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diff --git a/5075-h/5075-h.htm b/5075-h/5075-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..fe123e4 --- /dev/null +++ b/5075-h/5075-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,12575 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + The Lion of the North, by G. A. Henty + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Lion of the North, by G.A. Henty + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Lion of the North + +Author: G.A. Henty + +Release Date: April 14, 2009 [EBook #5075] +Last Updated: March 11, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE LION OF THE NORTH *** + + + + +Produced by Martin Robb, and David Widger + + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + THE LION OF THE NORTH + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + A Tale of the Times of Gustavus Adolphus, + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h2> + By G. A. Henty + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE. </a><br /><br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> THE INVITATION <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> SHIPWRECKED <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> SIR JOHN HEPBURN + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> NEW + BRANDENBURG <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> MARAUDERS + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> THE + ATTACK ON THE VILLAGE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. + </a> A QUIET TIME <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER + VIII. </a> THE SIEGE OF MANSFELD <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> THE BATTLE OF + BREITENFELD <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> THE + PASSAGE OF THE RHINE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. + </a> THE CAPTURE OF OPPENHEIM <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. </a> THE PASSAGE OF THE + LECH <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> CAPTURED + BY THE PEASANTS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> IN + THE CHURCHTOWER <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. </a> A + TIMELY RESCUE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. </a> THE + SIEGE OF NUREMBERG <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. + </a> THE DEATH OF GUSTAVUS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0018"> + CHAPTER XVIII. </a> WOUNDED <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0019"> + CHAPTER XIX. </a> A PAUSE IN HOSTILITIES <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> FRIENDS IN TROUBLE + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> FLIGHT + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. </a> THE + CONSPIRACY <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. </a> THE + MURDER OF WALLENSTEIN <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV. + </a> MALCOLM'S ESCAPE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0025"> + CHAPTER XXV. </a> NORDLINGEN <br /><br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + PREFACE. + </h2> + <p> + MY DEAR LADS, + </p> + <p> + You are nowadays called upon to acquire so great a mass of learning and + information in the period of life between the ages of twelve and eighteen + that it is not surprising that but little time can be spared for the study + of the history of foreign nations. Most lads are, therefore, lamentably + ignorant of the leading events of even the most important epochs of + Continental history, although, as many of these events have exercised a + marked influence upon the existing state of affairs in Europe, a knowledge + of them is far more useful, and, it may be said, far more interesting than + that of the comparatively petty affairs of Athens, Sparta, Corinth, and + Thebes. + </p> + <p> + Prominent among such epochs is the Thirty Years' War, which arose from the + determination of the Emperor of Austria to crush out Protestantism + throughout Germany. Since the invasion of the Huns no struggle which has + taken place in Europe has approached this in the obstinacy of the fighting + and the terrible sufferings which the war inflicted upon the people at + large. During these thirty years the population of Germany decreased by + nearly a third, and in some of the states half the towns and two-thirds of + the villages absolutely disappeared. + </p> + <p> + The story of the Thirty Years' War is too long to be treated in one + volume. Fortunately it divides itself naturally into two parts. The first + begins with the entry of Sweden, under her chivalrous monarch Gustavus + Adolphus, upon the struggle, and terminates with his death and that of his + great rival Wallenstein. This portion of the war has been treated in the + present story. The second period begins at the point when France assumed + the leading part in the struggle, and concluded with the peace which + secured liberty of conscience to the Protestants of Germany. This period I + hope to treat some day in another story, so that you may have a complete + picture of the war. The military events of the present tale, the battles, + sieges, and operations, are all taken from the best authorities, while for + the account of the special doings of Mackay's, afterwards Munro's Scottish + Regiment, I am indebted to Mr. J. Grant's Life of Sir John Hepburn. + </p> + <p> + Yours sincerely, + </p> + <p> + G. A. HENTY <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + CHAPTER I THE INVITATION + </h2> + <p> + It was late in the afternoon in the spring of the year 1630; the hilltops + of the south of Scotland were covered with masses of cloud, and a fierce + wind swept the driving rain before it with such force that it was not easy + to make way against it. It had been raining for three days without + intermission. Every little mountain burn had become a boiling torrent, + while the rivers had risen above their banks and flooded the low lands in + the valleys. + </p> + <p> + The shades of evening were closing in, when a lad of some sixteen years of + age stood gazing across the swollen waters of the Nith rushing past in + turbid flood. He scarce seemed conscious of the pouring rain; but with his + lowland bonnet pressed down over his eyes, and his plaid wrapped tightly + round him, he stood on a rising hummock of ground at the edge of the + flood, and looked across the stream. + </p> + <p> + “If they are not here soon,” he said to himself, “they will not get across + the Nith tonight. None but bold riders could do so now; but by what uncle + says, Captain Hume must be that and more. Ah! here they come.” + </p> + <p> + As he spoke two horsemen rode down the opposite side of the valley and + halted at the water's edge. The prospect was not a pleasant one. The river + was sixty or seventy feet wide, and in the centre the water swept along in + a raging current. + </p> + <p> + “You cannot cross here,” the boy shouted at the top of his voice. “You + must go higher up where the water's deeper.” + </p> + <p> + The wind swept his words away, but his gestures were understood. + </p> + <p> + “The boy is telling us to go higher up,” said one of the horsemen. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose he is,” the other replied; “but here is the ford. You see the + road we have travelled ends here, and I can see it again on the other + side. It is getting dark, and were we to cross higher up we might lose our + way and get bogged; it is years since I was here. What's the boy going to + do now? Show us a place for crossing?” + </p> + <p> + The lad, on seeing the hesitation of the horsemen, had run along the bank + up the stream, and to their surprise, when he had gone a little more than + a hundred yards he dashed into the water. For a time the water was + shallow, and he waded out until he reached the edge of the regular bank of + the river, and then swam out into the current. + </p> + <p> + “Go back,” the horseman shouted; but his voice did not reach the swimmer, + who, in a few strokes, was in the full force of the stream, and was soon + lost to the sight of the horsemen among the short foaming waves of the + torrent. + </p> + <p> + “The boy will be drowned,” one of the horsemen said, spurring his horse up + the valley; but in another minute the lad was seen breasting the calmer + water just above the ford. + </p> + <p> + “You cannot cross here, Captain Hume,” he said, as he approached the + horsemen. “You must go nigh a mile up the river.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, who are you, lad?” the horseman asked, “and how do you know my + name?” + </p> + <p> + “I'm the nephew of Nigel Graheme. Seeing how deep the floods were I came + out to show you the way, for the best horse in the world could not swim + the Nith here now.” + </p> + <p> + “But this is the ford,” Captain Hume said. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, this is the ford in dry weather. The bottom here is hard rock and + easy to ride over when the river is but waist deep, but below and above + this place it is covered with great boulders. The water is six feet deep + here now, and the horses would be carried down among the rocks, and would + never get across. A mile up the river is always deep, and though the + current is strong there is nothing to prevent a bold horseman from + swimming across.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you heartily, young sir,” Captain Hume said. “I can see how + broken is the surface of the water, and doubt not that it would have fared + hard with us had we attempted to swim across here. In faith, Munro, we + have had a narrow escape.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, indeed,” the other agreed. “It would have been hard if you and I, + after going through all the battlefields of the Low Countries, should have + been drowned here together in a Scottish burn. Your young friend is a + gallant lad and a good swimmer, for in truth it was no light task to swim + that torrent with the water almost as cold as ice.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, sirs, will you please to ride on,” the boy said; “it is getting dark + fast, and the sooner we are across the better.” + </p> + <p> + So saying he went off at a fast run, the horses trotting behind him. A + mile above he reached the spot he had spoken of. The river was narrower + here, and the stream was running with great rapidity, swirling and heaving + as it went, but with a smooth even surface. + </p> + <p> + “Two hundred yards farther up,” the boy said, “is the beginning of the + deep; if you take the water there you will get across so as to climb up by + that sloping bank just opposite.” + </p> + <p> + He led the way to the spot he indicated, and then plunged into the stream, + swimming quietly and steadily across, and allowing the stream to drift him + down. + </p> + <p> + The horsemen followed his example. They had swum many a swollen river, and + although their horses snorted and plunged at first, they soon quieted down + and swam steadily over. They just struck the spot which the boy had + indicated. He had already arrived there, and, without a word, trotted + forward. + </p> + <p> + It was soon dark, and the horsemen were obliged to keep close to his heels + to see his figure. It was as much as they could do to keep up with him, + for the ground was rough and broken, sometimes swampy, sometimes strewn + with boulders. + </p> + <p> + “It is well we have a guide,” Colonel Munro said to his companion; “for + assuredly, even had we got safely across the stream, we should never have + found our way across such a country as this. Scotland is a fine country, + Hume, a grand country, and we are all proud of it, you know, but for + campaigning, give me the plains of Germany; while, as for your weather + here, it is only fit for a water rat.” + </p> + <p> + Hume laughed at this outburst. + </p> + <p> + “I sha'n't be sorry, Munro, for a change of dry clothes and a corner by a + fire; but we must be nearly there now if I remember right. Graheme's hold + is about three miles from the Nith.” + </p> + <p> + The boy presently gave a loud shout, and a minute later lights were seen + ahead, and in two or three minutes the horsemen drew up at a door beside + which two men were standing with torches; another strolled out as they + stopped. + </p> + <p> + “Welcome, Hume! I am glad indeed to see you; and—ah! is it you, + Munro? it is long indeed since we met.” + </p> + <p> + “That is it, Graheme; it is twelve years since we were students together + at St. Andrews.” + </p> + <p> + “I did not think you would have come on such a night,” Graheme said. + </p> + <p> + “I doubt that we should have come tonight, or any other night, Nigel, if + it had not been that that brave boy who calls you uncle swam across the + Nith to show us the best way to cross. It was a gallant deed, and I + consider we owe him our lives.” + </p> + <p> + “It would have gone hard with you, indeed, had you tried to swim the Nith + at the ford; had I not made so sure you would not come I would have sent a + man down there. I missed Malcolm after dinner, and wondered what had + become of him. But come in and get your wet things off. It is a cold + welcome keeping you here. My men will take your horses round to the stable + and see that they are well rubbed down and warmly littered.” + </p> + <p> + In a quarter of an hour the party were assembled again in the sitting + room. It was a bare room with heavily timbered ceiling and narrow windows + high up from the ground; for the house was built for purposes of defence, + like most Scottish residences in those days. The floor was thickly strewn + with rushes. Arms and trophies of the chase hung on the walls, and a + bright fire blazing on the hearth gave it a warm and cheerful aspect. As + his guests entered the room Graheme presented them with a large silver cup + of steaming liquor. + </p> + <p> + “Drain this,” he said, “to begin with. I will warrant me a draught of + spiced wine will drive the cold of the Nith out of your bones.” + </p> + <p> + The travellers drank off the liquor. + </p> + <p> + “'Tis a famous drink,” Hume said, “and there is nowhere I enjoy it so much + as in Scotland, for the cold here seems to have a knack of getting into + one's very marrow, though I will say there have been times in the Low + Countries when we have appreciated such a draught. Well, and how goes it + with you, Graheme?” + </p> + <p> + “Things might be better; in fact, times in Scotland have been getting + worse and worse ever since King James went to England, and all the court + with him. If it were not for an occasional raid among the wild folks of + Galloway, and a few quarrels among ourselves, life would be too dull to + bear here.” + </p> + <p> + “But why bear it?” Captain Hume asked. “You used to have plenty of spirit + in our old college days, Graheme, and I wonder at your rusting your life + out here when there is a fair field and plenty of honour, to say nothing + of hard cash, to be won in the Low Country. Why, beside Hepburn's + regiment, which has made itself a name throughout all Europe, there are + half a score of Scottish regiments in the service of the King of Sweden, + and his gracious majesty Gustavus Adolphus does not keep them idle, I + warrant you.” + </p> + <p> + “I have thought of going a dozen times,” Graheme said, “but you see + circumstances have kept me back; but I have all along intended to cross + the seas when Malcolm came of an age to take the charge of his father's + lands. When my brother James was dying from that sword thrust he got in a + fray with the Duffs, I promised him I would be a father to the boy, and + see that he got his rights.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we will talk of the affair after supper, Graheme, for now that I + have got rid of the cold I begin to perceive that I am well nigh + famished.” + </p> + <p> + As the officer was speaking, the servitors were laying the table, and + supper was soon brought in. After ample justice had been done to this, and + the board was again cleared, the three men drew their seats round the + fire, Malcolm seating himself on a low stool by his uncle. + </p> + <p> + “And now to business, Nigel,” Colonel Munro said. “We have not come back + to Scotland to see the country, or to enjoy your weather, or even for the + pleasure of swimming your rivers in flood. + </p> + <p> + “We are commissioned by the King of Sweden to raise some 3000 or 4000 more + Scottish troops. I believe that the king intends to take part in the war + in Germany, where the Protestants are getting terribly mauled, and where, + indeed, it is likely that the Reformed Religion will be stamped out + altogether unless the Swedes strike in to their rescue. My chief object is + to fill up to its full strength of two thousand men the Mackay Regiment, + of which I am lieutenant colonel. The rest of the recruits whom we may get + will go as drafts to fill up the vacancies in the other regiments. So you + see here we are, and it is our intention to beat up all our friends and + relations, and ask them each to raise a company or half a company of + recruits, of which, of course, they would have the command. + </p> + <p> + “We landed at Berwick, and wrote to several of our friends that we were + coming. Scott of Jedburgh has engaged to raise a company. Balfour of + Lauderdale, who is a cousin of mine, has promised to bring another; they + were both at St. Andrew's with us, as you may remember, Graheme. Young + Hamilton, who had been an ensign in my regiment, left us on the way. He + will raise a company in Douglasdale. Now, Graheme, don't you think you can + bring us a band of the men of Nithsdale?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know,” Graheme said hesitatingly. “I should like it of all + things, for I am sick of doing nothing here, and my blood often runs hot + when I read of the persecutions of the Protestants in Germany; but I don't + think I can manage it.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, nonsense, Nigel!” said Hume; “you can manage it easily enough if you + have the will. Are you thinking of the lad there? Why not bring him with + you? He is young, certainly, but he could carry a colour; and as for his + spirit and bravery, Munro and I will vouch for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, do, uncle,” the lad exclaimed, leaping to his feet in his excitement. + “I promise you I would not give you any trouble; and as for marching, + there isn't a man in Nithsdale who can tire me out across the mountains.” + </p> + <p> + “But what's to become of the house, Malcolm, and the land and the herds?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, they will be all right,” the boy said. “Leave old Duncan in charge, + and he will look after them.” + </p> + <p> + “But I had intended you to go to St. Andrews next year, Malcolm, and I + think the best plan will be for you to go there at once. As you say, + Duncan can look after the place.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm's face fell. + </p> + <p> + “Take the lad with you, Graheme,” Colonel Munro said. “Three years under + Gustavus will do him vastly more good than will St. Andrews. You know it + never did us any good to speak of. We learned a little more Latin than we + knew when we went there, but I don't know that that has been of any use to + us; whereas for the dry tomes of divinity we waded through, I am happy to + say that not a single word of the musty stuff remains in my brains. The + boy will see life and service, he will have opportunities of + distinguishing himself under the eye of the most chivalrous king in + Europe, he will have entered a noble profession, and have a fair chance of + bettering his fortune, all of which is a thousand times better than + settling down here in this corner of Scotland.” + </p> + <p> + “I must think it over,” Graheme said; “it is a serious step to take. I had + thought of his going to the court at London after he left the university, + and of using our family interest to push his way there.” + </p> + <p> + “What is he to do in London?” Munro said. “The old pedant James, who + wouldn't spend a shilling or raise a dozen men to aid the cause of his own + daughter, and who thought more of musty dogmatic treatises than of the + glory and credit of the country he ruled over, or the sufferings of his + co-religionists in Germany, has left no career open to a lad of spirit.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I will think it over by the morning,” Graheme said. “And now tell + me a little more about the merits of this quarrel in Germany. If I am + going to fight, I should like at least to know exactly what I am fighting + about.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear fellow,” Hume laughed, “you will never make a soldier if you + always want to know the ins and outs of every quarrel you have to fight + about; but for once the tenderest conscience may be satisfied as to the + justice of the contention. But Munro is much better versed in the history + of the affair than I am; for, to tell you the truth, beyond the fact that + it is a general row between the Protestants and Catholics, I have not + troubled myself much in the matter.” + </p> + <p> + “You must know,” Colonel Munro began, “that some twenty years ago the + Protestant princes of Germany formed a league for mutual protection and + support, which they called the Protestant Union; and a year later the + Catholics, on their side, constituted what they called the Holy League. At + that time the condition of the Protestants was not unbearable. In Bohemia, + where they constituted two-thirds of the population, Rudolph II, and after + him Mathias, gave conditions of religious freedom. + </p> + <p> + “Gradually, however, the Catholic party about the emperor gained the upper + hand; then various acts in breach of the conditions granted to the + Protestants were committed, and public spirit on both sides became much + embittered. On the 23d of May, 1618, the Estates of Bohemia met at Prague, + and the Protestant nobles, headed by Count Thurn, came there armed, and + demanded from the Imperial councillors an account of the high handed + proceedings. A violent quarrel ensued, and finally the Protestant deputies + seized the councillors Martinitz and Slavata, and their secretary, and + hurled them from the window into the dry ditch, fifty feet below. + Fortunately for the councillors the ditch contained a quantity of light + rubbish, and they and their secretary escaped without serious damage. The + incident, however, was the commencement of war. Bohemia was almost + independent of Austria, administering its own internal affairs. The + Estates invested Count Thurn with the command of the army. The Protestant + Union supported Bohemia in its action. Mathias, who was himself a tolerant + and well meaning man, tried to allay the storm; but, failing to do so, + marched an army into Bohemia. + </p> + <p> + “Had Mathias lived matters would probably have arranged themselves, but he + died the following spring, and was succeeded by Ferdinand II. Ferdinand is + one of the most bigoted Catholics living, and is at the same time a bold + and resolute man; and he had taken a solemn vow at the shrine of Loretto + that, if ever he came to the throne, he would re-establish Catholicism + throughout his dominions. Both parties prepared for the strife; the + Bohemians renounced their allegiance to him and nominated the Elector + Palatine Frederick V, the husband of our Scotch princess, their king. + </p> + <p> + “The first blow was struck at Zablati. There a Union army, led by + Mansfeldt, was defeated by the Imperial general Bucquoi. A few days later, + however, Count Thurn, marching through Moravia and Upper Austria, laid + siege to Vienna. Ferdinand's own subjects were estranged from him, and the + cry of the Protestant army, 'Equal rights for all Christian churches,' was + approved by the whole population—for even in Austria itself there + were a very large number of Protestants. Ferdinand had but a few soldiers, + the population of the city were hostile, and had Thurn only entered the + town he could have seized the emperor without any resistance. + </p> + <p> + “Thurn hesitated, and endeavoured instead to obtain the conditions of + toleration which the Protestants required; and sixteen Austrian barons in + the city were in the act of insisting upon Ferdinand signing these when + the head of the relieving army entered the city. Thurn retired hastily. + The Catholic princes and representatives met at Frankfort and elected + Ferdinand Emperor of Germany. He at once entered into a strict agreement + with Maximilian of Bavaria to crush Protestantism throughout Germany. The + Bohemians, however, in concert with Bethlem Gabor, king of Hungary, again + besieged Vienna; but as the winter set in they were obliged to retire. + From that moment the Protestant cause was lost; Saxony and Hesse-Darmstadt + left the Union and joined Ferdinand. Denmark, which had promised its + assistance to the Protestants, was persuaded to remain quiet. Sweden was + engaged in a war with the Poles. + </p> + <p> + “The Protestant army was assembled at Ulm; the army of the League, under + the order of Maximilian of Bavaria, was at Donauworth. Maximilian worked + upon the fears of the Protestant princes, who, frightened at the contest + they had undertaken, agreed to a peace, by which they bound themselves to + offer no aid to Frederick V. + </p> + <p> + “The Imperial forces then marched to Bohemia and attacked Frederick's army + outside Prague, and in less than an hour completely defeated it. Frederick + escaped with his family to Holland. Ferdinand then took steps to carry out + his oath. The religious freedom granted by Mathias was abolished. In + Bohemia, Moravia, Silesia, and Austria proper. Many of the promoters of + the rebellion were punished in life and property. The year following all + members of the Calvinistic sect were forced to leave their country, a few + months afterwards the Lutherans were also expelled, and in 1627 the + exercise of all religious forms except those of the Catholic Church was + forbidden; 200 of the noble, and 30,000 of the wealthier and industrial + classes, were driven into exile; and lands and property to the amount of + 5,000,000 or 6,000,000 pounds were confiscated. + </p> + <p> + “The hereditary dominions of Frederick V were invaded, the Protestants + were defeated, the Palatinate entirely subdued, and the electorate was + conferred upon Maximilian of Bavaria; and the rigid laws against the + Protestants were carried into effect in the Palatinate also. It had now + become evident to all Europe that the Emperor of Austria was determined to + stamp out Protestantism throughout Germany; and the Protestant princes, + now thoroughly alarmed, besought aid from the Protestant countries, + England, Holland, and Denmark. King James, who had seen unmoved the + misfortunes which had befallen his daughter and her husband, and who had + been dead to the general feeling of the country, could no longer resist, + and England agreed to supply an annual subsidy; Holland consented to + supply troops; and the King of Denmark joined the League, and was to take + command of the army. + </p> + <p> + “In Germany the Protestants of lower Saxony and Brunswick, and the + partisan leader Mansfeldt, were still in arms. The army under the king of + Denmark advanced into Brunswick, and was there confronted by that of the + league under Tilly, while an Austrian army, raised by Wallenstein, also + marched against it. Mansfeldt endeavoured to prevent Wallenstein from + joining Tilly, but was met and defeated by the former general. Mansfeldt + was, however, an enterprising leader, and falling back into Brandenburg, + recruited his army, joined the force under the Duke of Saxe-Weimar, and + started by forced marches to Silesia and Moravia, to join Bethlem Gabor in + Hungary. Wallenstein was therefore obliged to abandon his campaign against + the Danes and to follow him. Mansfeldt joined the Hungarian army, but so + rapid were his marches that his force had dwindled away to a mere + skeleton, and the assistance which it would be to the Hungarians was so + small that Bethlem Gabor refused to cooperate with it against Austria. + </p> + <p> + “Mansfeldt disbanded his remaining soldiers, and two months afterwards + died. Wallenstein then marched north. In the meantime Tilly had attacked + King Christian at Lutter, and completely defeated him. I will tell you + about that battle some other time. When Wallenstein came north it was + decided that Tilly should carry the war into Holland, and that Wallenstein + should deal with the King of Denmark and the Protestant princes. In the + course of two years he drove the Danes from Silesia, subdued Brandenburg + and Mecklenburg, and, advancing into Pomerania, besieged Stralsund. + </p> + <p> + “What a siege that was to be sure! Wallenstein had sworn to capture the + place, but he didn't reckon upon the Scots. After the siege had begun + Lieutenant General Sir Alexander Leslie, with 5000 Scots and Swedes, + fought his way into the town; and though Wallenstein raised fire upon it, + though we were half starved and ravaged by plague, we held out for three + months, repulsing every assault, till at last the Imperialists were + obliged to draw off; having lost 12,200 men. + </p> + <p> + “This, however, was the solitary success on our side, and a few months + since, Christian signed a peace, binding himself to interfere no more in + the affairs of Germany. When Ferdinand considered himself free to carry + out his plans, he issued an edict by which the Protestants throughout + Germany were required to restore to the Catholics all the monasteries and + land which had formerly belonged to the Catholic Church. The Catholic + service was alone to be performed, and the Catholic princes of the empire + were ordered to constrain their subjects, by force if necessary, to + conform to the Catholic faith; and it was intimated to the Protestant + princes that they would be equally forced to carry the edict into effect. + But this was too much. Even France disapproved, not from any feeling of + pity on the part of Richelieu for the Protestants, but because it did not + suit the interests of France that Ferdinand should become the absolute + monarch of all Germany. + </p> + <p> + “In these circumstances Gustavus of Sweden at once resolved to assist the + Protestants in arms, and ere long will take the field. That is what has + brought us here. Already in the Swedish army there are 10,000 Scotchmen, + and in Denmark they also form the backbone of the force; and both in the + Swedish and Danish armies the greater part of the native troops are + officered and commanded by Scotchmen. + </p> + <p> + “Hitherto I myself have been in the Danish service, but my regiment is + about to take service with the Swedes. It has been quietly intimated to us + that there will be no objection to our doing so, although Christian + intends to remain neutral, at any rate for a time. We suffered very + heavily at Lutter, and I need 500 men to fill up my ranks to the full + strength. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Graheme, I quite rely upon you. You were at college with Hepburn, + Hume, and myself, and it will be a pleasure for us all to fight side by + side; and if I know anything of your disposition I am sure you cannot be + contented to be remaining here at the age of nine-and-twenty, rusting out + your life as a Scotch laird, while Hepburn has already won a name which is + known through Europe.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II SHIPWRECKED + </h2> + <p> + Upon the following morning Nigel Graheme told his visitors that he had + determined to accept their offer, and would at once set to work to raise a + company. + </p> + <p> + “I have,” he said, “as you know, a small patrimony of my own, and as for + the last eight years I have been living here looking after Malcolm I have + been laying by any rents, and can now furnish the arms and accoutrements + for a hundred men without difficulty. When Malcolm comes of age he must + act for himself, and can raise two or three hundred men if he chooses; but + at present he will march in my company. I understand that I have the + appointment of my own officers.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, until you join the regiment,” Munro said. “You have the first + appointments. Afterwards the colonel will fill up vacancies. You must + decide how you will arm your men, for you must know that Gustavus' + regiments have their right and left wings composed of musketeers, while + the centre is formed of pikemen, so you must decide to which branch your + company shall belong.” + </p> + <p> + “I would choose the pike,” Nigel said, “for after all it must be by the + pike that the battle is decided.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite right, Nigel. I have here with me a drawing of the armour in use + with us. You see they have helmets of an acorn shape, with a rim turning + up in front; gauntlets, buff coats well padded in front, and large breast + plates. The pikes vary from fourteen to eighteen feet long according to + the taste of the commander. We generally use about sixteen. If your + company is a hundred strong you will have two lieutenants and three + ensigns. Be careful in choosing your officers. I will fill in the king's + commission to you as captain of the company, authorizing you to enlist men + for his service and to appoint officers thereto.” + </p> + <p> + An hour or two later Colonel Munro and Captain Hume proceeded on their + way. The news speedily spread through Nithsdale that Nigel Graheme had + received a commission from the King of Sweden to raise a company in his + service, and very speedily men began to pour in. The disbandment of the + Scottish army had left but few careers open at home to the youth of that + country, and very large numbers had consequently flocked to the Continent + and taken service in one or other of the armies there, any opening of the + sort, therefore, had only to be known to be freely embraced. Consequently, + in eight-and-forty hours Nigel Graheme had applications from a far larger + number than he could accept, and he was enabled to pick and choose among + the applicants. Many young men of good family were among them, for in + those days service in the ranks was regarded as honourable, and great + numbers of young men of good family and education trailed a pike in the + Scotch regiments in the service of the various powers of Europe. Two young + men whose property adjoined his own, Herries and Farquhar, each of whom + brought twenty of his own tenants with him, were appointed lieutenants, + while two others, Leslie and Jamieson, were with Malcolm named as ensigns. + The noncommissioned officers were appointed from men who had served + before. Many of the men already possessed armour which was suitable, for + in those day's there was no strict uniformity of military attire, and the + armies of the various nationalities differed very slightly from each + other. Colonel Munro returned in the course of a fortnight, Nigel + Graheme's company completing the number of men required to fill up the + ranks of his regiment. + </p> + <p> + Captain Hume had proceeded further north. Colonel Munro stopped for a week + in Nithsdale, giving instructions to the officers and noncommissioned + officers as to the drill in use in the Swedish army. Military manoeuvres + were in these days very different to what they have now become. The + movements were few and simple, and easily acquired. Gustavus had, however, + introduced an entirely new formation into his army. Hitherto troops had + fought in solid masses, twenty or more deep. Gustavus taught his men to + fight six deep, maintaining that if troops were steady this depth of + formation should be able to sustain any assault upon it, and that with a + greater depth the men behind were useless in the fight. His cavalry fought + only three deep. The recruits acquired the new tactics with little + difficulty. In Scotland for generations every man and boy had received a + certain military training, and all were instructed in the use of the pike; + consequently, at the end of a week Colonel Munro pronounced Nigel + Graheme's company capable of taking their place in the regiment without + discredit, and so went forward to see to the training of the companies of + Hamilton, Balfour, and Scott, having arranged with Graheme to march his + company to Dunbar in three weeks' time, when he would be joined by the + other three companies. Malcolm was delighted with the stir and bustle of + his new life. Accustomed to hard exercise, to climbing and swimming, he + was a strong and well grown lad, and was in appearance fully a year beyond + his age. He felt but little fatigued by the incessant drill in which the + days were passed, though he was glad enough of an evening to lay aside his + armour, of which the officers wore in those days considerably more than + the soldiers, the mounted officers being still clad in full armour, while + those on foot wore back and arm pieces, and often leg pieces, in addition + to the helmet and breastplate. They were armed with swords and pistols, + and carried besides what were called half pikes, or pikes some 7 feet + long. They wore feathers in their helmets, and the armour was of fine + quality, and often richly damascened, or inlaid with gold. + </p> + <p> + Very proud did Malcolm feel as on the appointed day he marched with the + company from Nithsdale, with the sun glittering on their arms and a + drummer beating the march at their head. They arrived in due course at + Dunbar, and were in a few hours joined by the other three companies under + Munro himself. The regiment which was now commanded by Lieutenant Colonel + Munro had been raised in 1626 by Sir Donald Mackay of Farre and + Strathnaver, 1500 strong, for the service of the King of Denmark. Munro + was his cousin, and when Sir Donald went home shortly before, he succeeded + to the command of the regiment. They embarked at once on board a ship + which Munro had chartered, and were landed in Denmark and marched to + Flensberg, where the rest of the regiment was lying. + </p> + <p> + A fortnight was spent in severe drill, and then orders were received from + Oxenstiern, the chancellor of Sweden, to embark the regiment on board two + Swedish vessels, the Lillynichol and the Hound. On board the former were + the companies of Captains Robert Munro, Hector Munro, Bullion, Nigel + Graheme, and Hamilton. Colonel Munro sailed in this ship, while Major + Sennot commanded the wing of the regiment on board the Hound. The baggage + horses and ammunition were in a smaller vessel. + </p> + <p> + The orders were that they were to land at Wolgast on the southern shore of + the Baltic. Scarcely had they set sail than the weather changed, and a + sudden tempest burst upon them. Higher and higher grew the wind, and the + vessels were separated in the night. The Lillynichol laboured heavily in + the waves, and the discomfort of the troops, crowded together between + decks, was very great. Presently it was discovered that she had made a + leak, and that the water was entering fast. Munro at once called + forty-eight soldiers to the pumps. They were relieved every quarter of an + hour, and by dint of the greatest exertions barely succeeded in keeping + down the water. So heavily did the vessel labour that Munro bore away for + Dantzig; but when night came on the storm increased in fury. They were now + in shoal water, and the vessel, already half waterlogged, became quite + unmanageable in the furious waves. Beyond the fact that they were fast + driving on to the Pomeranian coast, they were ignorant of their position. + </p> + <p> + “This is a rough beginning,” Nigel said to his nephew. “We bargained to + run the risk of being killed by the Germans, but we did not expect to run + the hazard of being drowned. I doubt if the vessel can live till morning. + It is only eleven o'clock yet, and in spite of the pumps she is getting + lower and lower in the water.” + </p> + <p> + Before Malcolm had time to answer him there was a tremendous crash which + threw them off their feet. All below struggled on deck, but nothing could + be seen in the darkness save masses of foam as the waves broke on the rock + on which they had struck. There were two more crashes, and then another, + even louder and more terrible, and the vessel broke in two parts. + </p> + <p> + “Come aft all,” Colonel Munro shouted; “this part of the wreck is fixed.” + </p> + <p> + With great efforts all on board managed to reach the after portion of the + vessel, which was wedged among the rocks, and soon afterwards the forepart + broke up and disappeared. For two hours the sea broke wildly over the + ship, and all had to hold on for life. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm, even in this time of danger, could not but admire the calmness + and coolness of his young colonel. He at once set men to work with ropes + to drag towards the vessel the floating pieces of wreck which were tossing + about in the boiling surf. The masts and yards were hauled alongside, and + the colonel instructed the men to make themselves fast to these in case + the vessel should go to pieces. + </p> + <p> + Hour after hour passed, and at last, to the joy of all, daylight appeared. + The boats had all been broken to pieces, and Munro now set the men to work + to bind the spars and timbers together into a raft. One of the soldiers + and a sailor volunteered to try to swim to shore with lines, but both were + dashed to pieces. + </p> + <p> + At one o'clock in the day some natives were seen collecting on the shore, + and these presently dragged down a boat and launched it, and with great + difficulty rowed out to the ship. A line was thrown to them, and with this + they returned to shore, where they made the line fast. The storm was now + abating somewhat, and Munro ordered the debarkation to commence. + </p> + <p> + As many of the troops as could find a place on the raft, or could cling to + the ropes fastened on its sides, started first, and by means of the line + hauled the raft ashore. A small party then brought it back to the ship, + while others manned the boat; and so after a number of trips the whole of + the troops and crew were landed, together with all the weapons and armour + that could be saved. + </p> + <p> + From the peasantry Munro now learned that they had been wrecked upon the + coast of Rugenwalde, a low lying tract of country in the north of + Pomerania. The forts upon it were all in the possession of the + Imperialists, while the nearest post of the Swedes was eighty miles away. + </p> + <p> + The position was not a pleasant one. Many of the arms had been lost, and + the gunpowder was of course destroyed. The men were exhausted and worn out + with their long struggle with the tempest. They were without food, and + might at any moment be attacked by their enemies. + </p> + <p> + “Something must be done, and that quickly,” Munro said, “or our fate will + be well nigh as bad as that of the Sinclairs; but before night we can do + nothing, and we must hope that the Germans will not discover us till + then.” + </p> + <p> + Thereupon he ordered all the men to lie down under shelter of the bushes + on the slopes facing the shore, and on no account to show themselves on + the higher ground. Then he sent a Walloon officer of the regiment to the + Pomeranian seneschal of the old castle of Rugenwalde which belonged to + Bogislaus IV, Duke of Pomerania, to inform him that a body of Scotch + troops in the service of the Swedish king had been cast on the coast, and + begging him to supply them with a few muskets, some dry powder, and + bullets, promising if he would do so that the Scotch would clear the town + of its Imperial garrison. + </p> + <p> + The castle itself, which was a very old feudal building, was held only by + the retainers of the duke, and the seneschal at once complied with Munro's + request, for the Duke of Pomerania, his master, although nominally an ally + of the Imperialists, had been deprived of all authority by them, and the + feelings of his subjects were entirely with the Swedes. + </p> + <p> + Fifty old muskets, some ammunition, and some food were sent out by a + secret passage to the Scots. There was great satisfaction among the men + when these supplies arrived. The muskets which had been brought ashore + were cleaned up and loaded, and the feeling that they were no longer in a + position to fall helplessly into the hands of any foe who might discover + them restored the spirits of the troops, and fatigue and hunger were + forgotten as they looked forward to striking a blow at the enemy. + </p> + <p> + “What did the colonel mean by saying that our position was well nigh as + bad as that of the Sinclairs?” Malcolm asked Captain Hector Munro, who + with two or three other officers was sheltering under a thick clump of + bushes. + </p> + <p> + “That was a bad business,” Captain Munro replied. “It happened now nigh + twenty years ago. Colonel Monkhoven, a Swedish officer, had enlisted 2300 + men in Scotland for service with Gustavus, and sailed with them and with a + regiment 900 strong raised by Sinclair entirely of his own clan and name. + Sweden was at war with Denmark, and Stockholm was invested by the Danish + fleet when Monkhoven arrived with his ships. Finding that he was unable to + land, he sailed north, landed at Trondheim, and marching over the + Norwegian Alps reached Stockholm in safety, where the appearance of his + reinforcements discouraged the Danes and enabled Gustavus to raise the + siege. + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately Colonel Sinclair's regiment had not kept with Monkhoven, it + being thought better that they should march by different routes so as to + distract the attention of the Norwegians, who were bitterly hostile. The + Sinclairs were attacked several times, but beat off their assailants; when + passing, however, through the tremendous gorge of Kringellen, the + peasantry of the whole surrounding country gathered in the mountains. The + road wound along on one side of the gorge. So steep was the hill that the + path was cut in solid rock which rose almost precipitously on one side, + while far below at their feet rushed a rapid torrent. As the Sinclairs + were marching along through this rocky gorge a tremendous fire was opened + upon them from the pine forests above, while huge rocks and stones came + bounding down the precipice. + </p> + <p> + “The Sinclairs strove in vain to climb the mountainside and get at their + foes. It was impossible, and they were simply slaughtered where they + stood, only one man of the whole regiment escaping to tell the story.” + </p> + <p> + “That was a terrible massacre indeed,” Malcolm said. “I have read of a + good many surprises and slaughters in our Scottish history, but never of + such complete destruction as that only one man out of 900 should escape. + And was the slaughter never avenged?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” Munro replied. “We Scots would gladly march north and repay these + savage peasants for the massacre of our countrymen, but the King of Sweden + has had plenty of occupation for his Scotchmen in his own wars. What with + the Russians and the Poles and the Danes his hands have been pretty full + from that day to this, and indeed an expedition against the Norsemen is + one which would bring more fatigue and labour than profit. The peasants + would seek shelter in their forests and mountains, and march as we would + we should never see them, save when they fell upon us with advantage in + some defile.” + </p> + <p> + At nightfall the troops were mustered, and, led by the men who had brought + the arms, they passed by the secret passage into the castle, and thence + sallied suddenly into the town below. There they fell upon a patrol of + Imperial cavalry, who were all shot down before they had time to draw + their swords. Then scattering through the town, the whole squadron of + cuirassiers who garrisoned it were either killed or taken prisoners. This + easy conquest achieved, the first care of Munro was to feed his troops. + These were then armed from the stores in the town, and a strong guard + being placed lest they should be attacked by the Austrian force, which + was, they learned, lying but seven miles away, on the other side of the + river, the troops lay down to snatch a few hours of needed rest. + </p> + <p> + In the morning the country was scoured, and a few detached posts of the + Austrians captured. The main body then advanced and blew up the bridge + across the river. Five days later an order came from Oxenstiern, to whom + Munro had at once despatched the news of his capture of Rugenwalde, + ordering him to hold it to the last, the position being a very valuable + one, as opening an entrance into Pomerania. + </p> + <p> + The passage of the river was protected by entrenchments, strong redoubts + were thrown up round Rugenwalde, and parties crossing the river in boats + collected provisions and stores from the country to the very gates of + Dantzig. The Austrians rapidly closed in upon all sides, and for nine + weeks a constant series of skirmishes were maintained with them. + </p> + <p> + At the end of that time Sir John Hepburn arrived from Spruce, having + pushed forward by order of Oxenstiern by forced marches to their relief. + Loud and hearty was the cheering when the two Scotch regiments united, and + the friends, Munro and Hepburn, clasped hands. Not only had they been at + college together, but they had, after leaving St. Andrews, travelled in + companionship on the Continent for two or three years before taking + service, Munro entering that of France, while Hepburn joined Sir Andrew + Gray as a volunteer when he led a band to succour the Prince Palatine at + the commencement of the war. + </p> + <p> + “I have another old friend in my regiment, Hepburn,” the colonel said + after the first greeting was over—“Nigel Graheme, of course you + remember him.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly I do,” Hepburn exclaimed cordially, “and right glad will I be + to see him again; but I thought your regiment was entirely from the + north.” + </p> + <p> + “It was originally,” Munro said; “but I have filled up the gaps with men + from Nithsdale and the south. I was pressed for time, and our glens of + Farre and Strathnaver had already been cleared of all their best men. The + other companies are all commanded by men who were with us at St. Andrews—Balfour, + George Hamilton, and James Scott.” + </p> + <p> + “That is well,” Hepburn said. “Whether from the north or the south Scots + fight equally well; and with Gustavus 'tis like being in our own country, + so large a proportion are we of his majesty's army. And now, Munro, I fear + that I must supersede you in command, being senior to you in the service, + and having, moreover, his majesty's commission as governor of the town and + district.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no one to whom I would more willingly resign the command. I have + seen some hard fighting, but have yet my name to win; while you, though + still only a colonel, are famous throughout Europe.” + </p> + <p> + “Thanks to my men rather than to myself,” Hepburn said, “though, indeed, + mine is no better than the other Scottish regiments in the king's service; + but we have had luck, and in war, you know, luck is everything.” + </p> + <p> + There were many officers in both regiments who were old friends and + acquaintances, and there was much feasting that night in the Scotch camp. + In the morning work began again. The peasants of the district, 8000 + strong, were mustered and divided into companies, armed and disciplined, + and with these and the two Scotch regiments Hepburn advanced through + Pomerania to the gates of Colberg, fifty miles away, clearing the country + of the Austrians, who offered, indeed, but a faint resistance. + </p> + <p> + The Lord of Kniphausen, a general in the Swedish service, now arrived with + some Swedish troops, and prepared to besiege the town. The rest of Munro's + regiment accompanied him, having arrived safely at their destination, and + the whole were ordered to aid in the investment of Colberg, while Hepburn + was to seize the town and castle of Schiefelbrune, five miles distant, and + there to check the advance of the Imperialists, who were moving forward in + strength towards it. + </p> + <p> + Hepburn performed his mission with a party of cavalry, and reported that + although the castle was dilapidated it was a place of strength, and that + it could be held by a resolute garrison; whereupon Munro with 500 men of + his regiment was ordered to occupy it. Nigel Graheme's company was one of + those which marched forward on the 6th of November, and entering the town, + which was almost deserted by its inhabitants, set to work to prepare it + for defence. Ramparts of earth and stockades were hastily thrown up, and + the gates were backed by piles of rubbish to prevent them being blown in + by petards. + </p> + <p> + Scarcely were the preparations completed before the enemy were seen moving + down the hillside. + </p> + <p> + “How many are there of them, think you?” Malcolm asked Lieutenant + Farquhar. + </p> + <p> + “I am not skilled in judging numbers, Malcolm, but I should say that there + must be fully five thousand.” + </p> + <p> + There were indeed eight thousand Imperialists approaching, led by the + Count of Montecuculi, a distinguished Italian officer, who had with him + the regiments of Coloredo, Isslani, Goetz, Sparre, and Charles + Wallenstein, with a large force of mounted Croats. + </p> + <p> + Munro's orders were to hold the town as long as he could, and afterwards + to defend the castle to the last man. The Imperial general sent in a + message requesting him to treat for the surrender of the place; but Munro + replied simply, that as no allusion to the word treaty was contained in + his instructions he should defend the place to the last. The first advance + of the Imperialists was made by the cavalry covered by 1000 musketeers, + but these were repulsed without much difficulty by the Scottish fire. + </p> + <p> + The whole force then advanced to the attack with great resolution. + Desperately the Highlanders defended the town, again and again the + Imperialists were repulsed from the slight rampart, and when at last they + won their way into the place by dint of numbers, every street, lane, + alley, and house was defended to the last. Malcolm was almost bewildered + at the din, the incessant roll of musketry, the hoarse shouts of the + contending troops, the rattling of the guns, and the shrieks of pain. + </p> + <p> + Every time the Imperialists tried to force their way in heavy columns up + the streets the Scots poured out from the houses to resist them, and + meeting them pike to pike hurled them backwards. Malcolm tried to keep + cool, and to imitate the behaviour of his senior officers, repeating their + orders, and seeing that they were carried out. + </p> + <p> + Time after time the Austrians attempted to carry the place, and were + always hurled back, although outnumbering the Scots by nigh twenty to one. + At last the town was in ruins, and was on fire in a score of places. Its + streets and lanes were heaped with dead, and it was no longer tenable. + Munro therefore gave orders that the houses should everywhere be set on + fire, and the troops fall back to the castle. + </p> + <p> + Steadily and in good order his commands were carried out, and with + levelled pikes, still facing the enemy, the troops retired into the + castle. The Imperial general, seeing how heavy had been his losses in + carrying the open town, shrank from the prospect of assaulting a castle + defended by such troops, and when night fell he quietly marched away with + the force under his command. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III SIR JOHN HEPBURN + </h2> + <p> + Munro's first care, when he found that the Imperialists had retreated in + the direction of Colberg, was to send out some horsemen to discover + whether the Swedes were in a position to cover that town. The men returned + in two hours with the report that Field Marshal Horn, with the Swedish + troops from Stettin, had joined Kniphausen and Hepburn, and were guarding + the passage between the enemy and Colberg. + </p> + <p> + Two days later a message arrived to the effect that Sir Donald Mackay, who + had now been created Lord Reay, had arrived to take the command of his + regiment, and that Nigel Graheme's company was to march and join him; + while Munro with the rest of his command was to continue to hold the + Castle of Schiefelbrune. + </p> + <p> + Shortly afterwards General Bauditzen arrived with 4000 men and 18 pieces + of cannon to press the siege of Colberg, which was one of the strongest + fortresses in North Germany. On the 13th of November the news arrived that + Montecuculi was again advancing to raise the siege; and Lord Reay with his + half regiment, Hepburn with half his regiment, and a regiment of Swedish + infantry marched out to meet him, Kniphausen being in command. They took + up a position in a little village a few miles from the town; and here, at + four o'clock in the morning, they were attacked by the Imperialists, 7000 + strong. The Swedish infantry fled almost without firing a shot, but the + Scottish musketeers of Hepburn and Reay stood their ground. + </p> + <p> + For a time a desperate conflict raged. In the darkness it was utterly + impossible to distinguish friend from foe, and numbers on both sides were + mown down by the volleys of their own party. In the streets and gardens of + the little village men fought desperately with pikes and clubbed muskets. + Unable to act in the darkness, and losing many men from the storm of + bullets which swept over the village, the Swedish cavalry who had + accompanied the column turned and fled; and being unable to resist so vast + a superiority of force, Kniphausen gave the word, and the Scotch fell + slowly back under cover of the heavy mist which rose with the first breath + of day, leaving 500 men, nearly half their force, dead behind them. + </p> + <p> + Nigel Graheme's company had suffered severely; he himself was badly + wounded. A lieutenant and one of the ensigns were killed, with thirty of + the men, and many others were wounded with pike or bullet. Malcolm had had + his share of the fighting. Several times he and the men immediately round + him had been charged by the Imperialists, but their long pikes had each + time repulsed the assaults. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm had before this come to the conclusion, from the anecdotes he + heard from the officers who had served through several campaigns, that the + first quality of an officer is coolness, and that this is even more + valuable than is reckless bravery. He had therefore set before himself + that his first duty in action was to be perfectly calm, to speak without + hurry or excitement in a quiet and natural tone. + </p> + <p> + In his first fight at Schiefelbrune he had endeavoured to carry this out, + but although he gained much commendation from Nigel and the other officers + of the company for his coolness on that occasion, he had by no means + satisfied himself; but upon the present occasion he succeeded much better + in keeping his natural feelings in check, forcing himself to speak in a + quiet and deliberate way without flurry or excitement, and in a tone of + voice in no way raised above the ordinary. The effect had been excellent, + and the soldiers, in talking over the affair next day, were loud in their + praise of the conduct of the young ensign. + </p> + <p> + “The lad was as cool as an old soldier,” one of the sergeants said, “and + cooler. Just as the Austrian column was coming on for the third time, + shouting, and cheering, and sending their bullets in a hail, he said to me + as quietly as if he was giving an order about his dinner, 'I think, + Donald, it would be as well to keep the men out of fire until the last + moment. Some one might get hurt, you see, before the enemy get close + enough to use the pikes.' And then when they came close he said, 'Now, + sergeant, I think it is time to move out and stop them.' When they came + upon us he was fighting with his half pike with the best of us. And when + the Austrians fell back and began to fire again, and we took shelter + behind the houses, he walked about on the road, stooping down over those + who had fallen, to see if all were killed, and finding two were alive he + called out, 'Will one of you just come and help me carry these men under + shelter? They may get hit again if they remain here.' I went out to him, + but I can tell you I didn't like it, for the bullets were coming along the + road in a shower. His helmet was knocked off by one, and one of the men we + were carrying in was struck by two more bullets and killed, and the lad + seemed to mind it no more than if it had been a rainstorm in the hills at + home. I thought when we left Nithsdale that the captain was in the wrong + to make so young a boy an officer, but I don't think so now. Munro himself + could not have been cooler. If he lives he will make a great soldier.” + </p> + <p> + The defence of the Scots had been so stubborn that Montecuculi abandoned + his attempt to relieve Colberg that day, and so vigilant was the watch + which the besiegers kept that he was obliged at last to draw off his + troops and leave Colberg to its fate. The place held out to the 26th of + February, when the garrison surrendered and were allowed to march out with + the honours of war, with pikes carried, colours flying, drums beating, + matches lighted, with their baggage, and with two pieces of cannon loaded + and ready for action. They were saluted by the army as they marched away + to the nearest town held by the Austrians, and as they passed by + Schiefelbrune Munro's command were drawn up and presented arms to the 1500 + men who had for three months resisted every attempt to capture Colberg by + assault. + </p> + <p> + Nigel Graheme's wound was so severe that he was obliged for a time to + relinquish the command of his company, which he handed over to Herries. + </p> + <p> + As there had been two vacancies among the officers Malcolm would naturally + have been promoted to the duties of lieutenant, but at his urgent request + his uncle chose for the purpose a young gentleman of good family who had + fought in the ranks, and had much distinguished himself in both the + contests. Two others were also promoted to fill up the vacancies as + ensigns. + </p> + <p> + The troops after the capture of Colberg marched to Stettin, around which + town they encamped for a time, while Gustavus completed his preparations + for his march into Germany. While a portion of his army had been besieging + Colberg, Gustavus had been driving the Imperialists out of the whole of + Pomerania. Landing on the 24th of June with an army in all of 15,000 + infantry, 2000 cavalry, and about 3000 artillery, he had, after + despatching troops to aid Munro and besiege Colberg, marched against the + Imperialists under Conti. These, however, retreated in great disorder and + with much loss of men, guns, and baggage, into Brandenburg; and in a few + weeks after the Swedish landing only Colberg, Greifswald, and Demming held + out. In January Gustavus concluded a treaty with France, who agreed to pay + him an annual subsidy of 400,000 thalers on the condition that Gustavus + maintained in the field an army of 30,000 infantry and 6000 cavalry, and + assured to the princes and peoples whose territory he might occupy the + free exercise of their religion. England also promised a subsidy, and the + Marquis of Hamilton was to bring over 6000 infantry; but as the king did + not wish openly to take part in the war this force was not to appear as an + English contingent. Another regiment of Highlanders was brought over by + Colonel John Munro of Obstell, and also a regiment recruited in the + Lowlands by Colonel Sir James Lumsden. + </p> + <p> + Many other parties of Scotch were brought over by gentlemen of rank. Four + chosen Scottish regiments, Hepburn's regiment, Lord Reay's regiment, Sir + James Lumsden's musketeers, and Stargate's corps, were formed into one + brigade under the command of Hepburn. It was called the Green Brigade, and + the doublets, scarfs, feathers, and standards were of that colour. The + rest of the infantry were divided into the Yellow, Blue, and White + Brigades. + </p> + <p> + One evening when the officers of Reay's regiment were sitting round the + campfire Lieutenant Farquhar said to Colonel Munro: + </p> + <p> + “How is it that Sir John Hepburn has, although still so young, risen to + such high honour in the counsel of the king; how did he first make his + way?” + </p> + <p> + “He first entered the force raised by Sir Andrew Gray, who crossed from + Leith to Holland, and then uniting with a body of English troops under Sir + Horace Vere marched to join the troops of the Elector Palatine. It was a + work of danger and difficulty for so small a body of men to march through + Germany, and Spinola with a powerful force tried to intercept them. They + managed, however, to avoid him, and reached their destination in safety. + </p> + <p> + “Vere's force consisted of 2200 men, and when he and Sir Andrew Gray + joined the Margrave of Anspach the latter had but 4000 horse and 4000 foot + with him. There was a good deal of fighting, and Hepburn so distinguished + himself that although then but twenty years old he obtained command of a + company of pikemen in Sir Andrew Gray's band, and this company was + specially selected as a bodyguard for the king. + </p> + <p> + “There was one Scotchman in the band who vied even with Hepburn in the + gallantry of his deeds. He was the son of a burgess of Stirling named + Edmund, and on one occasion, laying aside his armour, he swam the Danube + at night in front of the Austrian lines, and penetrated to the very heart + of the Imperial camp. There he managed to enter the tent of the + Imperialist general, the Count de Bucquoi, gagged and bound him, carried + him to the river, swam across with him and presented him as a prisoner to + the Prince of Orange, under whose command he was then serving. + </p> + <p> + “It was well for Hepburn that at the battle of Prague he was guarding the + king, or he also might have fallen among the hosts who died on that + disastrous day. When the elector had fled the country Sir Andrew Gray's + bands formed part of Mansfeldt's force, under whom they gained great + glory. When driven out of the Palatinate they still kept up the war in + various parts of Germany and Alsace. With the Scotch companies of Colonel + Henderson they defended Bergen when the Marquis of Spinola besieged it. + Morgan with an English brigade was with them, and right steadily they + fought. Again and again the Spaniards attempted to storm the place, but + after losing 12,000 men they were forced to withdraw on the approach of + Prince Maurice. + </p> + <p> + “The elector now made peace with the emperor, and Mansfeldt's bands found + themselves without employment. Mansfeldt in vain endeavoured to obtain + employment under one of the powers, but failing, marched into Lorraine. + There, it must be owned, they plundered and ravaged till they were a + terror to the country. At last the Dutch, being sorely pressed by the + Spaniards, offered to take them into their pay, and the bands marched out + from Lorraine in high spirits. + </p> + <p> + “They were in sore plight for fighting, for most of them had been obliged + to sell even their arms and armour to procure food. Spinola, hearing of + their approach pushed forward with a strong force to intercept them, and + so came upon them at Fleurus, eight miles from Namur, on the 30th of + August, 1622. + </p> + <p> + “The Scots were led by Hepburn, Hume, and Sir James Ramsay; the English by + Sir Charles Rich, brother to the Earl of Warwick, Sir James Hayes, and + others. The odds seemed all in favour of the Spaniards who were much + superior in numbers, and were splendidly accoutred and well disciplined, + and what was more, were well fed, while Mansfeldt's bands were but half + armed and almost wholly starving. + </p> + <p> + “It was a desperate battle, and the Spaniards in the end remained masters + of the field, but Mansfeldt with his bands had burst their way through + them, and succeeded in crossing into Holland. Here their position was + bettered; for, though there was little fighting for them to do, and they + could get no pay, they lived and grew fat in free quarters among the + Dutch. At last the force broke up altogether; the Germans scattered to + their homes, the English crossed the seas, and Hepburn led what remained + of Sir Andrew Gray's bands to Sweden, where he offered their services to + Gustavus. The Swedish king had already a large number of Scotch in his + service, and Hepburn was made a colonel, having a strong regiment composed + of his old followers inured to war and hardship, and strengthened by a + number of new arrivals. When in 1625 hostilities were renewed with Poland + Hepburn's regiment formed part of the army which invaded Polish Prussia. + The first feat in which he distinguished himself in the service of Sweden + was at the relief of Mewe, a town in Eastern Prussia, which was blockaded + by King Sigismund at the head of 30,000 Poles. The town is situated at the + confluence of the Bersa with the Vistula, which washes two sides of its + walls. + </p> + <p> + “In front of the other face is a steep green eminence which the Poles had + very strongly entrenched, and had erected upon it ten batteries of heavy + cannon. As the town could only be approached on this side the difficulties + of the relieving force were enormous; but as the relief of the town was a + necessity in order to enable Gustavus to carry out the campaign he + intended, the king determined to make a desperate effort to effect it. + </p> + <p> + “He selected 3000 of his best Scottish infantry, among whom was Hepburn's + own regiment, and 500 horse under Colonel Thurn. When they were drawn up + he gave them a short address on the desperate nature of the service they + were about to perform, namely, to cut a passage over a strongly fortified + hill defended by 30,000 men. The column, commanded by Hepburn, started at + dusk, and, unseen by the enemy, approached their position, and working + round it began to ascend the hill by a narrow and winding path encumbered + by rocks and stones, thick underwood, and overhanging trees. + </p> + <p> + “The difficulty for troops with heavy muskets, cartridges, breastplates, + and helmets, to make their way up such a place was enormous, and the + mountain side was so steep that they were frequently obliged to haul + themselves up by the branches of the trees; nevertheless, they managed to + make their way through the enemy's outposts unobserved, and reached the + summit, where the ground was smooth and level. + </p> + <p> + “Here they fell at once upon the Poles, who were working busily at their + trenches, and for a time gained a footing there; but a deadly fire of + musketry with showers of arrows and stones, opened upon them from all + points, compelled the Scots to recoil from the trenches, when they were + instantly attacked by crowds of horsemen in mail shirts and steel caps. + Hepburn drew off his men till they reached a rock on the plateau, and here + they made their stand, the musketeers occupying the rock, the pikemen + forming in a wall around it. + </p> + <p> + “They had brought with them the portable chevaux-de-frise carried by the + infantry in the Swedish service. They fixed this along in front, and it + aided the spearmen greatly in resisting the desperate charges of the + Polish horsemen. Hepburn was joined by Colonel Mostyn, an Englishman, and + Count Brahe, with 200 German arquebusiers, and this force for two days + withstood the incessant attacks of the whole of the Polish army. + </p> + <p> + “While this desperate strife was going on, and the attention of the enemy + entirely occupied, Gustavus managed to pass a strong force of men and a + store of ammunition into the town, and the Poles, seeing that he had + achieved his purpose, retired unmolested. In every battle which Gustavus + fought Hepburn bore a prominent part. He distinguished himself at the + storming of Kesmark and the defeat of the Poles who were marching to its + relief. + </p> + <p> + “He took part in the siege and capture of Marienburg and in the defeat of + the Poles at Dirschau. He was with Leslie when last year he defended + Stralsund against Wallenstein, and inflicted upon the haughty general the + first reverse he had ever met with. Truly Hepburn has won his honours by + the edge of the sword.” + </p> + <p> + “Wallenstein is the greatest of the Imperial commanders, is he not?” + Farquhar asked. + </p> + <p> + “He and Tilly,” Munro replied. “'Tis a question which is the greatest. + They are men of a very different stamp. Tilly is a soldier, and nothing + but a soldier, save that he is a fanatic in religion. He is as cruel as he + is brave, and as portentously ugly as he is cruel. + </p> + <p> + “Wallenstein is a very different man. He has enormous ambition and great + talent, and his possessions are so vast that he is a dangerous subject for + any potentate, even the most powerful. Curiously enough, he was born of + Protestant parents, but when they died, while he was yet a child, he was + committed to the care of his uncle, Albert Slavata, a Jesuit, and was by + him brought up a strict Catholic. When he had finished the course of his + study at Metz he spent some time at the University of Altdorf, and + afterwards studied at Bologna and Padua. He then travelled in Italy, + Germany, France, Spain, England, and Holland, studying the military forces + and tactics of each country. + </p> + <p> + “On his return to Bohemia he took service under the Emperor Rudolph and + joined the army of General Basta in Hungary, where he distinguished + himself greatly at the siege of Grau. When peace was made in 1606 + Wallenstein returned to Bohemia, and though he was but twenty-three years + old he married a wealthy old widow, all of whose large properties came to + him at her death eight years afterwards. + </p> + <p> + “Five years later he raised at his own cost two hundred dragoons to + support Ferdinand of Gratz in his war against the Venetians. Here he + greatly distinguished himself, and was promoted to a colonelcy. He married + a second time, and again to one of the richest heiresses of Austria. On + the outbreak of the religious war of 1618 he raised a regiment of + Cuirassiers, and fought at its head. Two years later he was made + quartermaster general of the army, and marched at the head of an + independent force into Moravia, and there re-established the Imperial + authority. + </p> + <p> + “The next year he bought from the Emperor Ferdinand, for a little over + 7,000,000 florins, sixty properties which the emperor had confiscated from + Protestants whom he had either executed or banished. He had been made a + count at the time of his second marriage; he was now named a prince, which + title was changed into that of the Duke of Friedland. They say that his + wealth is so vast that he obtains two millions and a half sterling a year + from his various estates. + </p> + <p> + “When in 1625 King Christian of Denmark joined in the war against the + emperor, Wallenstein raised at his own cost an army of 50,000 men and + defeated Mansfeldt's army. After that he cleared the Danes out of Silesia, + conquered Brandenburg and Mecklenburg, and laid siege to Stralsund, and + there broke his teeth against our Scottish pikes. For his services in that + war Wallenstein received the duchy of Mecklenburg. + </p> + <p> + “At present he is in retirement. The conquests which his army have made + for the emperor aroused the suspicion and jealousy of the German princes, + and it may be that the emperor himself was glad enough of an excuse to + humble his too powerful subject. At any rate, Wallenstein's army was + disbanded, and he retired to one of his castles. You may be sure we shall + hear of him again. Tilly, you know, is the Bavarian commander, and we + shall probably encounter him before long.” + </p> + <p> + New Brandenburg and several other towns were captured and strongly + garrisoned, 600 of Reay's regiment under Lieutenant Colonel Lindsay being + left in New Brandenburg. Nigel Graheme was still laid up, but his company + formed part of the force. + </p> + <p> + “This is ill fortune indeed,” Malcolm said to Lieutenant Farquhar, “thus + to be shut up here while the army are marching away to win victories in + the field.” + </p> + <p> + “It is indeed, Malcolm, but I suppose that the king thinks that Tilly is + likely to try and retake these places, and so to threaten his rear as he + marches forward. He would never have placed as strong a force of his best + soldiers here if he had not thought the position a very important one.” + </p> + <p> + The troops were quartered in the larger buildings of New Brandenburg; the + officers were billeted upon the burghers. The position of the country + people and the inhabitants of the towns of Germany during this long and + desolating war was terrible; no matter which side won, they suffered. + There were in those days no commissariat wagons bringing up stores from + depots and magazines to the armies. The troops lived entirely upon the + country through which they marched. In exceptional cases, when the + military chest happened to be well filled, the provisions acquired might + be paid for, but as a rule armies upon the march lived by foraging. The + cavalry swept in the flocks and herds from the country round. Flour, + forage, and everything else required was seized wherever found, and the + unhappy peasants and villagers thought themselves lucky if they escaped + with the loss of all they possessed, without violence, insult, and ill + treatment. The slightest resistance to the exactions of the lawless + foragers excited their fury, and indiscriminate slaughter took place. The + march of an army could be followed by burned villages, demolished houses, + crops destroyed, and general ruin, havoc, and desolation. + </p> + <p> + In the cases of towns these generally escaped indiscriminate plunder by + sending deputies forward to meet advancing armies, when an offer would be + made to the general to supply so much food and to pay so much money on + condition that private property was respected. In these cases the main + body of the troops was generally encamped outside the town. Along the + routes frequently followed by armies the country became a desert, the + hapless people forsook their ruined homes, and took refuge in the forests + or in the heart of the hills, carrying with them their portable property, + and driving before them a cow or two and a few goats. + </p> + <p> + How great was the general slaughter and destruction may be judged by the + fact that the population of Germany decreased by half during the war, and + in Bohemia the slaughter was even greater. At the commencement of the war + the population of Bohemia consisted of 3,000,000 of people, inhabiting 738 + towns and 34,700 villages. At the end of the war there were but 780,000 + inhabitants, 230 towns, and 6000 villages. Thus three out of four of the + whole population had been slaughtered during the struggle. