He skipped up at the first assault, and wisely cut the rope ladder behind him, so that no man could pursue him.

But tell me, how do you fare ?" "I am less hurt than you," said I.

"Only my arm is numbed by the whack the English knave gave me; while you, Ludar, are bleeding, head and foot." "I was scratched," said he.

"The villains who set on me were too quick, as you saw, and had me down before I could shut my fist.

Why they did not despatch me then and there I know not; but in seizing me they carried their blades in their teeth, the better to use their hands, so that I was able to snatch one for my own use as I fell.