A ruined
keep or donjon was seen above a line of dark firs, crowning the summit
of a steep crag that rose abruptly from the river.
"This is our halfway-house," said Michael, pointing to the grim
fortress: "the children are tired, and have need of refreshment. Tarry
here with the horses whilst I carry them over the bridge."
"We have refreshments in the wallet--what need we to loiter yonder?"
replied Anthony, eyeing the other with an expression of distrust.
"The children want rest," said Michael, "and we shall there find
shelter from the heat."
"If rest be needful," was the reply, "surely this dry sward and these
overhanging leaves will afford both rest and shelter."
"The children are in my keeping," said Michael, fiercely, "and I am not
to account with thee for my proceedings. Alight, and give me the child."
"I will not!--Michael, I have watched thee, and I know that thou art a
villain. Ay, draw, I have weapons too, comrade."
Fast and furious grew the combat, during which the terrified children
made the woods echo with their shrieks. The result was not long
doubtful. Michael soon proved himself the better swordsman; and his
antagonist, stumbling from fatigue, broke his own weapon in the fall.
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