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm was, with Lieutenant Farquhar, quartered upon one of the principal + burghers of New Brandenburg, and syndic of the weavers. He received them + cordially. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad,” he said, “to entertain two Scottish officers, and, to speak + frankly, your presence will be of no slight advantage, for it is only the + houses where officers are quartered which can hope to escape from the + plunder and exactions of the soldiers. My wife and I will do our best to + make you comfortable, but we cannot entertain you as we could have done + before this war began, for trade is altogether ruined. None have money + wherewith to buy goods. Even when free from the presence of contending + armies, the country is infested with parties of deserters or disbanded + soldiers, who plunder and murder all whom they meet, so that none dare + travel along the roads save in strong parties. I believe that there is + scarce a village standing within twenty miles, and many parts have + suffered much more than we have. If this war goes on, God help the people, + for I know not what will become of them. This is my house, will you please + to enter.” + </p> + <p> + Entering a wide hall, he led them into a low sitting room where his wife + and three daughters were at work. They started up with looks of alarm at + the clatter of steel in the hall. + </p> + <p> + “Wife,” the syndic said as he entered, “these are two gentlemen, officers + of the Scottish regiment; they will stay with us during the occupation of + the town. I know that you and the girls will do your best to make their + stay pleasant to them.” + </p> + <p> + As the officers removed their helmets the apprehensions of the women + calmed down on perceiving that one of their guests was a young man of + three or four and twenty, while the other was a lad, and that both had + bright pleasant faces in no way answering the terrible reputation gained + by the invincible soldiers of the Swedish king. + </p> + <p> + “I hope,” Farquhar said pleasantly, “that you will not put yourselves out + of your way for us. We are soldiers of fortune accustomed to sleep on the + ground and to live on the roughest fare, and since leaving Scotland we + have scarcely slept beneath a roof. We will be as little trouble to you as + we can, and our two soldier servants will do all that we need.” + </p> + <p> + Farquhar spoke in German, for so large a number of Germans were serving + among the Swedes that the Scottish officers had all learned to speak that + language and Swedish, German being absolutely necessary for their + intercourse with the country people. This was the more easy as the two + languages were akin to each other, and were less broadly separated from + English in those days than they are now. + </p> + <p> + It was nearly a year since Farquhar and Malcolm had landed on the shores + of the Baltic, and living as they had done among Swedes and Germans, they + had had no difficulty in learning to speak both languages fluently. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV NEW BRANDENBURG + </h2> + <p> + Farquhar and Malcolm Graheme were soon at home with their hosts. The + syndic had offered to have their meals prepared for them in a separate + chamber, but they begged to be allowed to take them with the family, with + whom they speedily became intimate. + </p> + <p> + Three weeks after the capture of New Brandenburg the news came that Tilly + with a large army was rapidly approaching. + </p> + <p> + Every effort was made to place the town in a position of defence. Day + after day messengers came in with the news that the other places which had + been garrisoned by the Swedes had been captured, and very shortly the + Imperialist army was seen approaching. The garrison knew that they could + expect no relief from Gustavus, who had ten days before marched northward, + and all prepared for a desperate resistance. The townsfolk looked on with + trembling apprehension, their sympathies were with the defenders, and, + moreover, they knew that in any case they might expect pillage and rapine + should the city be taken, for the property of the townspeople when a city + was captured was regarded by the soldiery as their lawful prize, whether + friendly to the conquerors or the reverse. The town was at once summoned + to surrender, and upon Lindsay's refusal the guns were placed in position, + and the siege began. + </p> + <p> + As Tilly was anxious to march away to the north to oppose Gustavus he + spared no effort to reduce New Brandenburg as speedily as possible, and + his artillery fired night and day to effect breaches in the walls. The + Scotch officers saw little of their hosts now, for they were almost + continually upon the walls. + </p> + <p> + At the first news of the approach of the Imperialists the syndic had sent + away his daughters to the house of a relative at Stralsund, where his son + was settled in business. When Farquhar and Malcolm returned to eat a meal + or to throw themselves on their beds to snatch a short sleep, the syndic + anxiously questioned them as to the progress of the siege. The reports + were not hopeful. In several places the walls were crumbling, and it was + probable that a storm would shortly be attempted. The town itself was + suffering heavily, for the balls of the besiegers frequently flew high, + and came crashing among the houses. Few of the inhabitants were to be seen + in the streets; all had buried their most valuable property, and with + scared faces awaited the issue of the conflict. + </p> + <p> + After six days' cannonade the walls were breached in many places, and the + Imperialists advanced to the assault. The Scotch defended them with great + resolution, and again and again the Imperialists recoiled, unable to burst + their way through the lines of pikes or to withstand the heavy musketry + fire poured upon them from the walls and buildings. + </p> + <p> + But Tilly's army was so strong that he was able continually to bring up + fresh troops to the attack, while the Scotch were incessantly engaged. For + eight-and-forty hours the defenders resisted successfully, but at last, + worn out by fatigue, they were unable to withstand the onslaught of the + enemy, and the latter forced their way into the town. Still the Scots + fought on. Falling back from the breaches, they contested every foot of + the ground, holding the streets and lanes with desperate tenacity, and + inflicting terrible losses upon the enemy. + </p> + <p> + At last, twelve hours later, they were gathered in the marketplace, nearly + in the centre of the town, surrounded on all sides by the enemy. Several + times the Scottish bugles had sounded a parley, but Tilly, furious at the + resistance, and at the loss which the capture of the town had entailed, + had issued orders that no quarter should be given, and his troops pressed + the now diminished band of Scotchmen on all sides. + </p> + <p> + Even now they could not break through the circle of spears, but from every + window and roof commanding them a deadly fire was poured in. Colonel + Lindsay was shot dead. Captain Moncrieff, Lieutenant Keith, and Farquhar + fell close to Malcolm. The shouts of “Kill, kill, no quarter,” rose from + the masses of Imperialists. Parties of the Scotch, preferring to die sword + in hand rather than be shot down, flung themselves into the midst of the + enemy and died fighting. + </p> + <p> + At last, when but fifty men remained standing, these in a close body + rushed at the enemy and drove them by the fury of their attack some + distance down the principal street. Then numbers told. The band was broken + up, and a desperate hand-to-hand conflict raged for a time. + </p> + <p> + Two of the Scottish officers alone, Captain Innes and Lieutenant Lumsden, + succeeded in breaking their way down a side lane, and thence, rushing to + the wall, leapt down into the moat, and swimming across, succeeded in + making their escape, and in carrying the news of the massacre to the camp + of Gustavus, where the tale filled all with indignation and fury. Among + the Scotch regiments deep vows of vengeance were interchanged, and in + after battles the Imperialists had cause bitterly to rue having refused + quarter to the Scots at New Brandenburg. + </p> + <p> + When the last melee was at its thickest, and all hope was at an end, + Malcolm, who had been fighting desperately with his half pike, found + himself for a moment in a doorway. He turned the handle, and it opened at + once. The house, like all the others, was full of Imperialists, who had + thrown themselves into it when the Scots made their charge, and were now + keeping up a fire at them from the upper windows. Closing the door behind + him, Malcolm stood for a moment to recover his breath. He had passed + unscathed through the three days' fighting, though his armour and helmet + were deeply dinted in many places. + </p> + <p> + The din without and above was tremendous. The stroke of sword on armour, + the sharp crack of the pistols, the rattle of musketry, the shouts of the + Imperialists, and the wild defiant cries of the Highlanders mingled + together. + </p> + <p> + As Malcolm stood panting he recalled the situation, and, remembering that + the syndic's house was in the street behind, he determined to gain it, + feeling sure that his host would shelter him if he could. Passing through + the house he issued into a courtyard, quickly stripped off his armour and + accoutrements, and threw them into an outhouse. Climbing on the roof of + this he got upon the wall, and ran along it until behind the house of the + syndic. He had no fear of being observed, for the attention of all in the + houses in the street he had left would be directed to the conflict below. + </p> + <p> + The sound of musketry had already ceased, telling that the work of + slaughter was well nigh over, when Malcolm dropped into the courtyard of + the syndic; the latter and his wife gave a cry of astonishment as the lad + entered the house, breathless and pale as death. + </p> + <p> + “Can you shelter me awhile?” he said. “I believe that all my countrymen + are killed.” + </p> + <p> + “We will do our best, my lad,” the syndic said at once. “But the houses + will be ransacked presently from top to bottom.” + </p> + <p> + “Let him have one of the servant's disguises,” the wife said; “they can + all be trusted.” + </p> + <p> + One of the serving men was at once called in, and he hurried off with + Malcolm. + </p> + <p> + The young Scotchmen had made themselves very popular with the servants by + their courtesy and care to avoid giving unnecessary trouble, and in a few + minutes Malcolm was attired as a serving man, and joined the servants who + were busy in spreading the tables with provisions, and in broaching a + large cask of wine to allay the passions of the Imperialists. + </p> + <p> + It was not long before they came. Soon there was a thundering knocking at + the door, and upon its being opened a number of soldiers burst in. Many + were bleeding from wounds. All bore signs of the desperate strife in which + they had been engaged. + </p> + <p> + “You are welcome,” the host said, advancing towards them. “I have made + preparations for your coming; eat and drink as it pleases you.” + </p> + <p> + Rushing to the wine casks, the soldiers appeased their thirst with long + draughts of wine, and then fell upon the eatables. Other bands followed, + and the house was soon filled from top to bottom with soldiers, who + ransacked the cupboards, loaded themselves with such things as they deemed + worth carrying away, and wantonly broke and destroyed what they could not. + The servants were all kept busy bringing up wine from the cellars. This + was of good quality, and the soldiers, well satisfied, abstained from + personal violence. + </p> + <p> + All night long pandemonium reigned in the town. Shrieks and cries, oaths + and sounds of conflict arose from all quarters, as citizens or their wives + were slaughtered by drunken soldiers, or the latter quarrelled and fought + among themselves for some article of plunder. Flames broke out in many + places, and whole streets were burned, many of the drunken soldiers losing + their lives in the burning houses; but in the morning the bugles rang out, + the soldiers desisted from their orgies, and such as were able to stand + staggered away to join their colours. + </p> + <p> + A fresh party marched into the town; these collected the stragglers, and + seized all the horses and carts for the carriage of the baggage and + plunder. The burgomaster had been taken before Tilly and commanded to find + a considerable sum of money the first thing in the morning, under threat + that the whole town would be burned down, and the inhabitants massacred if + it was not forthcoming. + </p> + <p> + A council of the principal inhabitants was hastily summoned at daybreak. + The syndics of the various guilds between them contributed the necessary + sum either in money or in drafts, and at noon Tilly marched away with his + troops, leaving the smoking and ruined town behind him. Many of the + inhabitants were forced as drivers to accompany the horses and carts taken + away. Among these were three of the syndic's serving men, Malcolm being + one of the number. + </p> + <p> + It was well that the Pomeranian dialect differed so widely from the + Bavarian, so Malcolm's German had consequently passed muster without + suspicion. The Imperialist army, although dragging with them an immense + train of carts laden with plunder, marched rapidly. The baggage was + guarded by horsemen who kept the train in motion, galloping up and down + the line, and freely administering blows among their captives whenever a + delay or stoppage occurred. + </p> + <p> + The whole country through which they passed was desolated and wasted, and + the army would have fared badly had it not been for the herds of captured + cattle they drove along with them, and the wagons laden with flour and + wine taken at New Brandenburg and the other towns they had stormed. The + marches were long, for Tilly was anxious to accomplish his object before + Gustavus should be aware of the direction he was taking. + </p> + <p> + This object was the capture of the town of Magdeburg, a large and + important city, and one of the strongholds of Protestantism. Here he was + resolved to strike a blow which would, he believed, terrify Germany into + submission. + </p> + <p> + When Gustavus heard that Tilly had marched west, he moved against + Frankfort-on-the-Oder, where the Imperialists were commanded by Count + Schomberg. The latter had taken every measure for the defence of the town, + destroying all the suburbs, burning the country houses and mills, and + cutting down the orchards and vineyards. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus, accompanied by Sir John Hepburn, at once reconnoitred the place + and posted his troops. The Blue and Yellow Brigades were posted among the + vineyards on the road to Custrin; the White Brigade took post opposite one + of the two gates of the town. Hepburn and the Green Brigade were stationed + opposite the other. + </p> + <p> + As the Swedes advanced the Imperialist garrison, who were 10,000 strong, + opened fire with musketry and cannon from the walls. The weakest point in + the defence was assigned by Schomberg to Colonel Walter Butler, who + commanded a regiment of Irish musketeers in the Imperialist service. In + the evening Hepburn and some other officers accompanied the king to + reconnoitre near the walls. A party of Imperialists, seeing some officers + approaching, and judging by their waving plumes they were of importance, + sallied quietly out of a postern gate unperceived and suddenly opened + fire. Lieutenant Munro, of Munro's regiment, was shot in the leg, and + Count Teuffel, a colonel of the Life Guards, in the arm. A body of + Hepburn's regiment, under Major Sinclair, rushed forward and drove in the + Imperialists, a lieutenant colonel and a captain being captured. + </p> + <p> + So hotly did they press the Imperialists that they were able to make a + lodgment, on some high ground near the rampart, on which stood an old + churchyard surrounded by a wall, and whence their fire could sweep the + enemy's works. Some cannon were at once brought up and placed in position + here, and opened fire on the Guben gate. Captain Gunter, of Hepburn's + regiment, went forward with twelve men, and in spite of a very heavy fire + from the walls reconnoitred the ditch and approaches to the walls. + </p> + <p> + The next day all was ready for the assault. It was Palm Sunday, the 3d of + April, and the attack was to take place at five o'clock in the afternoon. + Before advancing, Hepburn and several of the other officers wished to lay + aside their armour, as its weight was great, and would impede their + movements. The king, however, forbade them to do so. + </p> + <p> + “No,” he said; “he who loves my service will not risk life lightly. If my + officers are killed, who is to command my soldiers?” + </p> + <p> + Fascines and scaling ladders were prepared. The Green Brigade were to head + the assault, and Gustavus, addressing them, bade them remember New + Brandenburg. + </p> + <p> + At five o'clock a tremendous cannonade was opened on the walls from all + the Swedish batteries, and under cover of the smoke the Green Brigade + advanced to the assault. From the circle of the walls a cloud of smoke and + fire broke out from cannon and arquebus, muskets, and wall pieces. Sir + John Hepburn and Colonel Lumsden, side by side, led on their regiments + against the Guben gate; both carried petards. + </p> + <p> + In spite of the tremendous fire poured upon them from the wall they + reached the gate, and the two colonels fixed the petards to it and retired + a few paces. In a minute there was a tremendous explosion, and the gate + fell scattered in fragments. Then the Scottish pikemen rushed forward. As + they did so there was a roar of cannon, and a storm of bullets ploughed + lanes through the close ranks of the pikemen, for the Imperialists, + expecting the attack, had placed cannon, loaded to the muzzle with + bullets, behind the gates. + </p> + <p> + Munro's regiment now leapt into the moat, waded across, and planting their + ladders under a murderous fire, stormed the works flanking the gate, and + then joined their comrades, who were striving to make an entrance. + Hepburn, leading on the pikemen, was hit on the knee, where he had in a + former battle been badly wounded. + </p> + <p> + “Go on, bully Munro,” he said jocularly to his old schoolfellow, “for I am + wounded.” + </p> + <p> + A major who advanced to take his place at the head of the regiment was + shot dead, and so terrible was the fire that even the pikemen of Hepburn's + regiment wavered for a moment; but Munro and Lumsden, with their vizors + down and half pikes in their hands, cheered on their men, and, side by + side, led the way. + </p> + <p> + “My hearts!” shouted Lumsden, waving his pike—“my brave hearts, + let's enter.” + </p> + <p> + “Forward!” shouted Munro; “advance pikes!” + </p> + <p> + With a wild cheer the Scots burst forward; the gates were stormed, and in + a moment the cannon, being seized, were turned, and volleys of bullets + poured upon the dense masses of the Imperialists. The pikemen pressed + forward in close column, shoulder to shoulder, the pikes levelled in + front, the musketeers behind firing on the Imperialists in the houses. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Gustavus, with the Blue and Yellow Swedish Brigades, + stormed that part of the wall defended by Butler with his Irishmen. These + fought with extreme bravery, and continued their resistance until almost + every man was killed, when the two brigades burst into the town, the White + Brigade storming the wall in another quarter. Twice the Imperialist drums + beat a parley, but their sound was deadened by the roar of musketry and + the boom of cannon from wall and battery, and the uproar and shouting in + every street and house. The Green Brigade, under its commander, maintained + its regular order, pressing forward with resistless strength. In vain the + Austrians shouted for quarter. They were met by shouts of—“Remember + New Brandenburg!” + </p> + <p> + Even now, when all was lost, Tilly's veterans fought with extreme bravery + and resolution; but at last, when Butler had fallen, and Schomberg and + Montecuculi, and a few other officers had succeeded in escaping, all + resistance ceased. Four colonels, 36 officers, and 3000 men were killed. + Fifty colours and ten baggage wagons, laden with gold and silver plate, + were captured. + </p> + <p> + Many were taken prisoners, and hundreds were drowned in the Oder, across + which the survivors of the garrison made their escape. Plundering at once + began, and several houses were set on fire; but Gustavus ordered the drums + to beat, and the soldiers to repair to their colours outside the town, + which was committed to the charge of Sir John Hepburn, with his regiment. + </p> + <p> + The rumour that Magdeburg was the next object of attack circulated among + Tilly's troops the day after they marched west from New Brandenburg. It + originated in some chance word dropped by a superior officer, and seemed + confirmed by the direction which they were taking which was directly away + from the Swedish army. There was a report, too, that Count Pappenheim, who + commanded a separate army, would meet Tilly there, and that every effort + would be made to capture the town before Gustavus could march to its + assistance. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm could easily have made his escape the first night after leaving + New Brandenburg; but the distance to be traversed to join the Swedish army + was great, confusion and disorder reigned everywhere, and he had decided + that it would be safer to remain with the Imperialist army until Gustavus + should approach within striking distance. On the road he kept with the + other two men who had been taken with the horses from the syndic of the + weavers, and, chatting with them when the convoy halted, he had not the + least fear of being questioned by others. Indeed, none of those in the + long train of carts and wagons paid much attention to their fellows, all + had been alike forced to accompany the Imperialists, and each was too much + occupied by the hardships of his own lot, and by thoughts of the home from + which he had been torn, to seek for the companionship of his comrades in + misfortune. + </p> + <p> + As soon, however, as Malcolm heard the report of Tilly's intentions, he + saw that it was of the utmost importance that the King of Sweden should be + informed of the Imperialist plans as early as possible, and he determined + at once to start and endeavour to make his way across the country. At + nightfall the train with the baggage and plunder was as usual so placed + that it was surrounded by the camps of the various brigades of the army in + order to prevent desertion. The previous night an escape would have been + comparatively easy, for the soldiers were worn out by their exertions at + the siege of New Brandenburg, and were still heavy from the drink they had + obtained there; but discipline was now restored, and the sentries were on + the alert. A close cordon of these was placed around the baggage train; + and when this was passed, there would still be the difficulty of escaping + through the camps of soldiery, and of passing the outposts. Malcolm waited + until the camp became quiet, or rather comparatively quiet, for the + supplies of wine were far from exhausted, and revelling was still going on + in various parts of the camp, for the rigid discipline in use in modern + armies was at that time unknown, and except when on duty in the ranks a + wide amount of license was permitted to the soldiers. The night was fine + and bright, and Malcolm saw that it would be difficult to get through the + line of sentries who were stationed some thirty or forty yards apart. + </p> + <p> + After thinking for some time he went up to a group of eight or ten horses + which were fastened by their bridles to a large store wagon on the outside + of the baggage camp. Malcolm unfastened the bridles and turned the horses + heads outwards. Then he gave two of them a sharp prick with his dagger, + and the startled animals dashed forward in affright, followed by their + companions. They passed close to one of the sentries, who tried in vain to + stop them, and then burst into the camp beyond, where their rush startled + the horses picketed there. These began to kick and struggle desperately to + free themselves from their fastenings. The soldiers, startled at the + sudden noise, sprang to their feet, and much confusion reigned until the + runaway horses were secured and driven back to their lines. + </p> + <p> + The instant he had thus diverted the attention of the whole line of + sentries along that side of the baggage camp, Malcolm crept quietly up and + passed between them. Turning from the direction in which the horses had + disturbed the camp, he made his way cautiously along. Only the officers + had tents, the men sleeping on the ground around their fires. He had to + move with the greatest caution to avoid treading upon the sleepers, and + was constantly compelled to make detours to get beyond the range of the + fires, round which groups of men were sitting and carousing. + </p> + <p> + At last he reached the outside of the camp, and taking advantage of every + clump of bushes he had no difficulty in making his way through the + outposts, for as the enemy was known to be far away, no great vigilance + was observed by the sentries. He had still to be watchful, for fires were + blazing in a score of places over the country round, showing that the + foragers of the army were at their usual work of rapine, and he might at + any moment meet one of these returning laden with spoil. + </p> + <p> + Once or twice, indeed, he heard the galloping of bodies of horse, and the + sound of distant pistol shots and the shrieks of women came faintly to his + ears. He passed on, however, without meeting with any of the foraging + parties, and by morning was fifteen miles away from Tilly's camp. Entering + a wood he threw himself down and slept soundly for some hours. It was + nearly noon before he started again. After an hour's walking he came upon + the ruins of a village. Smoke was still curling up from the charred beams + and rafters of the cottages, and the destruction had evidently taken place + but the day before. The bodies of several men and women lay scattered + among the houses; two or three dogs were prowling about, and these growled + angrily at the intruder, and would have attacked him had he not flourished + a club which he had cut in the woods for self defence. + </p> + <p> + Moving about through the village he heard a sound of wild laughter, and + going in that direction saw a woman sitting on the ground. In her lap was + a dead child pierced through with a lance. The woman was talking and + laughing to it, her clothes were torn, and her hair fell in wild disorder + over her shoulders. It needed but a glance to tell Malcolm that the poor + creature was mad, distraught by the horrors of the previous day. + </p> + <p> + A peasant stood by leaning on a stick, mournfully regarding her. He turned + suddenly round with the weapon uplifted at the sound of Malcolm's + approach, but lowered it on seeing that the newcomer was a lad. + </p> + <p> + “I hoped you were a soldier,” the peasant said, as he lowered his stick. + “I should like to kill one, and then to be killed myself. My God, what is + life worth living for in this unhappy country? Three times since the war + began has our village been burned, but each time we were warned of the + approach of the plunderers, and escaped in time. Yesterday they came when + I was away, and see what they have done;” and he pointed to his wife and + child, and to the corpses scattered about. + </p> + <p> + “It is terrible,” Malcolm replied. “I was taken a prisoner but two days + since at the sack of New Brandenburg, but I have managed to escape. I am a + Scot, and am on my way now to join the army of the Swedes, which will, I + hope, soon punish the villains who have done this damage.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall take my wife to her mother,” the peasant said, “and leave her + there. I hope God will take her soon, and then I will go and take service + under the Swedish king, and will slay till I am slain. I would kill myself + now, but that I would fain avenge my wife and child on some of these + murderers of Tilly's before I die.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm felt that the case was far beyond any attempt at consolation. + </p> + <p> + “If you come to the Swedish army ask for Ensign Malcolm Graheme of Reay's + Scottish regiment, and I will take you to one of the German corps, where + you will understand the language of your comrades.” So saying he turned + from the bloodstained village and continued his way. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V MARAUDERS + </h2> + <p> + Malcolm had brought with him from Tilly's camp a supply of provisions + sufficient for three or four days, and a flask of wine. Before he started + from New Brandenburg the syndic had slipped into his band a purse + containing ten gold pieces, and whenever he came to a village which had + escaped the ravages of the war he had no difficulty in obtaining + provisions. + </p> + <p> + It was pitiable at each place to see the anxiety with which the villagers + crowded round him upon his arrival and questioned him as to the position + of the armies and whether he had met with any parties of raiders on the + way. Everywhere the cattle had been driven into the woods; boys were + posted as lookouts on eminences at a distance to bring in word should any + body of men be seen moving in that direction; and the inhabitants were + prepared to fly instantly at the approach of danger. + </p> + <p> + The news that Tilly's army was marching in the opposite direction was + received with a deep sense of thankfulness and relief, for they were now + assured of a respite from his plunderers, although still exposed to danger + from the arrival of some of the numerous bands. These, nominally fighting + for one or other of the parties, were in truth nothing but marauders, + being composed of deserters and desperadoes of all kinds, who lived upon + the misfortunes of the country, and were even more cruel and pitiless than + were the regular troops. + </p> + <p> + At one of these villages Malcolm exchanged his attire as a serving man of + a rich burgher for that of a peasant lad. He was in ignorance of the + present position of the Swedish army, and was making for the intrenched + camp of Schwedt, on the Oder, which Gustavus had not left when he had last + heard of him. + </p> + <p> + On the fourth day after leaving the camp of Tilly, as Malcolm was + proceeding across a bare and desolate country he heard a sound of + galloping behind him, and saw a party of six rough looking horsemen coming + along the road. As flight would have been useless he continued his way + until they overtook him. They reined up when they reached him. + </p> + <p> + “Where are you going, boy, and where do you belong to?” the leader of the + party asked. + </p> + <p> + “I am going in search of work,” Malcolm answered. “My village is destroyed + and my parents killed.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't tell me that tale,” the man said, drawing a pistol from his + holster. “I can tell by your speech that you are not a native of these + parts.” + </p> + <p> + There was nothing in the appointments of the men to indicate which party + they favoured, and Malcolm thought it better to state exactly who he was, + for a doubtful answer might be followed by a pistol shot, which would have + brought his career to a close. + </p> + <p> + “You are right,” he said quietly; “but in these times it is not safe + always to state one's errand to all comers. I am a Scotch officer in the + army of the King of Sweden. I was in New Brandenburg when it was stormed + by Tilly. I disguised myself, and, passing unnoticed, was forced to + accompany his army as a teamster. The second night I escaped, and am now + making my way to Schwedt, where I hope to find the army.” + </p> + <p> + The man replaced his pistol. + </p> + <p> + “You are an outspoken lad,” he said laughing, “and a fearless one. I + believe that your story is true, for no German boor would have looked me + in the face and answered so quietly; but I have heard that the Scotch + scarce know what danger is, though they will find Tilly and Pappenheim + very different customers to the Poles.” + </p> + <p> + “Which side do you fight on?” Malcolm asked. + </p> + <p> + “A frank question and a bold one!” the leader laughed. “What say you, men? + Whom are we for just at present? We were for the Imperialists the other + day, but now they have marched away, and as it may be the Swedes will be + coming in this direction, I fancy that we shall soon find ourselves on the + side of the new religion.” + </p> + <p> + The men laughed. “What shall we do with this boy? To begin with, if he is + what he says, no doubt he has some money with him.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm at once drew out his purse. “Here are nine gold pieces,” he said. + “They are all I have, save some small change.” + </p> + <p> + “That is better than nothing,” the leader said, pocketing the purse. “And + now what shall we do with him?” + </p> + <p> + “He is a Protestant,” one of the men replied; “best shoot him.” + </p> + <p> + “I should say,” another said, “that we had best make him our cook. Old + Rollo is always grumbling at being kept at the work, and his cooking gets + worse and worse. I could not get my jaws into the meat this morning.” + </p> + <p> + A murmur of agreement was raised by the other horsemen. + </p> + <p> + “So be it,” the leader said. “Dost hear, lad? You have the choice whether + you will be cook to a band of honourable gentlemen or be shot at once.” + </p> + <p> + “The choice pleases me not,” Malcolm replied. “Still, if it must needs be, + I would prefer for a time the post of cook to the other alternative.” + </p> + <p> + “And mind you,” the leader said sharply, “at the first attempt to escape + we string you up to the nearest bough. Carl, do you lead him back and set + him to work, and tell the men there to keep a sharp watch upon him.” + </p> + <p> + One of the men turned his horse, and, with Malcolm walking by his side, + left the party. They soon turned aside from the road, and after a ride of + five miles across a rough and broken country entered a wood. Another half + mile and they reached the foot of an eminence, on the summit of which + stood a ruined castle. Several horses were picketed among the trees at the + foot of the hill, and two men were sitting near them cleaning their arms. + The sight of these deterred Malcolm from carrying into execution the plan + which he had formed—namely, to strike down his guard with his club + as he dismounted, to leap on his horse, and ride off. + </p> + <p> + “Who have you there, Carl?” one of the men asked as they rose and + approached the newcomers. + </p> + <p> + “A prisoner,” Carl said, “whom the captain has appointed to the honourable + office of cook instead of old Rollo, whose food gets harder and tougher + every day. You are to keep a sharp eye over the lad, who says he is a + Scotch officer of the Swedes, and to shoot him down if he attempts to + escape.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I thought those Scots were very devils to fight,” one of the men + said, “and this is but a boy. How comes he here?” + </p> + <p> + “He told the captain his story, and he believed it,” Carl said carelessly, + “and the captain is not easily taken in. He was captured by Tilly at New + Brandenburg, which town we heard yesterday he assaulted and sacked, + killing every man of the garrison; but it seems this boy put on a + disguise, and being but a boy I suppose passed unnoticed, and was taken + off as a teamster with Tilly's army. He gave them the slip, but as he has + managed to fall into our hands I don't know that he has gained much by the + exchange. Now, youngster, go up to the castle.” + </p> + <p> + Having picketed his horse the man led the way up the steep hill. When they + reached the castle Malcolm saw that it was less ruined than it had + appeared to be from below. The battlements had indeed crumbled away, and + there were cracks and fissures in the upper parts of the walls, but below + the walls were still solid and unbroken, and as the rock was almost + precipitous, save at the point at which a narrow path wound up to the + entrance, it was still capable of making a stout defence against attack. + </p> + <p> + A strong but roughly made gate, evidently of quite recent make, hung on + the hinges, and passing through it Malcolm found himself in the courtyard + of the castle. Crossing this he entered with his guide what had once been + the principal room of the castle. A good fire blazed in the centre; around + this half a dozen men were lying on a thick couch of straw. Malcolm's + guide repeated the history of the newcomer, and then passed through with + him into a smaller apartment, where a man was attending to several sauce + pans over a fire. + </p> + <p> + “Rollo,” he said, “I bring you a substitute. You have been always + grumbling about being told off for the cooking, just because you happened + to be the oldest of the band. Here is a lad who will take your place, and + tomorrow you can mount your horse and ride with the rest of us.” + </p> + <p> + “And be poisoned, I suppose, with bad food when I return,” the man + grumbled—“a nice lookout truly.” + </p> + <p> + “There's one thing, you old grumbler, it is quite certain he cannot do + worse than you do. My jaws ache now with trying to eat the food you gave + us this morning. Another week and you would have starved the whole band to + death.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” the man said surlily; “we will see whether you have gained by + the exchange. What does this boy know about cooking?” + </p> + <p> + “Very little, I am afraid,” Malcolm said cheerfully; “but at least I can + try. If I must be a cook I will at least do my best to be a good one. Now, + what have you got in these pots?” + </p> + <p> + Rollo grumblingly enumerated their contents, and then putting on his + doublet went out to join his comrades in the hall, leaving Malcolm to his + new duties. + </p> + <p> + The latter set to work with a will. He saw that it was best to appear + contented with the situation, and to gain as far as possible the goodwill + of the band by his attention to their wants. In this way their vigilance + would become relaxed, and some mode of escape might open itself to him. At + dusk the rest of the band returned, and Malcolm found that those who had + met him with the captain were but a portion of the party, as three other + companies of equal strength arrived at about the same time, the total + number mounting up to over thirty. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm was conscious that the supper was far from being a success; but + for this he was not responsible, as the cooking was well advanced when he + undertook it; however the band were not dissatisfied, for it was much + better than they had been accustomed to, as Malcolm had procured woodwork + from the disused part of the castle, and had kept the fire briskly going; + whereas his predecessor in the office had been too indolent to get + sufficient wood to keep the water on the boil. + </p> + <p> + In the year which Malcolm had spent in camp he had learned a good deal of + rough cookery, for when on active duty the officers had often to shift for + themselves, and consequently next day he was able to produce a dinner so + far in advance of that to which the band was accustomed that their + approbation was warmly and loudly expressed. + </p> + <p> + The stew was juicy and tender, the roast done to a turn, and the bread, + baked on an iron plate, was pronounced to be excellent. The band declared + that their new cook was a treasure. Malcolm had already found that though + he could move about the castle as he chose, one of the band was now always + stationed at the gate with pike and pistols, while at night the door + between the room in which he cooked and the hall was closed, and two or + three heavy logs thrown against it. + </p> + <p> + Under the pretence of getting wood Malcolm soon explored the castle. The + upper rooms were all roofless and open to the air. There were no windows + on the side upon which the path ascended, and by which alone an attack + upon the castle was possible. Here the walls were pierced only by narrow + loopholes for arrows or musketry. On the other sides the windows were + large, for here the steepness of the rock protected the castle from + attack. + </p> + <p> + The kitchen in which he cooked and slept had no other entrance save that + into the hall, the doorway into the courtyard being closed by a heap of + fallen stones from above. Two or three narrow slits in the wall allowed + light and air to enter. Malcolm saw that escape at night, after he had + once been shut in, was impossible, and that in the daytime he could not + pass out by the gate; for even if by a sudden surprise he overpowered the + sentry there, he would be met at the bottom of the path by the two men who + were always stationed as guards to the horses, and to give notice of the + approach of strangers. + </p> + <p> + The only chance of escape, therefore, was by lowering himself from one of + the windows behind, down the steep rock. To do this a rope of some seventy + feet long was necessary, and after a careful search through the ruins he + failed to discover even the shortest piece of rope. + </p> + <p> + That afternoon some of the band on their return from foraging drove in + half a dozen cattle, and one of these was with much difficulty compelled + to climb up the path to the castle, and was slaughtered in the yard. + </p> + <p> + “There, Scot, are victuals for the next week; cut it up, and throw the + head and offal down the rock behind.” + </p> + <p> + As Malcolm commenced his unpleasant task a thought suddenly struck him, + and he laboured away cheerfully and hopefully. After cutting up the animal + into quarters he threw the head, the lower joints of the legs, and the + offal, from the window. The hide he carried, with the four quarters, into + his kitchen, and there concealed it under the pile of straw which served + for his bed. + </p> + <p> + When the dinner was over, and the usual carousal had begun, and he knew + there was no chance of any of the freebooters coming into the room, he + spread out the hide on the floor, cut off the edges, and trimmed it up + till it was nearly circular in form, and then began to cut a strip two + inches wide round and round till he reached the centre. This gave him a + thong of over a hundred feet long. Tying one end to a ring in the wall he + twisted the long strip until it assumed the form of a rope, which was, he + was sure, strong enough to bear many times his weight. + </p> + <p> + This part of the work was done after the freebooters had retired to rest. + When he had finished cutting the hide he went in as usual and sat down + with them as they drank, as he wished to appear contented with his + position. The freebooters were discussing an attack upon a village some + thirty miles away. It lay in a secluded position, and had so far escaped + pillage either by the armies or wandering bands. The captain said he had + learned that the principal farmer was a well-to-do man with a large herd + of cattle, some good horses, and a well stocked house. It was finally + agreed that the band should the next day carry out another raid which had + already been decided upon, and that they should on the day following that + sack and burn Glogau. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the majority of the band had started in the morning Malcolm + made his way with his rope to the back of the castle, fastened it to the + window, and launched himself over the rock, which, although too steep to + climb, was not perpendicular; and holding by the rope Malcolm had no + difficulty in lowering himself down. He had before starting taken a brace + of pistols and a sword from the heap of weapons which the freebooters had + collected in their raids, and as soon as he reached the ground he struck + off through the wood. + </p> + <p> + Enough had been said during the conversation the night before to indicate + the direction in which Glogau lay, and he determined, in the first place, + to warn the inhabitants of the village of the fate which the freebooters + intended for them. + </p> + <p> + He walked miles before seeing a single person in the deserted fields. He + had long since left the wood, and was now traversing the open country, + frequently turning round to examine the country around him, for at any + moment after he had left, his absence from the castle might be discovered, + and the pursuit begun. He hoped, however, that two or three hours at least + would elapse before the discovery was made. + </p> + <p> + He had, before starting, piled high the fire in the hall, and had placed + plenty of logs for the purpose of replenishing it close at hand. He put + tankards on the board, and with them a large jug full of wine, so that the + freebooters would have no occasion to call for him, and unless they wanted + him they would be unlikely to look into the kitchen. Except when + occasionally breaking into a walk to get breath, he ran steadily on. It + was not until he had gone nearly ten miles that he saw a goatherd tending + a few goats, and from him he learned the direction of Glogau, and was glad + to find he had not gone very far out of the direct line. At last, after + asking the way several times, he arrived within a short distance of the + village. The ground had now become undulating, and the slopes were covered + with trees. The village lay up a valley, and it was evident that the road + he was travelling was but little frequented, ending probably at the + village itself. Proceeding for nearly two miles through a wood he came + suddenly upon Glogau. + </p> + <p> + It stood near the head of the valley, which was here free of trees, and + some cultivated fields lay around it. The houses were surrounded by fruit + trees, and an air of peace and tranquillity prevailed such as Malcolm had + not seen before since he left his native country. One house was much + larger than the rest; several stacks stood in the rick yard, and the large + stables and barns gave a proof of the prosperity of its owner. The war + which had already devastated a great part of Germany had passed by this + secluded hamlet. + </p> + <p> + No signs of work were to be seen, the village was as still and quiet as if + it was deserted. Suddenly Malcolm remembered that it was the Sabbath, + which, though always kept strictly by the Scotch and Swedish soldiers when + in camp, for the most part passed unobserved when they were engaged in + active service. Malcolm turned his steps towards the house; as he neared + it he heard the sound of singing within. The door was open, and he entered + and found himself on the threshold of a large apartment in which some + twenty men and twice as many women and children were standing singing a + hymn which was led by a venerable pastor who stood at the head of the + room, with a powerfully built elderly man, evidently the master of the + house, near him. + </p> + <p> + The singing was not interrupted by the entrance of the newcomer. Many eyes + were cast in his direction, but seeing that their leaders went on unmoved, + the little congregation continued their hymn with great fervour and force. + When they had done the pastor prayed for some time, and then dismissed the + congregation with his blessing. They filed out in a quiet and orderly way, + but not until the last had left did the master of the house show any sign + of observing Malcolm, who had taken his place near the door. + </p> + <p> + Then he said gravely, “Strangers do not often find their way to Glogau, + and in truth we can do without them, for a stranger in these times too + often means a foe; but you are young, my lad, though strong enough to bear + weapons, and can mean us no ill. What is it that brings you to our quiet + village?” + </p> + <p> + “I have, sir, but this morning escaped from the hands of the freebooters + at Wolfsburg, and I come to warn you that last night I heard them agree to + attack and sack your village tomorrow; therefore, before pursuing my own + way, which is to the camp of the Swedish king, in whose service I am, I + came hither to warn you of their intention.” + </p> + <p> + Exclamations of alarm arose from the females of the farmer's family, who + were sitting at the end of the room. The farmer waved his hand and the + women were instantly silent. + </p> + <p> + “This is bad news, truly,” he said gravely; “hitherto God has protected + our village and suffered us to worship Him in our own way in peace and in + quiet in spite of the decrees of emperors and princes. This gang of + Wolfsburg have long been a scourge to the country around it, and terrible + are the tales we have heard of their violence and cruelty. I have for + weeks feared that sooner or later they would extend their ravages even to + this secluded spot.” + </p> + <p> + “And, indeed, I thank you, brave youth, for the warning you have given us, + which will enable us to send our womenkind, our cattle and horses, to a + place of safety before these scourges of God arrive here. Gretchen, place + food and wine before this youth who has done us so great a service; + doubtless he is hungry and thirsty, for 'tis a long journey from Wolfsburg + hither.” + </p> + <p> + “What think you, father, shall I warn the men at once of the coming + danger, or shall I let them sleep quietly this Sabbath night for the last + time in their old homes?” + </p> + <p> + “What time, think you, will these marauders leave their hold?” the pastor + asked Malcolm. + </p> + <p> + “They will probably start by daybreak,” Malcolm said, “seeing that the + journey is a long one; but this is not certain, as they may intend to + remain here for the night, and to return with their plunder on the + following day to the castle.” + </p> + <p> + “But, sir,” he went on, turning to the farmer, “surely you will not + abandon your home and goods thus tamely to these freebooters. You have + here, unless I am mistaken, fully twenty stout men capable of bearing + arms; the marauders number but thirty in all, and they always leave at + least five to guard the castle and two as sentries over the horses; thus + you will not have more than twenty-three to cope with. Had they, as they + expected, taken you by surprise, this force would have been ample to put + down all resistance here; but as you will be prepared for them, and will, + therefore, take them by surprise, it seems to me that you should be able + to make a good fight of it, stout men-at-arms though the villains be.” + </p> + <p> + “You speak boldly, sir, for one but a boy in years,” the pastor said; “it + is lawful, nay it is right to defend one's home against these lawless + pillagers and murderers, but as you say, evil though their ways are, these + freebooters are stout men-at-arms, and we have heard that they have taken + a terrible vengeance on the villages which have ventured to oppose them.” + </p> + <p> + “I am a Scottish officer in the King of Sweden's army,” Malcolm said, “and + fought at Schiefelbrune and New Brandenburg, and in the fight when the + Imperialists tried to relieve Colberg, and having, I hope, done my duty in + three such desperate struggles against the Imperialist veterans, I need + not shrink from an encounter with these freebooters. If you decide to + defend the village I am ready to strike a blow at them, for they have held + me captive for five days, and have degraded me by making me cook for + them.” + </p> + <p> + A slight titter was heard among the younger females at the indignant tone + in which Malcolm spoke of his enforced culinary work. + </p> + <p> + “And you are truly one of those Scottish soldiers of the Swedish hero who + fight so stoutly for the Faith and of whose deeds we have heard so much!” + the pastor said. “Truly we are glad to see you. Our prayers have not been + wanting night and morning for the success of the champions of the Reformed + Faith. What say you, my friend? Shall we take the advice of this young + soldier and venture our lives for the defence of our homes?” + </p> + <p> + “That will we,” the farmer said warmly. “He is used to war, and can give + us good advice. As far as strength goes, our men are not wanting. Each has + his sword and pike, and there are four or five arquebuses in the village. + Yes, if there be a chance of success, even of the slightest, we will do + our best as men in defence of our homes.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI THE ATTACK ON THE VILLAGE + </h2> + <p> + “And now,” the farmer said to Malcolm, “what is your advice? That we will + fight is settled. When, where, and how? This house is strongly built, and + we could so strengthen its doors and windows with beams that we might hold + out for a long time against them.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” Malcolm said, “that would not be my advice. Assuredly we might + defend the house; but in that case the rest of the village, the herds and + granaries, would fall into their hands. To do any good, we must fight them + in the wood on their way hither. But although I hope for a favourable + issue, I should strongly advise that you should have the herds and horses + driven away. Send off all your more valuable goods in the wagons, with + your women and children, to a distance. We shall fight all the better if + we know that they are all in safety. Some of the old men and boys will + suffice for this work. And now, methinks, you had best summon the men, for + there will be work for them tonight.” + </p> + <p> + The bell which was used to call the hands from their work in the fields + and woods at sunset soon sounded, and the men in surprise came trooping in + at the summons. When they were assembled the farmer told them the news he + had heard, and the determination which had been arrived at to defend the + village. + </p> + <p> + After the first movement of alarm caused by the name of the dreaded band + of the Wolfsburg had subsided Malcolm was glad to see an expression of + stout determination come over the faces of the assemblage, and all + declared themselves ready to fight to the last. Four of the elder men were + told off at once to superintend the placing of the more movable household + goods of the village in wagons, which were to set out at daybreak with the + cattle and families. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” Malcolm said, “I want the rest to bring mattocks and shovels and to + accompany me along the road. There is one spot which I marked as I came + along as being specially suited for defence.” + </p> + <p> + This was about half a mile away, and as darkness had now set in the men + lighted torches, and with their implements followed him. At the spot which + he had selected there was for the distance of a hundred yards a thick + growth of underwood bordering the track on either side. Across the road, + at the end of the passage nearest to the farm, Malcolm directed ten of the + men to dig a pit twelve feet wide and eight feet deep. The rest of the men + he set to work to cut nearly through the trunks of the trees standing + nearest the road until they were ready to fall. + </p> + <p> + Ten trees were so treated, five on either side of the road. Standing, as + they did, among the undergrowth, the operation which had been performed on + them was invisible to any one passing by. Ropes were now fastened to the + upper part of the trees and carried across the road, almost hidden from + sight by the foliage which met over the path. When the pit was completed + the earth which had been taken from it was scattered in the wood out of + sight. Light boughs were then placed over the hole. These were covered + with earth and sods trampled down until the break in the road was not + perceptible to a casual eye. + </p> + <p> + This was done by Malcolm himself, as the lightest of the party, the boughs + sufficing to bear his weight, although they would give way at once beneath + that of a horse. The men all worked with vigour and alacrity as soon as + they understood Malcolm's plans. Daylight was breaking when the + preparations were completed. Malcolm now divided the party, and told them + off to their respective posts. They were sixteen in all, excluding the + pastor. + </p> + <p> + Eight were placed on each side of the road. Those on one side were + gathered near the pit which had been dug, those on the other were opposite + to the tree which was farthest down the valley. The freebooters were to be + allowed to pass along until the foremost fell into the pit. The men + stationed there were at once to haul upon the rope attached to the tree + near it and to bring it down. Its fall would bar the road and prevent the + horsemen from leaping the pit. Those in the rear were, if they heard the + crash before the last of the marauders had passed through, to wait until + they had closed up, which they were sure to do when the obstacle was + reached, and then to fell the tree to bar their retreat. + </p> + <p> + The instant this was done both parties were to run to other ropes and to + bring down the trees upon the horsemen gathered on the road, and were then + to fall upon them with axe, pike, and arquebus. + </p> + <p> + “If it works as well as I expect,” Malcolm said, “not one of them will + escape from the trap.” + </p> + <p> + Soon after daybreak bowls of milk and trays of bread and meat were brought + down to the workers by some of the women. As there was no immediate + expectation of attack, the farmer himself, with the pastor, went back to + the village to cheer the women before their departure. + </p> + <p> + “You need not be afraid, wife,” the farmer said. “I shall keep to my + plans, because when you have once made a plan it is foolish to change it; + but I deem not that there is any real need for sending you and the wagons + and beasts away. This young Scotch lad seems made for a commander, and + truly, if all his countrymen are like himself, I wonder no longer that the + Poles and Imperialists have been unable to withstand them. Truly he has + constructed a trap from which this band of villains will have but little + chance of escape, and I trust that we may slay them without much loss to + ourselves. What rejoicings will there not be in the fifty villages when + the news comes that their oppressors have been killed! The good God has + assuredly sent this youth hither as His instrument in defeating the + oppressors, even as He chose the shepherd boy David out of Israel to be + the scourge of the Philistines.” + </p> + <p> + By this time all was ready for a start, and having seen the wagons fairly + on their way the farmer returned to the wood, the pastor accompanying the + women. Three hours passed before there were any signs of the marauders, + and Malcolm began to think that the idea might have occurred to them that + he had gone to Glogau, and that they might therefore have postponed their + raid upon that village until they could make sure of taking it by + surprise, and so capturing all the horses and valuables before the + villagers had time to remove them. Glogau was, however, quite out of + Malcolm's direct line for the Swedish camp, and it was hardly likely that + the freebooters would think that their late captive would go out of his + way to warn the village, in which he had no interest whatever; indeed they + would scarcely be likely to recall the fact that he had been present when + they were discussing their proposed expedition against it. + </p> + <p> + All doubts were, however, set at rest when a boy who had been stationed in + a high tree near the edge of the wood ran in with the news that a band of + horsemen were riding across the plain, and would be there in a few + minutes. Every one fell into his appointed place. The farmer himself took + the command of the party on one side of the road, Malcolm of that on the + other. Matches were blown, and the priming of the arquebuses looked to; + then they gathered round the ropes, and listened for the tramp of horses. + </p> + <p> + Although it was but a few minutes before it came, the time seemed long to + those waiting; but at last a vague sound was heard, which rapidly rose + into a loud trampling of horses. The marauders had been riding quietly + until they neared the wood, as speed was no object; but as they wished to + take the village by surprise—and it was just possible that they + might have been seen approaching—they were now riding rapidly. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly the earth gave way under the feet of the horses of the captain + and his lieutenant, who were riding at the head of the troop, and men and + animals disappeared from the sight of those who followed. The two men + behind them pulled their horses back on their haunches, and checked them + at the edge of the pit into which their leaders had fallen. + </p> + <p> + As they did so a loud crack was heard, and a great tree came crashing + down, falling directly upon them, striking them and their horses to the + ground. A loud cry of astonishment and alarm rose from those behind, + followed by curses and exclamations of rage. A few seconds after the fall + of the tree there was a crash in the rear of the party, and to their + astonishment the freebooters saw that another tree had fallen there, and + that a barricade of boughs and leaves closed their way behind as in front. + Deprived of their leaders, bewildered and alarmed at this strange and + unexpected occurrence, the marauders remained irresolute. Two or three of + those in front got off their horses and tried to make their way to the + assistance of their comrades who were lying crushed under the mass of + foliage, and of their leaders in the pit beyond. + </p> + <p> + But now almost simultaneously two more crashes were heard, and a tree from + each side fell upon them. Panic stricken now the horsemen strove to dash + through the underwood, but their progress was arrested, for among the + bushes ropes had been fastened from tree to tree; stakes had been driven + in, and the bushes interlaced with cords. The trees continued to fall till + the portion of the road occupied by the troop was covered by a heap of + fallen wood and leaf. Then for the first time the silence in the wood + beyond them was broken, the flashes of firearms darted out from the + brushwood, and then with a shout a number of men armed with pikes and axes + sprang forward to the attack. + </p> + <p> + A few only of the marauders were in a position to offer any resistance + whatever. The greater portion were buried under the mass of foliage. Many + had been struck down by the trunks or heavy arms of the trees. All were + hampered and confused by the situation in which they found themselves. + Under such circumstances it was a massacre rather than a fight. Malcolm, + seeing the inability of the freebooters to oppose any formidable + resistance, sheathed his sword, and left it to the peasants to avenge the + countless murders which the band had committed, and the ruin and misery + which they had inflicted upon the country. + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes all was over. The brigands were shot down, piked, or + slain by the heavy axes through the openings in their leafy prison. + Quarter was neither asked for nor given. The freebooters knew that it + would be useless, and died cursing their foes and their own fate in being + thus slaughtered like rats in a trap. Two or three of the peasants were + wounded by pistol shots, but this was all the injury that their success + cost them. + </p> + <p> + “The wicked have digged a pit, and they have fallen into it themselves,” + the farmer said as he approached the spot where Malcolm was standing, some + little distance from the scene of slaughter. “Verily the Lord hath + delivered them into our hands. I understand, my young friend, why you as a + soldier did not aid in the slaughter of these villains. It is your trade + to fight in open battle, and you care not to slay your enemies when + helpless; but with us it is different. We regard them as wild beasts, + without heart or pity, as scourges to be annihilated when we have the + chance; just as in winter we slay the wolves who come down to attack our + herds.” + </p> + <p> + “I blame you not,” Malcolm said. “When men take to the life of wild beasts + they must be slain as such. Now my task is done, and I will journey on at + once to join my countrymen; but I will give you one piece of advice before + I go. + </p> + <p> + “In the course of a day or two the party left at Wolfsburg will grow + uneasy, and two of their number are sure to ride hither to inquire as to + the tarrying of the band. Let your men with arquebuses keep watch night + and day and shoot them down when they arrive. Were I in your place I would + then mount a dozen of your men and let them put on the armour of these + dead robbers and ride to Wolfsburg, arriving there about daybreak. If they + see you coming they will take you to be the band returning. The two men + below you will cut down without difficulty, and there will then be but + three or four to deal with in the castle. + </p> + <p> + “I recommend you to make a complete end of them; and for this reason: if + any of the band survive they will join themselves with some other party + and will be sure to endeavour to get them to avenge this slaughter; for + although these bands have no love for each other, yet they would be ready + enough to take up each other's quarrel as against country folk, especially + when there is a hope of plunder. Exterminate them, then, and advise your + men to keep their secret. Few can have seen the brigands riding hither + today. When it is found that the band have disappeared the country around + will thank God, and will have little curiosity as to how they have gone. + You will of course clear the path again and bury their bodies; and were I + you I would prepare at once another ambush like that into which they have + fallen, and when a second band of marauders comes into this part of the + country set a watch night and day. Your men will in future be better armed + than hitherto, as each of those freebooters carries a brace of pistols. + And now, as I would fain be off as soon as possible, I would ask you to + let your men set to work with their axes and cut away the boughs and to + get me out a horse. Several of them must have been killed by the falling + trees, and some by the fire of the arquebuses; but no doubt there are some + uninjured.” + </p> + <p> + In a quarter of an hour a horse was brought up, together with the helmet + and armour worn by the late captain of the band. + </p> + <p> + As Malcolm mounted, the men crowded round him and loaded him with thanks + and blessings for the danger from which he had delivered them, their wives + and families. + </p> + <p> + When the fugitives had left the village a store of cooked provisions had + been left behind for the use of the defenders during the day. As the women + could not be fetched back before nightfall, the farmer had despatched a + man for some of this food and the wallets on the saddle were filled with + sufficient to last Malcolm for three or four days. + </p> + <p> + A brace of pistols were placed in the holsters, and with a last farewell + to the farmer Malcolm gave the rein to his horse and rode away from the + village. He travelled fast now and without fear of interruption. The sight + of armed men riding to join one or other of the armies was too common to + attract any attention, and avoiding large towns Malcolm rode unmolested + across the plain. + </p> + <p> + He presently heard the report that the Swedes had captured + Frankfort-on-the-Oder, and as he approached that town, after four days' + riding, heard that they had moved towards Landsberg. Thither he followed + them, and came up to them outside the walls of that place six days after + leaving Glogau. The main body of the Swedish army had remained in and + around Frankfort, Gustavus having marched against Landsberg with only 3200 + musketeers, 12 pieces of cannon, and a strong body of horse. Hepburn and + Reay's Scotch regiments formed part of the column, and Malcolm with + delight again saw the green scarves and banners. + </p> + <p> + As he rode into the camp of his regiment he was unnoticed by the soldiers + until he reached the tents of the officers, before which Colonel Munro was + standing talking with several others. On seeing an officer approach in + full armour they looked up, and a cry of astonishment broke from them on + recognizing Malcolm. + </p> + <p> + “Is it you, Malcolm Graheme, or your wraith?” Munro exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “It is I in the flesh, colonel, sound and hearty.