But I implore you to remember your duty as a son and as a Christian, and not to take a step that will make your enemies exult and your friends tear their hair in sorrow!" For a moment the noble stood irresolute; but the next instant he seized Humbert's hand with a vice-like grip, and whispered in his ear, "I must see the Lady Margaret!" Without waiting for a reply, Gilbert strode forward.

Before the drawbridge was gained, Humbert had recovered himself, and was prepared to put forth all his daring and skill to extricate themselves from the consequences of this perilous adventure.
"Ho! warder!" he cried, in a confident tone, "a minnesinger--Ailred of Zurich--and his harp-bearer, wet and fasting.

Shelter in the name of God!" Down came the drawbridge, and the portcullis rose and fell, leaving them on the other side of the moat, surrounded by the men of Stramen.

They were conducted with much respect to a comfortable room in the castle, and the arrival announced to the Lord Sandrit de Stramen.

The baron, who had heard of Ailred's rising fame, was delighted with the intelligence, and invited the minstrel to his principal hall.