horrible dragon; and around the shaft were inscribed some verses, which the wise minstrel, Walter, well knew how to interpret. They set forth, how this dragon had been won from the pagan Finlanders by the powerful arm of Sir Otto von Trautwangen; therefore the Swedes would for evermore praise him in their war-songs, and cherish towards him lasting gratitude. Hearing this, all the squires and attendants shouted aloud for joy, and congratulated their old master; while Sir Hugh took off his green velvet cap, and at last said,--“If the devil indeed brings us such trophies of victory, one must take in good part whatever evil dreams he is pleased to send along with them.” CHAPTER XXI. How Sir Folko de Montfaucon came to rescue the two damsels from the Moors. On the root of an oleander-tree, in the middle of one of those delightful gardens, which stretch out from the Spanish town of Carthagena towards the sea, sat Gabrielle, with her bright eyes directed to the azure vault of heaven; while Blanchefleur stood near her, plaiting a garland from the many beautiful and rare flowers which grow profusely in that warm climate. At some distance, a black slave began, in a very pleasant voice, to sing a long ballad, setting forth the campaigns of Sir Folko de Montfaucon against the Moors;--relating, how fifteen of their bravest knights had bound themselves by a solemn oath, that they would go forth and take him prisoner;--and how they indeed set out upon their way, but not one of all the fifteen returned;--how the Guadalquiva river ran red with blood, and the news of his exploits rang in Seville and Cordova;--moreover, how the Moorish brides lamented and wept for the loss of their betrothed husbands. “Alas!” said Gabrielle, “there are other brides, who have had cause to weep even more than the Moorish ladies.” With these words, she mournfully hid her face and turned away.