once--you have not an instant to delay.' As the words passed the old man's lips, Hermanric turned and looked on Goisvintha.

During the presence of the Goths in the tent, she had sat listening to their rough jeers in suppressed wrath and speechless disdain; now she rose and advanced a few steps.