"Their fire is in the ravine behind the village," Replied the Inspector; "one may see the flame and smoke from the upper story. But, Miss Ilse--I say it unwillingly--would it not be more prudent to let the rogues escape? A large portion of the harvest still lies in sheaves; they may set it on fire in the night, out of revenge, or perhaps venture something still worse, in order to free their people." "No," exclaimed Ilse; "do not hesitate--do not delay. Whether the vagabonds injure us or not will be decided by a higher will. We must do our duty. The crime demands punishment, and the master of this estate is in the position of guardian of the law." "Let us be quick," said the Professor; "we will accompany you." "Well, so be it," replied the Inspector, after consideration; "the farm bailiff shall remain here and we others will seek the band at the fire." He hastened out. The Doctor seized a knobbed stick that was in the corner of the room. "That will suffice for me," he said, laughing, to his friend. "I consider myself bound to show some forbearance toward these thievish associates of my studies, who have not quite forgotten their old tongue." As he was on the point of leaving the room he stopped: "But you must remain behind, for you are bleeding." Some drops of blood fell from the sleeve of the Professor. The countenance of the maiden became white as the door against which she leant. "For our sake," she murmured faintly. Suddenly she hastened up to the Professor and bent down to kiss his hand. Felix restrained her. "It is not worth speaking of Miss Ilse," he exclaimed. "I can move my arm." The Doctor compelled him to take off his coat and Ilse flew for a bandage. Fritz examined the wound with the composure of an old duellist. "It is a slight prick in the muscles of the under part of the arm," he said, comforting Ilse; "a little sticking-plaster will be sufficient." The Professor put on his coat again and seized his hat. "Let us start," he said. "Oh, no; remain with us," begged Ilse hastening after him. The Professor looked at her anxious countenance, shook her heartily by the hand and left the room with his friend.