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, my dear lad,” Munro exclaimed, holding out his hand, “we thought you + had fallen at the sack of New Brandenburg. Innes and Lumsden were believed + to be the only ones who had escaped.” + </p> + <p> + “I have come through it, nevertheless,” Malcolm said; “but it is a long + story, colonel, and I would ask you first if the king has learned what + Tilly is doing.” + </p> + <p> + “No, he has received no news whatever of him since he heard of the affair + at New Brandenburg, and is most anxious lest he should fall upon the army + at Frankfort while we are away. Do you know aught about him?” + </p> + <p> + “Tilly marched west from New Brandenburg,” Malcolm said, “and is now + besieging Magdeburg.” + </p> + <p> + “This is news indeed,” Munro said; “you must come with me at once to the + king.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm followed Colonel Munro to the royal tent, which was but a few + hundred yards away. Gustavus had just returned after visiting the advanced + lines round the city. On being told that Colonel Munro wished to speak to + him on important business, he at once came to the entrance of his tent. + </p> + <p> + “Allow me to present to you, sire, Malcolm Graheme, a very gallant young + officer of my regiment. He was at New Brandenburg, and I deemed that he + had fallen there; how he escaped I have not yet had time to learn, seeing + that he has but now ridden into the camp; but as he is bearer of news of + the whereabouts of Tilly and his army, I thought it best to bring him + immediately to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” Gustavus said anxiously to Malcolm, “what is your news?” + </p> + <p> + “Tilly is besieging Magdeburg, sire, with his whole strength.” + </p> + <p> + “Magdeburg!” Gustavus exclaimed incredulously. “Are you sure of your news? + I deemed him advancing upon Frankfort.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite sure, sire, for I accompanied his column to within two marches of + the city, and there was no secret of his intentions. He started for that + town on the very day after he had captured New Brandenburg.” + </p> + <p> + “This is important, indeed,” Gustavus said; “follow me,” and he turned and + entered the tent. Spread out on the table was a large map, which the king + at once consulted. + </p> + <p> + “You see, Colonel Munro, that to relieve Magdeburg I must march through + Kustrin, Berlin, and Spandau, and the first and last are strong + fortresses. I can do nothing until the Elector of Brandenburg declares for + us, and gives us leave to pass those places, for I dare not march round + and leave them in my rear until sure that this weak prince will not take + sides with the Imperialists. I will despatch a messenger tonight to him at + Berlin demanding leave to march through his territory to relieve + Magdeburg. In the meantime we will finish off with this place, and so be + in readiness to march west when his answer arrives. And now, sir,” he went + on, turning to Malcolm, “please to give me the account of how you escaped + first from New Brandenburg, and then from Tilly.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm related briefly the manner of his escape from the massacre at New + Brandenburg, and how, after accompanying Tilly's army as a teamster for + two days, he had made his escape. He then still more briefly related how + he had been taken prisoner by a band of freebooters, but had managed to + get away from them, and had drawn them into an ambush by peasants, where + they had been slain, by which means he had obtained a horse and ridden + straight to the army. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus asked many questions, and elicited many more details than Malcolm + had deemed it necessary to give in his first recital. + </p> + <p> + “You have shown great prudence and forethought,” the king said when he had + finished, “such as would not be looked for in so young a soldier.” + </p> + <p> + “And he behaved, sire, with distinguished gallantry and coolness at + Schiefelbrune, and in the destructive fight outside Colberg,” Colonel + Munro put in. “By the slaughter on the latter day he would naturally have + obtained his promotion, but he begged to be passed over, asserting that it + was best that at his age he should remain for a time an ensign.” + </p> + <p> + “Such modesty is unusual,” the king said, “and pleases me; see the next + time a step is vacant, colonel, that he has it. Whatever his age, he has + shown himself fit to do man's work, and years are of no great value in a + soldier; why, among all my Scottish regiments I have scarcely a colonel + who is yet thirty years old.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm now returned with Colonel Munro to the regiment, and there had to + give a full and minute account of his adventures, and was warmly + congratulated by his fellow officers on his good fortune in escaping from + the dangers which had beset him. The suit of armour was a handsome one, + and had been doubtless stripped off from the body of some knight or noble + murdered by the freebooters. The leg pieces Malcolm laid aside, retaining + only a cuirass, back piece, and helmet, as the full armour was too heavy + for service on foot. + </p> + <p> + Two days later the king gave orders that the assault upon Landsberg was to + be made that night. The place was extremely strong, and Gustavus had in + his previous campaign twice failed in attempts to capture it. Since that + time the Imperialists had been busy in strengthening the fortification, + and all the peasantry for ten miles round had been employed in throwing up + earthworks; but its principal defence was in the marsh which surrounded + it, and which rendered the construction of approaches by besiegers almost + impossible. Its importance consisted in the fact that from its great + strength its garrison dominated the whole district known as the Marc of + Brandenburg. It was the key to Silesia, and guarded the approaches to + Pomerania, and its possession was therefore of supreme importance to + Gustavus. The garrison consisted of five thousand Imperialist infantry and + twelve troops of horse, the whole commanded by Count Gratz. The principal + approach to the town was guarded by a strong redoubt armed with numerous + artillery. + </p> + <p> + Colonel Munro had advanced his trenches to within a short distance of this + redoubt, and had mounted the twelve pieces of cannon to play upon it, but + so solid was the masonry of the fort that their fire produced but little + visible effect. Gustavus had brought from Frankfort as guide on the march + a blacksmith who was a native of Landsberg, and this man had informed him + of a postern gate into the town which would not be likely to be defended, + as to reach it it would be necessary to cross a swamp flanked by the + advanced redoubt and covered with water. + </p> + <p> + For two days previous to the assault the troops had been at work cutting + bushes and trees, and preparing the materials for constructing a floating + causeway across the mud and water. As soon as night fell the men were set + to work laying down the causeway, and when this was finished the column + advanced to the attack. It consisted of 250 pikemen under Colonel Munro, + and the same number of the dragoons under Colonel Deubattel. Hepburn with + 1000 musketeers followed a short distance behind them. + </p> + <p> + The pikemen led the way, and passed along the floating causeway without + difficulty, but the causeway swayed and often sank under the feet of the + cavalry behind them. These, however, also managed to get across. Their + approach was entirely unobserved, and they effected an entrance into the + town. + </p> + <p> + Scarcely had they done so when they came upon a body of three hundred + Imperialists who were about to make a sally under Colonel Gratz, son of + the governor. The pikemen at once fell upon them. Taken by surprise the + Imperialists fought nevertheless stoutly, and eighty of the Scots fell + under the fire of their musketry. But the pikemen charged home; Colonel + Gratz was killed, with many of his men, and the rest taken prisoners. + Hepburn marching on behind heard the din of musketry and pressed forward; + before reaching the town he found a place in the swamp sufficiently firm + to enable his men to march across it, and, turning off, he led his troops + between the town and the redoubt, and then attacked the latter in the rear + where its defences were weak, and after three minutes' fighting with its + surprised and disheartened garrison the latter surrendered. + </p> + <p> + The redoubt having fallen, and Munro's men having effected a lodgment in + the town, while the retreat on one side was cut off by the force of + Gustavus, and on the other by a strong body of cavalry under Marshal Horn, + the governor sent a drummer to Colonel Munro to say that he was ready to + surrender, and to ask for terms. The drummer was sent to Gustavus, who + agreed that the garrison should be allowed to march away with the honours + of war, taking their baggage and effects with them. Accordingly at eight + o'clock the Count of Gratz at the head of his soldiers marched out with + colours flying and drums beating, and retired into Silesia. A garrison was + placed in Landsberg, and the blacksmith appointed burgomaster of the town. + Landsberg fell on the 15th of April, and on the 18th the force marched + back to Frankfort. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII A QUIET TIME + </h2> + <p> + In spite of the urgent entreaties of Gustavus and the pressing peril of + Magdeburg, the wavering Duke of Brandenburg could not bring himself to + join the Swedes. He delivered Spandau over to them, but would do no more. + The Swedish army accordingly marched to Berlin and invested his capital. + The duke sent his wife to Gustavus to beseech him to draw off his army and + allow him to remain neutral; but Gustavus would not listen to his + entreaties, and insisted, as the only condition upon which he would raise + the siege, that the duke should ally himself with him, and that the troops + of Brandenburg should join his army. + </p> + <p> + These conditions the duke was obliged to accept, but in the meantime his + long hesitation and delay had caused the loss of Magdeburg, which after a + gallant defence was stormed by the troops of Pappenheim and Tilly on the + 10th of May. The ferocious Tilly had determined upon a deed which would, + he believed, frighten Germany into submission; he ordered that no quarter + should be given, and for five days the city was handed over to the troops. + </p> + <p> + History has no record since the days of Attila of so frightful a massacre. + Neither age nor sex was spared, and 30,000 men, women, and children were + ruthlessly massacred. The result for a time justified the anticipations of + the ferocious leader. The terrible deed sent a shudder of horror and + terror through Protestant Germany. It seemed, too, as if the catastrophe + might have been averted had the Swedes shown diligence and marched to the + relief of the city; for in such a time men were not inclined to discuss + how much of the blame rested upon the shoulders of the Duke of + Brandenburg, who was, in fact, alone responsible for the delay of the + Swedes. + </p> + <p> + Many of the princes and free towns which had hitherto been staunch to the + cause of Protestantism at once hastened to make their peace with the + emperor. For a time the sack of Magdeburg greatly strengthened the + Imperialist cause. No sooner did the news reach the ears of the Duke of + Brandenburg than his fears overcame him, and he wrote to Gustavus + withdrawing from the treaty he had made, and saying that as Spandau had + only been delivered to him in order that he might march to the relief of + Magdeburg he was now bound in honour to restore it. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus at once ordered Spandau to be evacuated by his troops, and again + marched with the army against Berlin, which he had but a few days before + left. Here he again dictated terms, which the duke was forced to agree to. + </p> + <p> + The Swedish army now marched to Old Brandenburg, thirty-four miles west of + Berlin, and there remained for some time waiting until some expected + reinforcements should reach it. + </p> + <p> + The place was extremely unhealthy, and great numbers died from malaria and + fever, thirty of Munro's musketeers dying in a single week. During this + time the king was negotiating with the Elector of Saxony and the Landgrave + of Hesse. These were the two most powerful of the Protestant princes in + that part of Germany, and Tilly resolved to reduce them to obedience + before the army of Gustavus was in a position to move forward, for at + present his force was too small to enable him to take the field against + the united armies of Tilly and Pappenheim. + </p> + <p> + He first fell upon the Landgrave of Hesse, and laid Thuringen waste with + fire and sword. Frankenhausen was plundered and burned to the ground. + Erfurt saved itself from a similar fate by the payment of a large sum of + money, and by engaging to supply great stores of provisions for the use of + the Imperial army. The Landgrave of Hesse-Cassel was next summoned by + Tilly, who threatened to carry fire and sword through his dominions unless + he would immediately disband his troops, pay a heavy contribution and + receive the Imperial troops into his cities and fortresses; but the + landgrave refused to accept the terms. + </p> + <p> + Owing to the unhealthiness of the district round Old Brandenburg, Gustavus + raised his camp there, and marched forward to Werben near the junction of + the Elbe with the Havel. He was joined there by his young queen, Maria + Eleonora, with a reinforcement of 8000 men, and by the Marquis of Hamilton + with 6200, for the most part Scotch, who had been raised by him with the + consent of Charles I, to whom the marquis was master of the horse. + </p> + <p> + Werben was distant but a few miles from Magdeburg, and Pappenheim, who + commanded the troops in that neighbourhood, seeing that Gustavus was now + in a position to take the field against him, sent an urgent message to + Tilly for assistance; and the Imperial general, who was on the point of + attacking the Landgrave of Hesse-Cassel, at once marched with his army and + effected a junction with Pappenheim, their combined force being greatly + superior to that of Gustavus even after the latter had received his + reinforcements. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm had not accompanied the army in its march from Old Brandenburg. He + had been prostrated by fever, and although he shook off the attack it left + him so weak and feeble that he was altogether unfit for duty. The army was + still lying in its swampy quarters, and the leech who had attended him + declared that he could never recover his strength in such an unhealthy + air. Nigel Graheme, who had now rejoined the regiment cured of his wound, + reported the surgeon's opinion to Munro. + </p> + <p> + “I am not surprised,” the colonel said, “and there are many others in the + same state; but whither can I send them? The Elector of Brandenburg is so + fickle and treacherous that he may at any moment turn against us.” + </p> + <p> + “I was speaking to Malcolm,” Nigel replied, “and he said that he would he + could go for a time to recruit his health in that village among the hills + where he had the fight with the freebooters who made him captive. He said + he was sure of a cordial welcome there, and it is but three days' march + from here.” + </p> + <p> + “'Tis an out-of-the-way place,” Munro said, “and if we move west we shall + be still further removed from it. There are Imperial bands everywhere + harrying the country unguarded by us, and one of these might at any moment + swoop down into that neighbourhood.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true; but, after all, it would be better that he should run that + risk than sink from weakness as so many have done here after getting + through the first attack of fever.” + </p> + <p> + “That is so, Nigel, and if you and Malcolm prefer that risk to the other I + will not say you nay; but what is good for him is good for others, and I + will ask the surgeon to make me a list of twenty men who are strong enough + to journey by easy stages, and who yet absolutely require to get out of + this poisonous air to enable them to effect their recovery. We will + furnish them with one of the baggage wagons of the regiment, so that they + can ride when they choose. Tell the paymaster to give each man in advance + a month's pay, that they may have money to pay what they need. Horses are + scarce, so we can give them but two with the wagon, but that will be + sufficient as they will journey slowly. See that a steady and experienced + driver is told off with them. They had best start at daybreak tomorrow + morning.” + </p> + <p> + At the appointed time the wagon was in readiness, and those who had to + accompany Malcolm gathered round, together with many of their comrades who + had assembled to wish them Godspeed. The pikes and muskets, helmets and + breast pieces were placed in the wagon, and then the fever stricken band + formed up before it. + </p> + <p> + Munro, Nigel, and most of the officers came down to bid farewell to + Malcolm, and to wish him a speedy return in good health. Then he placed + himself at the head of the band and marched off, the wagon following in + the rear. Before they had been gone a mile several of the men had been + compelled to take their places in the wagon, and by the time three miles + had been passed the rest had one by one been forced to give in. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm was one of the last. He took his seat by the driver, and the now + heavily freighted wagon moved slowly across the country. A store of + provisions sufficient for several days had been placed in the wagon, and + after proceeding fifteen miles a halt was made at a deserted village, and + two of the houses in the best condition were taken possession of, Malcolm + and the sergeant of the party, a young fellow named Sinclair, occupying + the one, and the men taking up their quarters in another. + </p> + <p> + The next morning the benefit of the change and the removal from the fever + tainted air made itself already apparent. The distance performed on foot + was somewhat longer than on the preceding day; the men were in better + spirits, and marched with a brisker step than that with which they had + left the camp. At the end of the fourth day they approached the wood in + which the village was situated. + </p> + <p> + “I will go on ahead,” Malcolm said. “Our approach will probably have been + seen, and unless they know who we are we may meet with but a rough + welcome. Halt the wagon here until one returns with news that you may + proceed, for there may be pitfalls in the road.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm had kept the horse on which he had ridden to Landsberg, and it had + been tied behind the wagon. During the last day's march he had been strong + enough to ride it. He now dismounted, and taking the bridle over his arm + he entered the wood. He examined the road cautiously as he went along. He + had gone about half way when the farmer with four of his men armed with + pikes suddenly appeared in the road before him. + </p> + <p> + “Who are you,” the farmer asked, “and what would you here?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you not remember me?” Malcolm said. “It is but three months since I + was here.” + </p> + <p> + “Bless me, it is our Scottish friend! Why, lad, I knew you not again, so + changed are you. Why, what has happened to you?” + </p> + <p> + “I have had the fever,” Malcolm said, “and have been like to die; but I + thought that a change to the pure air of your hills and woods here would + set me up. So I have travelled here to ask your hospitality.” + </p> + <p> + By this time the farmer had come up and had grasped Malcolm's hand. + </p> + <p> + “All that I have is yours,” he said warmly. “The lookout saw a wagon + coming across the plain with three or four men walking beside it, and he + thought that many more were seated in it; so thinking that this might be a + ruse of some freebooting band, I had the alarm bell rung, and prepared to + give them a hot reception.” + </p> + <p> + “I have brought some sick comrades with me,” Malcolm said. “I have no + thought of quartering them on you. That would be nigh as bad as the + arrival of a party of marauders, for they are getting strength, and will, + I warrant you, have keen appetites ere long; but we have brought tents, + and will pay for all we have.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not talk of payment,” the farmer said heartily. “As long as there is + flour in the storehouse and bacon on the beams, any Scottish soldier of + Gustavus is welcome to it, still more if they be comrades of thine.” + </p> + <p> + “Thanks, indeed,” Malcolm replied. “I left them at the edge of the wood, + for I knew not what welcome you might have prepared here; and seeing so + many men you might have shot at them before waiting to ask a question.” + </p> + <p> + “That is possible enough,” the farmer said, “for indeed we could hardly + look for friends. The men are all posted a hundred yards further on.” + </p> + <p> + The farmer ordered one of his men to go on and bring up the wagon, and + then with Malcolm walked on to the village. A call that all was right + brought out the defenders of the ambush. It had been arranged similarly to + that which had been so successful before, except that instead of the pit, + several strong ropes had been laid across the road, to be tightened breast + high as soon as an enemy came close to them. + </p> + <p> + “These are not as good as the pit,” the farmer said as they passed them; + “but as we have to use the road sometimes we could not keep a pit here, + which, moreover, might have given way and injured any one from a + neighbouring village who might be riding hither. We have made a strong + stockade of beams among the underwood on either side, so that none could + break through into the wood from the path.” + </p> + <p> + “That is good,” Malcolm said; “but were I you I would dig a pit across the + road some twelve feet wide, and would cover it with a stout door with a + catch, so that it would bear wagons crossing, but when the catch is drawn + it should rest only on some light supports below, and would give way at + once if a weight came on it. It would, of course, be covered over with + turf. It will take some time to make, but it will add greatly to your + safety.” + </p> + <p> + “It shall be done,” the farmer said. “Wood is in plenty, and some of my + men are good carpenters. I will set about it at once.” + </p> + <p> + On arriving at the village Malcolm was cordially welcomed by the farmer's + wife and daughters. The guest chamber was instantly prepared for him and + refreshments laid on the table, while the maids, under the direction of + the farmer's wife, at once began to cook a bounteous meal in readiness for + the arrival of the soldiers. A spot was chosen on some smooth turf under + the shade of trees for the erection of the tents, and trusses of clean + straw carried there for bedding. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm as he sat in the cool chamber in the farm house felt the change + delightful after the hot dusty journey across the plain. There was quite + an excitement in the little village when the wagon drove up. The men + lifted the arms and baggage from the wagon. The women offered fruit and + flagons of wine, and fresh cool water, to the soldiers. There was not only + general pleasure throughout the village caused by the novelty of the + arrival of the party from the outer world, but a real satisfaction in + receiving these men who had fought so bravely against the oppressors of + the Protestants of Germany. There was also the feeling that so long as + this body of soldiers might remain in the village they would be able to + sleep in peace and security, safe from the attacks of any marauding band. + The tents were soon pitched by the peasants under the direction of + Sergeant Sinclair, straw was laid down in them, and the canvas raised to + allow the air to sweep through them. + </p> + <p> + Very grateful were the weary men for the kindness with which they were + received, and even the weakest felt that they should soon recover their + strength. + </p> + <p> + In an hour two men came up from the farm house carrying a huge pot filled + with strong soup. Another brought a great dish of stew. Women carried + wooden platters, bowls of stewed fruit, and loaves of bread; and the + soldiers, seated upon the grass, fell to with an appetite such as they had + not experienced for weeks. With the meal was an abundant supply of the + rough but wholesome wine of the country. + </p> + <p> + To the Scottish soldiers after the hardships they had passed through, this + secluded valley seemed a perfect paradise. They had nought to do save to + eat their meals, to sleep on the turf in the shade, or to wander in the + woods and gardens free to pick what fruit they fancied. Under these + circumstances they rapidly picked up strength, and in a week after their + arrival would hardly have been recognized as the feeble band who had left + the Swedish camp at Old Brandenburg. + </p> + <p> + On Sunday the pastor arrived. He did not live permanently at the village, + but ministered to the inhabitants of several villages scattered among the + hills, holding services in them by turns, and remaining a few days in + each. As the congregation was too large for the room in the farm house the + service was held in the open air. The Scotch soldiers were all present, + and joined heartily in the singing, although many of them were ignorant of + the language, and sang the words of Scotch hymns to the German tunes. + </p> + <p> + Even the roughest of them, and those who had been longest away from their + native country, were much moved by the service. The hush and stillness, + the air of quiet and peace which prevailed, the fervour with which all + joined in the simple service, took them back in thought to the days of + their youth in quiet Scottish glens, and many a hand was passed hastily + across eyes which had not been moistened for many a year. + </p> + <p> + The armour and arms were now cleaned and polished, and for a short time + each day Malcolm exercised them. The martial appearance and perfect + discipline of the Scots struck the villagers with admiration the first + time they saw them under arms, and they earnestly begged Malcolm that they + might receive from him and Sergeant Sinclair some instruction in drill. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly every evening when work was done the men of the village were + formed up and drilled. Several of the soldiers took their places with them + in the ranks in order to aid them by their example. After the drill there + was sword and pike exercise, and as most of the men had already some + knowledge of the use of arms they made rapid progress, and felt an + increased confidence in their power to defend the village against the + attacks of any small bands of plunderers. To Malcolm the time passed + delightfully. His kind hosts vied with each other in their efforts to make + him comfortable, and it was in vain that he assured them that he no longer + needed attention and care. A seat was always placed for him in the coolest + nook in the room, fresh grapes and other fruit stood in readiness on a + table hard by. The farmer's daughters, busy as they were in their + household avocations, were always ready to sit and talk with him when he + was indoors, and of an evening to sing him the country melodies. + </p> + <p> + At the end of a fortnight the men were all fit for duty again, but the + hospitable farmer would not hear of their leaving, and as news from time + to time reached them from the outer world, and Malcolm learned that there + was no chance of any engagement for a time between the hostile armies, he + was only too glad to remain. + </p> + <p> + Another fortnight passed, and Malcolm reluctantly gave the word that on + the morrow the march must be recommenced. A general feeling of sorrow + reigned in the village when it was known that their guests were about to + depart, for the Scottish soldiers had made themselves extremely popular. + They were ever ready to assist in the labours of the village. They helped + to pick the apples from the heavily laden trees, they assisted to thrash + out the corn, and in every way strove to repay their entertainers for the + kindness they had shown them. + </p> + <p> + Of an evening their camp had been the rendezvous of the whole village. + There alternately the soldiers and the peasants sang their national songs, + and joined in hearty choruses. Sometimes there were dances, for many of + the villagers played on various instruments; and altogether Glogau had + never known such a time of festivity and cheerfulness before. + </p> + <p> + Late in the evening of the day before they had fixed for their departure + the pastor rode into the village. + </p> + <p> + “I have bad news,” he said. “A party of Pappenheim's dragoons, three + hundred strong, are raiding in the district on the other side of the + hills. A man came in just as I mounted my horse, saying that it was + expected they would attack Mansfeld, whose count is a sturdy Protestant. + The people were determined to resist to the last, in spite of the fate of + Magdeburg and Frankenhausen, but I fear that their chance of success is a + small one; but they say they may as well die fighting as be slaughtered in + cold blood.” + </p> + <p> + “Is Mansfeld fortified?” Malcolm asked. + </p> + <p> + “It has a wall,” the pastor replied, “but of no great strength. The + count's castle, which stands on a rock adjoining it, might defend itself + for some time, but I question whether it can withstand Pappenheim's + veterans. + </p> + <p> + “Mansfeld itself is little more than a village. I should not say it had + more than a thousand inhabitants, and can muster at best about two hundred + and fifty men capable of bearing arms.” + </p> + <p> + “How far is it from here?” Malcolm asked after a pause. + </p> + <p> + “Twenty-four miles by the bridle path across the hills.” + </p> + <p> + “When were the Imperialists expected to arrive?” + </p> + <p> + “They were ten miles away this morning,” the pastor replied; “but as they + were plundering and burning as they went they will not probably arrive + before Mansfeld before the morning. Some of the more timid citizens were + leaving, and many were sending away their wives and families.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” Malcolm said, “I will march thither at once. Twenty good soldiers + may make all the difference, and although I have, of course, no orders for + such an emergency, the king can hardly blame me even if the worst happens + for striking a blow against the Imperialists here. Will you give me a + man,” he asked the farmer, “to guide us across the hills?” + </p> + <p> + “That will I right willingly,” the farmer said; “but it seems to me a + desperate service to embark in. These townspeople are of little good for + fighting, and probably intend only to make a show of resistance in order + to procure better terms. The count himself is a brave nobleman, but I fear + that the enterprise is a hopeless one.” + </p> + <p> + “Hopeless or not,” Malcolm said, “I will undertake it, and will at once + put the men under arms. The wagon and horses with the baggage I will leave + here till I return, that is if we should ever come back again.” + </p> + <p> + A tap of the drum and the soldiers came running in hastily from various + cottages where they were spending their last evening with their village + friends, wondering at the sudden summons to arms. As soon as they had + fallen in, Malcolm joined them. + </p> + <p> + “Men,” he said, “I am sorry to disturb you on your last evening here, but + there is business on hand. A party of Pappenheim's dragoons are about to + attack the town of Mansfeld, where the people are of the Reformed + Religion. The siege will begin in the morning, and ere that time we must + be there. We have all got fat and lazy, and a little fighting will do us + good.” + </p> + <p> + The thought of a coming fray reconciled the men to their departure from + their quiet and happy resting place. Armour was donned, buckles fastened, + and arms inspected, and in half an hour, after a cordial adieu from their + kind hosts, the detachment marched off, their guide with a lighted torch + leading the way. The men were in light marching order, having left + everything superfluous behind them in the wagon; and they marched briskly + along over hill and through forest without a halt, till at three o'clock + in the morning the little town of Mansfeld, with its castle rising above + it, was visible before them in the first light of morning. + </p> + <p> + As they approached the walls a musketoon was fired, and the alarm bell of + the church instantly rang out. Soon armed men made their appearance on the + walls. Fearing that the burghers might fire before waiting to ascertain + who were the newcomers, Malcolm halted his band, and advanced alone + towards the walls. + </p> + <p> + “Who are you who come in arms to the peaceful town of Mansfeld?” an + officer asked from the wall. + </p> + <p> + “I am an officer of his Swedish Majesty, Gustavus, and hearing that the + town was threatened with attack by the Imperialists, I have marched hither + with my detachment to aid in the defence.” + </p> + <p> + A loud cheer broke from the walls. Not only was the reinforcement a most + welcome one, small as it was, for the valour of the Scottish soldiers of + the King of Sweden was at that time the talk of all Germany, but the fact + that a detachment of these redoubted troops had arrived seemed a proof + that the main army of the Swedish king could not be far away. The gates + were at once opened, and Malcolm with his band marched into Mansfield. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII THE SIEGE OF MANSFELD + </h2> + <p> + “Will it please your worship at once to repair to the castle?” the leader + of the townspeople said. “The count has just sent down to inquire into the + reason of the alarm.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” Malcolm replied, “I will go at once. In the meantime, sir, I pray + you to see to the wants of my soldiers, who have taken a long night march + and will be none the worse for some refreshment. Hast seen aught of the + Imperialists?” + </p> + <p> + “They are at a village but a mile distant on the other side of the town,” + the citizen said. “Yesterday we counted eighteen villages in flames, and + the peasants who have come in say that numbers have been slain by them.” + </p> + <p> + “There is little mercy to be expected from the butchers of Magdeburg,” + Malcolm replied; “the only arguments they will listen to are steel and + lead, and we will not be sparing of these.” + </p> + <p> + A murmur of assent rang through the townsfolk who had gathered round, and + then the burgomaster himself led Malcolm up the ascent to the castle. The + news that the newcomers were a party of Scots had already been sent up to + the castle, and as Malcolm entered the gateway the count came forward to + welcome him. + </p> + <p> + “You are welcome indeed, fair sir,” he said. “It seems almost as if you + had arrived from the clouds to our assistance, for we had heard that the + Swedish king and his army were encamped around Old Brandenburg. + </p> + <p> + “His majesty has moved west, I hear,” Malcolm said; “but we have been a + month away from the camp. My detachment consisted of a body of invalids + who came up among the hills to get rid of the fever which was playing such + havoc among our ranks. I am glad to say that all are restored, and fit as + ever for a meeting with the Imperialists. I heard but yestereven that you + were expecting an attack, and have marched all night to be here in time. + My party is a small one, but each man can be relied upon; and when it + comes to hard fighting twenty in good soldiers may turn the day.” + </p> + <p> + “You are heartily welcome, sir, and I thank you much for coming to our + aid. The townspeople are determined to do their best, but most of them + have little skill in arms. I have a score or two of old soldiers here in + the castle, and had hoped to be able to hold this to the end; but truly I + despaired of a successful defence of the town. But enter, I pray you; the + countess will be glad to welcome you.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm accompanied the count to the banquet hall of the castle. The + countess, a gentle and graceful woman, was already there; for indeed but + few in Mansfeld had closed an eye that night, for it was possible that the + Imperialists might attack without delay. By her side stood her daughter, a + girl of about fourteen years old. Malcolm had already stated his name to + the count, and the latter now presented him to his wife. + </p> + <p> + “We have heard so much of the Scottish soldiers,” she said as she held out + her hand, over which Malcolm bent deeply, “that we have all been curious + to see them, little dreaming that a band of them would appear here like + good angels in our hour of danger.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a fortunate accident which found me within reach when I heard of + the approach of the Imperialists. The names of the Count and Countess of + Mansfeld are so well known and so highly esteemed through Protestant + Germany that I was sure that the king would approve of my hastening to + lend what aid I might to you without orders from him.” + </p> + <p> + “I see you have learned to flatter,” the countess said smiling. “This is + my daughter Thekla.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to see you,” the girl said; “but I am a little disappointed. I + had thought that the Scots were such big fierce soldiers, and you are not + very big—not so tall as papa; and you do not look fierce at all—not + half so fierce as my cousin Caspar, who is but a boy.” + </p> + <p> + “That is very rude, Thekla,” her mother said reprovingly, while Malcolm + laughed gaily. + </p> + <p> + “You are quite right, Fraulein Thekla. I know I do not look very fierce, + but I hope when my moustache grows I shall come up more nearly to your + expectations. As to my height, I have some years to grow yet, seeing that + I am scarce eighteen, and perhaps no older than your cousin.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you recently joined, sir?” the countess asked. + </p> + <p> + “I have served through the campaign,” Malcolm replied, “and have seen some + hard knocks given, as you may imagine when I tell you that I was at the + siege of New Brandenburg.” + </p> + <p> + “When your soldiers fought like heroes, and, as I heard, all died sword in + hand save two or three officers who managed to escape.” + </p> + <p> + “I was one of the three, countess; but the tale is a long one, and can be + told after we have done with the Imperialists. Now, sir,” he went on, + turning to the count, “I am at your orders, and will take post with my men + at any point that you may think fit.” + </p> + <p> + “Before doing that,” the count said, “you must join us at breakfast. You + must be hungry after your long march, and as I have been all night in my + armour I shall do justice to it myself. You will, of course, take up your + abode here. As to other matters I have done my best, and the townspeople + were yesterday all told off to their places on the walls. I should think + it were best that your band were stationed in the marketplace as a + reserve, they could then move to any point which might be seriously + threatened. Should the Imperialists enter the town the citizens have + orders to fall back here fighting. All their most valuable goods were sent + up here yesterday, together with such of their wives and families as have + not taken flight, so that there will be nothing to distract them from + their duty.” + </p> + <p> + “That is good,” Malcolm said. “The thought that one is fighting for home + and family must nerve a man in the defence, but when the enemy once breaks + in he would naturally think of home first and hasten away to defend it to + the last, instead of obeying orders and falling back with his comrades in + good order and discipline.” + </p> + <p> + The meal was a cheerful one. Malcolm related more in detail how he and his + detachment happened to be so far removed from the army. + </p> + <p> + Just as the meal came to an end a drum beat in the town and the alarm + bells began to ring. The count and Malcolm sallied out at once to the + outer wall, and saw a small party of officers riding from the village + occupied by the Imperialists towards the town. + </p> + <p> + “Let us descend,” the count said. “I presume they are going to demand our + surrender.” + </p> + <p> + They reached the wall of the town just as the Imperialist officers + approached the gate. + </p> + <p> + “In the name of his majesty the emperor,” one of them cried out, “I + command you to open the gate and to surrender to his good will and + pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + “The smoking villages which I see around me,” Count Mansfeld replied, “are + no hopeful sign of any good will or pleasure on the part of his majesty + towards us. As to surrendering, we will rather die. But I am willing to + pay a fair ransom for the town if you will draw off your troops and march + away.” + </p> + <p> + “Beware, sir!” the officer said. “I have a force here sufficient to compel + obedience, and I warn you of the fate which will befall all within these + walls if you persist in refusing to admit us.” + </p> + <p> + “I doubt not as to their fate,” the count replied; “there are plenty of + examples before us of the tender mercy which your master's troops show + towards the towns you capture. + </p> + <p> + “Once again I offer you a ransom for the town. Name the sum, and if it be + in reason such as I and the townspeople can pay, it shall be yours; but + open the gates to you we will not.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” the officer said; “then your blood be on your own heads.” And + turning his horse he rode with his companions back towards the village. + </p> + <p> + On their arrival there a bustle was seen to prevail. A hundred horsemen + rode off and took post on an eminence near the town, ready to cut off the + retreat of any who might try to escape, and to enter the town when the + gates were forced open. The other two hundred men advanced on foot in a + close body towards the principal gate. + </p> + <p> + “They will try and blow it open with petards,” Malcolm said. “Half of my + men are musketeers and good shots, and I will, with your permission, place + them on the wall to aid the townsfolk there, for if the gate is blown open + and the enemy force their way in it will go hard with us.” + </p> + <p> + The count assented, and Malcolm posted his musketeers on the wall, + ordering Sergeant Sinclair with the remainder to set to work to erect + barricades across the street leading from the gate, so that, in case this + were blown in, such a stand might be made against the Imperialists as + would give the townspeople time to rally from the walls and to gather + there. + </p> + <p> + The Imperialists heralded their advance by opening fire with pistols and + musketoons against the wall, and the defenders at once replied. So heavy + was the fire that the head of the column wavered, many of the leading + files being at once shot down, but, encouraged by their officers, they + rallied, and pushed forward at a run. The fire of the townspeople at once + became hurried and irregular, but the Scots picked off their men with + steady aim. The leader of the Imperialists, who carried a petard, advanced + boldly to the edge of the ditch. The fosse was shallow and contained but + little water, and he at once dashed into it and waded across, for the + drawbridge had, of course, been raised. He climbed up the bank, and was + close to the gate, when Malcolm, leaning far over the wall, discharged his + pistol at him. The ball glanced from the steel armour. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm drew his other pistol and again fired, this time more effectually, + for the ball struck between the shoulder and the neck at the junction of + the breast and back pieces, and passed down into the body of the Austrian, + who, dropping the petard, fell dead; but a number of his men were close + behind him. + </p> + <p> + “Quick, lads!” Malcolm cried. “Put your strength to this parapet. It is + old and rotten. Now, all together! Shove!” + </p> + <p> + The soldiers bent their strength against the parapet, while some of the + townspeople, thrusting their pikes into the rotten mortar between the + stones, prised them up with all their strength. The parapet tottered, and + then with a tremendous crash fell, burying five or six of the Imperialists + and the petard beneath the ruins. + </p> + <p> + A shout of exultation rose from the defenders, and the Imperialists at + once withdrew at full speed. They halted out of gunshot, and then a number + of men were sent back to the village, whence they returned carrying + ladders, some of which had been collected the day before from the + neighbouring villages and others manufactured during the night. The enemy + now divided into three parties, which advanced simultaneously against + different points of the wall. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding the storm of shot poured upon them as they advanced, they + pressed forward until they reached the wall and planted their ladders, and + then essayed to climb; but at each point the stormers were stoutly met + with pike and sword, while the musketeers from the flanking towers poured + their bullets into them. + </p> + <p> + The troops proved themselves worthy of their reputation, for it was not + until more than fifty had fallen that they desisted from the attempt and + drew off. + </p> + <p> + “Now we shall have a respite,” Malcolm said. “If there are no more of them + in the neighbourhood methinks they will retire altogether, but if they + have any friends with cannon anywhere within reach they will probably send + for them and renew the attack.” + </p> + <p> + The day passed quietly. Parties of horsemen were seen leaving the village + to forage and plunder the surrounding country, but the main body remained + quietly there. The next day there was still no renewal of the attack, but + as the enemy remained in occupation of the village Malcolm guessed that + they must be waiting for the arrival of reinforcements. The following + afternoon a cloud of dust was seen upon the plain, and presently a column + of infantry some four hundred strong, with three cannon, could be made + out. The townspeople now wavered in their determination. A few were still + for resistance, but the majority held that they could not attempt to + withstand an assault by so strong a force, and that it was better to make + the best terms they could with the enemy. + </p> + <p> + A parlementaire was accordingly despatched to the Imperialists asking what + terms would be granted should the place surrender. + </p> + <p> + “We will grant no terms whatever,” the colonel in command of the + Imperialists said. “The town is at our mercy, and we will do as we will + with it and all within it; but tell Count Mansfeld that if he will + surrender the castle as well as the town at once, and without striking + another blow, his case shall receive favourable consideration.” + </p> + <p> + “That will not do,” the count said. “They either guarantee our lives or + they do not. I give not up my castle on terms like these, but I will + exercise no pressure on the townspeople. If they choose to defend + themselves till the last I will fight here with them; if they choose to + surrender they can do so; and those who differ from their fellows and put + no faith in Tilly's wolves can enter the castle with me.” + </p> + <p> + The principal inhabitants of the town debated the question hotly. Malcolm + lost patience with them, and said: “Are you mad as well as stupid? Do you + not see the smoking villages round you? Do you not remember the fate of + Magdeburg, New Brandenburg, and the other towns which have made a + resistance? You have chosen to resist. It was open to you to have fled + when you heard the Imperialists were coming. You could have opened the + gates then with some hope at least of your lives; but you decided to + resist. You have killed some fifty or sixty of their soldiers. You have + repulsed them from a place which they thought to take with scarce an + effort. You have compelled them to send for reinforcements and guns. And + now you are talking of opening the gates without even obtaining a promise + that your lives shall be spared. This is the extremity of folly, and all I + can say is, if you take such a step you will well deserve your fate.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm's indignant address had its effect, and after a short discussion + the townspeople again placed themselves at the count's disposal, and said + that they would obey his orders. + </p> + <p> + “I will give no orders,” the count said. “My Scottish friend here agrees + with me that it is useless to try to defend the town. We might repulse + several attacks, but in the end they would surely break in, for the walls + are old and weak, and will crumble before their cannon. Were there any + hope of relief one would defend them to the last, but as it is it would be + but a waste of blood, for many would be slain both in the defence and + before they could retreat to the castle; therefore we propose at once to + withdraw. We doubt not that we can hold the castle. Any who like to remain + in their houses and trust to the tender mercy of Tilly's wolves can do + so.” + </p> + <p> + There was no more hesitation, and a cannonball, the first which the + Imperialists had fired, at that moment crashed into a house hard by, and + sharpened their decision wonderfully. + </p> + <p> + “I have no great store of provisions in the castle,” the count said, “and + although I deem it not likely that we shall have to stand a long siege we + must be prepared for it. There are already more than 700 of your wives and + children there, therefore while half of the force continue to show + themselves upon the walls, and so deter the enemy from attempting an + assault until they have opened some breaches, let the rest carry up + provisions to the castle. Any houses from which the women have fled are at + once to be broken open. All that we leave behind the enemy will take, and + the less we leave for them the better; therefore all stores and magazines + of food and wine must be considered as public property. Let the men at + once be divided into two bodies—the one to guard the walls, the + other to search for and carry up provisions. They can be changed every + three or four hours.” + </p> + <p> + The resolution was taken and carried into effect without delay. Most of + the horses and carts in the town had left with the fugitives, those that + remained were at once set to work. The carts were laden with large barrels + of wine and sacks of flour, while the men carried sides of bacon, kegs of + butter, and other portable articles on their heads. The Imperialists, + seeing the movement up the steep road to the castle gate, opened fire with + their arquebuses, but the defenders of the wall replied so hotly that they + were forced to retire out of range. The cannon played steadily all day, + and by nightfall two breaches had been effected in the wall and the gate + had been battered down. + </p> + <p> + But by this time an ample store of provisions had been collected in the + castle and as the Imperialists were seen to form up for the assault the + trumpet was sounded, and at the signal the whole of the defenders of the + walls left their posts and fell back to the castle, leaving the deserted + town at the mercy of the enemy. The Imperialists raised a shout of triumph + as they entered the breaches and found them undefended, and when once + assured that the town was deserted they broke their ranks and scattered to + plunder. + </p> + <p> + It was now quite dark, and many of them dragging articles of furniture + into the streets made great bonfires to light them at their work of + plunder. But they had soon reason to repent having done so, for + immediately the flames sprang up and lighted the streets, flashes ran + round the battlements of the castle, and a heavy fire was opened into the + streets, killing many of the soldiers. Seeing the danger of thus exposing + the men to the fire from the castle, the Imperialist commander issued + orders at once that all fires should be extinguished, that anyone setting + fire to a house should be instantly hung, and that no lights were to be + lit in the houses whose windows faced the castle. + </p> + <p> + Foreseeing the possibility of an attack from the castle, the Austrians + placed a hundred men at the foot of the road leading up to it, and laid + their three cannon loaded to the muzzle to command it. + </p> + <p> + “Have you not,” Malcolm asked the count, “some means of exit from the + castle besides the way into the town?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” the count said, “there is a footpath down the rock on the other + side.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” Malcolm said, “as soon as they are fairly drunk, which will be + before midnight, let us fall upon them from the other side. Leave fifty of + your oldest men with half a dozen veteran soldiers to defend the gateway + against a sudden attack; with the rest we can issue out, and marching + round, enter by the gate and breaches, sweeping the streets as we go, and + then uniting, burst through any guard they may have placed to prevent a + sortie, and so regain the castle.” + </p> + <p> + The count at once assented. In a short time shouts, songs, the sound of + rioting and quarrels, arose from the town, showing that revelry was + general. At eleven o'clock the men in the castle were mustered, fifty were + told off to the defence with five experienced soldiers, an officer of the + count being left in command. The rest sallied through a little door at the + back of the castle and noiselessly descended the steep path. On arriving + at the bottom they were divided into three bodies. Malcolm with his Scots + and fifty of the townspeople formed one. Count Mansfeld took the command + of another, composed of his own soldiers and fifty more of the + townspeople. The third consisted of eighty of the best fighting men of the + town under their own leaders. These were to enter by the gate, while the + other two parties came in by the breaches. The moment the attack began the + defenders of the castle were to open as rapid a fire as they could upon + the foot of the road so as to occupy the attention of the enemy's force + there, and to lead them to anticipate a sortie. + </p> + <p> + The breach by which Malcolm was to enter was the farthest from the castle, + and his command would, therefore, be the last in arriving at its station. + When he reached it he ordered the trumpeters who accompanied him to sound, + and at the signal the three columns rushed into the town uttering shouts + of “Gustavus! Gustavus!” + </p> + <p> + The Imperialists in the houses near were slaughtered with scarcely any + resistance. They were for the most part intoxicated, and such as retained + their senses were paralysed at the sudden attack, and panic stricken at + the shouts, which portended the arrival of a relieving force from the army + of the King of Sweden. As the bands pressed forward, slaying all whom they + came upon, the resistance became stronger; but the three columns were all + headed by parties of pikemen who advanced steadily and in good order, + bearing down all opposition, and leaving to those behind them the task of + slaying all found in the houses. + </p> + <p> + Lights flashed from the windows and partly lit up the streets, and the + Imperialist officers attempted to rally their men; but the Scottish + shouts, “A Hepburn! A Hepburn!” and the sight of their green scarves added + to the terror of the soldiers, who were convinced that the terrible Green + Brigade of the King of Sweden was upon them. + </p> + <p> + Hundreds were cut down after striking scarce a blow in their defence, + numbers fled to the walls and leapt over. The panic communicated itself to + the party drawn up to repel a sortie. Hearing the yells, screams, and + shouts, accompanied by the musketry approaching from three different + quarters of the town, while a steady fire from the castle indicated that + the defenders there might, at any moment, sally out upon them, they stood + for a time irresolute; but as the heads of the three columns approached + they lost heart, quitted their station, and withdrew in a body by a street + by which they avoided the approaching columns. On arriving at the spot + Malcolm found the guns deserted. + </p> + <p> + “The town is won now,” he said. “I will take my post here with my men in + case the Austrians should rally; do you with the rest scatter over the + town and complete the work, but bid them keep together in parties of + twenty.” + </p> + <p> + The force broke up and scattered through the town in their work of + vengeance. House after house was entered and searched, and all who were + found there put to the sword; but by this time most of those who were not + too drunk to fly had already made for the gates. + </p> + <p> + In half an hour not an Imperialist was left alive in the town. Then guards + were placed at the gate and breaches, and they waited till morning. Not a + sign of an Imperialist was to be seen on the plain, and parties sallying + out found that they had fled in the utmost disorder. Arms, accoutrements, + and portions of plunder lay scattered thickly about, and it was clear that + in the belief that the Swedish army was on them, the Imperialists had fled + panic stricken, and were now far away. Upwards of two hundred bodies were + found in the streets and houses. + </p> + <p> + A huge grave was dug outside the walls, and here the fallen foes were + buried. Only three or four of the defenders of the town were killed and a + score or so wounded in the whole affair. Although there was little fear of + a return, as the Imperialists would probably continue their headlong + flight for a long distance, and would then march with all haste to rejoin + their main army with the news that a strong Swedish force was at Mansfeld, + the count set the townspeople at once to repair the breaches. + </p> + <p> + The people were overjoyed with their success, and delighted at having + preserved their homes from destruction, for they knew that the + Imperialists would, if unsuccessful against the castle, have given the + town to the flames before retiring. The women and children flocked down to + their homes again, and although much furniture had been destroyed and + damage done, this was little heeded when so much was saved. + </p> + <p> + All vied in the expression of gratitude towards Malcolm and his Scots, but + Malcolm modestly disclaimed all merit, saying that he and his men had + scarcely struck a blow. + </p> + <p> + “It is not so much the fighting,” the count said, “as the example which + you set the townsmen, and the spirit which the presence of you and your + men diffused among them. Besides, your counsel and support to me have been + invaluable; had it not been for you the place would probably have been + carried at the first attack, and if not the townspeople would have + surrendered when the enemy's reinforcements arrived; and in that case, + with so small a force at my command I could not have hoped to defend the + castle successfully. Moreover, the idea of the sortie which has freed us + of them and saved the town from destruction was entirely yours. No, my + friend, say what you will I feel that I am indebted to you for the safety + of my wife and child, and so long as I live I shall be deeply your + debtor.” + </p> + <p> + The following day Malcolm with his party marched away. The count had + presented him with a suit of magnificent armour, and the countess with a + gold chain of great value. Handsome presents were also made to Sergeant + Sinclair, who was a cadet of good family, and a purse of gold was given to + each of the soldiers, so in high spirits the band marched away over the + mountains on their return to the village. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX THE BATTLE OF BREITENFELD + </h2> + <p> + Great joy was manifested as Malcolm's band marched into the village and it + was found that they had accomplished the mission on which they went, had + saved Mansfeld, and utterly defeated the Imperialists, and had returned in + undiminished numbers, although two or three had received wounds more or + less serious, principally in the first day's fighting. They only remained + one night in the village. + </p> + <p> + On the following morning the baggage was placed in the wagons with a store + of fruit and provisions for their march, and after another hearty adieu + the detachment set out in high spirits. After marching for two days they + learned that the Swedish army had marched to Werben, and that Tilly's army + had followed it there. + </p> + <p> + After the receipt of this news there was no more loitering; the marches + were long and severe, and after making a detour to avoid the Imperialists + the detachment entered the royal camp without having met with any + adventure on the way. His fellow officers flocked round Malcolm to + congratulate him on his safe return and on his restored health. + </p> + <p> + “The change has done wonders for you, Malcolm,” Nigel Graheme said. “Why, + when you marched out you were a band of tottering scarecrows, and now your + detachment looks as healthy and fresh as if they had but yesterday left + Scotland; but come in, the bugle has just sounded to supper, and we are + only waiting for the colonel to arrive. He is at present in council with + the king with Hepburn and some more. Ah! here he comes.” + </p> + <p> + Munro rode up and leapt from his horse, and after heartily greeting + Malcolm led the way into the tent where supper was laid out. Malcolm was + glad to see by the faces of his comrades that all had shaken off the + disease which had played such havoc among them at Old Brandenburg. + </p> + <p> + “Is there any chance of a general engagement?” he asked Nigel. + </p> + <p> + “Not at present,” Nigel said. “We are expecting the reinforcements up in a + few days. As you see we have fortified the camp too strongly for Tilly to + venture to attack us here. Only yesterday he drew up his army and offered + us battle; but the odds were too great, and the king will not fight till + his reinforcements arrive. Some of the hotter spirits were sorry that he + would not accept Tilly's invitation, and I own that I rather gnashed my + teeth myself; but I knew that the king was right in not risking the whole + cause rashly when a few days will put us in a position to meet the + Imperialists on something like equal terms. Is there any news, colonel?” + he asked, turning to Munro. + </p> + <p> + “No news of importance,” the colonel replied; “but the king is rather + puzzled. A prisoner was taken today—one of Pappenheim's horsemen—and + he declares that a force of horse and foot have been defeated at Mansfeld + by a Swedish army with heavy loss. He avers that he was present at the + affair, and arrived in camp with the rest of the beaten force only + yesterday. We cannot make it out, as we know that there are no Swedish + troops anywhere in that direction.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm burst into a hearty laugh, to the surprise of his fellow officers. + </p> + <p> + “I can explain the matter, colonel,” he said. “It was my detachment that + had the honour of representing the Swedish army at Mansfeld.” + </p> + <p> + “What on earth do you mean, Malcolm?” the colonel asked. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, as you know I went with a detachment to the village where I + had before been well treated, and had earned the gratitude of the people + by teaching them how to destroy a party of marauders. After having been + there for a month I was on the point of marching, for the men were all + perfectly restored to health; and indeed I know I ought to have returned + sooner, seeing that the men were fit for service; but as I thought you + were still at Old Brandenburg, and could well dispense with our services, + I lingered on to the last. But just as I was about to march the news came + that a party of Imperialist horse, three hundred strong, was about to + attack Mansfeld, a place of whose existence I had never heard; but hearing + that its count was a staunch Protestant, and that the inhabitants intended + to make a stout defence, I thought that I could not be doing wrong in the + service of the king by marching to aid them, the place being but + twenty-four miles away across the hills. We got there in time, and aided + the townspeople to repulse the first assault. After two days they brought + up a reinforcement of four hundred infantry and some cannon. As the place + is a small one, with but about two hundred and fifty fighting men of all + ages, we deemed it impossible to defend the town, and while they were + breaching the walls fell back to the castle. The Imperialists occupied it + at sunset, and at night, leaving a party to hold the castle, we sallied + out from the other side, and marching round, entered by the breaches, and, + raising the Swedish war cry fell upon the enemy, who were for the most + part too drunk to offer any serious resistance. We killed two hundred and + fifty of them, and the rest fled in terror, thinking they had the whole + Swedish army upon them. The next day I started on my march back here, and + though we have not spared speed, it seems that the Imperialists have + arrived before us.” + </p> + <p> + A burst of laughter and applause greeted the solution of the mystery. + </p> + <p> + “You have done well, sir,” Munro said cordially, “and have rendered a + great service not only in the defeat of the Imperialists, but in its + consequences here, for the prisoner said that last night five thousand men + were marched away from Tilly's army to observe and make head against this + supposed Swedish force advancing from the east. When I have done my meal I + will go over to the king with the news, for his majesty is greatly + puzzled, especially as the prisoner declared that he himself had seen the + Scots of the Green Brigade in the van of the column, and had heard the war + cry, 'A Hepburn! A Hepburn!' + </p> + <p> + “Hepburn himself could make neither head nor tail of it, and was half + inclined to believe that this avenging force was led by the ghosts of + those who had been slain at New Brandenburg. Whenever we can't account for + a thing, we Scots are inclined to believe it's supernatural. + </p> + <p> + “Now tell me more about the affair, Malcolm. By the way do you know that + you are a lieutenant now? Poor Foulis died of the fever a few days after + you left us, and as the king had himself ordered that you were to have the + next vacancy, I of course appointed you at once. We must drink tonight to + your promotion.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm now related fully the incidents of the siege. + </p> + <p> + “By my faith, Malcolm Graheme,” Munro said when he had finished, “you are + as lucky as you are brave. Mansfeld is a powerful nobleman, and has large + possessions in various parts of Germany and much influence, and the king + will be grateful that you have thus rendered him such effective assistance + and so bound him to our cause. I believe he has no children.” + </p> + <p> + “He has a daughter,” Malcolm said, “a pretty little maid some fourteen + years old.” + </p> + <p> + “In faith, Malcolm, 'tis a pity that you and she are not some four or five + years older. What a match it would be for you, the heiress of Mansfeld; + she would be a catch indeed! Well, there's time enough yet, my lad, for + there is no saying how long this war will last.” + </p> + <p> + There was a general laugh, and the colonel continued: + </p> + <p> + “Malcolm has the grace to colour, which I am afraid the rest of us have + lost long ago. Never mind, Malcolm, there are plenty of Scotch cadets have + mended their fortune by means of a rich heiress before now, and I hope + there will be many more. I am on the lookout for a wealthy young countess + myself, and I don't think there is one here who would not lay aside his + armour and sword on such inducement. And now, gentlemen, as we have all + finished, I will leave you to your wine while I go across with our young + lieutenant to the king. I must tell him tonight, or he will not sleep with + wondering over the mystery. We will be back anon and will broach a cask of + that famous wine we picked up the other day, in honour of Malcolm + Graheme's promotion.” + </p> + <p> + Sir John Hepburn was dining with Gustavus, and the meal was just concluded + when Colonel Munro was announced. + </p> + <p> + “Well, my brave Munro, what is it?” the king said heartily, “and whom have + you here? The young officer who escaped from New Brandenburg and Tilly, + unless I am mistaken.” + </p> + <p> + “It is, sir, but I have to introduce him in a new character tonight, as + the leader of your majesty's army who have defeated the Imperialists at + Mansfeld.” + </p> + <p> + “Say you so?” exclaimed the king. “Then, though I understand you not, we + shall hear a solution of the mystery which has been puzzling us. Sit down, + young sir; fill yourself a flagon of wine, and expound this riddle to us.