But one of them fired, and he was hit, and had much ado to reach here before he fainted.

By good luck, they feared to pursue him nearer the house." He paused and added: "Lad, the bullet was meant for you." "It is very likely," said I, "and it's first blood to brother Michael." "I wonder which three it was," said Fritz.
"Well, Sapt," I said, "I went out tonight for no idle purpose, as you shall hear.

But there's one thing in my mind." "What's that ?" he asked.
"Why this," I answered.

"That I shall ill requite the very great honours Ruritania has done me if I depart from it leaving one of those Six alive--neither with the help of God, will I." And Sapt shook my hand on that..