Gilbert stood behind him, with his back to the baron and his face to the Lady Margaret.

Humbert, emboldened by his reception, and perhaps inspirited by the wine, sounded the chords with admirable effect; and when the expectation of the audience was at the highest, he introduced a beautiful ballad, and raising his voice, sang the praises of Rodolph of Suabia.

The baron and all his followers were listening intently to the minstrel, as, with a heaving breast and flashing eye, he recited the glory of Suabia and of her majestic duke.

Even Father Omehr was carried away by the excited Humbert.

But Gilbert's eyes and soul were riveted upon the Lady Margaret.