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm repeated the narrative as he had told it to his colonel, and the + king expressed his warm satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “You will make a great leader some day if you do not get killed in one of + these adventures, young sir. Bravery seems to be a common gift of the men + of your nation; but you seem to unite with it a surprising prudence and + sagacity, and, moreover, this march of yours to Mansfeld shows that you do + not fear taking responsibility, which is a high and rare quality. You have + done good service to the cause, and I thank you, and shall keep my eye + upon you in the future.” + </p> + <p> + The next day Malcolm went round the camp, and was surprised at the + extensive works which had been erected. Strong ramparts and redoubts had + been thrown up round it, faced with stone, and mounted with 150 pieces of + cannon. In the centre stood an inner entrenchment with earthworks and a + deep fosse. In this stood the tents of the king and those of his principal + officers. The Marquis of Hamilton had, Malcolm heard, arrived and gone. He + had lost on the march many of the soldiers he had enlisted in England, who + had died from eating German bread, which was heavier, darker coloured, and + more sour than that of their own country. This, however, did not disagree + with the Scotch, who were accustomed to black bread. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder,” Malcolm said to Nigel Graheme, “that when the king has in face + of him a force so superior to his own he should have sent away on detached + service the four splendid regiments which they say the marquis brought.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, the fact was,” Nigel said laughing, “Hamilton was altogether too + grand for us here. We all felt small and mean so long as he remained. + Gustavus himself, who is as simple in his tastes as any officer in the + army, and who keeps up no ostentatious show, was thrown into the shade by + his visitor. Why, had he been the Emperor of Germany or the King of France + he could not have made a braver show. His table was equipped and furnished + with magnificence; his carriages would have created a sensation in Paris; + the liveries of his attendants were more splendid than the uniforms of + generals; he had forty gentlemen as esquires and pages, and 200 yeomen, + splendidly mounted and armed, rode with him as his bodyguard. + </p> + <p> + “Altogether he was oppressive; but the Hamiltons have ever been fond of + show and finery. So Gustavus has sent him and his troops away to guard the + passages of the Oder and to cover our retreat should we be forced to fall + back.” + </p> + <p> + Tilly, finding that the position of Gustavus was too strong to be forced, + retired to Wolmirstadt, whence he summoned the Elector of Saxony to admit + his army into his country, and either to disband the Saxon army or to + unite it to his own. Hitherto the elector had held aloof from Gustavus, + whom he regarded with jealousy and dislike, and had stood by inactive + although the slightest movement of his army would have saved Magdeburg. To + disband his troops, however, and to hand over his fortresses to Tilly, + would be equivalent to giving up his dominions to the enemy; rather than + do this he determined to join Gustavus, and having despatched Arnheim to + treat with the King of Sweden for alliance, he sent a point blank refusal + to Tilly. + </p> + <p> + The Imperialist general at once marched towards Leipzig, devastating the + country as he advanced. Terms were soon arranged between the elector and + Gustavus, and on the 3d of September, 1631, the Swedish army crossed the + Elbe, and the next day joined the Saxon army at Torgau. By this time Tilly + was in front of Leipzig, and immediately on his arrival burned to the + ground Halle, a suburb lying beyond the wall, and then summoned the city + to surrender. + </p> + <p> + Alarmed at the sight of the conflagration of Halle, and with the fate of + Magdeburg in their minds, the citizens of Leipzig opened their gates at + once on promise of fair treatment. The news of this speedy surrender was a + heavy blow to the allies, who, however, after a council of war, determined + at once to march forward against the city, and to give battle to the + Imperialists on the plain around it. + </p> + <p> + Leipzig stands on a wide plain which is called the plain of Breitenfeld, + and the battle which was about to commence there has been called by the + Germans the battle of Breitenfeld, to distinguish it from the even greater + struggles which have since taken place under the walls of Leipzig. + </p> + <p> + The baggage had all been left behind, and the Swedish army lay down as + they stood. The king occupied his travelling coach, and passed the night + chatting with Sir John Hepburn, Marshal Horn, Sir John Banner, Baron + Teuffel, who commanded the guards, and other leaders. The lines of red + fires which marked Tilly's position on the slope of a gentle eminence to + the southwest were plainly to be seen. The day broke dull and misty on the + 7th of September, and as the light fog gradually rose the troops formed up + for battle. Prayers were said in front of every regiment, and the army + then moved forward. Two Scottish brigades had the places of honour in the + van, where the regiments of Sir James Ramsay, the Laird of Foulis, and Sir + John Hamilton were posted, while Hepburn's Green Brigade formed part of + the reserve—a force composed of the best troops of the army, as on + them the fate of the battle frequently depends. The Swedish cavalry were + commanded by Field Marshal Horn, General Banner, and Lieutenant General + Bauditzen. + </p> + <p> + The king and Baron Teuffel led the main body of infantry; the King of + Saxony commanded the Saxons, who were on the Swedish left. The armies were + not very unequal in numbers, the allies numbering 35,000, of whom the + Swedes and Scots counted 20,000, the Saxons 15,000. The Imperialists + numbered about 40,000. Tilly was fighting unwillingly, for he had wished + to await the arrival from Italy of 12,000 veterans under General + Altringer, and who were within a few days' march; but he had been induced, + against his own better judgment, by the urgency of Pappenheim, + Furstenberg, and the younger generals, to quit the unassailable post he + had taken up in front of Leipzig, and to move out on to the plain of + Breitenfeld to accept the battle which the Swedes offered. + </p> + <p> + A short distance in his front was the village of Podelwitz. Behind his + position were two elevations, on which he placed his guns, forty in + number. In rear of these elevations was a very thick wood. The Imperialist + right was commanded by Furstenberg, the left by Pappenheim, the centre by + Tilly himself. Although he had yielded to his generals so far as to take + up a position on the plain, Tilly was resolved, if possible, not to fight + until the arrival of the reinforcements; but the rashness of Pappenheim + brought on a battle. To approach the Austrian position the Swedes had to + cross the little river Loder, and Pappenheim asked permission of Tilly to + charge them as they did so. Tilly consented on condition that he only + charged with two thousand horse and did not bring on a general engagement. + Accordingly, as the Scottish brigade under Sir James Ramsay crossed the + Loder, Pappenheim swept down upon them. + </p> + <p> + The Scots stood firm, and with pike and musket repelled the attack; and + after hard fighting Pappenheim was obliged to fall back, setting fire as + he retired to the village of Podelwitz. The smoke of the burning village + drifted across the plain, and was useful to the Swedes, as under its cover + the entire army passed the Loder, and formed up ready for battle facing + the Imperialists position, the movement being executed under a heavy fire + from the Austrian batteries on the hills. + </p> + <p> + The Swedish order of battle was different from that of the Imperialists. + The latter had their cavalry massed together in one heavy, compact body, + while the Swedish regiments of horse were placed alternately with the + various regiments or brigades of infantry. The Swedish centre was composed + of four brigades of pikemen. Guns were behind the first line, as were the + cavalry supporting the pikemen. The regiments of musketeers were placed at + intervals among the brigades of pikemen. + </p> + <p> + Pappenheim on his return to the camp ordered up the whole of his cavalry, + and charged down with fury upon the Swedes, while at the same moment + Furstenberg dashed with seven regiments of cavalry on the Saxons. Between + these and the Swedes there was a slight interval, for Gustavus had doubts + of the steadiness of his allies, and was anxious that in case of their + defeat his own troops should not be thrown into confusion. The result + justified his anticipations. + </p> + <p> + Attacked with fury on their flank by Furstenberg's horse, while his + infantry and artillery poured a direct fire into their front, the Saxons + at once gave way. Their elector was the first to set the example of + flight, and, turning his horse, galloped without drawing rein to Torgau, + and in twenty minutes after the commencement of the fight the whole of the + Saxons were in utter rout, hotly pursued by Furstenberg's cavalry. + </p> + <p> + Tilly now deemed the victory certain, for nearly half of his opponents + were disposed of, and he outnumbered the remainder by two to one; but + while Furstenberg had gained so complete a victory over the Saxons, + Pappenheim, who had charged the Swedish centre, had met with a very + different reception. + </p> + <p> + In vain he tried to break through the Swedish spears. The wind was blowing + full in the faces of the pikemen, and the clouds of smoke and dust which + rolled down upon them rendered it impossible for them to see the heavy + columns of horse until they fell upon them like an avalanche, yet with + perfect steadiness they withstood the attacks. + </p> + <p> + Seven times Pappenheim renewed his charge; seven times he fell back broken + and disordered. + </p> + <p> + As he drew off for the last time Gustavus, seeing the rout of the Saxons, + and knowing that he would have the whole of Tilly's force upon him in a + few minutes, determined to rid himself altogether of Pappenheim, and + launched the whole of his cavalry upon the retreating squadrons with + overwhelming effect. Thus at the end of half an hour's fighting Tilly had + disposed of the Saxons, and Gustavus had driven Pappenheim's horse from + the field. + </p> + <p> + Three of the Scottish regiments were sent from the centre to strengthen + Horn on the left flank, which was now exposed by the flight of the Saxons. + Scarcely had the Scottish musketeers taken their position when + Furstenberg's horse returned triumphant from their pursuit of the Saxons, + and at once fell upon Horn's pikemen. These, however, stood as firmly as + their comrades in the centre had done; and the Scottish musketeers, six + deep, the three front ranks kneeling, the three in rear standing, poured + such heavy volleys into the horsemen that these fell back in disorder; the + more confused perhaps, since volley firing was at that time peculiar to + the Swedish army, and the crashes of musketry were new to the + Imperialists. + </p> + <p> + As the cavalry fell back in disorder, Gustavus led his horse, who had just + returned from the pursuit of Pappenheim, against them. The shock was + irresistible, and Furstenberg's horse were driven headlong from the field. + But the Imperialist infantry, led by Tilly himself, were now close at + hand, and the roar of musketry along the whole line was tremendous, while + the artillery on both sides played unceasingly. + </p> + <p> + Just as the battle was at the hottest the Swedish reserve came up to the + assistance of the first line, and Sir John Hepburn led the Green Brigade + through the intervals of the Swedish regiments into action. Lord Reay's + regiment was in front, and Munro, leading it on, advanced against the + solid Imperialist columns, pouring heavy volleys into them. When close at + hand the pikemen passed through the intervals of the musketeers and + charged furiously with levelled pikes, the musketeers following them with + clubbed weapons. + </p> + <p> + The gaps formed by the losses of the regiment at New Brandenburg and the + other engagements had been filled up, and two thousand strong they fell + upon the Imperialists. For a few minutes there was a tremendous + hand-to-hand conflict, but the valour and strength of the Scotch + prevailed, and the regiment was the first to burst its way through the + ranks of the Imperialists, and then pressed on to attack the trenches + behind, held by the Walloon infantry. While the battle was raging in the + plain the Swedish cavalry, after driving away Furstenberg's horse, swept + round and charged the eminence in the rear of the Imperialists, cutting + down the artillerymen and capturing the cannon there. + </p> + <p> + These were at once turned upon the masses of Imperialist infantry, who + thus, taken between two fires—pressed hotly by the pikemen in front, + mown down by the cannon in their rear—lost heart and fled + precipitately, four regiments alone, the veterans of Furstenberg's + infantry, holding together and cutting their way through to the woods in + the rear of their position. + </p> + <p> + The slaughter would have been even greater than it was, had not the cloud + of dust and smoke been so thick that the Swedes were unable to see ten + yards in front of them. The pursuit was taken up by their cavalry, who + pressed the flying Imperialists until nightfall. So complete was the + defeat that Tilly, who was badly wounded, could only muster 600 men to + accompany him in his retreat, and Pappenheim could get together but 1400 + of his horsemen. Seven thousand of the Imperialists were killed, 5000 were + wounded or taken prisoners. The Swedes lost but 700 men, the Saxons about + 2000. + </p> + <p> + The Swedes that night occupied the Imperial tents, making great bonfires + of the broken wagons, pikes, and stockades. A hundred standards were + taken. Tilly had fought throughout the battle with desperate valour. He + was ever in the van of his infantry, and three times was wounded by + bullets and once taken prisoner, and only rescued after a desperate + conflict. + </p> + <p> + At the conclusion of the day Cronenberg with 600 Walloon cavalry threw + themselves around him and bore him from the field. The fierce old soldier + is said to have burst into a passion of tears on beholding the slaughter + and defeat of his infantry. Hitherto he had been invincible, this being + the first defeat he had suffered in the course of his long military + career. Great stores of provision and wine had been captured, and the + night was spent in feasting in the Swedish camp. + </p> + <p> + The next morning the Elector of Saxony rode on to the field to + congratulate Gustavus on his victory. The latter was politic enough to + receive him with great courtesy and to thank him for the services the + Saxons had rendered. He intrusted to the elector the task of recapturing + Leipzig, while he marched against Merseburg, which he captured with its + garrison of five hundred men. + </p> + <p> + After two or three assaults had been made on Leipzig the garrison + capitulated to the Saxons, and on the 11th of September the army was drawn + up and reviewed by Gustavus. When the king arrived opposite the Green + Brigade he dismounted and made the soldiers an address, thanking them for + their great share in winning the battle of Leipzig. + </p> + <p> + Many of the Scottish officers were promoted, Munro being made a full + colonel, and many others advanced a step in rank. The Scottish brigade + responded to the address of the gallant king with hearty cheers. Gustavus + was indeed beloved as well as admired by his soldiers. Fearless himself of + danger, he ever recognized bravery in others, and was ready to take his + full share of every hardship as well as every peril. + </p> + <p> + He had ever a word of commendation and encouragement for his troops, and + was regarded by them as a comrade as well as a leader. In person he was + tall and rather stout, his face was handsome, his complexion fair, his + forehead lofty, his hair auburn, his eyes large and penetrating, his + cheeks ruddy and healthy. He had an air of majesty which enabled him to + address his soldiers in terms of cheerful familiarity without in the + slightest degree diminishing their respect and reverence for him as their + monarch. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X THE PASSAGE OF THE RHINE + </h2> + <p> + “I suppose,” Nigel Graheme said, as the officers of the regiment assembled + in one of the Imperialist tents on the night after the battle of Leipzig, + “we shall at once press forward to Vienna;” and such was the general + opinion throughout the Swedish army; but such was not the intention of + Gustavus. Undoubtedly the temptation to press forward and dictate peace in + Vienna was strong, but the difficulties and disadvantages of such a step + were many. He had but 20,000 men, for the Saxons could not be reckoned + upon; and indeed it was probable that their elector, whose jealousy and + dislike of Gustavus would undoubtedly be heightened by the events of the + battle of Breitenfeld, would prove himself to be a more than a doubtful + ally were the Swedish army to remove to a distance. + </p> + <p> + Tilly would soon rally his fugitives, and, reinforced by the numerous + Imperialist garrisons from the towns, would be able to overrun North + Germany in his absence, and to force the Saxons to join him even if the + elector were unwilling to do so. Thus the little Swedish force would be + isolated in the heart of Germany; and should Ferdinand abandon Vienna at + his approach and altogether refuse to treat with him—which his + obstinacy upon a former occasion when in the very hands of his enemy + rendered probable—the Swedes would find themselves in a desperate + position, isolated and alone in the midst of enemies. + </p> + <p> + There was another consideration. An Imperialist diet was at that moment + sitting at Frankfort, and Ferdinand was using all his influence to compel + the various princes and representatives of the free cities to submit to + him. It was of the utmost importance that Gustavus should strengthen his + friends and overawe the waverers by the approach of his army. Hitherto + Franconia and the Rhine provinces had been entirely in the hands of the + Imperialists, and it was needful that a counterbalancing influence should + be exerted. These considerations induced Gustavus to abandon the tempting + idea of a march upon Vienna. The Elector of Saxony was charged with + carrying the war into Silesia and Bohemia, the Electors of Hesse and + Hesse-Cassel were to maintain Lower Saxony and Westphalia, and the Swedish + army turned its face towards the Rhine. + </p> + <p> + On the 20th of September it arrived before Erfurt, an important fortified + town on the Gera, which surrendered at discretion. Gustavus granted the + inhabitants, who were for the most part Catholics, the free exercise of + their religion, and nominated the Duke of Saxe-Weimar to be governor of + the district and of the province of Thuringen, and the Count of Lowenstein + to be commander of the garrison, which consisted of Colonel Foulis's + Scottish regiment, 1500 strong. + </p> + <p> + Travelling by different routes in two columns the army marched to + Wurtzburg, the capital of Franconia, a rich and populous city, the + Imperialist garrison having withdrawn to the strong castle of Marienburg, + on a lofty eminence overlooking the town, and only separated from it by + the river Maine. The cathedral at Wurtzburg is dedicated to a Scottish + saint, St. Kilian, a bishop who with two priests came from Scotland in the + year 688 to convert the heathen of Franconia. They baptized many at + Wurtzburg, among them Gospert, the duke of that country. This leader was + married to Geilana, the widow of his brother; and Kilian urging upon him + that such a marriage was contrary to the laws of the Christian church, the + duke promised to separate from her. Geilana had not, like her lord, + accepted Christianity, and, furious at this interference of Kilian, she + seized the opportunity when the latter had gone with his followers on an + expedition against the pagan Saxons to have Kilian and his two companions + murdered. + </p> + <p> + The cathedral was naturally an object of interest to the Scotch soldiers + in the time of Gustavus, and there was an animated argument in the + quarters of the officers of Munro's regiment on the night of their arrival + as to whether St. Kilian had done well or otherwise in insisting upon his + new convert repudiating his wife. The general opinion, however, was + against the saint, the colonel summing up the question. + </p> + <p> + “In my opinion,” he said, “Kilian was a fool. Here was no less a matter at + stake than the conversion of a whole nation, or at least of a great tribe + of heathens, and Kilian imperilled it all on a question of minor + importance; for in the first place, the Church of Rome has always held + that the pope could grant permission for marriage within interdicted + degrees; in the second place, the marriage had taken place before the + conversion of the duke to Christianity, and they were therefore innocently + and without thought of harm bona fide man and wife. Lastly, the Church of + Rome is opposed to divorce; and Kilian might in any case have put up with + this small sin, if sin it were, for the sake of saving the souls of + thousands of pagans. My opinion is that St. Kilian richly deserved the + fate which befell him. And now to a subject much more interesting to us—viz, + the capture of Marienburg. + </p> + <p> + “I tell you, my friends, it is going to be a warm business; the castle is + considered impregnable, and is strong by nature as well as art, and + Captain Keller is said to be a stout and brave soldier. He has 1000 men in + the garrison, and all the monks who were in the town have gone up and + turned soldiers. But if the task is a hard one the reward will be rich; + for as the Imperialists believe the place cannot be taken, the treasures + of all the country round are stored up there. And I can tell you more, in + the cellars are sixty gigantic tuns of stone, the smallest of which holds + twenty-five wagon loads of wine, and they say some of it is a hundred + years old. With glory and treasure and good wine to be won we will outdo + ourselves tomorrow; and you may be sure that the brunt of the affair will + fall upon the Scots.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, there is one satisfaction,” said Nigel Graheme—who after + Leipzig had been promoted to the rank of major—“if we get the lion's + share of the fighting, we shall have the lion's share of the plunder and + wine.” + </p> + <p> + “For shame, Graheme! You say nothing of the glory.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! well,” Graheme laughed, “we have already had so large share of that, + that I for one could do without winning any more just at present. It's a + dear commodity to purchase, and neither fills our belly nor our pockets.” + </p> + <p> + “For shame, Graheme! for shame!” Munro said laughing. “It is a scandal + that such sentiments should be whispered in the Scottish brigade; and now + to bed, gentlemen, for we shall have, methinks, a busy day tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + Sir James Ramsay was appointed to command the assault. The river Maine had + to be crossed, and he sent off Lieutenant Robert Ramsay of his own + regiment to obtain boats from the peasantry. The disguise in which he went + was seen through, and he was taken prisoner and carried to the castle. A + few boats were, however, obtained by the Swedes. + </p> + <p> + The river is here 300 yards wide, and the central arch of the bridge had + been blown up by the Imperialists, a single plank remaining across the + chasm over the river 48 feet below. The bridge was swept by the heaviest + cannon in the fortress, and a passage appeared well nigh hopeless. On the + afternoon of the 5th of October the party prepared to pass, some in boats, + others by the bridge. A tremendous fire was opened by the Imperialists + from cannon and musketry, sweeping the bridge with a storm of missiles and + lashing the river to foam around the boats. The soldiers in these returned + the fire with their muskets, and the smoke served as a cover to conceal + them from the enemy. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Major Bothwell of Ramsay's regiment led a company across + the bridge. These, in spite of the fire, crossed the plank over the broken + arch and reached the head of the bridge, from whence they kept up so heavy + a fire upon the gunners and musketeers in the lower works by the river + that they forced them to quit their posts, and so enabled Sir James Ramsay + and Sir John Hamilton to effect a landing. + </p> + <p> + Major Bothwell, his brother, and the greater part of his followers were, + however, slain by the Imperialists' fire from above. The commandant of the + castle now sallied out and endeavoured to recapture the works by the + water, but the Scotch repelled the attack and drove the enemy up the hill + to the castle again. The Scottish troops having thus effected a lodgment + across the river, and being protected by the rocks from the enemy's fire, + lay down for the night in the position they had won. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus during the night caused planks to be thrown across the broken + bridge and prepared to assault at daybreak. Just as morning was breaking, + a Swedish officer with seven men climbed up the hill to reconnoitre the + castle, and found to his surprise that the drawbridge was down, but a + guard of 200 men were stationed at the gate. He was at once challenged, + and, shouting “Sweden!” sprang with his men on to the end of the + drawbridge. The Imperialists tried in vain to raise it; before they could + succeed some companions of the Swedes ran up, and, driving in the guard, + took possession of the outer court. + </p> + <p> + Almost at the same moment Ramsay's and Hamilton's regiments commenced + their assault on a strong outwork of the castle, which, after two hours' + desperate fighting, they succeeded in gaining. They then turned its guns + upon the gate of the keep, which they battered down, and were about to + charge in when they received orders from the king to halt and retire, + while the Swedish regiment of Axel-Lilly and the Blue Brigade advanced to + the storm. + </p> + <p> + The Scottish regiments retired in the deepest discontent, deeming + themselves affronted by others being ordered to the post of honour after + they had by their bravery cleared the way. The Swedish troops forced their + way in after hard fighting; and the Castle of Marienburg, so long deemed + impregnable, was captured after a few hours' fighting. The quantity of + treasure found in it was enormous, and there were sufficient provisions to + have lasted its garrison for twenty years. + </p> + <p> + Immediately the place was taken, Colonel Sir John Hamilton advanced to + Gustavus and resigned his commission on the spot; nor did the assurances + of the king that he intended no insult to the Scotch soldiers mollify his + wrath, and quitting the Swedish service he returned at once to Scotland. + Munro's regiment had taken no part in the storming of Marienburg, but was + formed up on the north side of the river in readiness to advance should + the first attack be repelled, and many were wounded by the shot of the + enemy while thus inactive. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm while binding up the arm of his sergeant who stood next to him + felt a sharp pain shoot through his leg, and at once fell to the ground. + He was lifted up and carried to the rear, where his wound was examined by + the doctor to the regiment. + </p> + <p> + “Your luck has not deserted you,” he said after probing the wound. “The + bullet has missed the bone by half an inch, and a short rest will soon put + you right again.” + </p> + <p> + Fortunately for a short time the army remained around Wurtzburg. Columns + scoured the surrounding country, capturing the various towns and + fortresses held by the Imperialists, and collecting large quantities of + provisions and stores. Tilly's army lay within a few days' march; but + although superior in numbers to that of Gustavus, Tilly had received + strict orders not to risk a general engagement as his army was now almost + the only one that remained to the Imperialists, and should it suffer + another defeat the country would lie at the mercy of the Swedes. + </p> + <p> + One evening when Malcolm had so far recovered as to be able to walk for a + short distance, he was at supper with Colonel Munro and some other + officers, when the door opened and Gustavus himself entered. All leapt to + their feet. + </p> + <p> + “Munro,” he said, “get the musketeers of your brigade under arms with all + haste, form them up in the square before the town hall, and desire Sir + John Hepburn to meet me there.” + </p> + <p> + The drum was at once beaten, and the troops came pouring from their + lodgings, and in three or four minutes the musketeers, 800 strong, were + formed up with Hepburn and Munro at their head. Malcolm had prepared to + take his arms on the summons, but Munro said at once: + </p> + <p> + “No, Malcolm, so sudden a summons augurs desperate duty, maybe a long + night march; you would break down before you got half a mile; besides, as + only the musketeers have to go, half the officers must remain here.” + </p> + <p> + Without a word the king placed himself at the head of the men, and through + the dark and stormy night the troops started on their unknown mission. + Hepburn and Munro were, like their men, on foot, for they had not had time + to have their horses saddled. + </p> + <p> + After marching two hours along the right bank of the Maine the tramp of + horses was heard behind them, and they were reinforced by eighty troopers + whom Gustavus before starting had ordered to mount and follow. Hitherto + the king had remained lost in abstraction, but he now roused himself. + </p> + <p> + “I have just received the most serious news, Hepburn. Tilly has been + reinforced by 17,000 men under the Duke of Lorraine, and is marching with + all speed against me. Were my whole army collected here he would outnumber + us by two to one, but many columns are away, and the position is well nigh + desperate. + </p> + <p> + “I have resolved to hold Ochsenfurt. The place is not strong, but it lies + in a sharp bend of the river and may be defended for a time. If any can do + so it is surely you and your Scots. Tilly is already close to the town; + indeed the man who brought me the news said that when he left it his + advanced pickets were just entering, hence the need for this haste. + </p> + <p> + “You must hold it to the last, Hepburn, and then, if you can, fall back to + Wurtzburg; even a day's delay will enable me to call in some of the + detachments and to prepare to receive Tilly.” + </p> + <p> + Without halting, the little column marched sixteen miles, and then, + crossing the bridge over the Maine, entered Ochsenfurt. + </p> + <p> + It was occupied by a party of fifty Imperialist arquebusiers, but these + were driven headlong from it. The night was extremely dark, all were + ignorant of the locality, and the troops were formed up in the marketplace + to await either morning or the attack of Tilly. Fifty troopers were sent + half a mile in advance to give warning of the approach of the enemy. They + had scarcely taken their place when they were attacked by the + Imperialists, who had been roused by the firing in the town. The incessant + flash of fire and the heavy rattle of musketry told Gustavus that they + were in force, and a lieutenant of Lumsden's regiment with fifty + musketeers was sent off to reinforce the cavalry. The Imperialists were, + however, too strong to be checked, and horse and foot were being driven in + when Colonel Munro sallied out with a hundred of his own regiment, and the + Imperialists after a brisk skirmish, not knowing what force they had to + deal with, fell back. + </p> + <p> + As soon as day broke the king and Hepburn made a tour of the walls, which + were found to be in a very bad condition and ill calculated to resist an + assault. The Imperialists were not to be seen, and the king, fearing they + might have marched by some other route against Wurtzburg, determined to + return at once, telling Hepburn to mine the bridge, and to blow it up if + forced to abandon the town. + </p> + <p> + Hepburn at once set to work to strengthen the position, to demolish all + the houses and walls outside the defences, cut down and destroy all trees + and hedges which might shelter an enemy, and to strengthen the walls with + banks of earth and platforms of wood. For three days the troops laboured + incessantly; on the third night the enemy were heard approaching. The + advanced troopers and a half company of infantry were driven in, + contesting every foot of the way. When they reached the walls heavy + volleys were poured in by the musketeers who lined them upon the + approaching enemy, and Tilly, supposing that Gustavus must have moved + forward a considerable portion of his army, called off his troops and + marched away to Nuremberg. Two days later Hepburn was ordered to return + with his force to Wurtzburg. + </p> + <p> + The king now broke up his camp near Wurtzburg, and leaving a garrison in + the castle of Marienburg and appointing Marshal Horn to hold Franconia + with 8000 men, he marched against Frankfort-on-the-Maine, his troops + capturing all the towns and castles on the way, levying contributions, and + collecting great booty. Frankfort opened its gates without resistance, and + for a short time the army had rest in pleasant quarters. + </p> + <p> + The regiments were reorganized, in some cases two of those which had + suffered most being joined into one. Gustavus had lately been strengthened + by two more Scottish regiments under Sir Frederick Hamilton and Alexander + Master of Forbes, and an English regiment under Captain Austin. He had now + thirteen regiments of Scottish infantry, and the other corps of the army + were almost entirely officered by Scotchmen. He had five regiments of + English and Irish, and had thus eighteen regiments of British infantry. + </p> + <p> + At Frankfort he was joined by the Marquis of Hamilton, who had done + splendid service with the troops under his command. He had driven the + Imperialists out of Silesia, and marching south, struck such fear into + them that Tilly was obliged to weaken his army to send reinforcements to + that quarter. By the order of Gustavus he left Silesia and marched to + Magdeburg. He had now but 3500 men with him, 2700 having died from + pestilence, famine, and disease. He assisted General Banner in blockading + the Imperialist garrison of Magdeburg, and his losses by fever and + pestilence thinned his troops down to two small regiments; these were + incorporated with the force of the Duke of Saxe-Weimar, and the Marquis of + Hamilton joined the staff of Gustavus as a simple volunteer. + </p> + <p> + The king now determined to conquer the Palatinate, which was held by a + Spanish army. He drove them before him until he reached the Rhine, where + they endeavoured to defend the passage by burning every vessel and boat + they could find, and for a time the advance of the Swedes was checked. It + was now the end of November, the snow lay thick over the whole country, + and the troops, without tents or covering, were bivouacked along the side + of the river, two miles below Oppenheim. The opposite bank was covered + with bushes to the water's edge, and on an eminence a short distance back + could be seen the tents of the Spaniards. + </p> + <p> + “If it were summer we might swim across,” Nigel Graheme said to Malcolm; + “the river is broad, but a good swimmer could cross it easily enough.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” Malcolm agreed, “there would be no difficulty in swimming if + unencumbered with arms and armour, but there would be no advantage in + getting across without these; if we could but get hold of a boat or two, + we would soon wake yonder Spaniards up.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning Malcolm wandered along the bank closely examining the + bushes as he went, to see if any boats might be concealed among them, for + the fishermen and boatmen would naturally try to save their craft when + they heard that the Imperialists were destroying them. He walked three + miles up the river without success. As he returned he kept his eyes fixed + on the bushes on the opposite bank. When within half a mile of the camp he + suddenly stopped, for his eye caught something dark among them. He went to + the water's edge and stooped, the better to see under the bushes, and saw + what he doubted not to be the stern of a boat hauled up and sheltered + beneath them. He leapt to his feet with a joyful exclamation. Here was the + means of crossing the river; but the boat had to be brought over. Once + afloat this would be easy enough, but he was sure that his own strength + would be insufficient to launch her, and that he should need the aid of at + least one man. On returning to camp he called aside the sergeant of his + company, James Grant, who was from his own estate in Nithsdale, and whom + he knew to be a good swimmer. + </p> + <p> + “Sergeant,” he said, “I want you to join me in an enterprise tonight. I + have found a boat hauled up under the bushes on the opposite shore, and we + must bring her across. I cannot make out her size; but from the look of + her stern I should say she was a large boat. You had better therefore + borrow from the artillerymen one of their wooden levers, and get a stout + pole two or three inches across, and cut half a dozen two foot lengths + from it to put under her as rollers. Get also a plank of four inches wide + from one of the deserted houses in the village behind us, and cut out two + paddles; we may find oars on board, but it is as well to be prepared in + case the owner should have removed them.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall I take my weapons, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “We can take our dirks in our belts, sergeant, and lash our swords to the + wooden lever, but I do not think we shall have any fighting. The night + will be dark, and the Spaniards, believing that we have no boats, will not + keep a very strict watch. The worst part of the business is the swim + across the river, the water will be bitterly cold; but as you and I have + often swum Scotch burns when they were swollen by the melting snow I think + that we may well manage to get across this sluggish stream.” + </p> + <p> + “At what time will we be starting, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Be here at the edge of the river at six o'clock, sergeant. I can get away + at that time without exciting comment, and we will say nothing about it + unless we succeed.” + </p> + <p> + Thinking it over, however, it occurred to Malcolm that by this means a day + would be lost—and he knew how anxious the king was to press forward. + He therefore abandoned his idea of keeping his discovery secret, and going + to his colonel reported that he had found a boat, and could bring it + across from the other side by seven o'clock. + </p> + <p> + The news was so important that Munro at once went to the king. Gustavus + ordered three hundred Swedes and a hundred Scots of each of the regiments + of Ramsay, Munro, and the Laird of Wormiston, the whole under the command + of Count Brahe, to form up after dark on the river bank and prepare to + cross, and he himself came down to superintend the passage. By six it was + perfectly dark. During the day Malcolm had placed two stones on the edge + of the water, one exactly opposite the boat, the other twenty feet behind + it in an exact line. When Gustavus arrived at the spot where the troops + were drawn up, Malcolm was taken up to him by his colonel. + </p> + <p> + “Well, my brave young Graheme,” the king said, “so you are going to do us + another service; but how will you find the boat in this darkness? Even + were there no stream you would find it very difficult to strike the exact + spot on a dark night like this.” + </p> + <p> + “I have provided against that, sir, by placing two marks on the bank. When + we start lanterns will be placed on these. We shall cross higher up so as + to strike the bank a little above where I believe the boat to be, then we + shall float along under the bushes until the lanterns are in a line one + with another, and we shall know then that we are exactly opposite the + boat.” + </p> + <p> + “Well thought of!” the king exclaimed. “Munro, this lieutenant of yours is + a treasure. And now God speed you, my friend, in your cold swim across the + stream!” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm and the sergeant now walked half a mile up the river, a distance + which, judging from the strength of the current and the speed at which + they could swim, would, they thought, take them to the opposite bank at + about the point where the boat was lying. Shaking hands with Colonel + Munro, who had accompanied them, Malcolm entered the icy cold water + without delay. Knowing that it was possible that their strength might give + out before they reached the opposite side, Malcolm had had two pairs of + small casks lashed two feet apart. These they fastened securely, so that + as they began to swim the casks floated a short distance behind each + shoulder, giving them perfect support. The lever and paddles were towed + behind them. The lights in the two camps afforded them a means of + directing their way. The water was intensely cold, and before they were + halfway across Malcolm congratulated himself upon having thought of the + casks. Had it not been for them he would have begun to doubt his ability + to reach the further shore, for although he would have thought nothing of + the swim at other times his limbs were fast becoming numbed with the + extreme cold. The sergeant kept close to him, and a word or two was + occasionally exchanged. + </p> + <p> + “I think it is colder than our mountain streams, Grant?” + </p> + <p> + “It's no colder, your honour, but the water is smooth and still, and we do + not have to wrestle with it as with a brook in spate. It's the stillness + which makes it feel so cold. The harder we swim the less we will feel it.” + </p> + <p> + It was with a deep feeling of relief that Malcolm saw something loom just + in front of him from the darkness, and knew that he was close to the land. + A few more strokes and he touched the bushes. Looking back he saw that the + two lights were nearly in a line. Stopping swimming he let the stream + drift him down. Two or three minutes more and one of the tiny lights + seemed exactly above the other. + </p> + <p> + “This is the spot, Grant,” he said in a low voice; “land here as quietly + as you can.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI THE CAPTURE OF OPPENHEIM + </h2> + <p> + The two swimmers dragged themselves on shore, but for a minute or two + could scarce stand, so numbed were their limbs by the cold. Malcolm took + from his belt a flask of brandy, took a long draught, and handed it to his + companion, who followed his example. + </p> + <p> + The spirit sent a glow of warmth through their veins, and they began to + search among the bushes for the boat, one proceeding each way along the + bank. They had not removed their leathern doublets before entering the + water, as these, buoyed up as they were, would not affect their swimming, + and would be a necessary protection when they landed not only against the + cold of the night air but against the bushes. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm's beacon proved an accurate guide, for he had not proceeded twenty + yards before he came against a solid object which he at once felt to be + the boat. A low whistle called the sergeant to his side, bringing with him + the rollers and paddles from the spot where they had landed. They soon + felt that the boat was a large one, and that their strength would have + been wholly insufficient to get her into the water without the aid of the + lever and rollers. Taking the former they placed its end under the stern + post, and placing a roller under its heel to serve as a pivot they threw + their weight on the other end of the lever and at once raised the boat + some inches in the air. + </p> + <p> + Grant held the lever down and Malcolm slid a roller as far up under the + keel as it would go; the lever was then shifted and the boat again raised, + and the process was continued until her weight rested upon three rollers. + She was now ready to be launched, and as the bank was steep they had no + doubt of their ability to run her down. An examination had already shown + that their paddles would be needless, as the oars were inside her. They + took their places one on each side of the bow, and applying their strength + the boat glided rapidly down. + </p> + <p> + “Gently, Grant,” Malcolm said, “don't let her go in with a splash. There + may be some sentries within hearing.” + </p> + <p> + They continued their work cautiously, and the boat noiselessly entered the + water. Getting out the oars they gave her a push, and she was soon + floating down the stream. The rowlocks were in their places, and rowing + with extreme care so as to avoid making the slightest sound they made + their way across the river. They were below the camp when they landed, but + there were many men on the lookout, for the news of the attempt had spread + rapidly. + </p> + <p> + Leaping ashore amidst a low cheer from a group of soldiers, Malcolm + directed them to tow the boat up at once to the place where the troops + were formed ready for crossing, while he and the sergeant, who were both + chilled to the bone, for their clothes had frozen stiff upon them, hurried + to the spot where the regiment was bivouacked. Here by the side of a + blazing fire they stripped, and were rubbed with cloths by their comrades + till a glow of warmth again began to be felt, the external heat and + friction being aided by the administration of two steaming flagons of + spiced wine. Dry clothes were taken from their knapsacks and warmed before + the fire, and when these were put on they again felt warm and comfortable. + </p> + <p> + Hurrying off now to the spot where the troops were drawn up, they found + that the boat had already made two passages. She rowed four oars, and + would, laden down to the water's edge, carry twenty-five men. The oars had + been muffled with cloths so as to make no sound in the rowlocks. A party + of Munro's Scots had first crossed, then a party of Swedes. Malcolm and + the sergeant joined their company unnoticed in the darkness. Each + detachment sent over a boat load in turns, and when six loads had crossed + it was again the turn of the men of Munro's regiment, and Malcolm entered + the boat with the men. The lights still burned as a signal, enabling the + boat to land each party almost at the same spot. Malcolm wondered what was + going on. A perfect stillness reigned on the other side, and it was + certain that the alarm had not yet been given. + </p> + <p> + On ascending the bank he saw in front of him some dark figures actively + engaged, and heard dull sounds. On reaching the spot he found the parties + who had preceded him hard at work with shovels throwing up an + intrenchment. In the darkness he had not perceived that each of the + soldiers carried a spade in addition to his arms. The soil was deep and + soft, and the operations were carried on with scarce a sound. As each + party landed they fell to work under the direction of their officers. All + night the labour continued, and when the dull light of the winter morning + began to dispel the darkness a solid rampart of earth breast high rose in + a semicircle, with its two extremities resting on the riverbank. + </p> + <p> + The last boat load had but just arrived across, and the 600 men were now + gathered in the work, which was about 150 feet across, the base formed by + the river. The earth forming the ramparts had been taken from the outside, + and a ditch 3 feet deep and 6 feet wide had been thus formed. + </p> + <p> + The men, who, in spite of the cold were hot and perspiring from their + night's work, now entered the intrenched space, and sat down to take a + meal, each man having brought two days' rations in his havresack. It grew + rapidly lighter, and suddenly the sound of a trumpet, followed by the + rapid beating of drums, showed that the Spaniards had, from their camp on + the eminence half a mile away, discovered the work which had sprung up + during the night as if by magic on their side of the river. + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes a great body of cavalry was seen issuing from the Spanish + camp, and fourteen squadrons of cuirassiers trotted down towards the + intrenchments. Soon the word was given to charge, and, like a torrent, the + mass of cavalry swept down upon it. + </p> + <p> + Two-thirds of those who had crossed were musketeers, the remainder + pikemen. The latter formed the front line behind the rampart, their spears + forming a close hedge around it, while the musketeers prepared to fire + between them. By the order of Count Brahe not a trigger was pulled until + the cavalry were within fifty yards, then a flash of flame swept round the + rampart, and horses and men in the front line of the cavalry tumbled to + the ground. But half the musketeers had fired, and a few seconds later + another volley was poured into the horsemen. The latter, however, although + many had fallen, did not check their speed, but rode up close to the + rampart, and flung themselves upon the hedge of spears. + </p> + <p> + Nothing could exceed the gallantry with which the Spaniards fought. Some + dismounted, and, leaping into the ditch, tried to climb the rampart; + others leapt the horses into it, and standing up in their saddles, cut at + the spearmen with their swords, and fired their pistols among them. Many, + again, tried to leap their horses over ditch and rampart, but the pikemen + stood firm, while at short intervals withering volleys tore into the + struggling mass. + </p> + <p> + For half an hour the desperate fight continued, and then, finding that the + position could not be carried by horsemen, the Spanish commander drew off + his men, leaving no less than 600 lying dead around the rampart of earth. + There were no Spanish infantry within some miles of the spot, and the + cavalry rode away, some to Maintz, but the greater part to Oppenheim, + where there was a strong garrison of 1000 men. + </p> + <p> + A careful search among the bushes brought three more boats to light, and a + force was soon taken across the river sufficient to maintain itself + against any attack. Gustavus himself was in one of the first boats that + crossed. + </p> + <p> + “Well done, my brave hearts!” he said as he landed, just as the Spanish + horsemen had ridden away. “You have fought stoutly and well, and our way + is now open to us. Where are Lieutenant Graheme and the sergeant who swam + across with him?” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm and his companion soon presented themselves. + </p> + <p> + “I sent for you to your camp,” the king said, “but found that you but + waited to change your clothes, and had then joined the force crossing. You + had no orders to do so.” + </p> + <p> + “We had no orders not to do so, sire, but having begun the affair it was + only natural that we should see the end of it.” + </p> + <p> + “You had done your share and more,” the king said, “and I thank you both + heartily for it, and promote you, Graheme, at once to the rank of captain, + and will request Colonel Munro to give you the first company which may + fall vacant in his regiment. If a vacancy should not occur shortly I will + place you in another regiment until one may happen in your own corps. To + you, sergeant, I give a commission as officer. You will take that rank at + once, and will be a supernumerary in your regiment till a vacancy occurs. + Such promotion has been well and worthily won by you both.” + </p> + <p> + Without delay an advance was ordered against Oppenheim. It lay on the + Imperialist side of the Rhine. Behind the town stood a strong and well + fortified castle upon a lofty eminence. Its guns swept not only the + country around it, but the ground upon the opposite side of the river. + There, facing it, stood a strong fort surrounded by double ditches, which + were deep and broad and full of water. They were crossed only by a + drawbridge on the side facing the river, and the garrison could therefore + obtain by boats supplies or reinforcements as needed from the town. + </p> + <p> + The Green and Blue Brigades at once commenced opening trenches against + this fort, and would have assaulted the place without delay had not a + number of boats been brought over by a Protestant well wisher of the + Swedes from the other side of the river. The assault was therefore delayed + in order that the attack might be delivered simultaneously against the + positions on both sides of the river. The brigade of guards and the White + Brigade crossed in the boats at Gernsheim, five miles from the town, and + marched against it during the night. + </p> + <p> + The Spaniards from their lofty position in the castle of Oppenheim saw the + campfires of the Scots around their fort on the other side of the river, + and opened a heavy cannonade upon them. The fire was destructive, and many + of the Scots were killed, Hepburn and Munro having a narrow escape, a + cannonball passing just over their heads as they were sitting together by + a fire. + </p> + <p> + The defenders of the fort determined to take advantage of the fire poured + upon their assailants, and two hundred musketeers made a gallant sortie + upon them; but Hepburn led on his pikemen who were nearest at hand, and, + without firing a shot, drove them back again into the fort. At daybreak + the roar of cannon on the opposite side of the river commenced, and showed + that the king with the divisions which had crossed had arrived at their + posts. The governor of the fort, seeing that if, as was certain, the lower + town were captured by the Swedes, he should be cut off from all + communication with the castle and completely isolated, surrendered to Sir + John Hepburn. + </p> + <p> + The town had, indeed, at once opened its gates, and two hundred men of Sir + James Ramsay's regiment were placed there. Hepburn prepared to cross the + river with the Blue and Green Brigades to aid the king in reducing the + castle—a place of vast size and strength—whose garrison + composed of Spaniards and Italians were replying to the fire of Gustavus. + A boat was lying at the gate of the fort. + </p> + <p> + “Captain Graheme,” Hepburn said to Malcolm, “take with you two lieutenants + and twenty men in the boat and cross the river; then send word by an + officer to the king that the fort here has surrendered, and that I am + about to cross, and let the men bring over that flotilla of boats which is + lying under the town wall.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm crossed at once. After despatching the message to the king and + sending the officer back with the boats he had for the moment nothing to + do, and made his way into the town to inquire from the officers of + Ramsay's detachment how things were going. He found the men drawn up. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Malcolm Graheme,” the major in command said, “you have arrived in the + very nick of time to take part in a gallant enterprise.” + </p> + <p> + “I am ready,” Malcolm said; “what is to be done?” + </p> + <p> + “We are going to take the castle, that is all,” the major said. + </p> + <p> + “You are joking,” Malcolm laughed, looking at the great castle and the + little band of two hundred men. + </p> + <p> + “That am I not,” the major answered; “my men have just discovered a + private passage from the governor's quarters here up to the very gate of + the outer wall. As you see we have collected some ladders, and as we shall + take them by surprise, while they are occupied with the king, we shall + give a good account of them.” + </p> + <p> + “I will go with you right willingly,” Malcolm said; but he could not but + feel that the enterprise was a desperate one, and wished that the major + had waited until a few hundred more men had crossed. Placing himself + behind the Scottish officer, he advanced up the passage which had been + discovered. Ascending flight after flight of stone stairs, the column + issued from the passage at the very foot of the outer wall before the + garrison stationed there were aware of their approach. The ladders were + just placed when the Italians caught sight of them and rushed to the + defence, but it was too late. The Scotch swarmed up and gained a footing + on the wall. + </p> + <p> + Driving the enemy before them they cleared the outer works, and pressed so + hotly upon the retiring Imperialists that they entered with them into the + inner works of the castle, crossing the drawbridge over the moat which + separated it from its outer works before the garrison had time to raise + it. + </p> + <p> + Now in the very heart of the castle a terrible encounter took place. The + garrison, twelve hundred strong, ran down from their places on the wall, + and seeing how small was the force that had entered fell upon them with + fury. It was a hand to hand fight. Loud rose the war cries of the Italian + and Spanish soldiers, and the answering cheers of the Scots mingled with + the clash of sword on steel armour and the cries of the wounded, while + without the walls the cannon of Gustavus thundered incessantly. + </p> + <p> + Not since the dreadful struggle in the streets of New Brandenburg had + Malcolm been engaged in so desperate a strife. All order and regularity + was lost, and man to man they fought with pike, sword, and clubbed musket. + There was no giving of orders, for no word could be heard in such a din, + and the officers with their swords and half pikes fought desperately in + the melee with the rest. + </p> + <p> + Gradually, however, the strength and endurance of Ramsay's veterans + prevailed over numbers. Most of the officers of the Imperialists had been + slain, as well as their bravest men, and the rest began to draw off and to + scatter through the castle, some to look for hiding places, many to jump + over the walls rather than fall into the hands of the terrible Scots. + </p> + <p> + The astonishment of Gustavus and of Hepburn, who was now marching with his + men towards the castle, at hearing the rattle of musketry and the din of + battle within the very heart of the fortress was great indeed, and this + was heightened when, a few minutes later, the soldiers were seen leaping + desperately from the walls, and a great shout arose from the troops as the + Imperial banner was seen to descend from its flagstaff on the keep. + Gustavus with his staff rode at once to the gate, which was opened for + him; and on entering he found Ramsay's little force drawn up to salute him + as he entered. It was reduced nearly half in strength, and not a man but + was bleeding from several wounds, while cleft helms and dinted armour + showed how severe had been the fray. + </p> + <p> + “My brave Scots,” he exclaimed, “why were you too quick for me?” + </p> + <p> + The courtyard of the castle was piled with slain, who were also scattered + in every room throughout it, five hundred having been slain there before + the rest threw down their arms and were given quarter. This exploit was + one of the most valiant which was performed during the course of the whole + war. Four colours were taken, one of which was that of the Spanish + regiment, this being the first of that nationality which had ever been + captured by Gustavus. + </p> + <p> + After going over the castle, whose capture would have tasked his resources + and the valour of his troops to the utmost had he been compelled to attack + it in the usual way, Gustavus sent for the officers of Ramsay's companies + and thanked them individually for their capture. + </p> + <p> + “What! you here, Malcolm Graheme!” Gustavus said as he came in at the rear + of Ramsay's officers. “Why, what had you to do with this business?” + </p> + <p> + “I was only a volunteer, sire,” Malcolm said. “I crossed with the parties + who fetched the boats; but as my instructions ended there I had nought to + do, and finding that Ramsay's men were about to march up to the attack of + the castle, I thought it best to join them, being somewhat afraid to stop + in the town alone.” + </p> + <p> + “And he did valiant service, sire,” the major said. “I marked him in the + thick of the fight, and saw more than one Imperialist go down before his + sword.” + </p> + <p> + “You know the story of the pitcher and the well, Captain Graheme,” the + king said, smiling. “Some day you will go once too often, and I shall have + to mourn the loss of one of the bravest young officers in my army.” + </p> + <p> + There was no rest for the soldiers of Gustavus, and no sooner had + Oppenheim fallen than the army marched against Maintz. This was defended + by two thousand Spanish troops under Don Philip de Sylvia, and was a place + of immense strength. It was at once invested, and trenches commenced on + all sides, the Green Brigade as usual having the post of danger and honour + facing the citadel. The investment began in the evening, but so vigorously + did the Scotch work all night in spite of the heavy musketry and artillery + fire with which the garrison swept the ground that by morning the first + parallel was completed, and the soldiers were under shelter behind a thick + bank of earth. + </p> + <p> + All day the Imperialists kept up their fire, the Scots gradually pushing + forward their trenches. In the evening Colonel Axel Lily, one of the + bravest of the Swedish officers, came into the trenches to pay a visit to + Hepburn. He found him just sitting down to dinner with Munro by the side + of a fire in the trench. They invited him to join them, and the party were + chatting gaily when a heavy cannonball crashed through the earthen rampart + behind them, and, passing between Hepburn and Munro, carried off the leg + of the Swedish officer. + </p> + <p> + Upon the following day the governor, seeing that the Swedes had erected + several strong batteries, and that the Green Brigade, whose name was a + terror to the Imperialists, was preparing to storm, capitulated, and his + soldiers were allowed to march out with all their baggage, flying colours, + and two pieces of cannon. Eighty pieces of cannon fell into the hands of + the Swedes. The citizens paid 220,000 dollars as the ransom of their city + from pillage, and the Jews 180,000 for the protection of their quarters + and of their gorgeous synagogue, whose wealth and magnificence were + celebrated; and on the 14th of December, 1631, on which day Gustavus + completed his thirty-seventh year, he entered the city as conqueror. + </p> + <p> + Here he kept Christmas with great festivity, and his court was attended by + princes and nobles from all parts of Germany. Among them were six of the + chief princes of the empire and twelve ambassadors from foreign powers. + Among the nobles was the Count of Mansfeld, who brought with him his wife + and daughter. Three days before Christmas Hepburn's brigade had been moved + in from their bivouac in the snow covered trenches, and assigned quarters + in the town, and the count, who arrived on the following day, at once + repaired to the mansion inhabited by the colonel and officers of Munro's + regiment, and inquired for Malcolm Graheme. + </p> + <p> + “You will find Captain Graheme within,” the Scottish soldier on sentry + said. + </p> + <p> + “It is not Captain Graheme I wish to see,” the count said, “but Malcolm + Graheme, a very young officer.” + </p> + <p> + “I reckon that it is the captain,” the soldier said; “he is but a boy; but + in all the regiment there is not a braver soldier; not even the colonel + himself. Donald,” he said, turning to a comrade, “tell Captain Graheme + that he is wanted here.” + </p> + <p> + In a short time Malcolm appeared at the door. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! it is you, my young friend!” the count exclaimed; “and you have won + the rank of captain already by your brave deeds! Right glad am I to see + you again. I have come with my wife, to attend the court of this noble + king of yours. Can you come with me at once? The countess is longing to + see you, and will be delighted to hear that you have passed unscathed + through all the terrible contests in which you have been engaged. My + daughter is here too; she is never tired of talking about her young + Scottish soldier; but now that you are a captain she will have to be grave + and respectful.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm at once accompanied the count to his house, and was most kindly + received by the countess. + </p> + <p> + “It is difficult to believe,” she said, “that 'tis but four months since + we met, so many have been the events which have been crowded into that + time. Scarce a day has passed but we have received news of some success + gained, of some town or castle captured, and your Green Brigade has always + been in the van. We have been constantly in fear for you, and after that + terrible battle before Leipzig Thekla scarcely slept a wink until we + obtained a copy of the Gazette with the names of the officers killed.” + </p> + <p> + “You are kind indeed to bear me so in remembrance,” Malcolm said, “and I + am indeed grateful for it. I have often wondered whether any fresh danger + threatened you; but I hoped that the advance of the Marquis of Hamilton's + force would have given the Imperialists too much to do for them to disturb + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, we have had no more trouble,” the countess replied. “The villages + which the Imperialists destroyed are rising again; and as after the flight + of the enemy the cattle and booty they had captured were all left behind, + the people are recovering from their visit. What terrible havoc has the + war caused! Our way here led through ruined towns and villages, the + country is infested by marauders, and all law and order is at an end save + where there are strong bodies of troops. We rode with an escort of twenty + men; but even then we did not feel very safe until we were fairly through + Franconia. And so you have passed unwounded through the strife?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, countess,” Malcolm replied. “I had indeed a ball through my leg at + Wurtzburg; but as it missed the bone, a trifle like that is scarcely worth + counting. I have been most fortunate indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “He is a captain now,” the count said, “and to obtain such promotion he + must have greatly distinguished himself. I do not suppose that he will + himself tell us his exploits; but I shall soon learn all about them from + others. I am to meet his colonel this evening at a dinner at the palace, + and shall be able to give you the whole history tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “But I want the history now,” Thekla said. “It is much nicer to hear a + thing straight from some one who has done it, than from any one else.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no story to tell,” Malcolm said. “I had been promised my + lieutenancy at the first vacancy before I was at Mansfeld, and on my + return found that the vacancy had already occurred, and I was appointed. I + got my company the other day for a very simple matter, namely, for + swimming across the Rhine with a barrel fixed on each side of me to + prevent my sinking. Nothing very heroic about that, you see, young lady.” + </p> + <p> + “For swimming across the Rhine!” the count said. “Then you must have been + the Scottish officer who with a sergeant swam and fetched the boat across + which enabled the Swedes to pass a body of troops over, and so open the + way into the Palatinate. I heard it spoken of as a most gallant action.” + </p> + <p> + “I can assure you,” Malcolm said earnestly, “that there was no gallantry + about it. It was exceedingly cold, I grant, but that was all.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why should the king have made you a captain for it? You can't get + over that.” + </p> + <p> + “That was a reward for my luck,” Malcolm laughed. “'Tis better to be lucky + than to be rich, it is said, and I had the good luck to discover a boat + concealed among the bushes just at the time when a boat was worth its + weight in gold.” + </p> + <p> + For an hour Malcolm sat chatting, and then took his leave, as he was going + on duty, promising to return the next day, and to spend as much of his + time as possible with them while they remained in the city. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII THE PASSAGE OF THE LECH + </h2> + <p> + For the next two months the Green Brigade remained quietly at Maintz, a + welcome rest after their arduous labours. The town was very gay, and every + house was occupied either by troops or by the nobles and visitors from all + parts of Northern Europe. Banquets and balls were of nightly occurrence; + and a stranger who arrived in the gay city would not have dreamt that a + terrible campaign had just been concluded, and that another to the full as + arduous was about to commence. + </p> + <p> + During this interval of rest the damages which the campaign had effected + in the armour and accoutrements of men and officers were repaired, the + deep dents effected by sword, pike, and bullet were hammered out, the rust + removed, and the stains of blood and bivouac obliterated; fresh doublets + and jerkins were served out from the ample stores captured from the enemy, + and the army looked as gay and brilliant as when it first landed in North + Germany. