Such was the state to which a year of wicked rule had reduced the moral condition of the court, that in it all he found but three with human hands.

The possessors of these he allowed to dress themselves and depart in peace.

When they perceived his mission, and how he was backed, they yielded.
Then commenced a general hunt, to clear the house of the vermin.

Out of their beds in their night clothing, out of their rooms, gorgeous chambers or garret nooks, the creatures hunted them.

Not one was allowed to escape.