Each of them had left a shred of ribbon pinned to his clothing, in token of

Remembrance. He said he would keep these things always; and that soon he

Would seek out these dear good friends of his and take them under his

Protection.

Just then the jailer came in with some subordinates and commanded that the

Prisoners be conducted to the jail-yard. The king was overjoyed — it would be

A blessed thing to see the blue sky and breathe the fresh air once more. He

Fretted and chafed at the slowness of the officers, but his turn came at last and

He was released from his staple and ordered to follow the other prisoners, with

Hendon.

The court, or quadrangle, was stone-paved, and open to the sky. The

Prisoners entered it through a massive archway of masonry, and were placed

In file, standing, with their backs against the wall. A rope was stretched in

Front of them, and they were also guarded by their officers. It was a chill and

Lowering morning, and a light snow which had fallen during the night

Whitened the great empty space and added to the general dismalness of its

Aspect. Now and then a wintry wind shivered through the place and sent the

Snow eddying hither and thither.

In the center of the court stood two women, chained to posts. A glance showed