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm spent much of his spare time with the Count and Countess of + Mansfeld, who, irrespective of their gratitude for the assistance he had + rendered them in time of need, had taken a strong liking to the young + Scotchman. + </p> + <p> + “You are becoming quite a court gallant, Graheme,” one of his comrades + said at a court ball where Malcolm had been enjoying himself greatly, + having, thanks to the Countess of Mansfeld, no lack of partners, while + many of the officers were forced to look on without taking part in the + dancing, the number of ladies being altogether insufficient to furnish + partners to the throng of officers, Swedish, German, and Scottish. Beyond + the scarf and feathers which showed the brigade to which officers + belonged, there was, even when in arms, but slight attempt at uniformity + in their attire, still less so when off duty. The scene at these balls was + therefore gay in the extreme, the gallants being all attired in silk, + satin, or velvet of brilliant colours slashed with white or some + contrasting hue. The tailors at Maintz had had a busy time of it, for in + so rapid a campaign much baggage had been necessarily lost, and many of + the officers required an entirely new outfit before they could take part + in the court festivities. + </p> + <p> + There was, however, no lack of money, for the booty and treasure captured + had been immense, and each officer having received a fixed share, they + were well able to renew their wardrobes. Some fresh reinforcements arrived + during their stay here, and the vacancies which battle and disease had + made in the ranks were filled up. + </p> + <p> + But although the Green Brigade did not march from Maintz till the 5th of + March, 1632, the whole army did not enjoy so long a rest. In February + Gustavus despatched three hundred of Ramsay's regiment under Lieutenant + Colonel George Douglas against the town of Creutzenach, together with a + small party of English volunteers under Lord Craven. Forty-seven of the + men were killed while opening the trenches, but the next day they stormed + one of the gates and drove the garrison, which was composed of six hundred + Walloons and Burgundians, out of the town into the castle of Kausemberg, + which commanded it. Its position was extremely strong, its walls and + bastions rising one behind another, and their aspect was so formidable + that they were popularly known as the “Devil's Works.” From these the + garrison opened a very heavy fire into the town, killing many of the + Scots. Douglas, however, gave them but short respite, for gathering his + men he attacked the castle and carried bastion after bastion by storm + until the whole were taken. + </p> + <p> + About the same time the important town of Ulm on the Danube opened its + gates to the Swedes, and Sir Patrick Ruthven was appointed commandant with + 1200 Swedes as garrison, Colonel Munro with two companies of musketeers + marched to Coblentz and aided Otto Louis the Rhinegrave, who with a + brigade of twenty troops of horse was expecting to be attacked by 10,000 + Spaniards and Walloons from Spires. Four regiments of Spanish horse + attacked the Rhinegrave's quarters, but were charged so furiously by four + troops of Swedish dragoons under Captain Hume that 300 of them were killed + and the Elector of Nassau taken prisoner; after this the Spaniards retired + beyond the Moselle. + </p> + <p> + In other parts of Germany the generals of Gustavus were equally + successful. General Horn defeated the Imperialists at Heidelberg and + Heilbronn. General Lowenhausen scoured all the shores of the Baltic, and + compelled Colonel Graham, a Scotch soldier in the Imperial service, to + surrender the Hanse town of Wismar. Graham marched out with his garrison, + 3000 strong, with the honours of war en route for Silesia, but having, + contrary to terms, spiked the cannon, plundered the shipping, and slain a + Swedish lieutenant, Lowenhausen pursued him, and in the battle which + ensued 500 of Graham's men were slain and the colonel himself with 2000 + taken prisoner. + </p> + <p> + General Ottentodt was moving up the Elbe carrying all before him with a + force of 14,000 men, among whom were five battalions of Scots and one of + English. This force cleared the whole duchy of Mecklenburg, capturing all + the towns and fortresses in rapid succession. Sir Patrick Ruthven advanced + along the shores of Lake Constance, driving the Imperialists before him + into the Tyrol. Magdeburg was captured by General Banner, the Landgrave of + Hesse-Cassel reduced all Fulda-Paderborn and the adjacent districts, the + Elector of Saxony overran Bohemia, and Sir Alexander Leslie threatened the + Imperialists in Lower Saxony. + </p> + <p> + Thus the campaign of 1632 opened under the most favourable auspices. The + Green Brigade marched on the 5th of March to Aschaffenburg, a distance of + more than thirty miles, a fact which speaks volumes for the physique and + endurance of the troops, for this would in the present day be considered + an extremely long march for troops, and the weight of the helmet and + armour, musket and accoutrements, of the troops of those days was fully + double that now carried by European soldiers. Here they were reviewed by + the king. + </p> + <p> + By the 10th the whole army, 23,000 strong, were collected at Weinsheim and + advanced towards Bavaria, driving before them the Imperialists under the + Count de Bucquio. The Chancellor Oxenstiern had been left by the king with + a strong force to guard his conquests on the Rhine. + </p> + <p> + No sooner had the king marched than the Spaniards again crossed the + Moselle. The chancellor and the Duke of Weimar advanced against them. The + Dutch troops, who formed the first line of the chancellor's army, were + unable to stand the charge of the Spanish and fled in utter confusion; but + the Scottish regiment of Sir Roderick Leslie, who had succeeded Sir John + Hamilton on his resignation, and the battalion of Sir John Ruthven, + charged the Spaniards with levelled pikes so furiously that these in turn + were broken and driven off the field. + </p> + <p> + On the 26th of March Gustavus arrived before the important town and + fortress of Donauworth, being joined on the same day by the Laird of + Foulis with his two regiments of horse and foot. Donauworth is the key to + Swabia; it stands on the Danube, and was a strongly fortified place, its + defences being further covered by fortifications upon a lofty eminence + close by, named the Schellemberg. It was held by the Duke of + Saxe-Lauenburg with two thousand five hundred men. The country round + Donauworth is fertile and hilly, and Gustavus at once seized a height + which commanded the place. The Bavarians were at work upon entrenchments + here as the Swedes advanced, but were forced to fall back into the town. + From the foot of the hill a suburb extended to the gates of the city. This + was at once occupied by five hundred musketeers, who took up their post in + the houses along the main road in readiness to repel a sortie should the + garrison attempt one; while the force on the hillside worked all night, + and by daybreak on the 27th had completed and armed a twenty gun battery. + </p> + <p> + In this was placed a strong body of infantry under Captain Semple, a + Scotchman. As this battery commanded the walls of the town, and flanked + the bridge across the Danube, the position of the defenders was now + seriously menaced, but the Duke of Saxe-Lauenburg refused the demand of + Gustavus to surrender. The battery now opened fire, first demolishing a + large stone building by the river occupied by a force of Imperialists, and + then directing its fire upon the city gates. + </p> + <p> + The cannonade continued after nightfall, but in the darkness a body of + Imperialist horsemen under Colonel Cronenberg dashed out at full speed + through the gate, cut a passage through the musketeers in the suburb, + galloped up the hill, and fell upon the infantry and artillery in the + battery. So furious was their charge that the greater part of the + defenders of the battery were cut down. The guns were spiked, and the + cavalry, having accomplished their purpose, charged down the hill, cut + their way through the suburb, and regained the town. + </p> + <p> + This gallant exploit deranged the plans of the Swedes. Gustavus + reconnoitred the town accompanied by Sir John Hepburn, and by the advice + of that officer decided upon a fresh plan of operations. Hepburn pointed + out to him that by taking possession of the angle formed by the confluence + of the Wermitz and Danube to the west of the town the bridge crossing from + Donauworth into Bavaria would be completely commanded, and the garrison + would be cut off from all hope of escape and of receiving relief from + Bavaria. + </p> + <p> + The plan being approved, Hepburn drew off his brigade with its artillery, + and marching five miles up the Danube crossed the river at the bridge of + Hassfurt, and descended the opposite bank until he faced Donauworth. He + reached his position at midnight, and placed his cannon so as to command + the whole length of the bridge, and then posted his musketeers in the + gardens and houses of a suburb on the river, so that their crossfire also + swept it. + </p> + <p> + The pikemen were drawn up close to the artillery at the head of the + bridge. Quietly as these movements were performed the garrison took the + alarm, and towards morning the duke, finding his retreat intercepted, + sallied out at the head of eight hundred musketeers to cut his way + through; but as the column advanced upon the bridge the Green Brigade + opened fire, the leaden hail of their musketeers smote the column on both + sides, while the cannon ploughed lanes through it from end to end. So + great was the destruction that the Bavarians retreated in confusion back + into the town again, leaving the bridge strewn with their dead. + </p> + <p> + Alone the gallant Duke of Saxe-Lauenburg charged through the hail of fire + across the bridge, fell upon the pikemen sword in hand, and cutting his + way through them rode away, leaving his garrison to their fate. The roar + of artillery informed Gustavus what was going on, and he immediately + opened fire against the other side of the town and led his men to the + assault of the gate. + </p> + <p> + The instant the Scotch had recovered from their surprise at the desperate + feat performed by the duke, Hepburn, calling them together, placed himself + at their head and led them across the bridge. The panic stricken fugitives + had omitted to close the gate, and the Scotch at once entered the town. + Here the garrison resisted desperately; their pikemen barred the streets, + and from every window and roof their musketeers poured their fire upon the + advancing column. + </p> + <p> + The day was breaking now, and the roar of battle in the city mingled with + that at the gates, where the Swedes were in vain striving to effect an + entrance. Gradually the Scotch won their way forward; 500 of the Bavarians + were killed, in addition to 400 who had fallen on the bridge. The rest now + attempted to fly. Great numbers were drowned in the Danube, and the + remainder were taken prisoners. The streets were encumbered by the heavily + laden baggage wagons, and a vast amount of booty fell into the hands of + the Scotch, who thus became masters of the town before Gustavus and his + Swedes had succeeded in carrying the gate. + </p> + <p> + The king now entered the town, and as soon as order was restored Hepburn's + brigade recrossed the Danube and threw up a strong work on the other side + of the bridge; for Tilly was on the Lech, but seven miles distant, and + might at any moment return. He had just struck a severe blow at Marshal + Horn, who had recently taken Bamberg. His force, 9000 strong, had been + scattered to put down a rising of the country people, when Tilly with + 16,000 fell upon them. + </p> + <p> + A column under Bauditzen was attacked and defeated, and Tilly's horsemen + pursued them hotly to the bridge leading to the town. Marshal Horn threw a + barricade across this and defended it until nightfall. Tilly had then + fallen back before the advance of Gustavus to a very strong position on + the Lech. This was an extremely rapid river, difficult to cross and easily + defensible. Tilly had broken down the bridges, and was prepared to dispute + till the last the further advance of the Swedes. He placed his army + between Rain, where the Lech falls into the Danube, and Augsburg, a + distance of sixteen miles—all the assailable points being strongly + occupied, with small bodies of cavalry in the intervals to give warning of + the approach of the enemy. He had been joined by Maximilian of Bavaria, + and his force amounted to 40,000 men. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus gave his army four days' rest at Donauworth, and then advanced + with 32,000 men against the Lech. His dragoons, who had been pushed + forward, had found the bridges destroyed. He first attempted to repair + that at Rain, but the fire of the artillery and musketry was so heavy that + he was forced to abandon the idea. He then made a careful reconnaissance + of the river, whose course was winding and erratic. + </p> + <p> + Finding that at every point at which a crossing could be easily effected + Tilly's batteries and troops commanded the position, he determined to make + his attack at a point where the river made a sharp bend in the form of a + semicircle, of which he occupied the outer edge. He encamped the bulk of + his army at the village of Nordheim, a short distance in the rear, and + erected three powerful batteries mounting seventy-two guns. One of these + faced the centre of the loop, the others were placed opposite the sides. + </p> + <p> + The ground on the Swedish bank of the river was higher than that facing + it; and when the Swedish batteries opened they so completely swept the + ground inclosed by the curve of the river that the Imperialists could not + advance across it, and were compelled to remain behind a rivulet called + the Ach, a short distance in the rear of the Lech. They brought up their + artillery, however, and replied to the cannonade of the Swedes. + </p> + <p> + For four days the artillery duel continued, and while it was going on a + considerable number of troops were at work in the village of Oberndorf, + which lay in a declivity near the river, hidden from the sight of the + Imperialists, constructing a bridge. For that purpose a number of strong + wooden trestles of various heights and with feet of unequal length for + standing in the bed of the river were prepared, together with a quantity + of piles to be driven in among and beside them to enable them to resist + the force of the current. + </p> + <p> + On the night of the fourth day the king caused a number of fires to be + lighted near the river, fed with green wood and damp straw. A favourable + wind blew the smoke towards the enemy, and thus concealed the ground from + them. At daybreak on the 5th of April, a thousand picked men crossed the + river in two boats, and having reached the other side at once proceeded to + throw up intrenchments to cover the head of the bridge, while at the same + time the workmen began to place the trestles in position. + </p> + <p> + As soon as day broke Tilly became aware of what was being done, and two + batteries opened fire upon the work at the head of the bridge and against + the bridge itself; but the low and swampy nature of the ground on the + Imperialist side of the river prevented his placing the batteries in a + position from which they could command the works, and their fire proved + ineffective in preventing the construction of the bridge. Seeing this, + Tilly at once commenced preparations for arresting the further advance of + the Swedes. + </p> + <p> + To reach his position they would be obliged to cross the swampy ground + exposed to the fire of his troops, and to render their progress still more + difficult he proceeded to cut down large trees, lopping and sharpening + their branches to form a chevaux-de-frise before his troops. All the + morning a heavy cannonade was kept up on both sides, but by noon the + bridge was completed and the advance guard of the Swedes, led by Colonels + Wrandel and Gassion, advanced across it. As the other brigades were + following, Tilly directed General Altringer to lead his cavalry against + them. + </p> + <p> + Altringer led his troops round the end of the marsh and charged with great + bravery down upon the Swedes. These, however, had time to form up, and a + tremendous fire of musketry was poured into the Imperialist horse, while + the round shot from the three Swedish batteries ploughed their ranks in + front and on both flanks. Under such circumstances, although fighting with + reckless bravery, the Imperialist cavalry were repulsed. Altringer, + however, rallied them and led them back again to the charge, but a + cannonball grazed his temple and he was carried senseless from the field. + His men, shaken by the tremendous fire and deprived of their leader, fell + back in confusion. + </p> + <p> + Tilly at once placed himself at the head of a chosen body of troops and + advanced to the attack, fighting with the ardour and bravery which always + distinguished him. He was short in stature and remarkable for his ugliness + as well as his bravery. Lean and spare in figure, he had hollow cheeks, a + long nose, a broad wrinkled forehead, heavy moustaches, and a sharp + pointed chin. He had from his boyhood been fighting against the + Protestants. He had learned the art of war under the cruel and pitiless + Spanish general Alva in the Netherlands, of which country he was a native, + and had afterwards fought against them in Bavaria, in Bohemia, and the + Palatinate, and had served in Hungary against the Turks. + </p> + <p> + Until he met Gustavus at Breitenfeld he had never known a reverse. A + bigoted Catholic, he had never hesitated at any act of cruelty which might + benefit the cause for which he fought, or strike terror into the + Protestants; and the singularity of his costume and the ugliness of his + appearance heightened the terror which his deeds inspired among them. When + not in armour his costume was modelled upon that of the Duke of Alva, + consisting of a slashed doublet of green silk, with an enormously + wide-brimmed and high conical hat adorned with a large red ostrich + feather. In his girdle he carried a long dagger and a Toledo sword of + immense length. His personal bravery was famous, and never did he fight + more gallantly than when he led his veterans to the attack of the Swedes. + </p> + <p> + For twenty minutes a furious hand to hand conflict raged, and the result + was still uncertain when a shot from a falconet struck Tilly on the knee + and shattered the bone, and the old general fell insensible to the ground. + He was carried off the field, and his troops, now without a leader, gave + way, the movement being hastened by two bodies of Swedish horse, who, + eager for action, swam their horses across the river and threatened to cut + off the retreat. By this time evening was at hand. The Swedes had secured + the passage of the river, but the Imperialist army still held its + intrenched position in the wood behind the Lech. Gustavus brought the rest + of his army across and halted for the night. + </p> + <p> + The Imperialist position was tremendously strong, being unassailable on + the right and covered in the front by the marshy ground. It could still + have been defended with every prospect of success by a determined general, + but the two best Imperialist commanders were hors de combat, and + Maximilian of Bavaria, the nominal generalissimo, had no military + experience. The army, too, was disheartened by the first success of the + Swedes and by the loss of the general whom they regarded as well nigh + invincible. + </p> + <p> + Tilly had now recovered his senses, but was suffering intense agony from + his wound, and on being consulted by Maximilian he advised him to fall + back, as the destruction of his army would leave the whole country open to + the Swedes. + </p> + <p> + The Imperialists accordingly evacuated their position and fell back in + good order during the night on Neuberg, and then to Ingolstadt. Rain and + Neuberg were occupied the next day by the Swedes. Gustavus despatched + Marshal Horn to follow the retreating enemy to Ingolstadt, and he himself + with the rest of his army marched up the Lech to Augsburg, which was held + by Colonel Breda with four thousand five hundred men. + </p> + <p> + The Imperialists had broken down the bridge, but Gustavus immediately + built two others, one above and the other below the city, and summoned it + to surrender. Breda, hearing that Tilly was dying, Altringer severely + wounded, and that no help was to be expected from Maximilian, considered + it hopeless to resist, and surrendered the town, which Gustavus, attended + by the titular King of Bohemia and many other princes, entered in triumph + on the following day, April 14th. The capture of Augsburg was hailed with + peculiar satisfaction, as the city was regarded as the birthplace of the + Reformation in Germany. Leaving a garrison there the king retraced his + steps along the Lech to Neuberg, and marched thence to join Marshal Horn + in front of Ingolstadt. + </p> + <p> + This town was one of the strongest places in Germany and had never been + captured. It was now held by a formidable garrison, and the Imperialist + army covered it on the north. Tilly had implored Maximilian to defend it + and Ratisbon at all hazards, as their possession was a bar to the further + advance of Gustavus. + </p> + <p> + The king arrived before it on the 19th, and on the following day advanced + to reconnoitre it closely. The gunners of the town, seeing a number of + officers approaching, fired, and with so good an aim that a cannonball + carried off the hindquarters of the horse the king was riding. A cry of + alarm and consternation burst from the officers, but their delight was + great when the king rose to his feet, covered with dust and blood indeed, + but otherwise unhurt. + </p> + <p> + On the following day a cannonball carried off the head of the Margrave of + Baden-Durlach, and on the same day Tilly expired. With his last breath he + urged Maximilian never to break his alliance with the emperor, and to + appoint Colonel Cratz, an officer of great courage and ability, to the + command of his army. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus remained eight days before Ingolstadt, and then, finding that the + reduction of the place could not be effected without the loss of much + valuable time, he raised the siege. On his march he took possession of + Landshut and forced it to pay a ransom of 100,000 thalers and to receive a + garrison, and then continued his way to Munich. + </p> + <p> + The Bavarian capital surrendered without a blow on the 17th of May. + Gustavus made a triumphal entry into the town, where he obtained + possession of a vast quantity of treasure and stores. Here he remained + some little time reducing the country round and capturing many cities and + fortresses. The Green Brigade had suffered severely at Ingolstadt. On the + evening of the 19th of April the king, expecting a sally, had ordered + Hepburn to post the brigade on some high ground near the gate and the + soldiers remained under arms the whole night. + </p> + <p> + The glow of their matches enabled the enemy to fire with precision, and a + heavy cannonade was poured upon them throughout the whole night. Three + hundred men were killed as they stood, Munro losing twelve men by one + shot; but the brigade stood their ground unflinchingly, and remained until + morning in steady line in readiness to repel any sortie of the enemy. + </p> + <p> + The army suffered greatly on the march from the Lech to Ingolstadt, and + thence to Munich, from the attacks of the country people, who were excited + against them by the priests. Every straggler who fell into their hands was + murdered with horrible cruelty, the hands and feet being cut off, and + other savage mutilations being performed upon them, in revenge for which + the Swedes and Scots shot all the Bavarians who fell into their hands, and + burned two hundred towns and villages. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII CAPTURED BY THE PEASANTS + </h2> + <p> + Malcolm Graheme was not present at the siege of Ingolstadt. The orders + after crossing the Lech had been very strict against straggling, so soon + as the disposition of the country people was seen; but it is not easy to + keep a large column of troops in a solid body. The regiments in the march + indeed, under the eye of the officers, can be kept in column, but a + considerable number of troops are scattered along the great convoy of + wagons containing the tents, stores, and ammunition of the army, and which + often extends some miles in length. Even if the desire for plunder does + not draw men away, many are forced to fall behind either from sickness, + sore feet, or other causes. + </p> + <p> + The number of these was comparatively small in the army of Gustavus, for + discipline was strict and the spirit of the troops good. As soon, however, + as it was found that every straggler who fell into the hands of the + peasantry was murdered under circumstances of horrible atrocity it became + very difficult for the officers to keep the men together, so intense was + their fury and desire for vengeance against the savage peasantry, and on + every possible occasion when a village was seen near the line of march men + would slip away and slay, plunder, and burn. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus endeavoured to repress these proceedings. He shared the + indignation of his troops at the barbarous conduct of the peasantry, but + throughout the war he always tried to carry on hostilities so as to + inflict as little loss and suffering as possible upon noncombatants. This + state of warfare too between his troops and the country people added to + his difficulties, for the peasantry drove off their cattle and burned + their stacks, and rendered it necessary for provisions and forage to be + carried with the army. Parties were therefore sent out on the flanks of + the column for the double purpose of preventing soldiers stealing off to + plunder and burn, and of picking up stragglers and saving them from the + fury of the peasants. + </p> + <p> + A strong rear guard followed a short distance behind the army. It was + accompanied by some empty wagons, in which those who fell out and were + unable to keep up with the march were placed. Two days after the advance + from the Lech, Malcolm was in charge of a small party on the right flank + of the column. There was no fear of an attack from the enemy, for the + Swedish horsemen were out scouring the country, and the Imperialists were + known to have fallen back to Ingolstadt. The villages were found deserted + by the male inhabitants, the younger women too had all left, but a few old + crones generally remained in charge. These scowled at the invaders, and + crossing themselves muttered curses beneath their breath upon those whom + their priests had taught them to regard as devils. There was nothing to + tempt the cupidity of the soldiers in these villages. Malcolm's duty was + confined to a casual inspection, to see that no stragglers had entered for + the purpose of procuring wine. + </p> + <p> + The day's march was nearly over when he saw some flames rise from a + village a short distance away. Hurrying forward with his men he found a + party of ten of the Swedish soldiers who had stolen away from the baggage + guard engaged in plundering. Two peasants lay dead in the street, and a + house was in flames. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm at once ordered his detachment, who were twenty strong, to arrest + the Swedes and to march them back to the columns. While they were doing + this he went from house to house to see that none of the party were + lurking there. At the door of the last house of the village three women + were standing. + </p> + <p> + “Are any of the soldiers here?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + The women gave him an unintelligible answer in the country patois, and + passing between them he entered the cottage. On the table stood a large + jug of water, and lifting it he took a long draught. There was a sudden + crash, and he fell heavily, struck down from behind with a heavy mallet by + one of the women. He was stunned by the blow, and when he recovered his + senses he found that he was bound hand and foot, a cloth had been stuffed + tightly into his mouth, and he was covered thickly with a heap of straw + and rubbish. He struggled desperately to free himself, but so tightly were + the cords bound that they did not give in the slightest. + </p> + <p> + A cold perspiration broke out on his forehead as he reflected that he was + helpless in the power of these savage peasants, and that he should + probably be put to death by torture. Presently he could hear the shouts of + his men, who, on finding that he did not return, had scattered through the + village in search of him. He heard the voice of his sergeant. + </p> + <p> + “These old hags say they saw an officer walk across to the left. The + captain may have meant us to march the prisoners at once to the column, + and be waiting just outside the village for us, but it is not likely. At + any rate, lads, we will search every house from top to bottom before we + leave. So set to work at once; search every room, cupboard, and shed. + There may be foul play; though we see no men about, some may be in + hiding.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm heard the sound of footsteps, and the crashing of planks as the + men searched the cottages, wrenched off the doors of cupboards, and + ransacked the whole place. Gradually the sound ceased, and everything + became quiet. Presently he heard the sound of drums, and knew that the + regiment which formed the rear guard was passing. + </p> + <p> + It was bitterness indeed to know that his friends were within sound of a + call for aid, and that he was bound and helpless. The halting place for + the night was, he knew, but a mile or two in advance, and his only hope + was that some band of plunderers might in the night visit the village; but + even then his chances of being discovered were small indeed, for even + should they sack and burn it he would pass unnoticed lying hidden in the + straw yard. His captors were no doubt aware of the possibility of such a + visit, for it was not until broad daylight, when the army would again be + on its forward march, that they uncovered him. + </p> + <p> + Brave as Malcolm was he could scarce repress a shudder as he looked at the + band of women who surrounded him. All were past middle age, some were old + and toothless, but all were animated by a spirit of ferocious triumph. + Raising him into a sitting position, they clustered round him, some shook + their skinny hands in his face, others heaped curses upon him, some of the + most furious assailed him with heavy sticks, and had he not still been + clothed in his armour, would then and there have killed him. + </p> + <p> + This, however, was not their intention, for they intended to put him to + death by slow torture. He was lifted and carried into the cottage. There + the lacings of his armour were cut, the cords loosened one by one, + sufficient to enable them to remove the various pieces of which it was + composed, then he was left to himself, as the hags intended to postpone + the final tragedy until the men returned from the hills. + </p> + <p> + This might be some hours yet, as the Swedish cavalry would still be + scouring the country, and other bodies of troops might be marching up. + From the conversation of the women, which he understood but imperfectly, + Malcolm gathered that they thought the men would return that night. Some + of the women were in favour of executing the vengeance themselves, but the + majority were of opinion that the men should have their share of the + pleasure. + </p> + <p> + All sorts of fiendish propositions were made as to the manner in which his + execution should be carried out, but even the mildest caused Malcolm to + shudder in anticipation. His arms were bound tightly to his side at the + elbows, and the wrists were fastened in front of him, his legs were tied + at the knees and ankles. Sometimes he was left alone as the women went + about their various avocations in the village, but he was so securely + bound that to him as to them his escape appeared altogether impossible. + The day passed heavily and slowly. The cloth had been removed from his + mouth, but he was parched with thirst, while the tightly bound cords cut + deeply into his flesh. + </p> + <p> + He had once asked for water, but his request had been answered with such + jeers and mockery that he resolved to suffer silently until the last. At + length the darkness of the winter evening began to fall when a thought + suddenly struck him. On the hearth a fire was burning; he waited until the + women had again left the hut. He could hear their voices without as they + talked with those in the next cottage. They might at any moment return, + and it was improbable that they would again go out, for the cold was + bitter, and they would most likely wait indoors for the return of the men. + </p> + <p> + This then was his last opportunity. He rolled himself to the fire, and + with his teeth seized the end of one of the burning sticks. He raised + himself into a sitting position, and with the greatest difficulty laid the + burning end of the stick across the cords which bound his wrists. It + seemed to him that they would never catch fire. The flesh scorched and + frizzled, and the smoke rose up with that of the burning rope. The agony + was intense, but it was for life, and Malcolm unflinchingly held the + burning brand in its place until the cords flew asunder and his hands were + free. Although almost mad with the pain, Malcolm set to work instantly to + undo the other ropes. As soon as one of his arms was free he seized a + hatchet, which lay near him, and rapidly cut the rest. He was not a moment + too soon, for as he cut the last knot he heard the sound of steps, and two + women appeared at the door. + </p> + <p> + On seeing their prisoner standing erect with an axe in his hand they + turned and fled shrieking loudly. It was well for Malcolm that they did + so, for so stiff and numbed were his limbs that he could scarcely hold the + axe, and the slightest push would have thrown him to the ground. + </p> + <p> + Some minutes passed before, by stamping his feet and rubbing his legs he + restored circulation sufficiently to totter across the room. Then he + seized a brand and thrust it into the thatch of the house, having first + put on his helmet and placed his sword and pistols in his belt. His hands + were too crippled and powerless to enable him to fasten on the rest of his + armour. He knew that he had no time to lose. Fortunately the women would + not know how weak and helpless he was, for had they returned in a body + they could easily have overpowered him; but at any moment the men might + arrive, and if he was found there by them his fate was sealed. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly as soon as he had fired the hut he made his way from the + village as quickly as he could crawl along. He saw behind him the flames + rising higher and higher. The wind was blowing keenly, and the fire spread + rapidly from house to house, and by the time he reached the road along + which the army had travelled the whole village was in flames. He felt that + he could not travel far, for the intense sufferings which he had endured + for twenty-four hours without food or water had exhausted his strength. + </p> + <p> + His limbs were swollen and bruised from the tightness of the cords, the + agony of his burned wrists was terrible, and after proceeding slowly for + about a mile he drew off from the broad trampled track which the army had + made in passing, and dragging himself to a clump of trees a short distance + from the road, made his way through some thick undergrowth and flung + himself down. The night was intensely cold, but this was a relief to him + rather than otherwise, for it alleviated the burning pain of his limbs + while he kept handfuls of snow applied to his wrists. + </p> + <p> + Two hours after he had taken refuge he heard a number of men come along + the road at a run. Looking through the bushes he could see by their + figures against the snow that they were peasants, and had no doubt that + they were the men of the village who had returned and at once started in + pursuit of him. + </p> + <p> + An hour later, feeling somewhat relieved, he left his hiding place and + moved a mile away from the road, as he feared that the peasants, failing + to overtake him, might, as they returned, search every possible hiding + place near it. He had no fear of the track being noticed, for the surface + of the snow was everywhere marked by parties going and returning to the + main body. He kept on until he saw a small shed. The door was unfastened; + opening it he found that the place was empty, though there were signs that + it was usually used as a shelter for cattle. + </p> + <p> + A rough ladder led to a loft. This was nearly full of hay. Malcolm threw + himself down on this, and covering himself up thickly, felt the blood + again begin to circulate in his limbs. It brought, however, such a renewal + of his pain, that it was not until morning that fatigue overpowered his + sufferings and he fell asleep. + </p> + <p> + It was late in the afternoon when he woke at the sound of shouts and + holloaing. Springing to his feet he looked out between the cracks in the + boards and saw a party of forty or fifty peasants passing close by the + shed. They were armed with hatchets, scythes, and pikes. On the heads of + four of the pikes were stuck gory heads, and in the centre of the party + were three prisoners, two Swedes and a Scot. These were covered with + blood, and were scarcely able to walk, but were being urged forward with + blows and pike thrusts amid the brutal laughter of their captors. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm retired to his bed full of rage and sorrow. It would have been + madness to have followed his first impulse to sally out sword in hand and + fall upon the ruffians, as such a step would only have ensured his own + death without assisting the captives. + </p> + <p> + “Hitherto,” he said to himself, “I have ever restrained my men, and have + endeavoured to protect the peasants from violence; henceforward, so long + as we remain in Bavaria, no word of mine shall be uttered to save one of + these murderous peasants. However, I am not with my company yet. The army + is two marches ahead, and must by this time be in front of Ingolstadt. I + have been two days without food, and see but little chance of getting any + until I rejoin them, and the whole country between us is swarming with an + infuriated peasantry. The prospect is certainly not a bright one. I would + give a year's pay to hear the sound of a Swedish trumpet.” + </p> + <p> + When darkness had fairly set in Malcolm started on his way again. Although + his limbs still smarted from the weals and sores left by the cords they + had now recovered their lissomeness; but he was weak from want of food, + and no longer walked with the free elastic stride which distinguished the + Scottish infantry. His wrists gave him great pain, being both terribly + burned, and every movement of the hand sent a thrill of agony up the arm. + He persisted, however, in frequently opening and clenching his hands, + regardless of the pain, for he feared that did he not do so they would + stiffen and he would be unable to grasp a sword. Fortunately the wounds + were principally on the upper side of the thumbs, where the flesh was + burned away to the bone, but the sinews and muscles of the wrists had to a + great extent escaped. + </p> + <p> + He had not journeyed very far when he saw a light ahead and presently + perceived the houses of a village. A fire was lit in the centre, and a + number of figures were gathered round it. + </p> + <p> + “Something is going on,” Malcolm said to himself; “as likely as not they + have got some unfortunate prisoner. Whatever it be, I will steal in and + try to get some food. I cannot go much further without it; and as their + attention is occupied, I may find a cottage empty.” + </p> + <p> + Making his way round to the back of the houses, he approached one of the + cottages in the rear. He lifted the latch of the door and opened it a + little. All was still. With his drawn sword he entered. The room was + empty; a fire burned on the hearth, and on the table were some loaves + which had evidently been just baked. Malcolm fell upon one of them and + speedily devoured it, and, taking a long draught of rough country wine + from a skin hanging against the wall, he felt another man. + </p> + <p> + He broke another loaf in two and thrust the pieces into his doublet, and + then sallied out from the cottage again. Still keeping behind the houses + he made his way until he got within view of the fire. Here he saw a sight + which thrilled him with horror. Some eight or ten peasants and forty or + fifty women were yelling and shouting. Fastened against a post in front of + the fire were the remains of a prisoner. He had been stripped, his ears, + nose, hands, and feet cut off, and he was slowly bleeding to death. + </p> + <p> + Four other men, bound hand and foot, lay close to the fire. By its flames + Malcolm saw the green scarves that told they were Scotchmen of his own + brigade, and he determined at once to rescue them or die in the attempt. + He crept forward until he reached the edge of the road; then he raised a + pistol and with a steady aim fired at one of the natives, who fell dead + across the fire. + </p> + <p> + Another shot laid another beside him before the peasants recovered from + their first surprise. Then with a loud shout in German, “Kill—kill! + and spare none!” Malcolm dashed forward. The peasants, believing that they + were attacked by a strong body, fled precipitately in all directions. + Malcolm, on reaching the prisoners, instantly severed their bonds. + </p> + <p> + “Quick, my lads!” he exclaimed; “we shall have them upon us again in a + minute.” + </p> + <p> + The men in vain tried to struggle to their feet—their limbs were too + numbed to bear them. + </p> + <p> + “Crawl to the nearest cottage!” Malcolm exclaimed; “we can hold it until + your limbs are recovered.” + </p> + <p> + He caught up from the ground some pikes and scythes which the peasants had + dropped in their flight, and aided the men to make their way to the + nearest cottage. They were but just in time; for the peasants, finding + they were not pursued, had looked round, and seeing but one opponent had + gained courage and were beginning to approach again. Malcolm barred the + door, and then taking down a skin of wine bade his companions take a + drink. There were loaves on the shelves, and these he cut up and handed to + them. + </p> + <p> + “Quick, lads!” he said; “stamp your legs and swing your arms, and get the + blood in motion. I will keep these fellows at bay a few minutes longer.” + </p> + <p> + He reloaded his pistols and fired through the door, at which the peasants + were now hewing with axes. A cry and a heavy fall told him that one of the + shots had taken effect. Suddenly there was a smell of smoke. + </p> + <p> + “They have fired the roof,” Malcolm said. “Now, lads, each of you put a + loaf of bread under his jerkin. There is no saying when we may get more. + Now get ready and sally out with me. There are but six or eight men in the + village, and they are no match for us. They only dared to attack us + because they saw that you couldn't walk.” + </p> + <p> + The door was opened, and headed by Malcolm the four Scotchmen dashed out. + They were assailed by a shower of missiles by the crowd as they appeared, + but as soon as it was seen that the men were on foot again the peasants + gave way. Malcolm shot one and cut down another, and the rest scattered in + all directions. + </p> + <p> + “Now, lads, follow me while we may,” and Malcolm again took to the fields. + The peasants followed for some distance, but when the soldiers had quite + recovered the use of their limbs Malcolm suddenly turned on his pursuers, + overtaking and killing two of them. Then he and his men again continued + their journey, the peasants no longer following. When at some distance + from the village he said: + </p> + <p> + “We must turn and make for the Lech again. It is no farther than it is to + Ingolstadt, and we shall find friends there. These peasants will go on + ahead and raise all the villagers against us, and we should never get + through. What regiment do you belong to, lads?” for in the darkness he had + been unable to see their faces. + </p> + <p> + “Your own, Captain Graheme. We were in charge of one of the wagons with + sick. The wheel came off, and we were left behind the convoy while we were + mending it. As we were at work, our weapons laid on the ground, some + twenty men sprang out from some bushes hard by and fell upon us. We killed + five or six of them, but were beaten down and ten of our number were + slain. They murdered all the sick in the wagons and marched us away, + bound, to this village where you found us. Sandy McAlister they had + murdered just as you came up, and we should have had a like horrible fate + had you been a few minutes later. Eh, sir! but it's an awful death to be + cut in pieces by these devils incarnate!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, lads,” Malcolm said, “we will determine that they shall not take us + alive again. If we are overtaken or met by any of these gangs of peasants + we will fight till we die. None of us, I hope, are afraid of death in fair + strife, but the bravest might well shrink from such a death as that of + your poor comrade. Now let us see what arms we have between us.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm had his sword and pistols, two of the men had pikes, the other two + scythes fastened to long handles. + </p> + <p> + “These are clumsy weapons,” Malcolm said. “You had best fit short handles + to them, so as to make them into double handed swords.” + </p> + <p> + They were unable to travel far, for all were exhausted with the sufferings + they had gone through, but they kept on until they came upon a village + which had been fired when the troops marched through. The walls of a + little church were alone standing. It had, like the rest of the village, + been burned, but the shell still remained. + </p> + <p> + “So far as I can see,” Malcolm said, “the tower has escaped. Had it been + burned we should see through the windows. We may find shelter in the + belfry.” + </p> + <p> + On reaching the church they found that the entrance to the belfry tower + was outside the church, and to this, no doubt, it owed its escape from the + fire which had destroyed the main edifice. The door was strong and defied + their efforts to break it in. + </p> + <p> + “I must fire my pistol through the lock,” Malcolm said. “I do not like + doing so, for the sound may reach the ears of any peasants in the + neighbourhood; but we must risk it, for the cold is extreme, and to lie + down in the snow would be well nigh certain death.” + </p> + <p> + He placed his pistol to the keyhole and fired. The lock at once yielded + and the party entered the door. + </p> + <p> + “Before we mount,” Malcolm said, “let each pick up one of these blocks of + stone which have fallen from the wall. We will wedge the door from behind, + and can then sleep secure against a surprise.” + </p> + <p> + When the door was closed one of the men, who was a musketeer, struck some + sparks from a flint and steel on to a slow match which he carried in his + jerkin, and by its glow they were enabled to look around them. The stone + steps began to ascend close to the door, and by laying the stones between + the bottom step and the door they wedged the latter firmly in its place. + They then ascended the stairs, and found themselves in a room some ten + feet square, in which hung the bell which had called the village to + prayers. It hung from some beams which were covered with a boarded floor, + and a rough ladder led to a trapdoor, showing that there was another room + above. The floor of the room in which they stood was of stone. + </p> + <p> + “Now, lads,” Malcolm said, “two of you make your way up that ladder and + rip up some of the planks of the flooring. See if there are any windows or + loopholes in the chamber above, and if so stuff your jerkins into them; we + will close up those here. In a few minutes we will have a roaring fire; + but we must beware lest a gleam of light be visible without, for this + belfry can be seen for miles round.” + </p> + <p> + Some of the boards were soon split up into fragments; but before the light + was applied to them Malcolm carefully examined each window and loophole to + be sure that they were perfectly stopped. Then the slow match was placed + in the centre of a number of pieces of dry and rotten wood. One of the men + kneeling down blew lustily, and in a few seconds a flame sprang up. The + wood was now heaped on, and a bright fire was soon blazing high. + </p> + <p> + A trapdoor leading out on to the flat top of the tower was opened for the + escape of the smoke, and the party then seated themselves round the fire, + under whose genial warmth their spirits speedily rose. They now took from + their wallets the bread which they had brought away with them. + </p> + <p> + “If we had,” one of the soldiers said, “but a few flasks of Rhine wine + with us we need not envy a king.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” Malcolm replied, “we are better off at present than our comrades who + are sleeping in the snow round the watchfires; but for all that I would + that we were with them, for we have a long and dangerous march before us. + And now, lads, you can sleep soundly. There will be no occasion to place a + watch, for the door is securely fastened; but at the first dawn of light + we must be on our feet; for although I do not mean to march until + nightfall, we must remove the stoppings from the windows, for should the + eye of any passing peasant fall upon them, he will guess at once that some + one is sheltering here, and may proceed to find out whether it be friend + or foe.” + </p> + <p> + Having finished half their bread, for Malcolm had warned them to save the + other half for the next day, the men lay down round the fire, and soon all + were sound asleep. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV IN THE CHURCHTOWER + </h2> + <p> + Malcolm was the first to awake, and was vexed to find by a stream of light + pouring down through the half open trapdoor above that it was broad day. + He roused the men, and the stoppings were at once removed from the + loopholes. The sun was already high, for the party, overpowered with + fatigue, had slept long and soundly. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm looked cautiously from the window; no one was in sight, and the + ruins of the village below lay black and deserted. The men resumed the + clothes which had been used for blocking the loopholes, and sat down to + pass the long hours which would elapse before the time for action arrived. + It was exceedingly cold, for there were loopholes on each side of the + chamber, and the wind blew keenly through. + </p> + <p> + “Sergeant,” Malcolm said, “we will risk a bit of fire again, for the cold + pierces to the bone; only be sure that you use perfectly dry wood. Examine + each piece to see that no drip from the roof has penetrated it. If it is + dry it will give but little smoke, and a slight vapour is not likely to be + observed rising from the top of the tower.” + </p> + <p> + The fire was again lighted, and the smoke was so slight that Malcolm had + little fear of its being observed. + </p> + <p> + An hour later, as the men were talking, Malcolm suddenly held up his hand + for silence, and the murmur of voices was heard without. Malcolm rose to + his feet to reconnoitre, standing far back from the loophole as he did so. + A group of some eight or ten peasants were standing looking at the tower, + while a woman was pointing to it and talking eagerly. + </p> + <p> + It was towards the windows that she was pointing, and Malcolm guessed at + once that, having returned in the early morning to see what remained of + her home, she had happened to notice the garments stuffed in the windows, + and had carried the news to some of her companions. Malcolm regretted + bitterly now that he had not set a watch, so that at the first gleam of + daylight the windows might have been unblocked; but it was now too late. + </p> + <p> + “We shall have to fight for it, lads,” he said, turning round. “Our + clothes must have been seen early this morning, and there is a party of + peasants watching the tower. Of course they cannot know at present whether + we are friends or foes; but no doubt the news of last evening's doings has + travelled through the country, and the peasants are on the lookout for us, + so they may well guess that we are here. However, we shall soon see. + Sergeant, place one of your men on sentry at the foot of the stairs, but + do not let him speak or give any signs of his presence if the door is + tried.” + </p> + <p> + One of the soldiers was placed on guard. Scarcely had he taken his station + when there was a knocking at the door, and shouts were heard outside from + the peasants calling on those within, if they were friends, to come out. + No answer was returned. + </p> + <p> + “It's fortunate for you,” Malcolm muttered, “that we don't come out, or we + should make short work of you; but I know you would fly like hares if you + saw us, and would bring the whole country down on us. No; we must hold out + here. Our only hope is to escape at night, or to hold this place till some + of our troops come along. At any moment some regiments from the Lech may + be marching forward to join the king. + </p> + <p> + “We must make our bread last, lads,” he said cheerfully to the men, “for + we may have to stand a long siege. Methinks we can hold this stone + staircase against all the peasants of this part of Bavaria; and we must do + so until we hear the sound of the Swedish drums; they may come along at + any time. If the worst comes to the worst one of us must start at night + and carry news of our peril to the Lech. We made a good supper last night, + and can fast for a bit. If we cut our bread up into small portions we can + hold out for days. There should be snow enough on the tower top to furnish + us with drink.” + </p> + <p> + After hammering at the door for some time, the peasants retired convinced + that there were none of their own people within the tower, and that those + who had slept there were the fugitives of whom they had been in search + during the night. These might, indeed, have departed in the interval + between the time when the woman first saw the traces of their presence and + her return with them; but they did not think that this was so, for in that + case they could not have fastened the door behind them. The peasants + accordingly withdrew a short distance from the church, and three of their + number were sent off in different directions to bring up reinforcements. + As soon as Malcolm saw this movement he knew that concealment was useless, + and began to make preparations for the defence. First, he with the + sergeant ascended to the roof of the tower. To his disappointment he saw + that the heat of the flames had melted the snow, and that most of the + water had run away. Some, however, stood in the hollows and inequalities + of the stone platform, where it had again frozen into ice. + </p> + <p> + As the supply would be very precious, Malcolm directed that before any + moved about on the platform every piece of ice should be carefully taken + up and carried below. Here it was melted over the fire in one of the iron + caps, and was found to furnish three quarts of water. The appearance of + Malcolm and his companion on the tower had been hailed by a shout of + hatred and exultation by the peasants; but the defenders had paid no + attention to the demonstration, and had continued their work as if + regardless of the presence of their enemies. + </p> + <p> + On his return to the platform Malcolm found, looking over the low parapet, + that on the side farthest from the church great icicles hung down from the + mouth of the gutter, the water having frozen again as it trickled from the + platform. These icicles were three or four inches in diameter and many + feet in length. They were carefully broken off, and were laid down on the + platform where they would remain frozen until wanted. Malcolm now felt + secure against the attacks of thirst for some days to come. The stones of + the parapet were next tried, and were without much trouble moved from + their places, and were all carried to the side in which the door was + situated, in readiness to hurl down upon any who might assault it. Some of + the beams of the upper flooring were removed from their places, and being + carried down, were wedged against the upper part of the door, securing it + as firmly as did the stones below. These preparations being finished, + Malcolm took a survey of the situation outside. + </p> + <p> + The group of peasants had increased largely, some thirty or forty men + armed with pikes, bills, and scythes being gathered in a body, while many + more could be seen across the country hurrying over the white plain + towards the spot. The windows of the lower apartment had been barricaded + with planks, partly to keep out missiles, partly for warmth. A good fire + now blazed in the centre, and the soldiers, confident in themselves and + their leader, cracked grim jokes as, their work being finished, they sat + down around it and awaited the attack, one of their number being placed on + the summit of the tower to give warning of the approach of the enemy. + </p> + <p> + “I would that we had a musket or two,” Malcolm said; “for we might then + keep them from the door. I have only some twenty charges for my pistols, + and the most of these, at any rate, I must keep for the defence of the + stairs.” + </p> + <p> + Presently the sentry from above called out that the peasants were moving + forward to the attack. + </p> + <p> + “Sergeant,” Malcolm said, “do you fasten my green scarf to a long strip of + plank and fix it to the top of the tower. We cannot fight under a better + banner. Now let us mount to the roof and give them a warm reception.” + </p> + <p> + “Look out, sir,” the sentry exclaimed as Malcolm ascended the stair, + “three or four of them have got muskets.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we must be careful,” Malcolm said. “I don't suppose they are much of + marksmen, but even a random shot will tell at times, and I want to take + you all back safe with me; so keep low when you get on the roof, lads, and + don't show your heads more than you can help.” + </p> + <p> + Heralding their attack by a discharge from their muskets, whose balls + whistled harmlessly round the tower, the peasants rushed forward to the + door and commenced an assault upon it with hatchets and axes. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm and his men each lifted a heavy stone and rolled it over the + parapet, the five loosing the missiles simultaneously. There was a dull + crash, and with a terrible cry the peasants fled from the door. Looking + over, Malcolm saw that six or seven men had been struck down. Five of + these lay dead or senseless; two were endeavouring to drag themselves + away. + </p> + <p> + “That is lesson number one,” he said. “They will be more prudent next + time.” + </p> + <p> + The peasants, after holding a tumultuous council, scattered, most of them + making for a wood a short distance off. + </p> + <p> + “They are going to cut down a tree and use it as a battering ram,” Malcolm + observed. “They know that these large stones are too heavy for us to cast + many paces from the foot of the wall. We must get to work and break some + of them up. That will not be difficult, for the wind and weather have + rotted many of them half through.” + </p> + <p> + The stones were for the most part from two to three feet long and nine or + ten inches square. Two were laid down on the platform some eighteen inches + apart and another placed across them. The four men then lifted another + stone, and holding it perpendicularly brought it down with all their + strength upon the unsupported centre of the stone, which broke in half at + once. To break it again required greater efforts, but it yielded to the + blows. Other stones were similarly treated, until a large pile was formed + of blocks of some ten inches each way, besides a number of smaller + fragments. + </p> + <p> + In half an hour the peasants reappeared with a slight well grown tree some + forty feet long which had been robbed of its branches. It was laid down + about fifty yards from the church, and then twenty men lifted it near the + butt and advanced to use it as a battering ram, with the small end + forward; but before they were near enough to touch the door the bearers + were arrested by a cry from the crowd as the defenders appeared on the + tower, and poising their blocks of stone above their heads, hurled them + down. Three of them flew over the heads of the peasants, but the others + crashed down among them, slaying and terribly mutilating two of the + bearers of the tree and striking several others to the ground. The + battering ram was instantly dropped, and before the Scotchmen had time to + lift another missile the peasants were beyond their reach. + </p> + <p> + “Lesson number two,” Malcolm said. “What will our friends do next, I + wonder?” + </p> + <p> + The peasants were clearly at a loss. A long consultation was held, but + this was not followed by any renewal of the attack. + </p> + <p> + “I think they must have made up their minds to starve us out, sir,” the + sergeant remarked as the hours went slowly by without any renewal of the + attack. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; either that, sergeant, or a night attack. In either case I consider + that we are safe for a time, but sooner or later our fate is sealed unless + aid comes to us, and therefore I propose that one of you should tonight + try and bear a message to the Lech. We can lower him down by the bell rope + from this window in the angle where the tower touches the church. Keeping + round by the church he will be in deep shadow until he reaches the other + end, and will then be close to the ruins of the village. Before morning he + could reach our camp.” + </p> + <p> + “I will undertake it myself, sir, if you will allow me,” the sergeant + said, while the other men also volunteered for the duty. + </p> + <p> + “You shall try first, sergeant,” Malcolm said. “It will be dangerous work, + for as the news of our being here spreads the peasants will be coming in + from all quarters. Their numbers are already greatly increased since they + commenced the attack, and there must be at least three or four hundred men + around us. They will be sure to keep a sharp lookout against our escaping, + and it will need all your care and caution to get through them.” + </p> + <p> + “Never fear, sir,” the man replied confidently. “I have stalked the deer + scores of times, and it will be hard if I cannot crawl through a number of + thick witted Bavarian peasants.” + </p> + <p> + “Even beyond the village you will have to keep your eyes open, as you may + meet parties of peasants on their way here. Fortunately you will have no + difficulty in keeping the road, so well beaten is it by the march of the + army. If by tomorrow night no rescue arrives I shall consider that you + have been taken or killed, and shall try with the others to make my way + through. It would be better to die sword in hand while we have still the + strength to wield our arms than to be cooped up here until too weak any + longer to defend ourselves, and then to be slowly tortured to death.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as it was dusk a sentry was placed on the top of the tower, with + orders to report the slightest sound or stir. During the day this had not + been necessary, for a view could be obtained from the windows, and the men + with firearms, who had now considerably increased in numbers, kept up a + constant fire at the tower. + </p> + <p> + An hour later the sentry reported that he could hear the sound of many + feet in the darkness, with the occasional snapping as of dry twigs. + </p> + <p> + “They are going to burn down the door,” Malcolm said. “That is what I + expected. Now, sergeant, is your time. They are all busy and intent upon + their purpose. You could not have a better time.” + </p> + <p> + The rope was fastened round the sergeant's waist, and with some difficulty + he squeezed himself through the narrow window, after listening attentively + to discover if any were below. + </p> + <p> + All seemed perfectly still on this side, and he was gradually and steadily + lowered down. Presently those above felt the rope slack. Another minute + and it swung loosely. It was drawn up again, and Malcolm, placing one of + the men at the loophole, with instructions to listen intently for any + sound of alarm or conflict, turned his attention to the other side. + </p> + <p> + Soon he saw a number of dark figures bearing on their heads great bundles + which he knew to be faggots approaching across the snow. + </p> + <p> + As they approached a brisk fire suddenly opened on the tower. Malcolm at + once called the sentry down. + </p> + <p> + “It is of no use exposing yourself,” he said, “and we could not do much + harm to them did we take to stoning them again. We have nothing to do now + but to wait.” + </p> + <p> + Soon a series of dull heavy crashes were heard as the faggots were thrown + down against the door. Malcolm descended the stairs until he reached the + lowest loophole which lighted them, and which was a few feet above the top + of the door. He took one of the men with him. + </p> + <p> + “Here are my flask and bullet pouch,” he said. “Do you reload my pistols + as I discharge them.” + </p> + <p> + For some minutes the sound of the faggots being thrown down continued, + then the footsteps were heard retreating, and all was quiet again. + </p> + <p> + “Now it is our turn again,” Malcolm said. “It is one thing to prepare a + fire and another to light it, my fine fellows. I expect that you have + forgotten that there are firearms here.” + </p> + <p> + Presently a light was seen in the distance, and two men with blazing + brands approached. They advanced confidently until within twenty yards of + the tower, then there was the sharp crack of a pistol, and one of them + fell forward on his face, the other hesitated and stood irresolute, then, + summoning up courage, he sprang forward. + </p> + <p> + As he did so another shot flashed out, and he, too, fell prostrate, the + brand hissing and spluttering in the snow a few feet from the pile of + brushwood. A loud yell of rage and disappointment arose on the night air, + showing how large was the number of peasants who were watching the + operations. Some time elapsed before any further move was made on the part + of the assailants, then some twenty points of light were seen approaching. + </p> + <p> + “Donald,” Malcolm said to the soldier, “go up to the top of the tower with + your comrades. They are sure to light the pile this time, but if it is + only fired in one place you may possibly dash out the light with a stone.” + </p> + <p> + The lights rapidly approached, but when the bearers came within forty + yards they stopped. They were a wild group, as, with their unkempt hair + and beards, and their rough attire, they stood holding the lighted brands + above their heads. A very tall and powerful man stood at their head. + </p> + <p> + “Come on,” he said, “why do you hesitate? Let us finish with them.” And he + rushed forward. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm had his pistol lying on the sill of the loophole covering him, and + when the peasant had run ten paces he fired, and the man fell headlong. + The others stopped, and a second shot took effect among them. With a yell + of terror they hurled the brands towards the pile and fled. Most of the + brands fell short, others missed their aim, but from his loophole Malcolm + saw that one had fallen on to the outside faggot of the pile. + </p> + <p> + Almost instantly a heavy stone fell in the snow close by, another, and + another. Malcolm stood with his eyes fixed on the brand. The twigs against + which it leaned were catching, and the flames began to shoot up. Higher + and higher they rose, and a shout of triumph from the peasants told how + keenly they were also watching. Still the heavy stones continued to fall. + The flames rose higher, and half the faggot was now alight. Another minute + and the fire would communicate with the pile. Then there was a crash. A + shower of sparks leapt up as the faggot, struck by one of the heavy + stones, was dashed from its place and lay blazing twenty feet distant from + the pile. There it burnt itself out, and for a time the tower was safe. + </p> + <p> + For an hour the defenders watched the peasants, who had now lighted great + fires just out of pistol shot from the tower, and were gathered thickly + round them, the light flashing redly from pike head and scythe. + </p> + <p> + The uproar of voices was loud; but though the defenders guessed that they + were discussing the next plan of attack they could catch no meaning from + such words as reached them, for the patois of the Bavarian peasants was + unintelligible. At last a large number seized brands, some approached as + before towards the pile, the others scattered in various directions, while + the men with muskets again opened fire at the top of the tower. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm took his post at the loophole awaiting attack, but the men in + front of him did not advance. Suddenly a light sprang up beneath him. + There was a sound of falling stones, but the light grew brighter and + brighter, and he knew that this time the pile had been fired. As he ran + upstairs he was met by one of the soldiers from above. + </p> + <p> + “They crept round by the back of the church, sir, and round at the foot of + the tower, and they had fired the pile before we saw that they were + there.” + </p> + <p> + “It cannot be helped,” Malcolm said, “they were sure to succeed sooner or + later. Call the others down from the roof.” + </p> + <p> + The door at the top of the stairs was now closed, and the crevices were + stuffed tightly with strips torn from the men's clothes so as to prevent + the smoke from entering when the door below gave way to the flames. A + broad glare of light now lit up the scene, and showers of sparks, and an + occasional tongue of flame were visible through the window. + </p> + <p> + “Shut down the trapdoor in the roof,” Malcolm said, “that will check the + draught through the windows.” + </p> + <p> + The wood was dry, and what smoke made its way in through the window found + its way out through the loopholes of the upper chamber without seriously + incommoding those below. + </p> + <p> + “We can take it easy, now,” Malcolm said as he set the example by sitting + down against the wall. “It will be hours before the stonework below will + be cool enough to permit them to attack.” + </p> + <p> + “They are lighting a circle of fires all round the church,” one of the + soldiers said looking out. + </p> + <p> + “They think we shall be trying to escape, now that our door is burned. + They are too late; I trust our messenger is miles away by this time.” + </p> + <p> + In half an hour the flames died away, but a deep red glow showed that the + pile of embers was still giving out an intense heat. One of the men was + now placed on the top of the tower again, as a measure of precaution, but + it was certain that hours would elapse before an attack could be made. The + peasants, indeed, secure of their prey, evinced no hurry to commence the + attack, but spent the night in shouting and singing round their fires, + occasionally yelling threats of the fate which awaited them against the + defenders of the tower. + </p> + <p> + Towards daylight Malcolm commenced his preparations for defence. The door + was taken off its hinges and was laid on the stone stairs. These were but + two feet wide, the door itself being some three inches less. The rope was + fastened round its upper end to prevent it from sliding down. + </p> + <p> + “I wish we had some grease to pour over it,” Malcolm said, “but dry as it + is it will be next to impossible for anyone to walk up that sharp incline, + and we four should be able to hold it against the peasants till doomsday.” + </p> + <p> + It was not until broad daylight that the peasants prepared for the attack. + So long as the operation had been a distant one it had seemed easy enough, + but as in a confused mass they approached the open doorway they realized + that to ascend the narrow staircase, defended at the top by desperate men, + was an enterprise of no common danger, and that the work which they had + regarded as finished was in fact scarcely begun. + </p> + <p> + The greater part then hung back, but a band of men, who by their blackened + garments and swarthy faces Malcolm judged to be charcoal burners, armed + with heavy axes, advanced to the front, and with an air of dogged + resolution approached the door. The defenders gave no sign of their + presence, no pistol flashed out from window or loophole. + </p> + <p> + Striding through the still hot ashes the leader of the woodmen passed + through the doorway and advanced up the stairs. These ran in short + straight flights round the tower, lighted by narrow loopholes. No + resistance was encountered until he reached the last turning, where a + broader glare of light came from the open doorway, where two of the + soldiers, pike in hand, stood ready to repel them. With a shout to his + followers to come on, the peasant sprang forward. He ascended three steps, + and then, as he placed his foot upon the sharply inclined plane of the + door, which he had not noticed, he stumbled forward. His companions, + supposing he had been pierced with a spear, pressed on after him, but each + fell when they trod upon the door until a heap of men cumbered the stair. + These were not unharmed, for with their long pikes the Scottish spearmen + ran them through and through as they lay. + </p> + <p> + Their bodies afforded a foothold to those who followed, but these could + make but little way, for as but one could advance at a time, each as he + came on was slain by the pikes. Finding that two were well able to hold + the door, Malcolm with the other ran up to the top of the tower, and + toppled over the stones of the parapet upon the mass gathered around the + door. These at once scattered, and those on the stairs, finding themselves + unable to get forward, for the narrow passage was now completely choked + with the dead, made their way out again and rejoined their comrades. + </p> + <p> + “I expect they will send their musketeers first next time,” Malcolm said + as he rejoined those below, leaving the soldier on the watch. “Now let us + get the door up again, and bring the dead here; we can form a barrier with + them breast high.” + </p> + <p> + The door was quickly shifted on one side, and then the troopers brought up + the dead, who were eleven in number. + </p> + <p> + “Now replace the door,” Malcolm ordered; “fill your iron caps with blood—there + is plenty flowing from these fellows—and pour it over the door, it + will be as good as oil.” + </p> + <p> + This was done, and the bodies were then piled shoulder high across the + door. + </p> + <p> + “They can fire as much as they like now,” Malcolm said, “they will be no + nearer, and I defy anyone to climb up that door now.