The most devoted of his knights mounted steeds they had captured, and set off in pursuit of the fugitives, believing that the latter, after the long day’s battle, could not have gone any considerable distance. They returned shortly, however, bringing with them a messenger sent by the Sultan to the Emperor. He was at once taken before him, and announced that the two boys were in the Sultan’s power, and that the latter well knew how dear the sons of the Emperor’s old friend were to him, as well as the promise he had made to that friend in his dying moments. He further announced that the Sultan would engage to return them if the Emperor would give up the spoils he had captured, as well as the Sultan’s possessions. If the Emperor refused the proposal, the boys should die in the strong castle by the sea the moment he attacked it. The messenger’s announcement caused general astonishment. When the first shock of the blow had passed, however, the Emperor’s eyes gleamed with exultant determination. His very soul revolted against such a proposal, and his anger against the Sultan for expecting him to accede to it was furious. “Tell your prince,” he exclaimed in thunder tones, “tell your prince I spurn his proposal. My imperial honor will not allow me to release my wards in such a manner. By God’s grace, I will keep my word, but I will not surrender the fruits of a victory purchased with the blood of thousands. No! with God’s help, I will find some way to redeem my promise becoming to a hero and an Emperor. Tell the Sultan I will hold him responsible with his head for the safety of my boys.” With these words the Emperor turned his back upon the messenger. All present applauded the reply of the old hero. Though none had believed he would accept the Sultan’s terms, they had thought it possible that the Emperor might open negotiations, and, if possible, reach a settlement without bloodshed. They feared any such arrangement, as it would only secure them a fickle-minded and unreliable friend; and should conditions arise at any time like those they had found in their dealings with the Greeks, they would never be certain whether he was their friend or their enemy. Every step they took would be hindered, and their plans might be entirely frustrated. But since the Emperor had replied in such a decisive manner, and the messenger’s departure from the city would end all negotiations, they knew to a certainty that they now had to deal with an enemy.