Secret and inclosed, with blooming shrubs planted around, with not a sound to be heard of the merry company, nor of the animated streets of the city, with the full moon shining overhead and brightening the solemn circle with its clear brilliancy--such was the spot.

The two captains unsheathed their gleaming swords and stood opposite each other, ready for the encounter.

But before they began the combat a nobler feeling drew them to each other's arms; they lowered their weapons and embraced in the most fraternal manner.

They then tore themselves away and the fearful contest began.
They were now no longer brothers-in-arms, no longer friends, no longer brothers-in-law, who directed their sharp steels against each other.
With the most resolute boldness, but with the coolest collectedness, each fell upon his adversary, guarding his own breast at the same time.
After a few hot and dangerous passes the combatants were obliged to rest, and during the pause they regarded each other with increased love, each rejoicing to find his comrade so valiant and so honorable.

And then the fatal strife began anew.
With his left hand Heimbert dashed aside Fadrique's sword, which had been aimed at him with a thrust in tierce, sideward, but the keen edge had penetrated his leathern glove, and the red blood gushed out.