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV A TIMELY RESCUE + </h2> + <p> + Although unaware how much more formidable the task before them had become, + the peasants were disheartened by their defeat, and even the boldest + hesitated at the thought of again attacking foes so formidably posted. + None of those who had returned were able to explain what was the obstacle + which had checked their advance. All that they could tell was, that those + before them had fallen, in some cases even before they were touched by the + spears of the defenders. This mystery added to the dread which the assault + of so difficult a position naturally inspired, and some hours were spent + in discussing how the next attack should be made. Many indeed were + strongly in favour of remaining quietly around the tower and starving its + defenders into surrendering. + </p> + <p> + Others advocated an attempt to stifle them by heaping green wood and damp + straw round the tower; but the more timid pointed out that many would be + killed in carrying out the task by the firearms of the besieged, and that + even were the combustibles placed in position and lighted the success of + the experiment would be by no means certain, as the besieged might stuff + up all the orifices, or at the worst might obtain sufficient fresh air on + the top of the tower to enable them to breathe. + </p> + <p> + “You are forgetting,” one of the peasants exclaimed, “the powder wagon + which broke down as Count Tilly retreated from the Lech. Did we not carry + off the powder barrels and hide them, partly to prevent them falling into + the hands of these accursed Swedes, partly because the powder would last + us for years for hunting the wolf and wild boar? We have only to stow + these inside the tower to blow it into the air.” + </p> + <p> + The idea was seized with shouts of acclamation. Most of the peasants who + had assisted in carrying off the contents of the wagon were present, and + these started instantly to dig up the barrels which they had taken as + their share of the booty. The shouts of satisfaction and the departure of + forty or fifty men at full speed in various directions did not pass + unnoticed by the garrison of the tower. + </p> + <p> + “They have got a plan of some sort,” Malcolm said; “what it is I have no + idea, but they certainly seem confident about it. Look at those fellows + throwing up their caps and waving their arms. I do not see how we can be + attacked, but I do not like these signs of confidence on their part, for + they know now how strong our position is. It seems to me that we are + impregnable except against artillery.” + </p> + <p> + Unable to repress his uneasiness Malcolm wandered from window to window + watching attentively what was going on without, but keeping himself as far + back as possible from the loopholes; for the men with muskets kept up a + dropping fire at the openings, and although their aim was poor, bullets + occasionally passed in and flattened themselves against the opposite + walls. + </p> + <p> + “There is a man returning,” he said in about half an hour; “he is carrying + something on his shoulder, but I cannot see what it is.” + </p> + <p> + In another ten minutes the man had reached the group of peasants standing + two or three hundred yards from the church, and was greeted with cheers + and waving of hats. + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens!” Malcolm exclaimed suddenly, “it is a barrel of powder. + They must have stripped some broken down ammunition wagon. This is a + danger indeed.” + </p> + <p> + The men grasped their weapons and rose to their feet at the news, prepared + to take any steps which their young officer might command, for his + promptitude and ingenuity had inspired them with unbounded confidence in + him. + </p> + <p> + “We must at all hazards,” he said after a few minutes thought, “prevent + them from storing these barrels below. Remove the barricade of bodies and + then carry the door down the stairs. We must fix it again on the bottom + steps. The bottom stair is but a foot or two inside the doorway; if you + place it there it will hinder their rushing up to attack you, and your + pikes, as you stand above it, will prevent any from placing their barrels + inside. + </p> + <p> + “I will take my place at the loophole as before. We cannot prevent their + crawling round from behind as they did to light the faggots; but if they + pile them outside, they may blow in a hole in the wall of the tower, but + it is possible that even then it may not fall. Two will be sufficient to + hold the stairs, at any rate for the present. Do you, Cameron, take your + place on the tower, and drop stones over on any who may try to make their + way round from behind; even if you do no harm you will make them careful + and delay the operation, and every hour now is of consequence.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm's instructions were carried out, and all was in readiness before + the peasants, some of whom had to go considerable distances, had returned + with the powder. + </p> + <p> + The lesson of the previous evening had evidently not been lost upon the + peasants, for Malcolm saw a tall man who was acting as their leader wave + his hand, and those who had brought the powder started to make a detour + round the church. Malcolm, finding that no movement was being made towards + the front, and that at present he could do nothing from his loophole, ran + up to the top of the tower and took his place by the soldier who was lying + down on the roof and looking over the edge. + </p> + <p> + Presently the first of the peasants appeared round the corner of the main + building, and dashed rapidly across to the angle of the tower. Two heavy + stones were dropped, but he had passed on long before they had reached the + bottom. Man after man followed, and Malcolm, seeing that he could do + nothing to stop them, again ran down. As he did so he heard a scream of + agony. The leading peasants had reached the doorway, but as they dashed in + to place their barrels of powder they were run through and through by the + spears of the pikemen. They fell half in and half out of the doorway, and + the barrels rolled some distance away. Those behind them stopped panic + stricken at their sudden fall. Several of them dropped their barrels and + fled, while others ran round the angle of the tower again, coming in + violent contact with those following them; all then hurried round behind + the church. Malcolm stamped his feet with vexation. + </p> + <p> + “What a fool I am,” he muttered, “not to have thought of a sortie! If we + had all held ourselves in readiness to spring out, we might have cut down + the whole of them; at any rate none would have got off with their + barrels.” + </p> + <p> + This unexpected failure greatly damped the spirit of the peasants, and + there was much consultation among them before any fresh move was made. As + he saw that they were fully occupied, and paying no heed to the tower, + Malcolm said to his men: + </p> + <p> + “I am going outside; prepare to help me up over the door again quickly if + necessary.” + </p> + <p> + Leaving his sword behind him, he took a leap from the step above the + inclined plane and landed at the bottom, and at once threw himself down + outside. With his dagger he removed the hoops of one of the barrels, and + scattered the contents thickly along the front of the tower. None of the + peasants perceived him, for there were many bodies lying round the foot of + the tower; and even had any looked that way they would not have noticed + that one prone figure had been added to the number. + </p> + <p> + Crawling cautiously along Malcolm pushed two other barrels before him, and + opening them as before, spread the contents of one upon the ground near + the side of the tower, and the other by the hinder face. The thick black + layer on the snow would have told its tale instantly to a soldier, but + Malcolm had little fear of the peasants in their haste paying attention to + it. When his task was completed he crawled back again to the door and laid + a train from the foot of the slide to the powder without. + </p> + <p> + “I will remain here,” he said, “for the present. Do one of you take your + place in the belfry. Tell Cameron to shout down to you what is passing + behind, and do you run instantly down the stairs to tell me.” + </p> + <p> + The peasants advanced next time accompanied by a strong force of their + armed comrades. As before they came round from behind, intending to stack + their barrels in the angle there. As the bearers of the first two or three + powder barrels came round the corner Cameron shouted the news, and the + soldier below ran down to Malcolm, who fired his pistol into the train. A + broad flash of fire rose round the tower followed instantaneously by two + heavy explosions. There was silence for an instant, and then a chorus of + shrieks and yells. + </p> + <p> + The powder barrels borne by the two first men had exploded, their heads + having been knocked in previously to admit of their ignition. Some thirty + of the peasants were killed or terribly mutilated by the explosion, and + the rest took to their heels in terror, leaving their wounded comrades on + the ground. + </p> + <p> + The echoes of the explosion had scarce died away when a shout of terror + broke from the main body of peasants, and Malcolm saw them flying in all + directions. An instant afterwards the ringing sound of the Swedish + trumpets was heard, and a squadron of horse galloped down full speed. The + peasants attempted no resistance, but fled in all directions, hotly + pursued by the Swedes, who broke up into small parties and followed the + fugitives cross the country cutting down great numbers of them. The + Swedish leader at once rode up to the foot of the tower, where Malcolm had + already sallied out. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad indeed I am in time, Captain Graheme; we have ridden without + drawing rein since your messenger arrived at four o'clock this morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Thanks indeed, Captain Burgh,” Malcolm replied. “Your coming is most + welcome; though I think we have given the peasants so hot a lesson that + they would not have attacked us again, and by tightening our waistbelts we + could have held on for another three or four days.” + </p> + <p> + “I see that you have punished them heavily,” the Swedish officer said, + looking round at the bodies; “but what was the explosion I heard?” + </p> + <p> + “You will see its signs behind the tower,” Malcolm said as he led the way + there. “They tried to blow us up, but burnt their own fingers.” + </p> + <p> + The scene behind the tower was ghastly. Some thirty peasants lay with + their clothes completely burned from their bodies, the greater portion of + them dead, but some still writhing in agony. Malcolm uttered an + exclamation of horror. + </p> + <p> + “It were a kindness to put these wretches out of their misery,” the Swede + said, and dismounting he passed his sword through the bodies of the + writhing men. “You know I am in favour of carrying on the war as + mercifully as may be,” he continued turning to Malcolm, “for we have + talked the matter over before now; and God forbid that I should strike a + fallen foe; but these poor wretches were beyond help, and it is true mercy + to end their sufferings.” + </p> + <p> + “They have had a heavy lesson,” Malcolm said; “there are eleven more dead + up in the belfry, which they tried to carry by storm, and a dozen at least + crushed by stones. + </p> + <p> + “You and your three men have indeed given a good account of yourselves,” + Captain Burgh exclaimed; “but while I am talking you are fasting. Here is + a bottle of wine, a cold chicken, and a manchet of bread which I put in my + wallet on starting; let us breakfast, for though I do not pretend to have + been fasting as you have, the morning ride has given me an appetite. I see + your fellows are hard at work already on the viands which my orderly + brought for them in his havresack; but first let us move away to the tree + over yonder, for verily the scent of blood and of roasted flesh is enough + to take away one's appetite, little squeamish as these wars have taught us + to be.” + </p> + <p> + Captain Burgh asked no questions until Malcolm had finished his meal. “I + have plenty more food,” he said, “for we have brought three led horses + well laden; but it were better that you eat no more at present, tis ill + overloading a fasting stomach. My men will not be back from the pursuit + for a couple of hours yet, for they will not draw rein so long as their + horses can gallop, so excited are they over the tales of the horrible + cruelties which have been perpetrated on all our men who have fallen into + the hands of the peasants, so now you can tell me in full the tale of your + adventures. I had no time to ask any questions of your sergeant, for we + were called up and sent off five minutes after he arrived with the news + that you with three men were beleaguered here by a party of peasants.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm related the whole incidents which had befallen him since he had + been suddenly felled and made captive by the women in the hut in the + village. The Swede laughed over this part of the adventure. + </p> + <p> + “To think,” he said, “of you, a dashing captain of the Green Brigade, + being made captive by a couple of old women. There is more than one + gallant Scot, if reports be true, has fallen a captive to German maidens, + but of another sort; to be taken prisoner and hid in a straw yard is too + good.” + </p> + <p> + “It was no laughing matter, I can tell you,” Malcolm said, “though + doubtless it will serve as a standing jest against me for a long time; + however, I am so thankful I have got out of the scrape that those may + laugh who will.” + </p> + <p> + When Malcolm finished his story Captain Burgh said: “You have managed + marvellously well indeed, Graheme, and can well afford to put up with a + little laughter anent that matter of the women, for in truth there are few + who would with three men have held a post against four or five hundred, as + you have done—ay, and fairly defeated them before I came on the + scene. That thought of yours of laying the door upon the stairs was a + masterly one, and you rarely met and defeated every device of the enemy. + </p> + <p> + “Now, if you will, I will mount this stronghold of yours with you, and see + exactly how it stands, for I shall have to tell the tale a score of times + at least when I get back to camp, and I can do it all the better after I + have seen for myself the various features of the place.” + </p> + <p> + By the time they had mounted the top of the tower and Captain Burgh had + fully satisfied himself as to the details of the defence the troopers + began to return. Their horses were far too fatigued with the long ride + from the camp and the subsequent pursuit to be able to travel farther. + Fires were accordingly lit, rations distributed, and a halt ordered till + the following morning, when, at daybreak, they returned to the Lech. + </p> + <p> + Two days later Malcolm and his men marched forward with a brigade which + was advancing to reinforce the army under Gustavus, and reached Ingolstadt + on the day when the king raised the siege, and accompanied him on his + march to Munich. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm on rejoining was greeted with great pleasure by his comrades, who + had made up their minds that he had in some way fallen a victim to the + peasants. The noncommissioned officers and men of his party had been + severely reprimanded for leaving the village without finding him. In their + defence they declared that they had searched every house and shed, and, + having found no sign of him, or of any struggle having taken place, they + supposed that he must have returned alone. But their excuses were not held + to be valid, the idea of Malcolm having left his men without orders being + so preposterous that it was held it should never have been entertained for + a moment by them. + </p> + <p> + “I shall never be anxious about you again,” Nigel Graheme said, when + Malcolm finished the narrative of his adventures to the officers of his + regiment as they sat round the campfire on the evening when he rejoined + them. “This is the third or fourth time that I have given you up for dead. + Whatever happens in the future, I shall refuse to believe the possibility + of any harm having come to you, and shall be sure that sooner or later you + will walk quietly into camp with a fresh batch of adventures to tell us. + Whoever of us may be doomed to lay our bones in this German soil, it will + not be you. Some good fairy has distinctly taken charge of you, and there + is no saying what brilliant destiny may await you.” + </p> + <p> + “But he must keep clear of the petticoats, Graheme,” Colonel Munro + laughed; “evidently danger lurks for him there, and if he is caught + napping again some Delilah will assuredly crop the hair of this young + Samson of ours.” + </p> + <p> + “There was not much of Delilah in that fury who felled me with a mallet, + colonel,” Malcolm laughed; “however, I will be careful in future, and will + not give them a chance.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! it may come in another form next time, Malcolm,” Munro said; “this + time it was an old woman, next time it may be a young one. Beware, my boy! + they are far the most dangerous, innocent though they may look.” + </p> + <p> + A laugh ran round the circle. + </p> + <p> + “Forewarned forearmed, colonel,” Malcolm said sturdily, “I will be on my + guard against every female creature, young or old, in future. But I don't + think that in this affair the woman has had much to boast about—she + and her friends had best have left me alone.” + </p> + <p> + “That is so, Malcolm,” the colonel said warmly. “You have borne yourself + well and bravely, and you have got an old head on those young shoulders of + yours. You are as full of plans and stratagems as if you had been a + campaigner for the last half century; and no man, even in the Green + Brigade, no, not Hepburn himself, could have held that church tower more + ably than you did. It will be a good tale to tell the king as we ride on + the march tomorrow, for he loves a gallant deed, and the more so when + there is prudence and good strategy as well as bravery. He has more than + once asked if you have been getting into any new adventures, and seemed + almost surprised when I told him that you were doing your duty with your + company. He evidently regards it as your special mission to get into + harebrained scrapes. He regards you, in fact, as a pedagogue might view + the pickle of the school.” + </p> + <p> + There was a general laugh at Malcolm's expense. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know how it is I am always getting into scrapes,” the lad said + half ruefully when the laugh subsided. “I am sure I don't want to get into + them, colonel, and really I have never gone out of my way to do so, unless + you call my march to help the Count of Mansfeld going out of my way. All + the other things have come to me without any fault of my own.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so, Graheme,” the colonel said smiling; “that's always the excuse + of the boy who gets into scrapes. The question is, Why do these things + always happen to you and to nobody else? If you can explain that your + whole case is made out. But don't take it seriously, Malcolm,” he + continued, seeing that the lad looked really crestfallen. + </p> + <p> + “You know I am only laughing, and there is not a man here, including + myself, who does not envy you a little for the numerous adventures which + have fallen to your lot, and for the courage and wisdom which you have + shown in extricating yourself from them.” + </p> + <p> + “And now, please, will you tell me, colonel,” Malcolm said more + cheerfully, “why we are turning our backs upon Ingolstadt and are marching + away without taking it? I have been away for ten days, you know, and it is + a mystery to me why we are leaving the only enemy between us and Vienna, + after having beaten him so heartily a fortnight since, without making an + effort to rout him thoroughly.” + </p> + <p> + “Maximilian's position is a very strong one, my lad, and covered as he is + by the guns of Ingolstadt it would be even a harder task to dislodge him + than it was to cross the Lech in his teeth. But you are wrong; his is not + the only army which stands between us and Vienna. No sooner is old Tilly + dead than a greater than Tilly appears to oppose us. Wallenstein is in the + field again. It has been known that he has for some time been negotiating + with the emperor, who has been imploring him to forgive the slight that + was passed upon him before, and to again take the field. + </p> + <p> + “Wallenstein, knowing that the game was in his hands, and that the emperor + must finally agree to any terms which he chose to dictate, has, while he + has been negotiating, been collecting an army; and when the emperor + finally agreed to his conditions, that he was at the conclusion of the + peace to be assured a royal title and the fief of a sovereign state, he + had an army ready to his hand, and is now on the point of entering Bohemia + with 40,000 men.” + </p> + <p> + “What his plans may be we cannot yet say, but at any rate it would not do + to be delaying here and leaving Germany open to Wallenstein to operate as + he will. It was a stern day at Leipzig, but, mark my words, it will be + sterner still when we meet Wallenstein; for, great captain as Tilly + undoubtedly was, Wallenstein is far greater, and Europe will hold its + breath when Gustavus and he, the two greatest captains of the age, meet in + a pitched battle.” + </p> + <p> + At Munich the regiments of Munro and Spynie were quartered in the + magnificent Electoral Palace, where they fared sumptuously and enjoyed not + a little their comfortable quarters and the stores of old wines in the + cellar. Sir John Hepburn was appointed military governor of Munich. + </p> + <p> + In the arsenal armour, arms, and clothing sufficient for 10,000 infantry + were found, and a hundred and forty pieces of cannon were discovered + buried beneath the floors of the palace. Their carriages were ready in the + arsenal, and they were soon put in order for battle. For three weeks the + army remained at Munich, Gustavus waiting to see what course Wallenstein + was taking. The Imperialist general had entered Bohemia, had driven + thence, with scarcely an effort, Arnheim and the Saxons, and formed a + junction near Eger with the remnants of the army which had been beaten on + the Lech; then, leaving a strong garrison in Ratisbon, he had marched on + with an army of sixty thousand men. + </p> + <p> + He saw that his best plan to force Gustavus to loose his hold of Bavaria + was to march on some important point lying between him and North Germany. + He therefore selected a place which Gustavus could not abandon, and so + would be obliged to leave Bavaria garrisoned only by a force insufficient + to withstand the attacks of Pappenheim, who had collected a considerable + army for the recovery of the territories of Maximilian. Such a point was + Nuremberg, the greatest and strongest of the free cities, and which had + been the first to open its gates to Gustavus. The Swedish king could + hardly abandon this friendly city to the assaults of the Imperialists, and + indeed its fall would have been followed by the general defection from his + cause of all that part of Germany, and he would have found himself + isolated and cut off from the North. + </p> + <p> + As soon as Gustavus perceived that Nuremberg was the point towards which + Wallenstein was moving, he hastened at once from Munich to the assistance + of the threatened city. The forces at his disposal had been weakened by + the despatch of Marshal Horn to the Lower Palatinate, and by the garrisons + left in the Bavarian cities, and he had but 17,000 men disposable to meet + the 60,000 with whom Wallenstein was advancing. He did not hesitate, + however, but sent off messengers at once to direct the corps in Swabia + under General Banner, Prince William of Weimar, and General Ruthven, to + join him, if possible, before Nuremberg. + </p> + <p> + Marching with all haste he arrived at Nuremberg before Wallenstein reached + it, and prepared at once for the defence of the city. He first called + together the principal citizens of Nuremberg and explained to them his + position. He showed them that were he to fall back with his army he should + be able to effect a junction with the troops under his generals, and would + ere long be in a position to offer battle to Wallenstein upon more equal + terms, but that were he to do so he would be forced to abandon the city to + the vengeance of the Imperialists. He told them that did he remain before + the city he must to a great extent be dependent upon them for food and + supplies, as he would be beleaguered by Wallenstein, and should be unable + to draw food and forage from the surrounding country; he could therefore + only maintain himself by the aid of the cordial goodwill and assistance of + the citizens. + </p> + <p> + The people of Nuremberg were true to the side they had chosen, and placed + the whole of their resources at his disposal. Gustavus at once set his + army to work to form a position in which he could confront the + overwhelming forces of the enemy. Round the city, at a distance of about + thirteen hundred yards from it, he dug a ditch, nowhere less than twelve + feet wide and eight deep, but, where most exposed to an attack, eighteen + feet wide and twelve deep. Within the circuit of this ditch he erected + eight large forts and connected them with a long and thick earthen parapet + strengthened with bastions. On the ramparts and forts three hundred + cannon, for the most part supplied by the city of Nuremberg, were placed + in position. As the camp between the ramparts and the town was traversed + by the river Pegnitz numerous bridges were thrown across it, so that the + whole force could concentrate on either side in case of attack. So + vigorously did the army, assisted by the citizens, labour at these works, + that they were completed in fourteen days after Gustavus reached + Nuremberg. + </p> + <p> + It was on the 19th of June that the Swedish army arrived there, and on the + 30th Wallenstein and Maximilian of Bavaria appeared before it with the + intention of making an immediate assault. The works, however, although not + yet quite completed, were so formidable that Wallenstein saw at once that + the success of an assault upon them would be extremely doubtful, and, in + spite of the earnest entreaties of Maximilian to lead his army to the + assault, he decided to reduce the place by starvation. This method + appeared at once easy and certain. The whole of the surrounding country + belonged to the Bishop of Bamberg, who was devoted to the Imperialist + cause, and he possessed all the towns, and strong places in the circle of + country around Nuremberg. Wallenstein had brought with him vast stores of + provisions, and could draw upon the surrounding country for the further + maintenance of his army. It was only necessary then to place himself in a + position where the Swedes could not attack him with a hope of success. + </p> + <p> + Such a position lay at a distance of three miles from Nuremberg, where + there was a wooded hill known as the Alte Veste. Round this Wallenstein + threw up a circle of defences, consisting of a ditch behind which was an + interlacement of forest trees, baggage wagons, and gabions, forming an + almost insurpassable obstacle to an attacking force. Within this circle he + encamped his army, formed into eight divisions, each about seven thousand + strong, while two considerable bodies of troops in the diocese of Bamberg + and the Upper Palatinate prepared to oppose any forces approaching to the + aid of Nuremberg, and the Croats, horse and foot, scoured the country day + and night to prevent any supplies entering the city. Having thus adopted + every means for starving out the beleaguered army and city, Wallenstein + calmly awaited the result. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI THE SIEGE OF NUREMBERG + </h2> + <p> + Drearily passed the days in the beleaguered camp, varied only by an + occasional raid by small parties to drive in cattle from the surrounding + country, or to intercept convoys of provisions on their way to the + Imperialists' camp. So active and watchful were the Croats that these + enterprises seldom succeeded, although, to enable his men to move with + celerity, Gustavus mounted bodies of infantry on horseback. Thus they were + enabled to get over the ground quickly, and if attacked they dismounted + and fought on foot. + </p> + <p> + To these mounted infantry the name of dragoons was given, and so useful + were they found that the institution was adopted in other armies, and + dragoons became a recognized portion of every military force. In time the + custom of dismounting and fighting on foot was gradually abandoned, and + dragoons became regular cavalry; but in modern times the utility of + Gustavus's invention of mounted infantry has been again recognized, and in + all the small wars in which England has been engaged bodies of mounted + infantry have been organized. Ere long mounted infantry will again become + a recognized arm of the service. + </p> + <p> + But these raids in search of provisions occupied but a small portion of + the army. The rest passed their time in enforced idleness. There was + nothing to be done save to clean and furbish their arms and armour; to + stand on the ramparts and gaze on the distant heights of the Alte Veste, + to watch the solid columns of the Imperial army, which from time to time + Wallenstein marched down from his stronghold and paraded in order of + battle, as a challenge to the Swedes to come out and fight, or to loiter + through the narrow streets of Nuremberg, and to talk to the citizens, + whose trade and commerce were now entirely at a standstill. Malcolm, with + the restlessness of youth, seldom stayed many hours quiet in camp. He did + not care either for drinking or gambling; nor could he imitate the passive + tranquillity of the old soldiers, who were content to sleep away the + greater part of their time. He therefore spent many hours every day in the + city, where he speedily made many acquaintances. + </p> + <p> + In the city of Nuremberg time dragged as slowly as it did in the camp. At + ordinary times the centre of a quiet and busy trade, the city was now cut + off from the world. The shops were for the most part closed; the artisans + stood idle in the streets, and the townsfolk had nought to do, save to + gather in groups and discuss the times, or to take occasional excursions + beyond the gates into the camp of their allies. The advances then of the + young Scottish officer were willingly responded to, and he soon became + intimate in the houses of all the principal citizens; and while the + greater part of his comrades spent their evenings in drinking and + gambling, he enjoyed the hours in conversation and music in the houses of + the citizens of Nuremberg. + </p> + <p> + The long inaction brought its moral consequences, and the troops became + demoralized and insubordinate from their enforced idleness. Plundering and + acts of violence became so common that Gustavus was obliged to issue the + most stringent ordinances to restore discipline; and an officer and many + men had to be executed before the spirit of insubordination was quelled. + In order to pass some of the hours of the days Malcolm obtained leave from + one of the great clockmakers of the town—for Nuremberg was at that + time the centre of the craft of clockmaking—to allow him to work in + his shop, and to learn the mysteries of his trade. + </p> + <p> + Most of the establishments were closed, but Malcolm's acquaintance was one + of the wealthiest of the citizens, and was able to keep his craftsmen at + work, and to store the goods he manufactured until better times should + return. Malcolm began the work purely to occupy his time, but he presently + came to take a lively interest in it, and was soon able to take to pieces + and put together again the cumbrous but simple machines which constituted + the clocks of the period. + </p> + <p> + Workshops were not in those days factories. The master of a craft worked, + surrounded by his craftsmen and apprentices. Every wheel and spring were + made upon the premises, fashioned and finished with chisel and file; and + there was an interest in the work far beyond any which it possesses in the + present day, when watches are turned out wholesale, the separate parts + being prepared by machinery, and the work of the artisan consisting solely + in the finishing and putting them together. + </p> + <p> + Laying aside his armour and gay attire, and donning a workman's apron, + Malcolm sat at the bench by the side of the master, shaping and filing, + and listening to his stories connected with the trade and history of + Nuremberg. He anticipated no advantage from the knowledge he was gaining, + but regarded it simply as a pleasant way of getting through a portion of + the day. + </p> + <p> + Thus for three months the armies confronted each other. Provisions were + becoming terribly scarce, the magazines of the city were emptying fast, + and although working night and day, the mills of the place did not suffice + to grind flour for the needs of so many mouths. The population of the city + itself was greatly swollen by the crowds of Protestant fugitives who had + fled there for refuge on the approach of the Imperialists, and the + magazines of the city dwindled fast under the demands made upon them by + this addition, and that of the Swedish army, to the normal population. + Fever broke out in the city and camp. The waters of the Pegnitz were + tainted by the carcasses of dead horses and other animals. The supplies of + forage had long since been exhausted, and the baggage and troop animals + died in vast numbers. + </p> + <p> + Still there was no sign of a change. Wallenstein would not attack, + Gustavus could not. The Swedish king waited to take advantage of some + false move on the part of the Imperial commander; but Wallenstein was as + great a general as himself, and afforded him no opening, turning a deaf + ear to the entreaties and importunities of Maximilian that he would end + the tedious siege by an attack upon the small and enfeebled army around + Nuremberg. + </p> + <p> + All this time Gustavus was in constant communication with his generals + outside, his messengers making their way by speed or stratagem through the + beleaguering Croats, and kept up the spirits of his men by daily reviews + and by the cheerful countenance which he always wore. + </p> + <p> + The Swedish columns were gradually closing in towards Nuremberg. One was + led by the chancellor Oxenstiern, to whom had been committed the care of + the Middle Rhine and the Lower Palatinate, where he had been confronted by + the Spanish troops under Don Philip de Sylva. + </p> + <p> + On the 11th July, leaving Horn with a small force to oppose the Spaniards, + the chancellor set out to join his master. On the way he effected a + junction with the forces of the Landgrave of Hesse-Cassel. This general + had been opposed in Westphalia by Pappenheim, but he seized the + opportunity when the latter had marched to relieve Maestricht, which was + besieged by Frederic of Nassau, to march away and join Oxenstiern. + </p> + <p> + The Scotch officers Ballandine and Alexander Hamilton were with their + regiment in the Duchy of Magdeburg. When the news of the king's danger + reached them without waiting for instructions they marched to Halle and + joining a portion of the division of the Duke of Saxe-Weimar, to which + they were attached, pushed on to Zeitz, and were there joined by the duke + himself, who had hurried on from the Lake of Constance, attended only by + his guards, but, picking up five Saxon regiments in Franconia. Together + they passed on to Wurtzburg, where they joined Oxenstiern and the + Landgrave of Hesse-Cassel. General Banner, with the fourth corps, was at + Augsburg, opposed to Cratz, who was at the head of the remains of Tilly's + old army. + </p> + <p> + Slipping away from his foes he marched to Windsheim, and was there joined + by a body of troops under Bernhard of Weimar. The force from Wurtzburg + soon afterwards came up, and the whole of the detached corps, amounting to + 49,000 men, being now collected, they marched to Bruck, ten miles north of + Nuremberg. Three days later, on the 16th of August, Gustavus rode into + their camp, and on the 21st marched at their head into Nuremberg, + unhindered by the Imperialists. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus probably calculated that the Imperialists would now move down and + offer battle; but Wallenstein, who had detached 10,000 men to bring up + supplies, could not place in the field a number equal to those of the + reinforcements, and preferred to await an attack in the position which he + had prepared with such care. He knew the straits to which Nuremberg and + its defenders were reduced, and the impossibility there would be of + feeding the new arrivals. + </p> + <p> + The country round for a vast distance had been long since stripped of + provisions, and Gustavus had no course open to him but to march away with + his army and leave the city to its fate, or to attack the Imperialists in + their stronghold. + </p> + <p> + On the day after his arrival, the 21st of August, Gustavus marched out and + opened a cannonade upon the Imperialists' position, in order to induce + Wallenstein to come down and give battle. Wallenstein was not, however, to + be tempted, but kept his whole army busy with the spade and axe further + intrenching his position. The next day the king brought his guns nearer to + the enemy's camp, and for twenty-four hours kept up a heavy fire. The only + result, however, was that Wallenstein fell back a few hundred yards on to + two ridges, on one of which was the ruined castle called the Alte Veste; + the other was known as the Altenburg. The ascent to these was steep and + craggy, and they were covered by a thick forest. Here Wallenstein formed + in front of his position a threefold barrier of felled trees woven and + interlaced with each other, each barrier rising in a semicircle one above + the other. Before the Swedish cannon ceased to fire the new position of + the Imperialists had been made impregnable. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately for Gustavus he had at this moment lost the services of the + best officer in his army, Sir John Hepburn, whom he had always regarded as + his right hand. The quarrel had arisen from some trifling circumstance, + and Gustavus in the heat of the moment made some disparaging allusion to + the religion of Hepburn, who was a Catholic and also to that officer's + love of dress and finery. The indignant Hepburn at once resigned his + commission and swore never again to draw his sword in the service of the + king—a resolution to which he adhered, although Gustavus, when his + anger cooled, endeavoured in every way to appease the angry soldier. + </p> + <p> + As he persisted in his resolution Colonel Munro was appointed to the + command of the Green Brigade. It is probable that the quarrel was the + consummation of a long standing grievance. Hepburn as well as the other + Scottish officers had shared the indignation of Sir John Hamilton when the + latter resigned in consequence of the Swedish troop being placed in the + post of honour at the storm of the castle of Marienburg after the Scots + had done all the work. There had, too, been much discontent among them + concerning the Marquis of Hamilton, whom they considered that Gustavus had + treated ungenerously; and still more concerning Lieutenant Colonel + Douglas, whom Gustavus had committed to a common prison for a slight + breach of etiquette, a punishment at which the English ambassador, Sir + Harry Vane, remonstrated, and which the whole Scottish officers considered + an insult to them and their country. + </p> + <p> + There were probably faults on both sides. The Scottish troops were the + backbone of the Swedish army, and to them were principally due almost the + whole of the successes which Gustavus had gained. Doubtless they presumed + upon the fact, and although Gustavus recognized his obligations, as is + shown by the immense number of commands and governorships which he + bestowed upon his Scottish officers, he may well have been angered and + irritated by the insistance with which they asserted their claims and + services. It was, however, a most unfortunate circumstance that just at + this critical moment he should have lost the services of an officer whose + prudence was equal to his daring, and who was unquestionably one of the + greatest military leaders of his age. + </p> + <p> + It is probable that had Hepburn remained by his side the king would not + have undertaken the attack upon the impregnable position of the + Imperialists. Deprived of the counsellor upon whose advice he had hitherto + invariably relied, Gustavus determined to attempt to drive Wallenstein + from his position, the decision being finally induced by a ruse of the + Imperialist commander, who desired nothing so much as that the Swedes + should dash their forces against the terrible position he had prepared for + them. Accordingly on the 24th of August he directed a considerable portion + of his force to march away from the rear of his position as if, alarmed at + the superior strength of the Swedes, he had determined to abandon the + heights he had so long occupied and to march away. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus fell into the trap, and prepared at once to assault the position. + Two hundred pieces of artillery heralded the advance, which was made by + the whole body of the musketeers of the army, drafted from the several + brigades and divided into battalions 500 strong, each commanded by a + colonel. It was a terrible position which they were advancing to storm. + Each of the lines of intrenchments was surmounted by rows of polished + helmets, while pikes and arquebuses glittered in the sunshine; but it was + not long that the scene was visible, for as the battalions approached the + foot of the Altenburg 80 pieces of artillery opened from its summit and + from the ridge of the Alte Veste, while the smoke of the arquebuses + drifted up in a cloud from the lines of intrenchments. + </p> + <p> + Steadily and in good order the Scotch and Swedish infantry pressed + forward, and forcing the lower ditch strove to climb the rocky heights; + but in vain did they strive. Over and over again they reached the + intrenchments, but were unable to force their way through the thickly + bound fallen trees, while their lines were torn with a storm of iron and + lead. Never did the Scottish soldiers of Gustavus fight with greater + desperation and valour. Scores of them rolled lifeless down the slope, but + fresh men took their places and strove to hack their way through the + impenetrable screen through which the Imperialist bullets whistled like + hail. + </p> + <p> + At last, when nigh half their number had fallen, the rest, exhausted, + broken, and in disorder, fell suddenly back. Gustavus in person then led + on his Finlanders, but these, after a struggle as obstinate and heroic as + that of their predecessors, in their turn fell back baffled. The Livonians + next made the attempt, but in vain. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime a sharp conflict had taken place between the Imperial + cavalry and the Swedish left wing. Wallenstein's cuirassiers, hidden by + the smoke, charged right through a column of Swedish infantry; but this + success was counterbalanced by the rout of Cronenberg's Invincibles, a + magnificent regiment of 1500 horsemen, by 200 Finland troopers. The troops + of Duke Bernhard of Weimar, among whom were still the Scottish regiments + of Hamilton and Douglas, marched against the heights which commanded the + Alte Veste, and drove back the Imperialists with great loss. Five hundred + musketeers of the Green Brigade under Colonel Munro then pushed gallantly + forward and posted themselves far in advance, resisting all attempts of + the Imperialists to drive them back, until Lieutenant Colonel Sinclair, + who was now in command of Munro's own regiment, brought it forward to his + assistance. Until the next morning this body of one thousand men + maintained the ground they had won in spite of all the efforts of the + Imperialists to dislodge them. + </p> + <p> + Colonel Munro was severely wounded in the left side. Lieutenant Colonel + Maken, Capt. Innis, and Capt. Traill were killed, and an immense number of + other Scottish officers were killed and wounded. The news was brought down + to Gustavus of the advantage gained by Duke Bernhard, but he was unable to + take advantage of it by moving his army round to that position, as he + would have exposed himself to a counter attack of the enemy while doing + so. He therefore launched a fresh column of attack against the Alte Veste. + </p> + <p> + This was followed by another and yet another, until every regiment in the + army had in its turn attempted to storm the position, but still without + success. + </p> + <p> + The battle had now raged for ten hours, and nightfall put an end to the + struggle. Hepburn had all day ridden behind the king as a simple cavalier, + and had twice carried messages through the thick of the fire when there + were no others to bear them, so great had been the slaughter round the + person of the king. + </p> + <p> + It was the first time that Gustavus had been repulsed, and he could hardly + yet realize the fact; but as messenger after messenger came in from the + different divisions he discovered how terrible had been his loss. Most of + his generals and superior officers had been killed or wounded, 2000 men + lay dead on the field, and there were nigh three times that number of + wounded. + </p> + <p> + The Imperialists on their side lost 1000 killed and 1500 wounded; but the + accounts of the losses on both sides differ greatly, some placing the + Imperial loss higher than that of the Swedes, a palpably absurd estimate, + as the Imperialists, fighting behind shelter, could not have suffered + anything like so heavily as their assailants, who were exposed to their + fire in the open. + </p> + <p> + Hepburn bore the order from the king for Munro's troops and those of Duke + Bernhard to retire from the position they had won, as they were entirely + cut off from the rest of the army, and would at daylight have had the + whole of the Imperialists upon them. The service was one of great danger, + and Hepburn had to cut his way sword in hand through the Croats who + intervened between him and his comrades of the Green Brigade. He + accomplished his task in safety, and before daylight Munro's men and the + regiments of Duke Bernhard rejoined the army in the plain. But though + repulsed Gustavus was not defeated. He took up a new position just out of + cannon shot of the Altenburg, and then offered battle to Wallenstein, the + latter, however, well satisfied with his success, remained firm in his + policy of starving out the enemy, and resisted every device of the king to + turn him from his stronghold. + </p> + <p> + For fourteen days Gustavus remained in position. Then he could hold out no + longer. The supplies were entirely exhausted. The summer had been + unusually hot. The shrunken waters of the Pegnitz were putrid and + stinking, the carcasses of dead horses poisoned the air, and fever and + pestilence raged in the camp. Leaving, then, Kniphausen with eight + thousand men to aid the citizens of Nuremberg to defend the city should + Wallenstein besiege it, Gustavus marched on the 8th of September by way of + Neustadt to Windsheim, and there halted to watch the further movements of + the enemy. + </p> + <p> + Five days later Wallenstein quitted his camp and marched to Forsheim. So + far the advantage of the campaign lay with him. His patience and iron + resolution had given the first check to the victorious career of the Lion + of the North. + </p> + <p> + Munro's regiment, as it was still called—for he was now its full + colonel, although Lieutenant Colonel Sinclair commanded it in the field—had + suffered terribly, but less, perhaps, than some of those who had in vain + attempted to force their way up the slopes of the Alte Veste; and many an + eye grew moist as at daybreak the regiment marched into its place in the + ranks of the brigade and saw how terrible had been the slaughter among + them. Munro's soldiers had had but little of that hand to hand fighting in + which men's blood becomes heated and all thought of danger is lost in the + fierce desire to kill. Their losses had been caused by the storm of + cannonball and bullet which had swept through them, as, panting and + breathless, they struggled up the steep slopes, incapable of answering the + fire of the enemy. They had had their triumph, indeed, as the Imperial + regiments broke and fled before their advance; but although proud that + they at least had succeeded in a day when failure was general, there was + not a man but regretted that he had not come within push of pike of the + enemy. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm Graheme had passed scatheless through the fray—a good + fortune that had attended but few of his brother officers. His uncle was + badly wounded, and several of his friends had fallen. Of the men who had + marched from Denmark but a year before scarce a third remained in the + ranks, and although the regiment had been strengthened by the breaking up + of two or three of the weaker battalions and their incorporation with the + other Scottish regiments, it was now less than half its former strength. + While Gustavus and Wallenstein had been facing each other at Nuremberg the + war had continued without interruption in other parts, and the Swedes and + their allies had gained advantages everywhere except in Westphalia and + Lower Saxony, where Pappenheim had more than held his own against + Baudissen, who commanded for Gustavus; and although Wallenstein had + checked the king he had gained no material advantages and had wrested no + single town or fortress from his hands. Gustavus was still in Bavaria, + nearer to Munich than he was, his garrisons still holding Ulm, Nordlingen, + and Donauworth, its strongest fortresses. + </p> + <p> + He felt sure, however, that it would be impossible for Gustavus to + maintain at one spot the army which he had at Windsheim, and that with so + many points to defend he would soon break it up into separate commands. He + resolved then to wait until he did so, and then to sweep down upon + Northern Germany, and so by threatening the king's line of retreat to + force him to abandon Bavaria and the south and to march to meet him. + </p> + <p> + At present he was in no position to risk a battle, for he had already + detached 4000 men to reinforce Holk, whom he had sent with 10,000 to + threaten Dresden. The 13,000 Bavarians who were with him under Maximilian + had separated from him on his way to Forsheim, and on arriving at that + place his army numbered but 17,000 men, while Gustavus had more than + 40,000 gathered at Windsheim. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus, on his part, determined to carry out his former projects, to + march against Ingolstadt, which he had before failed to capture, and + thence to penetrate into Upper Austria. But fearful lest Wallenstein, + released from his presence, should attempt to recover the fortresses in + Franconia, he despatched half his force under Duke Bernhard to prevent the + Imperial general from crossing the Rhine. Could he succeed in doing this + he would be in a position to dictate terms to the emperor in Vienna. + </p> + <p> + On the 12th of October he reached Neuberg, on the Danube, and halted + there, awaiting the arrival of his siege train from Donauworth. While + making the most vigorous exertions to press on the necessary arrangements + for his march against Vienna he received the most urgent messages to + return to Saxony. Not only, as he was told, had Wallenstein penetrated + into that province, but he was employing all his influence to detach its + elector from the Protestant cause, and there was great fear that the weak + prince would yield to the solicitations of Wallenstein and to his own + jealousy of the King of Sweden. + </p> + <p> + No sooner, in fact, had Gustavus crossed the Danube than Wallenstein moved + towards Schweinfurt, and by so doing drew to that place the Swedish army + under the command of Duke Bernhard. He then suddenly marched eastward at + full speed, capturing Bamberg, Baireuth, and Culmbach, and pushed on to + Colberg. + </p> + <p> + The town was captured, but the Swedish Colonel Dubatel, who was really a + Scotchman, by name M'Dougal, a gallant and brilliant officer, threw + himself with his dragoons into the castle, which commanded the town, and + defended it so resolutely against the assaults of Wallenstein that Duke + Bernhard had time to march to within twenty miles of the place. + Wallenstein then raised the siege, marched east to Kronach, and then north + to Weida, on the Elster. Thence he pressed on direct to Leipzig, which he + besieged at once; and while the main body of his troops were engaged + before the city, others took possession of the surrounding towns and + fortresses. + </p> + <p> + Leipzig held out for only two days, and after its capture Wallenstein + marched to Merseburg, where he was joined by the army under Pappenheim. + Thus reinforced he was in a position to capture the whole of Saxony. The + elector, timid and vacillating, was fully conscious of his danger and the + solicitations of Wallenstein to break off from his alliance with the King + of Sweden and to join the Imperialists were strongly seconded by Marshal + Von Arnheim, his most trusted councillor, who was an intimate friend of + the Imperialist general. + </p> + <p> + It was indeed a hard decision which Gustavus was called upon to make. On + the one hand Vienna lay almost within his grasp, for Wallenstein was now + too far north to interpose between him and the capital. On the other hand, + should the Elector of Saxony join the Imperialists, his position after the + capture of Vienna would be perilous in the extreme. The emperor would + probably leave his capital before he arrived there, and the conquest + would, therefore, be a barren one. Gustavus reluctantly determined to + abandon his plan, and to march to the assistance of Saxony. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII THE DEATH OF GUSTAVUS + </h2> + <p> + The determination of Gustavus to march to the assistance of Saxony once + taken, he lost not a moment in carrying it into effect. General Banner, + whom he greatly trusted, was unfortunately suffering from a wound, and + until he should recover he appointed the Prince Palatine of Burkenfeldt to + command a corps 12,000 strong which he determined to leave on the Danube; + then strengthening the garrisons of Augsburg, Rain, and Donauworth, he set + out with the remainder of his army on his march to Saxony. + </p> + <p> + From Donauworth he marched to Nuremberg, stayed there forty-eight hours to + recover the fortress of Lauf, and, having forced the garrison of that + place to surrender at discretion, pushed on with all possible speed to + Erfurt, which he had fixed upon as the point of junction for his several + corps. The Green Brigade formed a portion of the force which Gustavus left + behind him in Bavaria under the Prince Palatine. So terribly weakened were + the Scottish regiments by the various battles of the campaign, in all of + which they had borne the brunt of the fighting, that Gustavus determined + reluctantly to leave them behind for rest and reorganization. + </p> + <p> + Hepburn, Sir James Hamilton, Sir James Ramsay, and the Marquis of + Hamilton, who like Hepburn had quarrelled with Gustavus, left the Swedish + army the day after they arrived at Neustadt, after marching away from + Nuremberg. All the Scottish officers in the Swedish army accompanied + Hepburn and his three companions along the road for a long German mile + from Neustadt, and then parted with great grief from the gallant cavalier + who had led them so often to victory. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm Graheme did not remain behind in Bavaria with his comrades of the + Green Brigade. Gustavus, who had taken a great fancy to the young Scotch + officer, whose spirit of adventure and daring were in strong harmony with + his own character, appointed him to ride on his own personal staff. + Although he parted with regret from his comrades, Malcolm was glad to + accompany the king on his northward march, for there was no probability of + any very active service in Bavaria, and it was certain that a desperate + battle would be fought when Gustavus and Wallenstein met face to face in + the open field. + </p> + <p> + At Erfurt Gustavus was joined by Duke Bernhard of Saxe-Weimar with his + force, which raised his army to a strength of 20,000. The news of his + approach had again revived the courage of the Elector of Saxony, who had + occupied the only towns where the Elbe could be crossed, Dresden, Torgau, + and Wittenberg—he himself, with his main army of 15,000 men, lying + at Torgau. From him Gustavus learned that the Imperial army was divided + into three chief corps—that of Wallenstein 12,000 strong, that of + Pappenheim 10,000, those of Gallas and Holk united 16,000, making a total + of 38,000 men. + </p> + <p> + So great was the speed with which Gustavus had marched to Erfurt that + Wallenstein had received no notice of his approach; and believing that for + some time to come he should meet with no serious opposition, he had on the + very day after the Swedes reached Erfurt despatched Gallas with 12,000 men + into Bohemia. A division of his troops was at the same time threatening + Naumburg, whose possession would enable him to block the only easy road + with which Gustavus could enter the country held by him. + </p> + <p> + But Gustavus at Erfurt learned that Naumburg had not yet fallen, and + marching with great rapidity reached the neighbourhood of that town before + the Imperialists were aware that he had quitted Erfurt, and cutting up a + small detachment of the enemy who lay in his way, entered the town and at + once began to intrench it. Wallenstein first learned from the fugitives of + the beaten detachment that Gustavus had arrived at Naumburg, but as his + own position lay almost centrally between Naumburg and Torgau, so long as + he could prevent the Swedes and Saxons from uniting, he felt safe; for + although together they would outnumber him, he was superior in strength to + either if alone. The Imperialist general believed that Gustavus intended + to pass the winter at Naumburg, and he had therefore no fear of an + immediate attack. + </p> + <p> + In order to extend the area from which he could draw his supplies + Wallenstein despatched Pappenheim to secure the fortress of Halle; for + although that town had been captured the fortress held out, and barred the + main road to the north. From Halle Pappenheim was to proceed to the relief + of Cologne, which was menaced by the enemy. + </p> + <p> + Having done this, Wallenstein withdrew from the line of the Saale and + prepared to distribute his army in winter quarters in the towns of the + district, he himself with a portion of the force occupying the little town + of Lutzen. But Gustavus had no idea of taking up his quarters for the + winter at Naumburg; and he proposed to the Elector of Saxony that if he + would march to Eilenberg, midway to Leipzig, he himself would make a + detour to the south round Wallenstein's position and join him there. + Without waiting to receive the answer of the elector, Gustavus, leaving a + garrison in Naumburg, set out at one o'clock in the morning on the 5th of + November on his march; but before he had proceeded nine miles he learned + from a number of gentlemen and peasants favourable to the cause that + Pappenheim had started for Halle, that the remainder of the Imperial army + lay dispersed among the towns and villages of the neighbourhood, and that + Wallenstein himself was at Lutzen. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus called his generals together and informed them of the news. + Learning that Lutzen was but five miles distant—as it turned out, a + mistaken piece of information, as it was nearly twice as far—he + ordered that the men should take some food, and then wheeling to the left, + push on towards Lutzen. + </p> + <p> + It was not until some time later that Wallenstein learned from the + Imperial scouts that Gustavus was upon him. It was then nearly five + o'clock in the evening, and darkness was at hand. Considering the heavy + state of the roads, and the fact that Gustavus would have in the last + three miles of his march to traverse a morass crossed by a bridge over + which only two persons could pass abreast, he felt confident that the + attack could not be made until the following morning. + </p> + <p> + Mounted messengers were sent in all directions to bring up his troops from + the villages in which they were posted, and in the meantime the troops + stationed around Lutzen were employed in preparing obstacles to hinder the + advance of the Swedes. On either side of the roads was a low swampy + country intersected with ditches, and Wallenstein at once set his men to + work to widen and deepen these ditches, which the troops as they arrived + on the ground were to occupy. All night the troops laboured at this task. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Gustavus had found the distance longer and the + difficulties greater than he had anticipated; the roads were so heavy that + it was with difficulty that the artillery and ammunition wagons could be + dragged along them, and the delay caused by the passage of the morass was + very great. + </p> + <p> + Indeed the passage would have been scarcely possible had the men of an + Imperial regiment of cuirassiers and a battalion of Croats, who were + posted in a village on the further side of the morass, defended it; but + instead of doing so they fell back to an eminence in the rear of the + village, and remained there quietly until, just as the sun set, the whole + Swedish army got across. The cuirassiers and Croats were at once attacked + and put to flight; but as darkness was now at hand it was impossible for + Gustavus to make any further advance, and the army was ordered to bivouac + as it stood. The state of the roads had defeated the plans of Gustavus. + Instead of taking the enemy by surprise, as he had hoped, and falling upon + them scattered and disunited, the delays which had occurred had given + Wallenstein time to bring up all his forces, and at daybreak Gustavus + would be confronted by a force nearly equal to his own, and occupying a + position very strongly defended by natural obstacles. + </p> + <p> + Before the day was won, Pappenheim, for whom Wallenstein would have sent + as soon as he heard of the Swedish advance, might be on the field, and in + that case the Imperialists would not only have the advantage of position + but also that of numbers. It was an anxious night, and Gustavus spent the + greater part of it in conversation with his generals, especially + Kniphausen and Duke Bernhard. + </p> + <p> + The former strongly urged that the army should repass the morass and + march, as originally intended, to effect a junction with the Saxons. He + pointed out that the troops were fatigued with their long and weary march + during the day, and would have to fight without food, as it had been found + impossible to bring up the wagons with the supplies; he particularly urged + the point that Pappenheim would arrive on the field before the victory + could be won. But Gustavus was of opinion that the disadvantages of + retreat were greater than those of action. The troops, hungry, weary, and + dispirited, would be attacked as they retired, and he believed that by + beginning the action early the Imperialists could be defeated before + Pappenheim could return from Halle. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus proposed to move forward at two o'clock in the morning; but fate + was upon this occasion against the great Swedish leader. Just as on the + previous day the expected length of the march and the heavy state of the + roads had prevented him from crushing Wallenstein's scattered army, so now + a thick fog springing up, making the night so dark that a soldier could + not see the man standing next to him, prevented the possibility of + movement, and instead of marching at two o'clock in the morning it was + nine before the sun cleared away the fog sufficiently to enable the army + to advance. Then, after addressing a few stirring words to his men, + Gustavus ordered the advance towards Chursitz, the village in front of + them. + </p> + <p> + The king himself led the right wing, consisting of six regiments of + Swedes, supported by musketeers intermingled with cavalry. The left, + composed of cavalry and infantry intermixed, was commanded by Duke + Bernhard. The centre, consisting of four brigades of infantry supported by + the Scottish regiments under Henderson, was commanded by Nicholas Brahe, + Count of Weissenburg. + </p> + <p> + The reserves behind each of these divisions were formed entirely of + cavalry, commanded on the right by Bulach, in the centre by Kniphausen, + and on the left by Ernest, Prince of Anhalt. The field pieces, twenty in + number, were disposed to the best advantage between the wings. Franz + Albert of Lauenburg, who had joined the army the day before, rode by the + king. A short halt was made at Chursitz, where the baggage was left + behind, and the army then advanced against the Imperialists, who at once + opened fire. + </p> + <p> + Wallenstein had posted his left so as to be covered by a canal, while his + right was protected by the village of Lutzen. On some rising ground to the + left of that village, where there were several windmills, he planted + fourteen small pieces of cannon, while to support his front, which was + composed of the musketeers in the ditches on either side of the road, he + planted a battery of seven heavy pieces of artillery. + </p> + <p> + The main body of his infantry he formed into four massive brigades, which + were flanked on both sides by musketeers intermixed with cavalry. Count + Coloredo commanded on the left, Holk on the right, Terzky in the centre. + </p> + <p> + As the Swedish army advanced beyond Chursitz the seven heavy pieces of + artillery on the side of the road opened upon them, doing much execution, + while their own lighter guns could not reply effectively. The Swedes + pressed forward to come to close quarters. The left wing, led by Duke + Bernhard, was the first to arrive upon the scene of action. Gallantly led + by the duke his men forced the ditches, cleared the road, charged the + deadly battery, killed or drove away the gunners, and rushed with fury on + the Imperialist right. + </p> + <p> + Holk, a resolute commander, tried in vain to stem the assault; the ardour + of the Swedes was irresistible, and they scattered, one after the other, + his three brigades. The battle seemed already lost when Wallenstein + himself took his place at the head of the fourth brigade, and fell upon + the Swedes, who were disordered by the rapidity and ardour of their + charge, while at the same moment he launched three regiments of cavalry on + their flanks. + </p> + <p> + The Swedes fought heroically but in vain; step by step they were driven + back, the battery was recaptured, and the guns, which in the excitement of + the advance the captors had omitted to spike, were retaken by the + Imperialists. