"I crossed with the parties who fetched the boats; but as my instructions ended there I had nought to do, and finding that Ramsay's men were about to march up to the attack of the castle, I thought it best to join them, being somewhat afraid to stop in the town alone." "And he did valiant service, sire," the major said.

"I marked him in the thick of the fight, and saw more than one Imperialist go down before his sword." "You know the story of the pitcher and the well, Captain Graheme," the king said, smiling.

"Some day you will go once too often, and I shall have to mourn the loss of one of the bravest young officers in my army." There was no rest for the soldiers of Gustavus, and no sooner had Oppenheim fallen than the army marched against Maintz.

This was defended by two thousand Spanish troops under Don Philip de Sylvia, and was a place of immense strength.

It was at once invested, and trenches commenced on all sides, the Green Brigade as usual having the post of danger and honour facing the citadel.