Quickly the tormenting spirits withdrew themselves; yet not so far but that they could still hear the whistle and observe what would take place.
The watchmen now came up.
"The deuce! where art thou ?" cried they, and then discovered the place.
"Ah, God help me!" cried the prisoner.

"Let me out, let me out! I must call!" "Thou hast drunk more than thy thirst required, comrade!" said the others.

"If thou hast fallen into the chest, remain lying there, thou swine!" And laughing they left him.
"O, the rascals!" sighed he, and worked in vain at opening the lid.
Through all his powerful exertions the box fell over.

The young men now stepped forth, and, as though they were highly astonished at the whole history which he related to them, they let themselves be prevailed upon to open the box, but only upon condition that he should keep street free from the interference of the other watchmen whilst they danced a Francaise to Wilhelm's violin.
The poor man was delivered from his captivity, and must obligingly play the sentinel whilst they arranged them for the dance.

Wilhelm was called upon to play, and the dance commenced; a partner, however, was wanting.
Just then a quiet citizen passed by.