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime on the right the king had also forced the road, and had + driven from the field the Croats and Poles opposed to him, and he was on + the point of wheeling his troops to fall on the flank of the Imperialist + centre when one of Duke Bernhard's aides-de-camp dashed up with the news + that the left wing had fallen back broken and in disorder. + </p> + <p> + Leaving to Count Stalhaus to continue to press the enemy, Gustavus, + accompanied by his staff, rode at full gallop to the left at the head of + Steinboch's regiment of dragoons. Arrived on the spot he dashed to the + front at a point where his men had not yet been forced back across the + road, and riding among them roused them to fresh exertions. By his side + were Franz Albert of Lauenberg and a few other followers. But his pace had + been so furious that Steinboch's dragoons had not yet arrived. As he urged + on his broken men Gustavus was struck in the shoulder by a musketball. He + reeled in his saddle, but exclaimed, “It is nothing,” and ordered them to + charge the enemy with the dragoons. Malcolm Graheme and others on his + staff hesitated, but the king exclaimed, “Ride all, the duke will see to + me.” The cavalry dashed forward, and the king, accompanied only by Franz + Albert, Duke of Lauenberg, turned to leave the field, but he had scarcely + moved a few paces when he received another shot in the back. Calling out + to Franz Albert that it was all over with him, the mortally wounded king + fell to the ground. + </p> + <p> + Franz Albert, believing the battle lost, galloped away; the king's page + alone remained with the dying man. A minute later three Austrian + cuirassiers rode up, and demanded the name of the dying man. The page + Leubelfing refused to give it, and firing their pistols at him they + stretched him mortally wounded beside the dying king. Gustavus then, but + with difficulty, said who he was. The troopers leapt from their horses and + stripped his rich armour from him, and then, as they saw Steinboch's + dragoons returning from their charge, they placed their pistols close to + the king's head and fired, and then leaping on their horses fled. + </p> + <p> + Great was the grief when Malcolm, happening to ride near the body, + recognized it as that of the king. An instant later a regiment of + Imperialist cavalry charged down, and a furious fight took place for some + minutes over the king's body. It was, however, at last carried off by the + Swedes, so disfigured by wounds and by the trampling of the horses in the + fray as to be unrecognizable. + </p> + <p> + The news of the fall of their king, which spread rapidly through the + ranks, so far from discouraging the Swedes, inspired them with a desperate + determination to avenge his death, and burning with fury they advanced + against the enemy, yet preserving the most perfect steadiness and order in + their ranks. + </p> + <p> + In vain did Wallenstein and his officers strive to stem the attack of the + left wing, their bravery and skill availed nothing to arrest that furious + charge. Regiment after regiment who strove to bar their way were swept + aside, the guns near the windmills were captured and turned against the + enemy. Step by step the Imperial right wing was forced back, and the + centre was assailed in flank by the guns from the rising ground, while + Stalhaus with the right wing of the Swedes attacked them on their left. + </p> + <p> + Hopeless of victory the Imperialist centre was giving way, when the + explosion of one of their powder wagons still further shook them. Attacked + on both flanks and in front the Imperialist centre wavered, and in a few + minutes would have been in full flight. The Swedish victory seemed + assured, when a mighty trampling of horse was heard, and emerging from the + smoke Pappenheim with eight regiments of Imperial cavalry dashed into the + fray. + </p> + <p> + Pappenheim had already captured the citadel of Halle when Wallenstein's + messenger reached him. To wait until his infantry, who were engaged in + plundering, could be collected, and then to proceed at their pace to the + field of battle, would be to arrive too late to be of service, and + Pappenheim instantly placed himself at the head of his eight regiments of + magnificent cavalry, and galloped at full speed to the battlefield + eighteen miles distant. On the way he met large numbers of flying Poles + and Croats, the remnants of the Austrian left, who had been driven from + the field by Gustavus; these he rallied, and with them dashed upon the + troops of Stalhaus who were pursuing them, and forced them backward. The + relief afforded to the Imperialists by this opportune arrival was immense, + and leaving Pappenheim to deal with the Swedish right, Wallenstein rallied + his own right on the centre, and opposed a fresh front to the advancing + troops of Duke Bernhard and Kniphausen. Inspirited by the arrival of the + reinforcements, and burning to turn what had just appeared a defeat into a + victory, the Imperialists advanced with such ardour that the Swedes were + driven back, the guns on the hills recaptured, and it seemed that in this + terrible battle victory was at last to declare itself in favour of the + Imperialists. + </p> + <p> + It needed only the return of Pappenheim from the pursuit of the Swedish + right to decide the day, but Pappenheim was not to come. Though driven + back by the first impetuous charge of the Imperial cavalry, the Swedes + under Stalhaus, reinforced by the Scottish regiments under Henderson, + stubbornly opposed their further attacks. + </p> + <p> + While leading his men forward Pappenheim fell with two musketballs through + his body. While lying there the rumour for the first time reached him that + Gustavus had been killed. When upon inquiry the truth of the rumour was + confirmed, the eyes of the dying man lighted up. + </p> + <p> + “Tell Wallenstein,” he said to the officer nearest to him, “that I am + lying here without hope of life, but I die gladly, knowing, as I now know, + that the irreconcilable enemy of my faith has fallen on the same day.” + </p> + <p> + The Imperialists, discouraged by the fall of their general, could not + withstand the ardour with which the Swedes and Scottish infantry attacked + them, and the cavalry rode from the field. Elsewhere the battle was still + raging. Wallenstein's right and centre had driven Count Bernhard, the Duke + of Brahe, and Kniphausen across that desperately contested road, but + beyond this they could not force them, so stubbornly and desperately did + they fight. But Stalhaus and his men, refreshed and invigorated by their + victory over Pappenheim's force, again came up and took their part in the + fight. Wallenstein had no longer a hope of victory, he fought now only to + avoid defeat. The sun had already set, and if he could but maintain his + position for another half hour darkness would save his army. + </p> + <p> + He fell back across the road again, fighting stubbornly and in good order, + and extending his line to the left to prevent Stalhaus from turning his + flank; and in this order the terrible struggle continued till nightfall. + Both sides fought with splendid bravery. The Swedes, eager for the victory + once again apparently within their grasp, pressed on with fury, while the + Imperialists opposed them with the most stubborn obstinacy. + </p> + <p> + Seven times did Piccolomini charge with his cavalry upon the advancing + Swedes. Seven times was his horse shot under him, but remounting each + time, he drew off his men in good order, and in readiness to dash forward + again at the first opportunity. The other Imperialist generals fought with + equal courage and coolness, while Wallenstein, present wherever the danger + was thickest, animated all by his courage and coolness. Though forced step + by step to retire, the Imperialists never lost their formation, never + turned their backs to the foe; and thus the fight went on till the + darkness gathered thicker and thicker, the combatants could no longer see + each other, and the desperate battle came to an end. + </p> + <p> + In the darkness, Wallenstein drew off his army and fell back to Leipzig, + leaving behind him his colours and all his guns. In thus doing he threw + away the opportunity of turning what his retreat acknowledged to be a + defeat into a victory on the following morning, for scarcely had he left + the field when the six regiments of Pappenheim's infantry arrived from + Halle. Had he held his ground he could have renewed the battle in the + morning, with the best prospects of success, for the struggle of the + preceding day had been little more than a drawn battle, and the accessions + of fresh troops should have given him a decided advantage over the weary + Swedes. The newcomers, finding the field deserted, and learning from the + wounded lying thickly over it that Wallenstein had retreated, at once + marched away. + </p> + <p> + In the Swedish camp there was no assurance whatever that a victory had + been gained, for nightfall had fallen on the Imperialists fighting as + stubbornly as ever. The loss of the king, the master spirit of the war, + dispirited and discouraged them, and Duke Bernhard and Kniphausen held in + the darkness an anxious consultation as to whether the army should not at + once retreat to Weissenburg. The plan was not carried out, only because it + was considered that it was impracticable—as the army would be + exposed to destruction should the Imperialists fall upon them while + crossing the terrible morass in their rear. + </p> + <p> + The morning showed them that the Imperialists had disappeared, and that + the mighty struggle had indeed been a victory for them—a victory won + rather by the superior stubbornness with which the Swedish generals held + their ground during the night, while Wallenstein fell back, than to the + splendid courage with which the troops had fought on the preceding day. + But better far would it have been for the cause which the Swedes + championed, that they should have been driven a defeated host from the + field of Lutzen, than that they should have gained a barren victory at the + cost of the life of their gallant monarch—the soul of the struggle, + the hope of Protestantism, the guiding spirit of the coalition against + Catholicism as represented by Ferdinand of Austria. + </p> + <p> + The losses in the battle were about equal, no less than 9000 having fallen + upon each side—a proportion without precedent in any battle of + modern times, and testifying to the obstinacy and valour with which on + both sides the struggle was maintained from early morning until night + alone terminated it. + </p> + <p> + It is said, indeed, that every man, both of the yellow regiments of + Swedish guards and of the blue regiments, composed entirely of English and + Scotchmen, lay dead on the field. On both sides many men of high rank were + killed. On the Swedish side, besides Gustavus himself, fell Count Milo, + the Count of Brahe, General Uslar, Ernest Prince of Anhalt, and Colonels + Gersdorf and Wildessein. On the Imperialist side Pappenheim, Schenk, + Prince and Abbot of Fulda, Count Berthold Wallenstein, General Brenner, + Issolani, general of the Croats, and six colonels were killed. Piccolomini + received ten wounds, but none of them were mortal. + </p> + <p> + Holk was severely wounded, and, indeed, so close and desperate was the + conflict, that it is said there was scarcely a man in the Imperial army + who escaped altogether without a wound. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII WOUNDED + </h2> + <p> + A controversy, which has never been cleared up, has long raged as to the + death of Gustavus of Sweden; but the weight of evidence is strongly in + favour of those who affirm that he received his fatal wound, that in the + back, at the hand of Franz Albert of Lauenburg. The circumstantial + evidence is, indeed, almost overwhelming. By birth the duke was the + youngest of four sons of Franz II, Duke of Lauenburg. On his mother's side + he was related to the Swedish royal family, and in his youth lived for + some time at the court of Stockholm. + </p> + <p> + Owing to some impertinent remarks in reference to Gustavus he fell into + disfavour with the queen, and had to leave Sweden. On attaining manhood he + professed the Catholic faith, entered the Imperial army, obtained the + command of a regiment, attached himself with much devotion to Wallenstein, + and gained the confidence of that general. While the negotiations between + the emperor and Wallenstein were pending Franz Albert was employed by the + latter in endeavouring to bring about a secret understanding with the + court of Dresden. + </p> + <p> + When Gustavus was blockaded in Nuremberg by Wallenstein Franz Albert left + the camp of the latter and presented himself in that of Gustavus as a + convert to the Reformed Religion and anxious to serve as a volunteer under + him. No quarrel or disagreement had, so far as is known, taken place + between him and Wallenstein, nor has any explanation ever been given for + such an extraordinary change of sides, made, too, at a moment when it + seemed that Gustavus was in a position almost desperate. By his profession + of religious zeal he managed to win the king's heart, but Oxenstiern, when + he saw him, entertained a profound distrust of him, and even warned the + king against putting confidence in this sudden convert. + </p> + <p> + Gustavus, however, naturally frank and open in disposition, could not + believe that treachery was intended, and continued to treat him with + kindness. After the assault made by Gustavus upon Wallenstein's position + Franz Albert quitted his camp, saying that he was desirous of raising some + troops for his service in his father's territory. He rejoined him, + however, with only his personal followers, on the very day before the + battle of Lutzen, and was received by Gustavus with great cordiality, + although the absence of his retainers increased the general doubts as to + his sincerity. + </p> + <p> + He was by the king's side when Gustavus received his first wound. He was + riding close behind him when the king received his second and fatal wound + in the back, and the moment the king had fallen he rode away from the + field, and it is asserted that it was he who brought the news of the + king's death to Wallenstein. + </p> + <p> + Very soon after the battle he exchanged the Swedish service for the Saxon, + and some eighteen months later he re-embraced the Roman Catholic faith and + re-entered the Imperial army. + </p> + <p> + A stronger case of circumstantial evidence could hardly be put together, + and it would certainly seem as if Lauenburg had entered the Swedish + service with the intention of murdering the king. That he did not carry + out his purpose during the attack on the Altenburg was perhaps due to the + fact that Gustavus may not have been in such a position as to afford him + an opportunity of doing so with safety to himself. + </p> + <p> + It is certainly curious that after that fight he should have absented + himself, and only rejoined on the eve of the battle of Lutzen. The only + piece of evidence in his favour is that of Truchsess, a chamberlain of the + king, who, affirmed that he saw the fatal shot fired at a distance of ten + paces from the king by an Imperial officer, Lieutenant General Falkenberg, + who at once turned and fled, but was pursued and cut down by Luckau, + master of horse of Franz Albert. + </p> + <p> + The general opinion of contemporary writers is certainly to the effect + that the King of Sweden was murdered by Franz Albert; but the absolute + facts must ever remain in doubt. + </p> + <p> + On the morning after the battle Wallenstein, having been joined by + Pappenheim's infantry, sent a division of Croats back to the battlefield + to take possession of it should they find that the Swedes had retired; but + on their report that they still held the ground he retired at once from + Leipzig, and, evacuating Saxony, marched into Bohemia, leaving the Swedes + free to accomplish their junction with the army of the Elector, thus + gaining the object for which they had fought at Lutzen. + </p> + <p> + After the death of the king, Malcolm Graheme, full of grief and rage at + the loss of the monarch who was loved by all his troops, and had treated + him with special kindness, joined the soldiers of Duke Bernhard, and took + part in the charge which swept back the Imperialists and captured the + cannon on the hill. At the very commencement of the struggle his horse + fell dead under him, and he fought on foot among the Swedish infantry; but + when the arrival of Pappenheim on the field enabled the Imperialists again + to assume the offensive, Malcolm, having picked up a pike from the hands + of a dead soldier, fought shoulder to shoulder in the ranks as the Swedes, + contesting stubbornly every foot of the ground, were gradually driven back + towards the road. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly a shot struck him; he reeled backwards a few feet, strove to + steady himself and to level his pike, and then all consciousness left him, + and he fell prostrate. Again and again, as the fortune of the desperate + fray wavered one way or the other, did friend and foe pass over the place + where he lay. + </p> + <p> + So thickly strewn was the field with dead that the combatants in their + desperate struggle had long ceased to pick their way over the fallen, but + trampled ruthlessly upon and over them as, hoarsely shouting their battle + cry, they either pressed forward after the slowly retreating foe or with + obstinate bravery strove to resist the charges of the enemy. When Malcolm + recovered his consciousness all was still, save that here and there a + faint moan was heard from others who like himself lay wounded on the + battlefield. The night was intensely dark, and Malcolm's first sensation + was that of bitter cold. + </p> + <p> + It was indeed freezing severely, and great numbers of the wounded who + might otherwise have survived were frozen to death before morning; but a + few, and among these were Malcolm, were saved by the frost. Although + unconscious of the fact, he had been wounded in two places. The first ball + had penetrated his breastpiece and had entered his body, and a few seconds + later another ball had struck him in the arm. It was the first wound which + had caused his insensibility; but from the second, which had severed one + of the principal veins in the arm, he would have bled to death had it not + been for the effects of the cold. For a time the life blood had flowed + steadily away; but as the cold increased it froze and stiffened on his + jerkin, and at last the wound was staunched. + </p> + <p> + It was none too soon, for before it ceased to flow Malcolm had lost a vast + quantity of blood. It was hours before nature recovered from the drain. + Gradually and slowly he awoke from his swoon. It was some time before he + realized where he was and what had happened, then gradually his + recollection of the fight returned to him. + </p> + <p> + “I remember now,” he murmured to himself, “I was fighting with the Swedish + infantry when a shot struck me in the body, I think, for I seemed to feel + a sudden pain like a red hot iron. Who won the day, I wonder? How bitterly + cold it is! I feel as if I were freezing to death.” + </p> + <p> + So faint and stiff was he, partly from loss of blood, partly from being + bruised from head to foot by being trampled on again and again as the + ranks of the combatants swept over him, that it was some time before he + was capable of making the slightest movement. His left arm was, he found, + entirely useless; it was indeed firmly frozen to the ground; but after + some difficulty he succeeded in moving his right, and felt for the flask + which had hung from his girdle. + </p> + <p> + So frozen and stiff were his fingers that he was unable to unbuckle the + strap which fastened it; but, drawing his dagger, he at last cut through + this, and removing the stopper of the flask, took a long draught of the + wine with which it was filled. The relief which it afforded him was almost + instantaneous, and he seemed to feel life again coursing in his veins. + </p> + <p> + After a while he was sufficiently restored to be enabled to get from his + havresack some bread and meat which he had placed there after finishing + his breakfast on the previous morning. He ate a few mouthfuls, took + another long draught of wine, and then felt that he could hope to hold on + until morning. He was unable to rise even into a sitting position, nor + would it have availed him had he been able to walk, for he knew not where + the armies were lying, nor could he have proceeded a yard in any direction + without falling over the bodies which so thickly strewed the ground around + him. + </p> + <p> + Though in fact it wanted but two hours of daylight when he recovered + consciousness, the time appeared interminable; but at last, to his + delight, a faint gleam of light spread across the sky. Stronger and + stronger did it become until the day was fairly broken. It was another + hour before he heard voices approaching. Almost holding his breath he + listened as they approached, and his heart gave a throb of delight as he + heard that they were speaking in Swedish. A victory had been won, then, + for had it not been so, it would have been the Imperialists, not the + Swedes, who would have been searching the field of battle. + </p> + <p> + “There are but few alive,” one voice said, “the cold has finished the work + which the enemy began.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm, unable to rise, lifted his arm and held it erect to call the + attention of the searchers; it was quickly observed. + </p> + <p> + “There is some one still alive,” the soldier exclaimed, “an officer, too; + by his scarf and feathers he belongs to the Green Brigade.” + </p> + <p> + “These Scotchmen are as hard as iron,” another voice said; “come, bring a + stretcher along.” + </p> + <p> + They were soon by the side of Malcolm. + </p> + <p> + “Drink this, sir,” one said, kneeling beside him and placing a flask of + spirits to his lips; “that will warm your blood, I warrant, and you must + be well nigh frozen.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm took a few gulps at the potent liquor, then he had strength to + say: + </p> + <p> + “There is something the matter with my left arm, I can't move it, and I + think I am hit in the body.” + </p> + <p> + “You are hit in the body, sure enough,” the man said, “for there is a + bullet hole through your cuirass, and your jerkin below it is all stained + with blood. You have been hit in the left arm too, and the blood is frozen + to the ground; but we will soon free that for you. But before trying to do + that we will cut open the sleeve of your jerkin and bandage your arm, or + the movement may set it off bleeding again, and you have lost a pool of + blood already.” + </p> + <p> + Very carefully the soldiers did their work, and then placing Malcolm on + the stretcher carried him away to the camp. Here the surgeons were all + hard at work attending to the wounded who were brought in. They had + already been busy all night, as those whose hurts had not actually + disabled them found their way into the camp. As he was a Scotch officer he + was carried to the lines occupied by Colonel Henderson with his Scotch + brigade. He was known to many of the officers personally, and no time was + lost in attending to him. He was nearly unconscious again by the time that + he reached the camp, for the movement had caused the wound in his body to + break out afresh. + </p> + <p> + His armour was at once unbuckled, and his clothes having been cut the + surgeons proceeded to examine his wounds. They shook their heads as they + did so. Passing a probe into the wound they found that the ball, breaking + one of the ribs in its course, had gone straight on. They turned him + gently over. + </p> + <p> + “Here it is,” the surgeon said, producing a flattened bullet. The missile + indeed had passed right through the body and had flattened against the + back piece, which its force was too far spent to penetrate. + </p> + <p> + “Is the case hopeless, doctor?” one of the officers who was looking on + asked. + </p> + <p> + “It is well nigh hopeless,” the doctor said, “but it is just possible that + it has not touched any vital part. The lad is young, and I judge that he + has not ruined his constitution, as most of you have done, by hard + drinking, so that there is just a chance for him. There is nothing for me + to do but to put a piece of lint over the two holes, bandage it firmly, + and leave it to nature. Now let me look at his arm. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” he went on as he examined the wound, “he has had a narrow escape + here. The ball has cut a vein and missed the principal artery by an eighth + of an inch. If that had been cut he would have bled to death in five + minutes. Evidently the lad has luck on his side, and I begin to think we + may save him if we can only keep him quiet.” + </p> + <p> + At the earnest request of the surgeons tents were brought up and a + hospital established on some rising ground near the field of battle for + the serious cases among the wounded, and when the army marched away to + join the Saxons at Leipzig a brigade was left encamped around the + hospital. + </p> + <p> + Here for three weeks Malcolm lay between life and death. The quantity of + blood he had lost was greatly in his favour, as it diminished the risk of + inflammation, while his vigorous constitution and the life of fatigue and + activity which he had led greatly strengthened his power. By a miracle the + bullet in its passage had passed through without injuring any of the vital + parts; and though his convalescence was slow it was steady, and even at + the end of the first week the surgeons were able to pronounce a confident + opinion that he would get over it. + </p> + <p> + But it was not until the end of the month that he was allowed to move from + his recumbent position. A week later and he was able to sit up. On the + following day, to his surprise, the Count of Mansfeld strode into his + tent. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! my young friend,” he exclaimed, “I am glad indeed to see you so far + recovered. I came to Leipzig with the countess and my daughter; for + Leipzig at present is the centre where all sorts of political combinations + are seething as in a cooking pot. It is enough to make one sick of + humanity and ashamed of one's country when one sees the greed which is + displayed by every one, from the highest of the princes down to petty + nobles who can scarce set twenty men in the field. + </p> + <p> + “Each and all are struggling to make terms by which he may better himself, + and may add a province or an acre, as the case may be, to his patrimony at + the expense of his neighbours. Truly I wonder that the noble Oxenstiern, + who represents Sweden, does not call together the generals and troops of + that country from all parts and march away northward, leaving these greedy + princes and nobles to fight their own battles, and make the best terms + they may with their Imperial master. + </p> + <p> + “But there, all that does not interest you at present; but I am so full of + spleen and disgust that I could not help letting it out. We arrived there + a week since, and of course one of our first inquiries was for you, and we + heard to our grief that the Imperialists had shot one of their bullets + through your body and another through your arm. This, of course, would + have been sufficient for any ordinary carcass; but I knew my Scotchman, + and was not surprised when they told me you were mending fast. + </p> + <p> + “I had speech yesterday with an officer who had ridden over from this + camp, and he told me that the doctors said you were now convalescent, but + would need repose and quiet for some time before you could again buckle on + armour. The countess, when I told her, said at once, 'Then we will take + him away back with us to Mansfeld.' Thekla clapped her hands and said, + 'That will be capital! we will look after him, and he shall tell us + stories about the wars.' + </p> + <p> + “So the thing was settled at once. I have brought over with me a horse + litter, and have seen your surgeon, who says that although it will be some + weeks before you can sit on a horse without the risk of your wound + bursting out internally, there is no objection to your progression in a + litter by easy stages; so that is settled, and the doctor will write to + your colonel saying that it will be some months before you are fit for + duty, and that he has therefore ordered you change and quiet. + </p> + <p> + “You need not be afraid of neglecting your duty or of getting out of the + way of risking your life in harebrained ventures, for there will be no + fighting till the spring. Everyone is negotiating at present, and you will + be back with your regiment before fighting begins again. Well, what do you + say?” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, indeed,” Malcolm replied. “It will of all things be the most + pleasant; the doctor has told me that I shall not be fit for duty until + the spring, and I have been wondering how ever I should be able to pass + the time until then.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we will be off without a minute's delay,” the count said. “I sent + off the litter last night and started myself at daybreak, promising the + countess to be back with you ere nightfall, so we have no time to lose.” + </p> + <p> + The news soon spread that Malcolm Graheme was about to leave the camp, and + many of the Scottish officers came in to say adieu to him; but time + pressed, and half an hour after the arrival of the count he started for + Leipzig with Malcolm in a litter swung between two horses. As they + travelled at a foot pace Malcolm did not find the journey uneasy, but the + fresh air and motion soon made him drowsy, and he was fast asleep before + he had left the camp an hour, and did not awake until the sound of the + horses' hoofs on stone pavements told him that they were entering the town + of Leipzig. + </p> + <p> + A few minutes later he was lying on a couch in the comfortable apartments + occupied by the count, while the countess with her own hands was + administering refreshments to him, and Thekla was looking timidly on, + scarce able to believe that this pale and helpless invalid was the + stalwart young Scottish soldier of whose adventures she was never weary of + talking. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX A PAUSE IN HOSTILITIES + </h2> + <p> + Never had Malcolm Graheme spent a more pleasant time than the two months + which he passed at Mansfeld. Travelling by very easy stages there he was + so far convalescent upon his arrival that he was able to move about freely + and could soon ride on horseback. For the time the neighbourhood of + Mansfeld was undisturbed by the peasants or combatants on either side, and + the count had acted with such vigour against any parties of brigands and + marauders who might approach the vicinity of Mansfeld, or the country + under his control, that a greater security of life and property existed + than in most other parts of Germany. The ravages made by war were speedily + effaced, and although the peasants carried on their operations in the + fields without any surety as to who would gather the crops, they worked + free from the harassing tyranny of the petty bands of robbers. + </p> + <p> + As soon as he was strong enough Malcolm rode with the count on his visits + to the different parts of his estates, joined in several parties got up to + hunt the boar in the hills, or to make war on a small scale against the + wolves which, since the outbreak of the troubles, had vastly increased in + number, committing great depredations upon the flocks and herds, and + rendering it dangerous for the peasants to move between their villages + except in strong parties. + </p> + <p> + The evenings were passed pleasantly and quietly. The countess would read + aloud or would play on the zither, with which instrument she would + accompany herself while she sang. Thekla would sit at her embroidery and + would chat merrily to Malcolm, and ask many questions about Scotland and + the life which the ladies led in that, as she asserted, “cold and desolate + country.” Sometimes the count's chaplain would be present and would + gravely discuss theological questions with the count, wearying Malcolm and + Thekla so excessively, that they would slip away from the others and play + checkers or cards on a little table in a deep oriel window where their low + talk and laughter did not disturb the discussions of their elders. + </p> + <p> + Once Malcolm was absent for two days on a visit to the village in the + mountains he had so much aided in defending. Here he was joyfully + received, and was glad to find that war had not penetrated to the quiet + valley, and that prosperity still reigned there. Malcolm lingered at + Mansfeld for some time after he felt that his strength was sufficiently + restored to enable him to rejoin his regiment; but he knew that until the + spring commenced no great movement of troops would take place, and he was + so happy with his kind friends, who treated him completely as one of the + family, that he was loath indeed to tear himself away. At last he felt + that he could no longer delay, and neither the assurances of the count + that the Protestant cause could dispense with his doughty services for a + few weeks longer, or the tears of Thekla and her insistance that he could + not care for them or he would not be in such a hurry to leave, could + detain him longer, and mounting a horse with which the count had presented + him he rode away to rejoin his regiment. + </p> + <p> + No military movements of importance had taken place subsequent to the + battle of Lutzen. Oxenstiern had laboured night and day to repair as far + as possible the effects of the death of Gustavus. He had been left by the + will of the king regent of Sweden until the king's daughter, now a child + of six years old, came of age, and he at once assumed the supreme + direction of affairs. It was essential to revive the drooping courage of + the weaker states, to meet the secret machinations of the enemy, to allay + the jealousy of the more powerful allies, to arouse the friendly powers, + France in particular, to active assistance, and above all to repair the + ruined edifice of the German alliance and to reunite the scattered + strength of the party by a close and permanent bond of union. + </p> + <p> + Had the emperor at this moment acted wisely Oxenstiern's efforts would + have been in vain. Wallenstein, farseeing and broad minded, saw the proper + course to pursue, and strongly urged upon the emperor the advisability of + declaring a universal amnesty, and of offering favourable conditions to + the Protestant princes, who, dismayed at the loss of their great champion, + would gladly accept any proposals which would ensure the religious liberty + for which they had fought; but the emperor, blinded by this unexpected + turn of fortune and infatuated by Spanish counsels, now looked to a + complete triumph and to enforce his absolute will upon the whole of + Germany. + </p> + <p> + Instead, therefore, of listening to the wise counsels of Wallenstein he + hastened to augment his forces. Spain sent him considerable supplies, + negotiated for him with the ever vacillating Elector of Saxony, and levied + troops for him in Italy. The Elector of Bavaria increased his army, and + the Duke of Lorraine prepared again to take part in the struggle which now + seemed to offer him an easy opportunity of increasing his dominions. For a + time the Elector of Saxony, the Duke of Brunswick, and many others of the + German princes wavered; but when they saw that Ferdinand, so far from + being disposed to offer them favourable terms to detach them from the + league, was preparing with greater vigour than ever to overwhelm them, + they perceived that their interest was to remain faithful to their ally, + and at a great meeting of princes and deputies held at Heilbronn the + alliance was re-established on a firmer basis. + </p> + <p> + Before, however, the solemn compact was ratified scarce one of the German + princes and nobles but required of Oxenstiern the gratification of private + greed and ambition, and each bargained for some possession either already + wrested or to be afterwards taken from the enemy. To the Landgrave of + Hesse the abbacies of Paderborn, Corvey, Munster, and Fulda were promised, + to Duke Bernhard of Weimar the Franconian bishoprics, to the Duke of + Wurtemburg the ecclesiastical domains and the Austrian counties lying + within his territories, all to be held as fiefs of Sweden. + </p> + <p> + Oxenstiern, an upright and conscientious man, was disgusted at the greed + of these princes and nobles who professed to be warring solely in defence + of their religious liberties, and he once exclaimed that he would have it + entered in the Swedish archives as an everlasting memorial that a prince + of the German empire made a request for such and such territory from a + Swedish nobleman, and that the Swedish noble complied with the request by + granting him German lands. However, the negotiations were at last + completed, the Saxons marched towards Lusatia and Silesia to act in + conjunction with Count Thurn against the Austrians in that quarter, a part + of the Swedish army was led by the Duke of Weimar into Franconia, and the + other by George, Duke of Brunswick, into Westphalia and Lower Saxony. + </p> + <p> + When Gustavus had marched south from Ingolstadt on the news of + Wallenstein's entry into Saxony he had left the Count Palatine of + Birkenfeld and General Banner to maintain the Swedish conquests in + Bavaria. These generals had in the first instance pressed their conquests + southward as far as Lake Constance; but towards the end of the year the + Bavarian General Altringer pressed them with so powerful an army that + Banner sent urgent requests to Horn to come to his assistance from Alsace, + where he had been carrying all before him. Confiding his conquests to the + Rhinegrave Otto Ludwig, Horn marched at the head of seven thousand men + towards Swabia. Before he could join Banner, however, Altringer had forced + the line of the Lech, and had received reinforcements strong enough to + neutralize the aid brought to Banner by Horn. Deeming it necessary above + all things to bar the future progress of the enemy, Horn sent orders to + Otto Ludwig to join him with all the troops still remaining in Alsace; but + finding himself still unable to resist the advance of Altringer, he + despatched an urgent request to Duke Bernhard, who had captured Bamberg + and the strong places of Kronach and Hochstadt in Franconia, to come to + his assistance. The duke at once quitted Bamberg and marched southward, + swept a strong detachment of the Bavarian army under John of Werth from + his path, and pressing on reached Donauwurth in March 1633. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm had rejoined his regiment, which was with Duke Bernhard, just + before it advanced from Bamberg and was received with a hearty welcome by + his comrades, from whom he had been separated nine months, having quitted + them three months before the battle of Lutzen. + </p> + <p> + The officers were full of hope that Duke Bernhard was going to strike a + great blow. Altringer was away on the shore of Lake Constance facing Horn, + Wallenstein was in Bohemia. Between Donauworth and Vienna were but the + four strong places of Ingolstadt, Ratisbon, Passau, and Linz. Ingolstadt + was, the duke knew, commanded by a traitor who was ready to surrender. + Ratisbon had a Protestant population who were ready to open their gates. + It seemed that the opportunity for ending the war by a march upon Vienna, + which had been snatched by Wallenstein from Gustavus just when it appeared + in his grasp, was now open to Duke Bernhard. But the duke was ambitious, + his demands for Franconia had not yet been entirely complied with by + Oxenstiern, and he saw an opportunity to obtain his own terms. The troops + under his orders were discontented, owing to the fact that their pay was + many months in arrear, and private agents of the duke fomented this + feeling by assuring the men that their general was with them and would + back their demands. Accordingly they refused to march further until their + demands were fully satisfied. The Scotch regiments stood apart from the + movement, though they too were equally in arrear with their pay. Munro and + the officers of the Brigade chafed terribly at this untimely mutiny just + when the way to Vienna appeared open to them. Duke Bernhard forwarded the + demands of the soldiers to Oxenstiern, sending at the same time a demand + on his own account, first that the territory of the Franconian bishoprics + should at once be erected into a principality in his favour, and secondly, + that he should be nominated commander-in-chief of all the armies fighting + in Germany for the Protestant cause with the title of generalissimo. + </p> + <p> + Oxenstiern was alarmed by the receipt of the mutinous demands of the + troops on the Danube, and was disgusted when he saw those demands + virtually supported by their general. His first thought was to dismiss + Duke Bernhard from the Swedish service; but he saw that if he did so the + disaffection might spread, and that the duke might place himself at the + head of the malcontents and bring ruin upon the cause. He therefore agreed + to bestow at once the Franconian bishoprics upon him, and gave a pledge + that Sweden would defend him in that position. + </p> + <p> + He declined to make him generalissimo of all the armies, but appointed him + commander-in-chief of the forces south of the Maine. The duke accepted + this modification, and had no difficulty in restoring order in the ranks + of his army. But precious months had been wasted before this matter was + brought to a conclusion, and the month of October arrived before the duke + had completed all his preparations and was in a position to move forward. + </p> + <p> + While the delays had been going on Altringer, having been joined by the + army of the Duke of Feria, quitted the line of the Danube, in spite of + Wallenstein's absolute order not to do so, and, evading Horn and + Birkenfeldt, marched into Alsace. The Swedish generals, however, pressed + hotly upon him, and finally drove him out of Alsace. Ratisbon being left + open by Altringer's disobedience to Wallenstein's orders, Duke Bernhard + marched upon that city without opposition, and laid siege to it. + Maximilian of Bavaria was himself there with a force sufficient to defend + the city had he been supported by the inhabitants; but a large majority of + the people were Protestants, and, moreover, bitterly hated the Bavarians, + who had suppressed their rights as a free city. + </p> + <p> + Maximilian wrote urgently to the emperor and to Wallenstein, pledging + himself to maintain Ratisbon if he could receive a reinforcement of 5000 + men. The emperor was powerless; he had not the men to send, but he + despatched to Wallenstein, one after another, seven messengers, urging him + at all hazards to prevent the fall of so important a place. Wallenstein + replied to the order that he would do all in his power, and in presence of + the messengers ordered the Count of Gallas to march with 12,000 men on + Ratisbon, but privately furnished the general with absolute orders, + forbidding him on any account to do anything which might bring on an + action with the duke. + </p> + <p> + Wallenstein's motives in so acting were, as he afterwards assured the + emperor, that he was not strong enough to divide his army, and that he + could best cover Vienna by maintaining a strong position in Bohemia, a + policy which was afterwards justified by the event. Ratisbon resisted for + a short time; but, finding that the promised relief did not arrive, it + capitulated on the 5th of November, Maximilian having left the town before + the surrender. + </p> + <p> + The duke now pushed on towards Vienna, and captured Straubing and + Plattling. John of Werth, who was posted here, not being strong enough to + dispute the passage of the Isar, fell back towards the Bohemian frontier, + hoping to meet the troops which the emperor had urged Wallenstein to send + to his aid, but which never came. Duke Bernhard crossed the Isar + unopposed, and on the 12th came within sight of Passau. + </p> + <p> + So far Wallenstein had not moved; he had seemed to comply with the + emperor's request to save Ratisbon, but had seemed only, and had not set a + man in motion to reinforce John of Werth. He refused, in fact, to fritter + away his army. Had he sent Gallas with 12,000 men to join John of Werth, + and had their united forces been, as was probable, attacked and defeated + by the Swedes, Wallenstein would have been too weak to save the empire. + Keeping his army strong he had the key of the position in his hands. + </p> + <p> + He had fixed upon Passau as the point beyond which Duke Bernhard should + not be allowed to advance, and felt that should he attack that city he and + his army were lost. In front of him was the Inn, a broad and deep river + protected by strongly fortified places; behind him John of Werth, a + bitterly hostile country, and the river Isar. On his left would be + Wallenstein himself marching across the Bohemian forest. When, therefore, + he learned that Duke Bernhard was hastening on from the Isar towards + Passau he put his army in motion and marched southward, so as to place + himself in the left rear of the duke. This movement Duke Bernhard heard of + just when he arrived in sight of Passau, and he instantly recognized the + extreme danger of his position, and perceived with his usual quickness of + glance that to be caught before Passau by Wallenstein and John of Werth + would be absolute destruction. A moment's hesitation and the Swedish army + would have been lost. Without an hour's delay he issued the necessary + orders, and the army retraced its steps with all speed to Ratisbon, and + not stopping even there marched northward into the Upper Palatinate, to + defend that conquered country against Wallenstein even at the cost of a + battle. + </p> + <p> + But Wallenstein declined to fight a battle there. He had but one army, and + were that army destroyed, Duke Bernhard, with the prestige of victory upon + him, could resume his march upon Vienna, which would then be open to him. + Therefore, having secured the safety of the capital, he fell back again + into winter quarters in Bohemia. Thus Ferdinand again owed his safety to + Wallenstein, and should have been the more grateful since Wallenstein had + saved him in defiance of his own orders. + </p> + <p> + At the time he fully admitted in his letters to Wallenstein that the + general had acted wisely and prudently, nevertheless he was continually + listening to the Spaniards, the Jesuits, and the many envious of + Wallenstein's great position, and hoping to benefit by his disgrace, and, + in spite of all the services his great general had rendered him, was + preparing to repeat the humiliation which he had formerly laid upon him + and again to deprive him of his command. + </p> + <p> + Wallenstein was not ignorant of the intrigue against him. Vast as were his + possessions, his pride and ambition were even greater. A consciousness of + splendid services rendered and of great intellectual power, a belief that + the army which had been raised by him and was to a great extent paid out + of his private funds, and which he had so often led to victory, was + devoted to him, and to him alone, excited in his mind the determination to + resist by force the intriguers who dominated the bigoted and narrow minded + emperor, and, if necessary, to hurl the latter from his throne. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX FRIENDS IN TROUBLE + </h2> + <p> + One day in the month of December, when Malcolm Graheme was with his + regiment on outpost duty closely watching the Imperialists, a countryman + approached. + </p> + <p> + “Can you direct me to Captain Malcolm Graheme, who, they tell me, belongs + to this regiment?” + </p> + <p> + “You have come to the right man,” Malcolm said. “I am Captain Graheme—what + would you with me?” + </p> + <p> + “I am the bearer of a letter to you,” the man said, and taking off his cap + he pulled out the lining and brought out a letter hidden beneath it. + </p> + <p> + “I am to ask for some token from you by which it may be known that it has + been safely delivered.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm cut with his dagger the silk with which the letter was fastened. + It began: + </p> + <p> + “From the Lady Hilda, Countess of Mansfeld, to Captain Malcolm Graheme of + Colonel Munro's Scottish regiment.—My dear friend,—I do not + know whether you have heard the misfortune which has fallen upon us. The + town and castle of Mansfeld were captured two months since by a sudden + assault of the Imperialists, and my dear husband was grievously wounded in + the defence. He was brought hither a prisoner, and Thekla and I also + carried here. As the count still lies ill with his wounds he is not placed + in a prison, but we are treated as captives and a close watch is kept upon + us. The count is threatened with the forfeiture of all his possessions + unless he will change sides and join the Imperialists, and some of his + estates have been already conferred upon other nobles as a punishment for + the part he has taken. + </p> + <p> + “Were my husband well and free he would treat the offers with scorn, + believing that the tide will turn and that he will recover his + possessions. Nor even were he certain of their perpetual forfeiture would + he desert the cause of Protestantism. Moreover, the estates which I + brought him in marriage lie in the north of Pomerania, and the income + there from is more than ample for our needs. But the emperor has ordered + that if the count remain contumacious Thekla shall be taken from us and + placed in a convent, where she will be forced to embrace Catholicism, and + will, when she comes of age, be given in marriage to some adherent of the + emperor, who will with her receive the greater portion of her father's + lands. + </p> + <p> + “She is now sixteen years old, and in another year will be deemed + marriageable. My heart is broken at the thought, and I can scarce see the + paper on which I write for weeping. I know not why I send to you, nor does + the count know that I am writing, nor does it seem possible that any aid + can come to us, seeing that we are here in the heart of Bohemia, and that + Wallenstein's army lies between us and you. But somehow in my heart I have + a hope that you may aid us, and at any rate I know that you will + sympathize with us greatly. I feel sure that if there be any mode in which + we may be aided it will be seized by your ready wit. And now adieu! This + letter will be brought to you by a messenger who will be hired by a woman + who attends us, and who has a kind heart as well as an eye to her own + interests. Send back by the messenger some token which she may pass on to + me, that I may know that you have received it. Send no written answer, for + the danger is too great.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm twisted off two or three links of the chain which had long before + been presented to him by the count, and then, until relieved from duty, + paced up and down, slowly revolving in his mind what could best be done to + aid his friends. His mind was at last made up, and when his company was + called in he went to his colonel and asked for leave of absence, stating + his reasons for wishing to absent himself from the regiment. + </p> + <p> + “It is a perilous business, Malcolm,” Colonel Munro said. “I have scarce a + handful of the friends with whom I joined Gustavus but three years and a + half ago remaining, and I can ill spare another; nevertheless I will not + stay you in your enterprise. The Count of Mansfeld has been a steady ally + of ours, and is one of the few who has appeared to have at heart the cause + of Protestantism rather than of personal gain. + </p> + <p> + “Moreover, he is as you say a friend of yours, and has shown you real + kindness in time of need. Therefore go, my boy, and Heaven be with you! It + is not likely that there will be any more serious fighting this year. + Wallenstein lies inactive, negotiating now with Saxony, now with + Oxenstiern. What are his aims and plans Heaven only knows; but at any rate + we have no right to grumble at the great schemer, for ever since Lutzen he + has kept the emperor's best army inactive. Make it a point, Malcolm, to + find out, so far as you can, what is the public opinion in Bohemia as to + his real intentions. If you can bring back any information as to his plans + you will have done good service to the cause, however long your absence + from the camp may be.” + </p> + <p> + That evening Malcolm packed up his armour, arms, court suits, and + valuables, and sent them away to the care of his friend the syndic of the + clockmakers of Nuremberg, with a letter requesting him to keep them in + trust for him until he returned; and in the event of his not arriving to + claim them in the course of six months, to sell them, and to devote the + proceeds to the assistance of sick or wounded Scottish soldiers. Then he + purchased garments suitable for a respectable craftsman, and having + attired himself in these, with a stout sword banging from his leathern + belt, a wallet containing a change of garments and a number of light tools + used in clockmaking, with a long staff in his hand, and fifty ducats sewed + in the lining of the doublet, he set out on foot on his journey. + </p> + <p> + It was nigh three weeks from the time when he started before he arrived at + Prague, for not only had he to make a very long detour to avoid the + contending armies, but he was forced to wait at each considerable town + until he could join a company of travellers going in the same direction, + for the whole country so swarmed with disbanded soldiers, plunderers, and + marauding bands that none thought of traversing the roads save in parties + sufficiently strong to defend themselves and their property. None of those + with whom he journeyed suspected Malcolm to be aught but what he professed + himself—a craftsman who had served his time at a clockmaker's in + Nuremberg, and who was on his way to seek for employment in Vienna. + </p> + <p> + During his three years and a half residence in Germany he had come to + speak the language like a native, and, indeed, the dialect of the + different provinces varied so widely, that, even had he spoken the + language with less fluency, no suspicion would have arisen of his being a + foreigner. Arrived at Prague, his first care was to hire a modest lodging, + and he then set to work to discover the house in which the Count of + Mansfeld was lying as a prisoner. + </p> + <p> + This he had no difficulty in doing without exciting suspicion, for the + count was a well known personage, and he soon found that he and his family + had apartments in a large house, the rest of which was occupied by + Imperialist officers and their families. There was a separate entrance to + the portion occupied by the count, and a sentry stood always at the door. + </p> + <p> + The day after his arrival Malcolm watched the door from a distance + throughout the whole day, but none entered or came out. The next morning + he resumed his watch at a much earlier hour, and presently had the + satisfaction of seeing a woman in the attire of a domestic issue from the + door. She was carrying a basket, and was evidently bent upon purchasing + the supplies for the day. He followed her to the market, and, after + watching her make her purchases, he followed her until, on her return, she + entered a street where but few people were about. There he quickened his + pace and overtook her. + </p> + <p> + “You are the attendant of the Countess of Mansfeld, are you not?” he said. + </p> + <p> + “I am,” she replied; “but what is that to you?” + </p> + <p> + “I will tell you presently,” Malcolm replied, “but in the first place + please inform me whether you are her only attendant, and in the next place + how long you have been in her service. I can assure you,” he went on, as + the woman, indignant at thus being questioned by a craftsman who was a + stranger to her, tossed her head indignantly, and was about to move on, + “that I ask not from any impertinent curiosity. Here is a ducat as a proof + that I am interested in my questions.” + </p> + <p> + The woman gave him a quick and searching glance; she took the piece of + money, and replied more civilly. “I am the only attendant on the countess. + I cannot be said to be in her service, since I have been placed there by + the commandant of the prison, whither the count will be moved in a few + days, but I have been with them since their arrival there, nigh three + months since.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you are the person whom I seek. I am he to whom a certain letter + which you wot of was sent, and who returned by the messenger as token that + he received it two links of this chain.” + </p> + <p> + The woman started as he spoke, and looked round anxiously to see that they + were not observed; then she said hurriedly: + </p> + <p> + “For goodness sake, sir, if you be he, put aside that grave and earnest + look, and chat with me lightly and laughingly, so that if any observe us + speaking they will think that you are trying to persuade me that my face + has taken your admiration. Not so very difficult a task, methinks,” she + added coquettishly, acting the part she had indicated. + </p> + <p> + “By no means,” Malcolm replied laughing, for the girl was really good + looking, “and were it not that other thoughts occupy me at present you + might well have another captive to look after; and now tell me, how is it + possible for me to obtain an interview with the count?” + </p> + <p> + “And the countess, and the Fraulein Thekla,” the girl said laughing, “for + I suppose you are the young Scottish officer of whom the young countess is + always talking. I don't see that it is possible.” + </p> + <p> + “Twenty ducats are worth earning,” Malcolm said quietly. + </p> + <p> + “Very well worth earning,” the woman replied, “but a costly day's work if + they lead to a prison and flogging, if not to the gallows.” + </p> + <p> + “But we must take care that you run no risk,” Malcolm said. “Surely such a + clever head as I see you have can contrive some way for me to get in.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; it might be managed,” the girl said thoughtfully. “The orders were + strict just at first, but seeing that the count cannot move from his + couch, and that the countess and the fraulein have no motive in seeking to + leave him, the strictness has been relaxed. The orders of the sentry are + stringent that neither of the ladies shall be allowed to set foot outside + the door, but I do not think they have any orders to prevent others from + going in and out had they some good excuse for their visit.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it is not so impossible after all,” Malcolm said with a smile, “for + I have an excellent excuse. + </p> + <p> + “What is that?” the woman asked. + </p> + <p> + “The clock in the count's chamber has stopped, and it wearies him to lie + there and not know how the time passes, so he has requested you to fetch + in a craftsman to set it going again.” + </p> + <p> + “A very good plan,” the girl said. “There is a clock, and it shall stop + this afternoon. I will find out from the sentry as I go in whether he has + any orders touching the admission of strangers. If he has I will go across + to the prison and try and get a pass for you. I shall come to market in + the morning.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, with a wave of her hand she tripped on towards the house, which + was now near at hand, leaving Malcolm to arrange his plans for next day. + His first care was to purchase a suit of clothes such as would be worn by + a boy of the class to which he appeared to belong. Then he went to one of + the small inns patronized by the peasants who brought their goods into + market, and without difficulty bargained with one of them for the purchase + of a cart with two oxen, which were to remain at the inn until he called + for them. Then he bought a suit of peasant's clothes, after which, well + satisfied with the day's work, he returned to his lodging. In the morning + he again met the servant. + </p> + <p> + “It was well I asked,” she said, “for the sentry had orders to prevent + any, save nobles and officers, from passing in. However, I went to the + prison, and saw one of the governor's deputies, and told him that the + count was fretting because his clock had stopped, and, as while I said so + I slipped five ducats the countess had given me for the purpose into his + hand, he made no difficulty about giving me the pass. Here it is. Now,” + she said, “I have earned my twenty ducats.” + </p> + <p> + “You have earned them well,” Malcolm replied, handing them to her. + </p> + <p> + “Now mind,” she said, “you must not count on me farther. I don't know what + you are going to do, and I don't want to know. I have run quite a risk + enough as it is, and mean, directly the count is lodged in the prison, to + make my way home, having collected a dowry which will enable me to buy a + farm and marry my bachelor, who has been waiting for me for the last three + years. His father is an old curmudgeon, who has declared that his son + shall never marry except a maid who can bring as much money as he will + give him. I told Fritz that if he would trust to my wits and wait I would + in five years produce the dowry. Now I have treble the sum, and shall go + off and make Fritz happy.” + </p> + <p> + “He is a lucky fellow,” Malcolm said laughing. “It is not every one who + gets beauty, wit, and wealth all together in a wife.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a flatterer,” the girl laughed; “but for all that I think myself + that Fritz is not unfortunate.” + </p> + <p> + “And now tell me,” Malcolm asked, “at what time is the sentry generally + changed?” + </p> + <p> + “At sunrise, at noon, at sunset, and at midnight,” the girl replied; “but + what is that to you?” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind;” Malcolm laughed; “you know you don't want to be told what + I'm going to do. I will tell you if you like.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” the girl replied hurriedly. “I would rather be able to always + take my oath on the holy relics that I know nothing about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” Malcolm replied; “then this afternoon I will call.” + </p> + <p> + Having hidden away under his doublet the suit of boy's clothes, and with + the tools of his trade in a small basket in his hand, Malcolm presented + himself at three o'clock in the afternoon to the sentry at the door + leading to the count's apartments. The soldier glanced at the pass and + permitted him to enter without remark. + </p> + <p> + The waiting maid met him inside and conducted him upstairs, and ushered + him into a spacious apartment, in which the count was lying on a couch, + while the countess and Thekla sat at work beside him. She then retired and + closed the door after her. The count and Thekla looked with surprise at + the young artisan, but the countess ran to meet him, and threw her arms + round his neck as if she had been his mother, while Thekla gave a cry of + delight as she recognized him. + </p> + <p> + “Welcome a thousand times! Welcome, my brave friend!” the countess + exclaimed. “What dangers must you not have encountered on your way hither + to us! The count and Thekla knew not that I had written to you, for I + feared a failure; and when I learned yesterday that you had arrived I + still kept silence, partly to give a joyful surprise to my lord today, + partly because, if the governor called, I was sure that this child's + telltale face would excite his suspicion that something unusual had + happened.” + </p> + <p> + “How imprudent!” the count said, holding out his hand to Malcolm. “Had I + known that my wife was sending to you I would not have suffered her to do + so, for the risk is altogether too great, and yet, indeed, I am truly glad + to see you again.” + </p> + <p> + Thekla gave Malcolm her hand, but said nothing. She had now reached an age + when girls feel a strange shyness in expressing their feelings; but her + hand trembled with pleasure as she placed it in Malcolm's, and her cheek + flushed hotly as, in accordance with the custom of the times, she + presented it to his kiss. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” the count said, “do not let us waste time; tell us quickly by what + miracle you have arrived here, and have penetrated to what is really my + prison. You must be quick, for we have much to say, and your visit must be + a short one for every third day the governor of the prison pays me a visit + to see how I am getting on, and I expect that he will be here ere long.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” Malcolm said, “I had best prepare for his coming, for assuredly I + am not going to hurry away.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he lifted down the great clock which stood on a bracket on the + wall, and placed it on a side table. “I am a clockmaker,” he said, “and am + come to put this machine, whose stopping has annoyed you sadly, into + order.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he took some tools from his basket, removed the works of the + clock, and, taking them in pieces, laid them on the table. + </p> + <p> + “I spent much of my time at Nuremberg,” he said, in answer to the + surprised exclamations of the count, “in learning the mysteries of + horology, and can take a clock to pieces and can put it together again + with fair skill. There, now, I am ready, and if the governor comes he will + find me hard at work. And now I will briefly tell you how I got here; then + I will hear what plans you may have formed, and I will tell you mine.” + </p> + <p> + “For myself, I have no plans,” the count said. “I am helpless, and must + for the present submit to whatever may befall me. That I will not renounce + the cause of my religion you may be sure; as for my wife, we know not yet + whether, when they remove me to the fortress, they will allow her to + accompany me or not. If they do, she will stay with me, but it is more + likely that they will not. The emperor is merciless to those who oppose + him. They will more likely keep her under their eye here or in Vienna. But + for ourselves we care little; our anxiety is for Thekla. It is through her + that they are striking us. You know what they have threatened if I do not + abandon the cause of Protestantism. Thekla is to be placed in a convent, + forced to become a Catholic, and married to the man on whom the emperor + may please to bestow my estates.” + </p> + <p> + “I would rather die, father, than become a Catholic,” Thekla exclaimed + firmly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, dear!” the count said gently, “but it is not death you have to face; + with a fresh and unbroken spirit, it were comparatively easy to die, but + it needs an energy and a spirit almost superhuman to resist the pressure + which may be placed on those who are committed to a convent. The + hopelessness, the silence, the gloom, to say nothing of threats, menaces, + and constant and unremitting pressure, are sufficient to break down the + firmest resolution. The body becomes enfeebled, the nerves shattered, and + the power of resistance enfeebled. No, my darling, brave as you are in + your young strength, you could not resist the influence which would be + brought to bear upon you.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it is clear,” Malcolm said cheerfully, “that we must get your + daughter out of the clutches of the emperor and the nuns.” + </p> + <p> + “That is what I have thought over again and again as I have lain here + helpless, but I can see no means of doing so. We have no friends in the + city, and, could the child be got safely out of this place, there is + nowhere whither she could go.” + </p> + <p> + “And it is for that I have sent for you,” the countess said. “I knew that + if it were in any way possible you would contrive her escape and aid her + to carry it out.” + </p> + <p> + “Assuredly I will, my dear countess,” Malcolm said. “You only wanted a + friend outside, and now you have got one. I see no difficulty about it.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment the door suddenly opened; the waiting maid put in her head + and exclaimed, “The governor is alighting at the door.” Malcolm at once + seated himself at the side table and began oiling the wheels of the clock, + while the countess and Thekla took up their work again and seated + themselves, as before, by the couch of the count. A moment later the + attendant opened the door and in a loud voice announced the Baron of + Steinburg. + </p> + <p> + The governor as he entered cast a keen glance at Malcolm, and then bowing + ceremoniously approached the count and inquired after his health, and paid + the usual compliments to the countess. The count replied languidly that he + gained strength slowly, while the countess said quietly that he had slept + but badly and that his wound troubled him much. It was well for Thekla + that she was not obliged to take part in the conversation, for she would + have found it impossible to speak quietly and indifferently, for every + nerve was tingling with joy at Malcolm's last words. The prospect had + seemed so hopeless that her spirits had sunk to the lowest ebb. Her mother + had done her best to cheer her, but the count, weakened by pain and + illness, had all along taken the most gloomy view. He had told himself + that it was better for the girl to submit to her fate than to break her + heart like a wild bird beating out its life against the bars of its cage, + and he wished to show her that neither he nor the world would blame her + for yielding to the tremendous pressure which would be put upon her. + </p> + <p> + For himself, he would have died a thousand times rather than renounce his + faith; but he told himself that Thekla was but a child, that women cared + little for dogmas, and that she would learn to pray as sincerely in a + Catholic as in a Protestant church, without troubling her mind as to + whether there were gross abuses in the government of the church, in the + sale of absolutions, or errors in abstruse doctrines. But to Thekla it had + seemed impossible that she could become a Catholic. + </p> + <p> + The two religions stood in arms against each other; Catholics and + Protestants differed not only in faith but in politics. In all things they + were actively and openly opposed to each other, and the thought that she + might be compelled to abjure her faith was most terrible to the girl; and + she was firmly resolved that, so long as her strength lasted and her mind + was unimpaired, she would resist whatever pressure might be placed upon + her, and would yield neither to menaces, to solitary confinement, or even + to active cruelty. The prospect, however; had weighed heavily upon her + mind. Her father had appeared to consider any escape impossible; her + mother had said nothing of her hopes; and the words which Malcolm had + spoken, indicating something like a surety of freeing her from her + terrible position, filled her with surprise and delight. + </p> + <p> + “Whom have you here?” the governor asked, indicating Malcolm by a motion + of the head. + </p> + <p> + “It is a craftsman from Nuremberg. The clock had stopped, and the count, + with whom the hours pass but slowly, fretted himself at not being able to + count them; so I asked our attendant to bring hither a craftsman to put it + in order, first sending her with a note to you asking for permission for + him to come; as you were out your deputy signed the order.” + </p> + <p> + “He should not have done so,” the baron said shortly, “for the orders are + strict touching the entry of any here. However, as he has taken the clock + to pieces, he can put it together again.” So saying he went over to the + table where Malcolm was at work and stood for a minute or two watching + him. The manner in which Malcolm fitted the wheels into their places, + filing and oiling them wherever they did not run smoothly, satisfied him + that the youth was what he seemed. + </p> + <p> + “You are young to have completed your apprenticeship,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “It is expired but two months, sir,” Malcolm said, standing up + respectfully. + </p> + <p> + “Under whom did you learn your trade?” the governor asked; “for I have + been in Nuremberg and know most of the guild of clockmakers by name.” + </p> + <p> + “Under Jans Boerhoff, the syndic of the guild,” Malcolm replied. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” the baron said shortly; “and his shop is in—” + </p> + <p> + “The Cron Strasse,” Malcolm said promptly in answer to the implied + question. + </p> + <p> + Quite satisfied now, the baron turned away and conversed a few minutes + with the count, telling him that as the surgeon said he could now be + safely removed he would in three days be transferred to an apartment in + the fortress. + </p> + <p> + “Will the countess be permitted to accompany me?” the count asked. + </p> + <p> + “That I cannot tell you,” the baron replied. “We are expecting a messenger + with his majesty's orders on the subject tomorrow or next day. I have + already informed you that, in his solicitude for her welfare, his majesty + has been good enough to order that the young countess shall be placed in + the care of the lady superior of the Convent of St. Catherine.” + </p> + <p> + A few minutes later he left the room. Not a word was spoken in the room + until the sound of horse's hoofs without told that he had ridden off. + </p> + <p> + As the door closed the countess and Thekla had dropped their work and sat + anxiously awaiting the continuance of the conversation. The count was the + first to speak. + </p> + <p> + “How mean you, Malcolm? How think you it possible that Thekla can escape, + and where could she go?” + </p> + <p> + “I like not to make the proposal,” Malcolm said gravely, “nor under any + other circumstances should I think of doing so; but in a desperate + position desperate measures must be adopted. It is impossible that in your + present state you can escape hence, and the countess will not leave you; + but what is absolutely urgent is that your daughter should be freed from + the strait. Save myself you have no friends here; and therefore, count, if + she is to escape it must be through my agency and she must be committed + wholly to my care. I know it is a great responsibility; but if you and the + countess can bring yourselves to commit her to me I swear to you, as a + Scottish gentleman and a Protestant soldier, that I will watch over her as + a brother until I place her in all honour in safe hands.” + </p> + <p> + The count looked at the countess and at Thekla, who sat pale and still. + </p> + <p> + “We can trust you, Malcolm Graheme,” he said after a pause. “There are + few, indeed, into whose hands we would thus confide our daughter; but we + know you to be indeed, as you say, a Scottish gentleman and a Protestant + soldier. Moreover, we know you to be faithful, honourable, and true. + Therefore we will, seeing that there is no other mode of escape from the + fate which awaits her, confide her wholly to you. And now tell us what are + your plans?” