Here they remained quiet until the whole band were gathered there, and then made their way along until they reached the stairs leading to the courtyard.

These they descended, and then, raising his war-cry, Sir Adelbert sprang upon the men who, round a fire, were sitting by the gate.

These were cut down before they could leap to their feet, and the party then rushed at the entrance to the dwelling-house.

The retainers of the castle, aroused by the sudden din, rushed from their sleeping places, but taken completely by surprise, were unable to offer any resistance whatever to the strong force which had, as if by magic, taken possession of the castle.

The surprise was complete, and with scarce a blow struck they found themselves in possession.