When we get near the suburbs we will seize some countryman, and force him to point out to us the houses of the principal councillors and the members of their parliament.

These we will pounce upon and carry off, and at daybreak will appear with them before the walls.
We will make one of them signify, to their friends, that if any armed party sallies out through the gates, or approaches us from behind, it will be the signal for the instant death of all of our captives.
"Now let us be off, at once." The party mounted without delay, and rode towards Toulouse.

This rich and powerful city was surrounded by handsome villas and chateaux, the abode of wealthy citizens and persons of distinction.
At the first house at which they stopped, Philip, with Pierre and two of the men-at-arms, dismounted and entered.

It was the abode of a small farmer, who cultivated vegetables for the use of the townsfolk.

He had retired to bed with his family, but upon being summoned came downstairs trembling, fearing that his late visitors were bandits.
"No harm will be done to you, if you obey our orders," Philip said; "but if not, we shall make short work of you.