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI FLIGHT + </h2> + <p> + “I THANK you, count, and you, dear lady,” Malcolm said gratefully, “for + the confidence you place in me, and will carry out my trust were it to + cost me my life. My plan is a simple one. The guard will be changed in + half an hour's time. I have brought hither a suit of boy's garments, which + I must pray the Countess Thekla to don, seeing that it will be impossible + for her to sally out in her own garb. I show my pass to the sentry, who + will deem that my companion entered with me, and is my apprentice, and + will suppose that, since the sentry who preceded him suffered him to enter + with me he may well pass him out without question. In the town I have a + wagon in readiness, and shall, disguised as a peasant, start with it this + evening. Thekla will be in the bottom covered with straw. We shall travel + all night. + </p> + <p> + “Tomorrow, when your attendant discovers that your daughter has escaped, + she will at once take the news to the governor. The sentries will all be + questioned, and it will be found that, whereas but one clockmaker came in + two went out. The city will be searched and the country round scoured but + if the horsemen overtake me they will be looking for a craftsman and his + apprentice, and will not suspect a solitary peasant with a wagon. + </p> + <p> + “The first danger over I must be guided by circumstances; but in any case + Thekla must travel as a boy to the end of the journey, for in such + troubled times as these it were unsafe indeed for a young girl to travel + through Germany except under a strong escort of men-at-arms. I design to + make my way to Nuremberg, and shall then place her in the hands of my good + friend Jans Boerhoff, whose wife and daughters will, I am sure, gladly + receive and care for her until the time, which I hope is not far off, that + peace be made and you can again rejoin her.” + </p> + <p> + “The plan is a good one,” the count said when Malcolm had concluded, “and + offers every prospect of success. 'Tis hazardous, but there is no escape + from such a strait as ours without risk. What say you, wife?” + </p> + <p> + “Assuredly I can think of nothing better. But what say you, Thekla? Are + you ready to run the risks, the danger, and the hardships of such a + journey under the protection only of this brave Scottish gentleman?” + </p> + <p> + “I am ready, mother,” Thekla said quickly, “but I wish—I wish”—and + she hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “You wish you could go in your own garments, Thekla, with jewels on your + fingers and a white horse to carry you on a pillion behind your + protector,” the count said with a smile, for his spirits had risen with + the hope of his daughter's escape from the peril in which she was placed. + “It cannot be, Thekla. Malcolm's plan must be carried out to the letter, + and I doubt not that you will pass well as a 'prentice boy. But your + mother must cut off that long hair of yours; I will keep it, my child, and + will stroke it often and often in my prison as I have done when it has + been on your head; your hair may be long again before I next see you.” + </p> + <p> + His eyes filled with tears as he spoke, and Thekla and the countess both + broke into a fit of crying. Leaving them by themselves, Malcolm returned + to his work, and in half an hour had replaced the machinery of the clock + and had set it in motion, while a tender conversation went on between the + count and countess and their daughter. By this time the sun had set, and + the attendant entered and lighted the candles in the apartment, saying, as + she placed one on the table by Malcolm, “You must need a light for your + work.” No sooner had she left the room than Malcolm said: + </p> + <p> + “I would not hurry your parting, countess, but the sooner we are off now + the better.” + </p> + <p> + Without a word the countess rose, and, taking the clothes which Malcolm + produced from his doublet, retired to her chamber, followed by Thekla. + </p> + <p> + “Malcolm Graheme,” the count said, “it may be that we shall not meet + again. The emperor is not tender with obstinate prisoners, and I have no + strength to support long hardships. Should aught happen to me I beseech + you to watch over the happiness of my child. Had she been a year older, + and had you been willing, I would now have solemnly betrothed her to you, + and should then have felt secure of her future whatever may befall me. + Methinks she will make a good wife, and though my estates may be forfeited + by the emperor her mother's lands will make a dowry such as many a German + noble would gladly accept with his wife. + </p> + <p> + “I might betroth her to you now, for many girls are betrothed at a far + younger age, but I would rather leave it as it is. You are young yet, and + she in most matters is but a child, and it would be better in every way + did she start on this adventure with you regarding you as a brother than + in any other light. Only remember that if we should not meet again, and + you in future years should seek the woman who is now a child as your wife, + you have my fullest approval and consent—nay, more, that it is my + dearest wish.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you most deeply for what you have said, count,” Malcolm replied + gravely. “As I have seen your daughter growing up from a child I have + thought how sweet a wife she would make, but I have put the thought from + me, seeing that she is heiress to broad lands and I a Scottish soldier of + fortune, whose lands, though wide enough for me to live in comfort at + home, are yet but a mere farm in comparison with your broad estates. I + have even told myself that as she grew up I must no longer make long stays + in your castle, for it would be dishonourable indeed did I reward your + kindness and hospitality by winning the heart of your daughter; but after + what you have so generously said I need no longer fear my heart, and will, + when the time comes, proudly remind you of your promise. For this journey + I will put all such thoughts aside, and will regard Thekla as my merry + playfellow of the last three years. But after I have once placed her in + safety I shall thenceforward think of her as my wife who is to be, and + will watch over her safety as over my greatest treasure, trusting that in + some happy change of times and circumstances you yourself and the dear + countess, whom I already regard almost as my parents, will give her to + me.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it,” the count said solemnly. “My blessing on you both should I + ne'er see you again. I can meet whatever fate may be before me with + constancy and comfort now that her future is assured—but here they + come.” + </p> + <p> + The door opened, and the countess appeared, followed by Thekla, shrinking + behind her mother's skirts in her boyish attire. + </p> + <p> + “You will pass well,” the count said gravely, for he knew that jest now + would jar upon her. “Keep that cap well down over your eyes, and try and + assume a little more of the jaunty and impudent air of a boy. Fortunately + it will be dark below, and the sentry will not be able to mark how fair is + your skin and how delicate your hands. And now farewell, my child. Let us + not stand talking, for the quicker a parting is over the better. May God + in heaven bless you and keep you! Malcolm knows all my wishes concerning + you, and when I am not with you trust yourself to his advice and guidance + as you would to mine. There, my darling, do not break down. You must be + brave for all our sakes. Should the emperor hold me in durance your mother + will try and join you ere long at Nuremberg.” + </p> + <p> + While the count was embracing Thekla, as she bravely but in vain tried to + suppress her tears, the countess opened the door, and glanced into the + anteroom to see that all was clear and the attendant in her own apartment. + Then she returned, kissed her daughter fondly, and placed her hand in + Malcolm's, saying to the latter, “God bless you, dear friend! Take her + quickly away for her sake and ours.” One last adieu and Malcolm and Thekla + stood alone in the anteroom. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Thekla,” he said firmly, “be brave, the danger is at hand, and your + safety and escape from your fate, and my life, depend upon your calmness. + Do you carry this basket of tools and play your part as my apprentice. + Just as we open the door drop the basket and I will rate you soundly for + your carelessness. Keep your head down, and do not let the light which + swings over the door fall upon your face.” + </p> + <p> + For a minute or two Thekla stood struggling to master her emotions. Then + she said, in a quiet voice, “I am ready now,” and taking up the basket of + tools she followed Malcolm down the stairs. Malcolm opened the door, and + as he did so Thekla dropped the basket. + </p> + <p> + “How stupid you are!” Malcolm exclaimed sharply. “How often have I told + you to be careful! You don't suppose that those fine tools can stand being + knocked about in that way without injury? Another time an' you are so + careless I will give you a taste of the strap, you little rascal.” + </p> + <p> + “What is all this?” the sentry asked, barring the way with his pike, “and + who are you who are issuing from this house with so much noise? My orders + are that none pass out here without an order from the governor.” + </p> + <p> + “And such an order have I,” Malcolm said, producing the document. “There's + the governor's seal. I have been sent for to repair the clock in the Count + of Mansfeld's apartment, and a rare job it has been.” + </p> + <p> + The sentry was unable to read, but he looked at the seal which he had been + taught to recognize. + </p> + <p> + “But there is only one seal,” he said, “and there are two of you.” + </p> + <p> + “Pooh!” Malcolm said scornfully. “Dost think that when ten persons are + admitted to pass in together the governor puts ten seals on the pass? You + see for yourself that it is but a young boy, my apprentice. Why, the + governor himself left scarce an hour ago, and was in the apartment with me + while I was at work. Had it not been all right he would have hauled me to + the prison quickly enough.” + </p> + <p> + As the sentry knew that the governor had left but a short time before he + came on guard this convinced him, and, standing aside, he allowed Malcolm + and his companion to pass. Malcolm made his way first to the apartment he + had occupied, where he had already settled for his lodging. + </p> + <p> + Leaving Thekla below he ran upstairs, and hastily donned the suit of + peasant's clothes, and then making the others into a bundle descended + again, and with Thekla made his way to the quiet spot outside the city + gates where the wagon was standing ready for a start. He had already paid + the peasant half the sum agreed, and now handed him the remainder. + </p> + <p> + “I should scarce have known you,” the peasant said, examining Malcolm by + the light of his pinewood torch. “Why, you look like one of us instead of + a city craftsman.” + </p> + <p> + “I am going to astonish them when I get home,” Malcolm said, “and shall + make the old folks a present of the wagon. So I am going to arrive just as + I was when I left them.” + </p> + <p> + The peasant asked no farther questions, but, handing the torch to Malcolm, + and telling him that he would find half a dozen more in the wagon, he took + his way back to the town, where he intended to sleep in the stables and to + start at daybreak for his home. + </p> + <p> + He thought that the transaction was a curious one; but, as he had been + paid handsomely for his wagon, he troubled not his head about any mystery + there might be in the matter. As soon as he had gone Malcolm arranged the + straw in the bottom of the wagon so as to form a bed; but Thekla said that + for the present she would rather walk with him. + </p> + <p> + “It is weeks since I have been out, and I shall enjoy walking for a time; + besides, it is all so strange that I should have no chance to sleep were I + to lie down.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm at once consented, and taking his place at the head of the oxen, + he started them, walking ahead to light the way and leading them by cords + passed through their nostrils. He had not the least fear of pursuit for + the present, for it had been arranged that the countess should inform + their attendant that Thekla was feeling unwell, and had retired to bed, + and the woman, whatever she might suspect, would take care not to verify + the statement, and it would be well on in the following morning before her + absence was discovered. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm tried his best to distract Thekla's thoughts from her parents, and + from the strange situation in which she was placed, and chatted to her of + the events of the war since he had last seen her, of the route which he + intended to adopt, and the prospects of peace. In two hours' time the + girl, unaccustomed to exercise, acknowledged that she was tired; she + therefore took her place in the wagon. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm covered her up with straw and threw some sacks lightly over her, + and then continued his journey. He travelled all night, and in the morning + stopped at a wayside inn, where his arrival at that hour excited no + surprise, as the peasants often travelled at night, because there was then + less chance of their carts being seized and requisitioned by the troops. + He only stopped a short time to water and feed the oxen, and to purchase + some black bread and cheese. This he did, not because he required it, for + he had an ample supply of provisions in the cart far more suited for + Thekla's appetite than the peasant's fare, but to act in the usual manner, + and so avoid any comment. Thekla was still asleep under the covering, + which completely concealed her. Malcolm journeyed on until two miles + further he came to a wood, then, drawing aside from the road, he unyoked + the oxen and allowed them to lie down, for they had already made a long + journey. Then he woke Thekla, who leaped up gaily on finding that it was + broad daylight. Breakfast was eaten, and after a four hours' halt they + resumed their way, Thekla taking her place in the wagon again, and being + carefully covered up in such a manner that a passerby would not suspect + that anyone was lying under the straw and sacks at one end of the wagon. + Just at midday Malcolm heard the trampling of horses behind him and saw a + party of cavalry coming along at full gallop. The leader drew rein when he + overtook the wagon. + </p> + <p> + “Have you seen anything,” he asked Malcolm, “of two seeming craftsmen, a + man and a boy, journeying along the road?” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm shook his head. “I have seen no one on foot since I started an + hour since.” + </p> + <p> + Without a word the soldiers went on. They had no reason, indeed, for + believing that those for whom they were in search had taken that + particular road. As soon as Thekla's disappearance had been discovered by + the waiting woman she had hurried to the governor, and with much + perturbation and many tears informed him that the young countess was + missing, and that her couch had not been slept on. The governor had at + once hurried to the spot. The count and countess resolutely refused to + state what had become of their daughter. + </p> + <p> + The sentries had all been strictly questioned, and it was found that the + mender of clocks had, when he left, been accompanied by an apprentice whom + the sentry previously on duty asserted had not entered with him. The woman + was then closely questioned; she asserted stoutly that she knew nothing + whatever of the affair. The count had commissioned her to obtain a + craftsman to set the clock in order, and she had bethought her of a young + man whose acquaintance she had made some time previously, and who had + informed her in the course of conversation that he had come from + Nuremberg, and was a clockmaker by trade, and was at present out of work. + She had met him, she said, on several occasions, and as he was a pleasant + youth and comely, when he had spoken to her of marriage she had not been + averse, now it was plain he had deceived her; and here she began to cry + bitterly and loudly. + </p> + <p> + Her story seemed probable enough, for any friend of the count who had + intended to carry off his daughter would naturally have begun by + ingratiating himself with her attendant. She was, however, placed in + confinement for a time. The count and countess were at once removed to the + fortress. Orders were given that the town should be searched thoroughly, + and any person answering to the description which the governor was able to + give of the supposed clockmaker should be arrested, while parties of horse + were despatched along all the roads with orders to arrest and bring to + Prague any craftsman or other person accompanied by a young boy whom they + might overtake by the way. Several innocent peasants with their sons were + pounced upon on the roads and hauled to Prague; but no news was obtained + of the real fugitives, who quietly pursued their way undisturbed further + by the active search which was being made for them. The anger of the + emperor when he heard of the escape of the prize he had destined for one + of his favourite officers was extreme. He ordered the count to be treated + with the greatest rigour, and declared all his estates and those of his + wife forfeited, the latter part of the sentence being at present + inoperative, her estates being in a part of the country far beyond the + range of the Imperialist troops. The waiting maid was after some weeks' + detention released, as there was no evidence whatever of her complicity in + the affair. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm continued his journey quietly towards the frontier of Bavaria; + but, on arriving at a small town within a few miles of Pilsen, he learned + that Wallenstein had fallen back with his army to that place. Much alarmed + at the news he determined to turn off by a cross road and endeavour to + avoid the Imperialists. He had not, however, left the place before a party + of Imperialist horse rode in. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm was at once stopped, and was told that he must accompany the + troops to Pilsen, as they had orders to requisition all carts for the + supply of provisions for the army. Malcolm knew that it was of no use to + remonstrate, but, with many loud grumblings at his hard lot, he moved to + the marketplace, where he remained until all the wagons in the place and + in the surrounding country had been collected. + </p> + <p> + Loud and bitter were the curses which the peasants uttered at finding + themselves taken from their homes and compelled to perform service for + which the pay, if received at all, would be scanty in the extreme. There + was, however, no help for it; and when all were collected they started in + a long procession guarded by the cavalry for Pilsen. On arriving there + they were ordered to take up their station with the great train of wagons + collected for the supply of the army. + </p> + <p> + Thekla had from her hiding place heard the conversation, and was greatly + alarmed at finding that they were again in the power of the Imperialists. + No one, however, approached the wagon, and it was not until darkness had + set in that she heard Malcolm's voice whispering to her to arise quietly. + </p> + <p> + “We must leave the wagon; it will be impossible for you to remain + concealed here longer, for tomorrow I may be sent out to bring in + supplies. For the present we must remain in Pilsen. The whole country will + be scoured by the troops, and it will not be safe to traverse the roads. + Here in Pilsen no one will think of looking for us. + </p> + <p> + “Wallenstein's headquarters are the last place where we should be + suspected of hiding, and you may be sure that, however close the search + may be elsewhere, the governor of Prague will not have thought of + informing Wallenstein of an affair so foreign to the business of war as + the escape from the emperor's clutches of a young lady. I have donned my + craftsman dress again, and we will boldly seek for lodgings.” + </p> + <p> + They soon entered the town, which was crowded with troops, searching about + in the poorer quarters. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm presently found a woman who agreed to let him two rooms. He + accounted for his need for the second room by saying that his young + brother was ill and needed perfect rest and quiet, and that the filing and + hammering which was necessary in his craft prevented the lad from + sleeping. As Malcolm agreed at once to the terms she asked for the rooms, + the woman accepted his statement without doubt. They were soon lodged in + two attics at the top of the house, furnished only with a table, two + chairs, and a truckle bed in each; but Malcolm was well contented with the + shelter he had found. + </p> + <p> + Seeing that it would be extremely difficult at present to journey further, + he determined to remain some little time in the town, thinking that he + might be able to carry out the instructions which he had received from + Colonel Munro, and to obtain information as to the plans of Wallenstein + and the feelings of the army. + </p> + <p> + “You will have to remain a prisoner here, Thekla, I am afraid, almost as + strictly as at Prague, for it would not do to risk the discovery that you + are a girl by your appearing in the streets in daylight, and after dark + the streets of the town, occupied by Wallenstein's soldiers, are no place + for any peaceful persons. + </p> + <p> + “I may as well be here as at Nuremberg,” Thekla said, “and as I shall have + you with me instead of being with strangers, the longer we stay here the + better.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning Malcolm sallied out into the town to see if he could find + employment. There was, however, but one clockmaker in Pilsen, and the war + had so injured his trade that he had discharged all his journeymen, for + clocks were still comparatively rare luxuries, and were only to be seen in + the houses of nobles and rich citizens. Knowing that Wallenstein was + devoted to luxury and magnificence, always taking with him, except when + making the most rapid marches, a long train of baggage and furniture, + Malcolm thought it possible that he might obtain some employment in his + apartments. He accordingly went boldly to the castle where the duke had + established himself, and, asking for his steward, stated that he was a + clockmaker from the workshop of the celebrated horologist, Master Jans + Boerhoff, and could repair any clocks or watches that might be out of + order. + </p> + <p> + “Then you are the very man we need,” the steward said. “My master, the + duke, is curious in such matters, and ever carries with him some half + dozen clocks with his other furniture; and, use what care I will in + packing them, the shaking of the wagons is constantly putting them out of + repair. It was but this morning the duke told me to bring a craftsman, if + one capable of the work could be found in the town, and to get the clocks + put in order, for it displeases him if they do not all keep the time to + the same minute. Follow me.” + </p> + <p> + He led the way into the private apartments of the duke. These were + magnificently furnished, the walls being covered with rich velvet + hangings. Thick carpets brought from the East covered the floors. Indeed, + in point of luxury and magnificence, Wallenstein kept up a state far + surpassing that of his Imperial master. + </p> + <p> + There were several clocks standing on tables and on brackets, for + Wallenstein, although in most respects of a clear and commanding + intellect, was a slave to superstition. He was always accompanied by an + astrologer, who read for him the course of events from the movements of + the stars, who indicated the lucky and unlucky days, and the hours at + which it was not propitious to transact important business. Hence it was + that he placed so great an importance on the exact observance of the hour + by his numerous time pieces. + </p> + <p> + “Here are some of the clocks,” the steward said, indicating them. “Of + course you cannot work here, and they are too heavy to be removed, besides + being too costly to intrust out of my charge, I will have a room prepared + in the castle where you can work. Come again at noon with your tools, and + all shall be in readiness.” + </p> + <p> + At the hour appointed Malcolm again presented himself. + </p> + <p> + “The duke has given personal instructions,” he said, “that a closet close + by shall be fitted up for you, in order that he himself if he chooses may + see you at work.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm was conducted to a small room near at hand. Here one of the clocks + which had stopped had been placed on the table, and he at once set to + work. He soon discovered that one of the wheels had been shaken from its + place by the jolting of the wagons, and that the clock could be set going + by a few minutes work. As, however, his object was to prolong his visit to + the castle as long as possible, he set to work and took it entirely to + pieces. Two hours later the door opened and a tall handsome man of + commanding presence entered. Malcolm rose and bowed respectfully, feeling + that he was in the presence of the great general. + </p> + <p> + “You come from Nuremberg,” Wallenstein said, “as I am told, and have + learned your craft in the workshop of Master Jans Boerhoff, who is well + known as being the greatest master of his craft.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm bowed silently. + </p> + <p> + “It is strange,” Wallenstein muttered to himself, “that this young man's + destiny should be connected with mine; and yet the astrologer said that he + who should present himself at the castle nearest to the stroke of nine + this morning would be a factor in my future, and, as my steward tells me, + the clock sounded nine as this young man addressed him.” He then asked + Malcolm several questions as to the work upon which he was engaged, and + then said abruptly: “Dost know the day and hour on which you were born?” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm was somewhat surprised at the question, for he had not heard the + muttered words of Wallenstein, but he at once replied that he had heard + that he was born at the stroke of midnight on the last day in the year. + </p> + <p> + The duke said no more, but left the closet and proceeded at once to an + apartment near his own bed chamber, which, although he had arrived but a + few hours previously, had already been fitted up for the use of his + astrologer. The walls were hidden by a plain hanging of scarlet cloth; a + large telescope stood at the window, a chart of the heavens was spread out + on the table, and piles of books stood beside it. On the ceiling the signs + of the zodiac had been painted, and some mystical circles had been marked + out on the floor. A tall spare old man with a long white beard was seated + at the table. He rose when Wallenstein entered. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot but think,” the duke said, “that your calculations must for once + have been mistaken, and that there must have been an error in the hour, + for I see not how the destiny of this craftsman, who seems to be a simple + lad, can in any way be connected with mine.” + </p> + <p> + “I have made the calculation three times, your grace,” the old man + replied, “and am sure there is no error.” + </p> + <p> + “He was born,” Wallenstein said, “at midnight on December 31st, 1613. Work + out his nativity, and see what stars were in the ascendant, and whether + there are any affinities between us.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do so at once,” the astrologer said; “by tonight I shall be able + to give your grace the information you require.” + </p> + <p> + “Tonight,” the duke said, “we will go over your calculations together as + to our great enterprise. It is all important that there should be no + mistake. I have for a whole year remained inactive because you told me + that the time had not yet come, and now that you say the propitious moment + is approaching would fain be sure that no error has been committed. All + seems well, the troops are devoted to me, and will fight against + whomsoever I bid them. By lavish gifts and favours I have attached all my + generals firmly to me, and soon this ungrateful emperor shall feel how + rash and foolish he has been to insult the man to whom alone he owes it + that he was not long ago a fugitive and an exile, with the Swedes + victorious masters of his capital and kingdom. + </p> + <p> + “Have not I alone saved him? Did not I at my own cost raise an army and + stand between him and the victorious Gustavus? Have not I alone of all his + generals checked the triumphant progress of the invaders? And yet he + evades all his promises, he procrastinates and falters. Not one step does + he take to give me the sovereignty of Bohemia which he so solemnly + promised me, and seems to think that it is honour and reward enough for me + to have spent my treasure and blood in his service. But my turn is at + hand, and when the hand which saved his throne shall cast him from it he + will learn how rash he has been to have deceived and slighted me. And you + say that the stars last night all pointed to a favourable conjunction, and + that the time for striking the great blow is at hand?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing could be better,” the astrologer said; “Jupiter, your own planet, + and Mars are in the ascendant. Saturn is still too near them to encourage + instant action, but he will shortly remove to another house and then your + time will have come.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it,” Wallenstein said, “and the sooner the better. Now I will leave + you to your studies, and will ride out to inspect the troops, and to see + that they have all that they need, for they must be kept in the best of + humours at present.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII THE CONSPIRACY + </h2> + <p> + The next day Wallenstein again entered Malcolm's workroom and said + abruptly to him: “What deeds of bravery have you performed?” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm looked astonished. + </p> + <p> + “In an idle moment,” the duke said, “having an interest in nativities and + seeing that you were born between two years, I asked my astrologer to work + out the calculations. He tells me that it was fated that you should + perform deeds of notable bravery while still young. It seemed the + horoscope of a soldier rather than of a craftsman, and so I told the sage; + but he will have it that he has made no mistake.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm hesitated for a moment; the blind faith which the otherwise + intelligent and capable general placed in the science of astrology was + well known to the world. Should he deny that he had accomplished any + feats, the duke, believing implicitly the statement which his astrologer + had made him, would suspect that he was not what he seemed; he therefore + replied modestly, “I have done no deeds worthy relating to your + excellency, but I once swam across a swollen river to direct some + travellers who would otherwise have perished, and my neighbours were good + enough to say that none in those parts save myself would have attempted + such a feat.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” the duke exclaimed in a tone of satisfaction, “as usual the stars + have spoken correctly. Doubtless as great courage is required to swim a + river in flood as to charge into the ranks of the enemy.” + </p> + <p> + So saying Wallenstein left the room, filled with a desire to attach to + himself the young man whom his adviser had assured him was in some way + connected with his destiny. Wallenstein a day or two later offered Malcolm + to take him into his permanent service, saying that he was frequently + plagued by the stoppages of his clocks, and desired to have a craftsman + capable of attending to them on his establishment. He even told the young + man that he might expect promotion altogether beyond his present station. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm could not refuse so flattering an offer, and was at once installed + as a member of Wallenstein's household, declining however the use of the + apartment which the steward offered him, saying that he had a sick brother + lodging with him in the town. Mingling with the soldiers in the evenings + Malcolm learned that there were rumours that negotiations for peace were + going on with Saxony and Sweden. This was indeed the case, but Wallenstein + was negotiating on his own behalf, and not on that of the emperor. So far + but little had come of these negotiations, for Oxenstiern had the + strongest doubts of Wallenstein's sincerity, and believed that he was only + trying to gain time and delay operations by pretended proposals for peace. + He could not believe that the great Imperialist general, the right hand of + the emperor, had any real intention of turning against his master. Towards + the end of January there was some excitement in Pilsen owing to the + arrival there of all the generals of the Imperialist army save only + Gallas, Coloredo, and Altringer. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm was sure that such a gathering could only have been summoned by + Wallenstein upon some matter of the most vital importance, and he + determined at all hazards to learn what was taking place, in order that he + might enlighten Oxenstiern as to the real sentiments of the duke. Learning + that the principal chamber in the castle had been cleared, and that a + meeting of the officers would take place there in the evening, he told + Thekla when he went home to his meal at midday that she must not be + surprised if he did not return until a late hour. He continued his work + until nearly six o'clock, the time at which the meeting was to begin, and + then extinguishing his light, he made his way through the passages of the + castle until he reached the council chamber, meeting with no interruption + from the domestics, who were by this time familiar with his person, and + who regarded him as one rising in favour with their master. He waited in + the vicinity of the chamber until he saw an opportunity for entering + unobserved, then he stole into the room and secreted himself behind the + arras beneath a table standing against the wall, and where, being in + shadow, the bulge in the hanging would not attract attention. + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes he heard heavy steps with the clanking of swords and + jingling of spurs, and knew that the council was beginning to assemble. + The hum of conversation rose louder and louder for a quarter of an hour; + then he heard the door of the apartment closed, and knew that the council + was about to commence. The buzz of conversation ceased, and then a voice, + which was that of Field Marshal Illo, one of the three men in + Wallenstein's confidence, rose in the silence. He began by laying before + the army the orders which the emperor had sent for its dispersal to + various parts of the country, and by the turn he gave to these he found it + easy to excite the indignation of the assembly. + </p> + <p> + He then expatiated with much eloquence upon the merits of the army and its + generals, and upon the ingratitude with which the emperor had treated them + after their noble efforts in his behalf. The court, he said, was governed + by Spanish influence. The ministry were in the pay of Spain. Wallenstein + alone had hitherto opposed this tyranny, and had thus drawn upon himself + the deadly enmity of the Spaniards. To remove him from the command, or to + make away with him entirely, had, he asserted, been long the end of their + desires, and until they could succeed they endeavoured to abridge his + power in the field. The supreme command was to be placed in the hands of + the King of Hungary solely to promote the Spanish power in Germany, as + this prince was merely the passive instrument of Spain. + </p> + <p> + It was only with the view of weakening the army that six thousand troops + were ordered to be detached from it, and solely to harass it by a winter + campaign that they were now called upon at this inhospitable season to + undertake the recovery of Ratisbon. The Jesuits and the ministry enriched + themselves with the treasure wrung from the provinces, and squandered the + money intended for the pay of the troops. + </p> + <p> + The general, then, abandoned by the court, was forced to acknowledge his + inability to keep his engagements to the army. For all the services which + for two-and-twenty years he had rendered to the house of Austria, in + return for all the difficulties with which he had struggled, for all the + treasures of his own which he had expended in the Imperial service, a + second disgraceful dismissal awaited him. But he was resolved the matter + should not come to this; he was determined voluntarily to resign the + command before it should be wrested from his hands, “and this,” continued + the speaker, “is what he has summoned you here to make known to you, and + what he has commissioned me to inform you.” + </p> + <p> + It was now for them to say whether they would permit him to leave them; it + was for each man present to consider who was to repay him the sums he had + expended in the emperor's service; how he was ever to reap the rewards for + his bravery and devotion, when the chief who alone was cognizant of their + efforts, who was their sole advocate and champion, was removed from them. + </p> + <p> + When the speaker concluded a loud cry broke from all the officers that + they would not permit Wallenstein to be taken from them. Then a babel of + talk arose, and after much discussion four of the officers were appointed + as a deputation to wait upon the duke to assure him of the devotion of the + army, and to beg him not to withdraw himself from them. The four officers + intrusted with the commission left the room and repaired to the private + chamber of the general. They returned in a short time, saying that the + duke refused to yield. + </p> + <p> + Another deputation was sent to pray him in even stronger terms to remain + with them. These returned with the news that Wallenstein had reluctantly + yielded to their request; but upon the condition that each of them should + give a written promise to truly and firmly adhere to him, neither to + separate or to allow himself to be separated from him, and to shed his + last drop of blood in his defence. Whoever should break this covenant, so + long as Wallenstein should employ the army in the emperor's service, was + to be regarded as a perfidious traitor and to be treated by the rest as a + common enemy. + </p> + <p> + As these last words appeared to indicate clearly that Wallenstein had no + thought of assuming a position hostile to the emperor, or of defying his + authority, save in the point of refusing to be separated from his army, + all present agreed with acclamations to sign the documents required. + </p> + <p> + “Then, gentlemen,” Marshal Illo said, “I will have the document for your + signatures at once drawn up. A banquet has been prepared in the next room, + of which I invite you now all to partake, and at its conclusion the + document shall be ready.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm from his hiding place heard the general movement as the officers + left the apartment, and looking cautiously out from beneath the arras, saw + that the chamber was entirely empty. He determined, however, to remain and + to hear the conclusion of the conference. He accordingly remained quiet + for upwards of an hour. During this time the attendants had entered and + extinguished the lights, as the guests would not return to the council + chamber. + </p> + <p> + He now left his hiding place and made his way to the door which separated + him from the banqueting hall. Listening intently at the keyhole, he heard + the clinking of glasses and the sound of voices loudly raised, and he + guessed that the revelry was at its height. More and more noisy did it + become, for Marshal Illo was plying his guests with wine in order that + they might sign without examination the document which he had prepared for + their signatures. Feeling confident that none would hear him in the state + at which they had now arrived, Malcolm cautiously opened the door an inch + or two, and was able to hear and see all that passed. + </p> + <p> + It was another hour before Marshal Illo produced the document and passed + it round for signature. Many of those to whom it was handed signed it at + once without reading the engagement; but one more sober than the rest + insisted on reading it through, and at once rising to his feet, announced + to the others that the important words “as long as Wallenstein shall + employ the army for the emperor's service,” which had been inserted in the + first draft agreed to by Wallenstein and the deputation, had been omitted. + </p> + <p> + A scene of noisy confusion ensued. Several of the officers declared that + they would not sign the document as it stood. General Piccolomini, who had + only attended the meeting in order that he might inform the emperor, to + whom he was devoted, of what took place there, had drunk so much wine that + he forgot the part he was playing, and rose to his feet and with drunken + gravity proposed the health of the emperor. + </p> + <p> + Louder and louder grew the din of tongues until Count Terzky, who was + alone with Illo and Colonel Kinsky in Wallenstein's confidence, arose, and + in a thundering voice declared that all were perjured villains who should + recede from their engagement, and would, according to their agreements be + treated as enemies by the rest. His menaces and the evident danger which + any who might now draw back would run, overcame the scruples of the + recalcitrants, and all signed the paper. This done the meeting broke up, + and Malcolm, stealing away from his post of observation, made his way back + to his lodgings. + </p> + <p> + He slept little that night. What he had seen convinced him that + Wallenstein was really in earnest in the propositions which he had made to + Oxenstiern and the Elector of Saxony, and that he meditated an open + rebellion against the emperor. It was of extreme importance that + Oxenstiern should be made acquainted with these facts; but it would be + next to impossible to escape from Pilsen, burdened as he was with Thekla, + and to cross the country which intervened between the two armies and which + was constantly traversed by cavalry parties and scouts of both sides. + </p> + <p> + After much deliberation, therefore, he determined upon the bold course of + frankly informing Wallenstein who he was and what he had heard, and to beg + of him to furnish him with an escort to pass through the lines in order + that he might make his way with all speed to Oxenstiern in order to assure + him of the good faith of the duke and of the importance of his frankly and + speedily accepting his proposals. It was possible, of course, that he + might fall a victim to Wallenstein's first anger when he found out that he + had been duped, and the plot in which he was engaged discovered; but he + resolved to run the risk, believing that the duke would see the advantage + to be gained by complying with his proposal. + </p> + <p> + It was necessary, however, to prepare Thekla for the worst. + </p> + <p> + “Thekla,” he said in the morning, “an end has come to our stay here. + Circumstances have occurred which will either enable us to continue our + journey at once and in safety or which may place me in a prison.” + </p> + <p> + Thekla gave a cry of surprise and terror. “I do not think, my dear girl,” + Malcolm went on, “that there is much fear of the second alternative, but + we must be prepared for it. You must obey my instructions implicitly. + Should I not return by nightfall you will know that for a time at least I + have been detained. You will tell the woman of the house, who is aware + that I am employed by Wallenstein, that I have been sent by him to examine + and set in order the clocks in his palace in Vienna in readiness for his + return there, but that as you were too unwell to travel I have bade you + remain here until I return to fetch you. + </p> + <p> + “You have an ample supply of money even without the purse of gold which + the duke presented to me yesterday. You must remain here quietly until the + spring, when the tide of war is sure to roll away to some other quarter, + and I trust that, long ere that, even should I be detained, I shall be + free to come to you again; but if not, do you then despatch this letter + which I have written for you to Jans Boerhoff. In this I tell him where + you are, in order that, if your mother comes to him asking for you, or + your parents are able to write to him to inquire for you, he may inform + them of your hiding place. I have also written you a letter to the + commander of any Swedish force which may enter this town, telling him who + you are, and praying him to forward you under an escort to Nuremberg.” + </p> + <p> + “But what shall I do without you?” Thekla sobbed. + </p> + <p> + “I trust, my dear, that you will not have to do without me, and feel + convinced that tomorrow we shall be upon our way to the Swedish outposts. + I only give you instructions in case of the worst. It troubles me terribly + that I am forced to do anything which may possibly deprive you of my + protection, but my duty to the country I serve compels me to take this + step, which is one of supreme importance to our cause.” + </p> + <p> + It was long before Thekla was pacified, and Malcolm himself was deeply + troubled at the thought that the girl might be left alone and unprotected + in a strange place. Still there appeared every probability that she would + be able to remain there in safety until an opportunity should occur for + her to make her way to Nuremberg. It was with a heavy heart, caused far + more by the thought of Thekla's position than of danger to himself, that + he took his way to the castle; but he felt that his duty was imperative, + and was at heart convinced that Wallenstein would eagerly embrace his + offer. + </p> + <p> + It was not until midday that he was able to see the duke. Wallenstein had + been greatly angered as well as alarmed at the resistance which his scheme + had met with on the previous evening. He had believed that his favours and + liberality had so thoroughly attached his generals to his person that they + would have followed him willingly and without hesitation, even in a war + against the emperor, and the discovery that, although willing to support + him against deprivation from his command, they shrunk alarmed at the idea + of disloyalty to the emperor, showed that his position was dangerous in + the extreme. + </p> + <p> + He found that the signatures to the document had for the most part been + scrawled so illegibly that the writers would be able to repudiate them if + necessary, and that deceit was evidently intended. In the morning he + called together the whole of the generals, and personally received them. + After pouring out the bitterest reproaches and abuse against the court, he + reminded them of their opposition to the proposition set before them on + the previous evening, and declared that this circumstance had induced him + to retract his own promise, and that he should at once resign his command. + </p> + <p> + The generals, in confusion and dismay, withdrew to the antechamber, and + after a short consultation returned to offer their apologies for their + conduct on the previous evening and to offer to sign anew the engagement + which bound them to him. This was done, and it now remained only for + Wallenstein to obtain the adhesion of Gallas, Altringer, and Coloredo, + which, as they held important separate commands, was necessary for the + success of his plan. Messengers were accordingly sent out at once to + request them to come instantly to Pilsen. + </p> + <p> + After this business was despatched and Wallenstein was disengaged he was + informed that Malcolm desired earnestly to speak to him on particular + business. Greatly surprised at the request, he ordered that he should be + shown in to him. + </p> + <p> + “Your excellency,” Malcolm began when they were alone, “what I am about to + say may anger you, but as I trust that much advantage may arise from my + communication, I implore you to restrain your anger until you hear me to + the end, after which it will be for you to do with me as you will.” + </p> + <p> + Still more surprised at this commencement, Wallenstein signed to him to + continue. + </p> + <p> + “I am, sir,” Malcolm went on, “no clockmaker, although, indeed, having + worked for some time in the shop of Master Jans Boerhoff at the time of + the siege of Nuremberg, I am able to set clocks and watches in repair, as + I have done to those which have been placed in my hands here. In reality, + sir, I am a Scottish officer, a captain in the service of Sweden.” + </p> + <p> + Wallenstein gave a short exclamation of angry surprise. “You must not + think, sir, that I have come hither in disguise to be a spy upon the + movements of your army. I came here unwillingly, being captured by your + troops, and forced to accompany them. + </p> + <p> + “I left the Swedish camp on a private mission, having received there a + missive from the Countess of Mansfeld, who, with her husband, was a kind + friend of mine, telling me that they were prisoners of the emperor at + Prague, and begging me to come to their assistance. Bethinking me of the + occupation which had amused my leisure hours during the weary months when + we were shut up by you in Nuremberg, I obtained leave of absence, attired + myself as a craftsman, and made my way to Prague. There I found the count + confined to his couch by a wound and unable to move. The countess had no + thought of quitting him. Her anxiety was wholly for her daughter, a girl + of fifteen, whom the emperor purposed to shut up in a convent and force to + change her religion, and then to bestow her hand upon one of his + favourites, with her father's confiscated estates as her dowry. + </p> + <p> + “I succeeded in effecting her escape, disguised as a boy; I myself + travelling in the disguise of a peasant with a wagon. We were making our + way towards the Swedish lines when we came across your army, which had, + unknown to me, suddenly moved hither. I and my cart were requisitioned for + the service of the army. On the night of my arrival here I resumed my + disguise as a craftsman, left my wagon, and with my young companion took + up my lodging here, intending to remain quietly working at the craft I + assumed until an opportunity offered for continuing our journey. Accident + obtained me employment here, and as rumour said that overtures for peace + were passing between yourself and the Swedish chancellor, I may frankly + say that I determined to use the position in which I accidentally found + myself for the benefit of the country I served, by ascertaining, if I + could, how far your excellency was in earnest as to the offers you were + making. In pursuance of that plan I yesterday concealed myself and + overheard all that passed in the council chamber with the officers, and at + the banquet subsequently.” + </p> + <p> + Wallenstein leapt to his feet with an angry exclamation. + </p> + <p> + “Your excellency will please to remember,” Malcolm went on quietly, “that + I could have kept all this to myself and used it to the benefit or + detriment of your excellency, but it seemed to me that I should benefit at + once your designs and the cause I serve by frankly acquainting you with + what I have discovered. It would be a work of time for me to make my way + with my companion through the lines of your army and to gain those of the + Swedes. I might be slain in so doing and the important information I have + acquired lost. + </p> + <p> + “It is of all things important to you that the Swedish chancellor, whose + nature is cautious and suspicious, should be thoroughly convinced that it + is your intention to make common cause with him and to join him heart and + soul in forcing the emperor to accept the conditions which you and he + united may impose upon him. This the information I have acquired will + assuredly suffice to do, and he will, without doubt, at once set his army + in motion to act in concert with yours.” + </p> + <p> + Wallenstein paced the room for a minute or two in silence. + </p> + <p> + “The stars truly said that you are a brave man and that your destiny is + connected with mine,” he said at length, “for assuredly none but a brave + man would venture to tell me that he had spied into my councils. I see, + however, that what you say is reasonable and cogent, and that the news you + have to tell may well induce Oxenstiern to lay aside the doubts which have + so long kept us asunder and at once to embrace my offer. What, then, do + you propose?” + </p> + <p> + “I would ask, sir,” Malcolm replied, “that you would at once order a + squadron of horse to escort me and my companion through the debatable land + between your army and that of the Swedes, with orders for us to pass + freely on as soon as we are beyond your outposts and in the neighbourhood + of those of the Swedes.” + </p> + <p> + “It shall be done,” Wallenstein said. “In half an hour a squadron of horse + shall be drawn up in the courtyard here, and a horse and pillion in + readiness for yourself and the maiden. In the meantime I will myself + prepare a letter for you to present to the Swedish chancellor with fresh + proposals for common action.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII THE MURDER OF WALLENSTEIN + </h2> + <p> + Malcolm hurried back to his lodging, where he was received with a cry of + delight from Thekla, who had passed the time since he had left her on her + knees praying for his safety. He told her at once that she was about to be + restored to safety among friends, that her troubles were at an end, and + she was again to resume her proper garments which she had brought with her + in the basket containing his tools at the time of her flight. + </p> + <p> + A few minutes sufficed to make the change, and then she accompanied + Malcolm to the castle. Wallenstein's orders had been rapidly carried out; + a squadron of cavalry were formed up in the courtyard, and in front of + them an attendant held a horse with a pillion behind the saddle. Malcolm + lifted Thekla on to the pillion and sprang into the saddle in front of + her. One of Wallenstein's household handed a letter to him and then gave + him into the charge of the officer commanding the squadron, who had + already received his orders. The officer at once gave the word and rode + from the castle followed by the cavalry. + </p> + <p> + As soon as they were out of the town the pace was quickened, and the + cavalcade proceeded at a trot which was kept up with few intermissions + until nightfall, by which time twenty miles had been covered. They halted + for the night in a small town where the soldiers were billeted on the + inhabitants, comfortable apartments being assigned to Malcolm and his + charge. + </p> + <p> + Soon after daybreak the journey was continued. A sharp watch was now kept + up, as at any moment parties of the Swedish cavalry making a raid far in + advance of their lines might be met with. No such adventure happened, and + late in the afternoon the troop halted on the crest of a low hill. + </p> + <p> + “Here,” the officer said, “we part. That town which you see across the + river is held by the Swedes, and you will certainly meet with no + molestation from any of our side as you ride down to it.” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm thanked the officer for the courtesy he had shown him on the + journey, and then rode forward towards the town. It was getting dusk as he + neared the bridge, but as he came close Malcolm's heart gave a bound as he + recognized the green scarves and plumes worn by the sentries at the + bridge. These seeing only a single horseman with a female behind him did + not attempt to question him as he passed; but he reined in his horse. + </p> + <p> + “Whose regiment do you belong to?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + The men looked up in surprise at being addressed in their own language by + one whose attire was that of a simple craftsman, but whom they now saw + rode a horse of great strength and beauty. + </p> + <p> + “We belong to Hamilton's regiment,” they replied. + </p> + <p> + “And where shall I find that of Munro?” + </p> + <p> + “It is lying in quarters fifteen miles away,” one of the soldiers + answered. + </p> + <p> + “Then we cannot get on there tonight,” Malcolm said. “Where are your + officers quartered?” + </p> + <p> + A soldier standing near at once volunteered to act as guide, and in a few + minutes Malcolm arrived at the house occupied by them. He was of course + personally known to all the officers, and as soon as their surprise at his + disguise and at seeing him accompanied by a young lady had subsided, they + received him most heartily. + </p> + <p> + Thekla was at once taken to the house of the burgomaster, which was close + at hand, and handed over to the wife of that functionary for the night, + and Malcolm spent a merry evening with the Scottish officers, to whom he + related the adventures which had so satisfactorily terminated—making, + however, no allusion to the political secrets which he had discovered or + the mission with which he was charged. He was soon furnished from the + wardrobes of the officers with a suit of clothes, and although his + craftsman attire had served him well he was glad to don again the uniform + of the Scottish brigade. + </p> + <p> + “You have cut your narrative strangely short at the end, Graheme,” Colonel + Hamilton said when Malcolm brought his story to a conclusion. “How did you + get away from Pilsen at last, and from whom did you steal that splendid + charger on whom you rode up to the door?” + </p> + <p> + “That is not my own secret, colonel, and I can only tell you at present + that Wallenstein himself gave it to me.” + </p> + <p> + A roar of incredulous laughter broke from the officers round the table. + </p> + <p> + “A likely story indeed, Graheme; the duke was so fascinated with your + talents as a watchmaker that he bestowed a charger fit for his own riding + upon you to carry you across into our lines.” + </p> + <p> + “It does not sound likely, I grant you,” Malcolm said, “but it is true, as + you will acknowledge when the time comes that there will be no longer any + occasion for me to keep the circumstances secret. I only repeat, + Wallenstein gave me the honour of an escort which conducted me to the + crest of the hill two miles away, where, if your sentries and outposts had + been keeping their eyes open, they might have seen them.” + </p> + <p> + It was late before the party broke up, but soon after daylight Malcolm was + again in the saddle, and with Thekla as before on the pillion he continued + his journey, and in three hours reached the town where his regiment was + quartered. + </p> + <p> + Alighting at the door of the colonel's quarters, he led Thekla to his + apartments. The colonel received him with the greatest cordiality and + welcomed Thekla with a kindness which soon put her at her ease, for now + that the danger was past she was beginning to feel keenly the strangeness + of her position. + </p> + <p> + She remembered Colonel Munro perfectly, as he and the other officers of + the regiment had been frequently at her father's during the stay of the + regiment at Maintz. The colonel placed her at once in charge of the wife + of one of the principal citizens, who upon hearing that she was the + daughter of the Count of Mansfeld, well known for his attachment to the + Protestant cause, willingly received her, and offered to retain her as her + guest until an opportunity should occur for sending her on to Nuremberg, + should Malcolm not be able at once to continue his journey to that city. + </p> + <p> + “That,” Colonel Munro said as soon as Malcolm informed him of the + extremely important information he had gained, “is out of the question. + Your news is of supreme importance, it alters the whole course of events, + and offers hopes of an early termination of the struggle. There is no + doubt that Wallenstein is in earnest now, for he has committed himself + beyond reparation. The only question is whether he can carry the army with + him. However, it is clear that you must ride with all haste to Oxenstiern + with your tidings; not a moment must be lost. He is in the Palatinate, and + it will take you four days of hard riding at the least to reach him. + </p> + <p> + “In the meantime, your little maid, who by the way is already nearly a + woman, had best remain here—I will see that she is comfortable and + well cared for, and after all she is as well here as at Nuremberg, as + there is no fear now of an advance of the Imperialists. In case of + anything extraordinary occurring which might render this town an unsafe + abiding place, I will forward her in safety to Nuremberg, even I if I have + to detach a score of my men as her escort.” + </p> + <p> + Before mounting again Malcolm paid a hurried visit to Thekla, who + expressed her contentment with her new abode, and her readiness to stay + there until he should return to take her to Nuremberg, even should it be + weeks before he could do so. + </p> + <p> + “I quite feel among friends now,” she said, “and Colonel Munro and your + Scotch officers will, I am sure, take good care of me till you return.” + </p> + <p> + Glad to feel that his charge was left in good hands Malcolm mounted his + horse with a light heart and galloped away. Four days later he was + closeted with the Swedish chancellor, and relating to him the scene in the + castle at Pilsen. When he had finished his narrative Oxenstiern, who had, + before Malcolm began, read the letter which Wallenstein had sent him, + said: + </p> + <p> + “After what you tell me there can be no longer the slightest doubts of + Wallenstein's intention. Ever since the death of the king he has been + negotiating privately with me, but I could not believe that he was in + earnest or that such monstrous treachery was possible. How could I suppose + that he who has been raised from the rank of a simple gentleman to that of + a duke and prince, and who, save the fortunes which he obtained with his + wives, owes everything to the bounty of the emperor, could be preparing to + turn his arms against him?” + </p> + <p> + “It is true that he has done great things for Ferdinand, but his ambition + is even greater than his military talent. Any other man would have been + content with the enormous possessions and splendid dignity which he has + attained, and which in fact render him far richer than his Imperial + master; but to be a prince does not suffice for him. He has been promised + a kingdom, but even that is insufficient for his ambition. It is clear + that he aims to dethrone the emperor and to set himself up in his place; + however, his ingratitude does not concern me, it suffices now that at any + rate he is sincere, and that a happy issue out of the struggle opens + before us henceforth. + </p> + <p> + “I can trust him thoroughly; but though he has the will to join us has he + the power? Wallenstein, with his generals and his army fighting for the + emperor, is a mighty personage, but Wallenstein a rebel is another + altogether. By what you tell me it seems more than doubtful whether his + officers will follow him; and although his army is attached to him, and + might follow him could he put himself at its head, it is scattered in its + cantonments, and each section will obey the orders which the general in + its command may give. + </p> + <p> + “Probably some of those who signed the document, pledging their fidelity + to Wallenstein, have already sent news to the emperor of what is being + done. It is a strange situation and needs great care; the elements are all + uncertain. Wallenstein writes to me as if he were assured of the + allegiance of the whole of his army, and speaks unquestionably of his + power to overthrow the emperor; but the man is clearly blinded by his + ambition and infatuated by his fixed belief in the stars. However, one + thing is certain, he and as much of his army as he can hold in hand are + now our allies, and I must lose no time in moving such troops as are most + easily disposable to his assistance. + </p> + <p> + “I will send to Saxony and urge the elector to put in motion a force to + support him, and Duke Bernhard shall move with a division of our troops. I + will at once pen a despatch to Wallenstein, accepting his alliance and + promising him active aid as soon as possible. + </p> + <p> + “What say you, young sir? You have shown the greatest circumspection and + ability in this affair. Will you undertake to carry my despatch? You must + not travel as a Scottish officer, for if there are any traitors among the + officers of Wallenstein they will assuredly endeavour to intercept any + despatches which may be passing between us in order to send them to the + emperor as proofs of the duke's guilt.” + </p> + <p> + “I will undertake the task willingly, sir,” Malcolm replied, “and doubt + not that I shall be able to penetrate to him in the same disguise which I + before wore. When I once reach him is your wish that I should remain near + him, or that I should at once return?” + </p> + <p> + “It were best that you should remain for a time,” the chancellor said. + “You may be able to send me news from time to time of what is passing + around the duke. Before you start, you shall be supplied with an ample + amount of money to pay messengers to bring your reports to me. Wallenstein + hardly appears to see the danger of his situation; but you will be more + clear sighted. It is a strange drama which is being played, and may well + terminate in a tragedy. At any rate the next month will decide what is to + come of these strange combinations.” + </p> + <p> + The horse on which Malcolm had ridden was knocked up from the speed at + which he had travelled, and, ordering it to be carefully tended till his + return, he obtained a fresh horse and again set out. He made the journey + at the same speed at which he had before passed over the ground, and + paused for a few hours only at Amberg, where he found Thekla well and + comfortable, and quite recovered from the effects of her journeys and + anxiety. She received him with delight; but her joy was dashed when she + found that, instead of returning to remain with his regiment, as she had + hoped, he was only passing through on another mission. + </p> + <p> + At Amberg he again laid aside his uniform and donned his costume as a + craftsman. Colonel Munro gave him an escort of twenty troopers; with these + he crossed the river at nightfall, and, making a detour to avoid the + Imperialist outposts, rode some fifteen miles on his way. He then + dismounted and handed over his horse to his escort, who at once started on + their way back to Amberg, while he pursued his journey on foot towards + Pilsen. It was late the next evening before he reached the town; and on + arriving he learned that Wallenstein was still there. + </p> + <p> + The Imperialist general, immediately upon obtaining the signature of his + officers, had sent to urge Altringer and Gallas, who had been absent from + the meeting, to come to him with all speed. Altringer, on pretence of + sickness, did not comply with the invitation. Gallas made his appearance, + but merely with the intention of finding out all Wallenstein's plans and + of keeping the emperor informed of them. Piccolomini had, immediately the + meeting broke up, sent full details of its proceedings to the court, and + Gallas was furnished with a secret commission containing the emperor's + orders to the colonels and officers, granting an amnesty for their + adhesion to Wallenstein at Pilsen, and ordering them to make known to the + army that it was released from its obedience to Wallenstein, and was + placed under the command of Gallas himself, who received orders, if + possible, to arrest Wallenstein. + </p> + <p> + Gallas on his arrival perceived the impossibility of executing his + commission, for Wallenstein's troops and officers were devoted to him, and + not even the crime of high treason could overcome their veneration and + respect for him. Finding that he could do nothing, and fearful that + Wallenstein should discover the commission with which he was charged, + Gallas sought for a pretence to escape from Pilsen, and offered to go to + Altringer and to persuade him to return with him. + </p> + <p> + Wallenstein had no doubts of the fidelity of the general, and allowed him + to depart. As he did not return at once Piccolomini, who was also most + anxious to get out of the grasp of Wallenstein, offered to go and fetch + both Gallas and Altringer. Wallenstein consented, and conveyed Piccolomini + in his own carriage to Lintz. No sooner had Piccolomini left him than he + hurried to his own command, denounced Wallenstein as a traitor, and + prepared to surprise the duke in Pilsen. Gallas at the same time sent + round copies of his commission to all the Imperial camps. + </p> + <p> + Upon his arrival Malcolm at once proceeded to the castle, and, finding the + steward, requested him to inform the duke that he had returned. In a few + minutes he was ushered into his presence, and handed to him the letter + from Oxenstiern. Wallenstein tore it open without a word and gave an + exclamation of satisfaction as he glanced it through. + </p> + <p> + “This is opportune indeed,” he said, “and I thank you for bringing me the + news so rapidly. Well did the astrologer say that my destiny to some + extent depended on you; this is a proof that he was right. The chancellor + tells me that the Duke of Saxe-Lauenberg will march instantly with four + thousand men to join me, and that Duke Bernhard will move down at once + with six thousand of the best Swedish troops. I may yet be even with the + traitors.” + </p> + <p> + Although the defection of Gallas and Piccolomini and the news of the issue + of the Imperial proclamation had fallen with stunning force upon + Wallenstein, he had still faith in the fidelity of the army at large, and + he had already despatched Marshal Terzky to Prague, where all the troops + faithful to him were to assemble, intending to follow himself with the + regiments at Pilsen as soon as carriage could be obtained from the country + round. His astrologer still assured him that the stars were favourable, + and Wallenstein's faith in his own destiny was unshaken. + </p> + <p> + Upon finding that Malcolm had orders to remain with him until he was + joined by Duke Bernhard, he ordered handsome apartments to be prepared for + him, and as there was no longer any reason why the fact that a Swedish + officer was in the castle should be concealed, he commanded that Malcolm + should be furnished with handsome raiment of all sorts and a suit of + superb armour. Upon the following morning Wallenstein sent for him. + </p> + <p> + “I have bad news,” he said. “General Suys with an army arrived at Prague + before Terzky got there, and I fear that the influence of Piccolomini, + Gallas, and Altringer have withdrawn from me the corps which they command. + Terzky will return tomorrow morning, and I shall then march with him and + the troops here to Egra. There I shall effect a junction with Duke + Bernhard, who is instructed to march upon that town.” + </p> + <p> + The duke, though anxious, still appeared confident; but the outlook seemed + to Malcolm extremely gloomy. The whole army save the regiments around + Pilsen had fallen away from Wallenstein. His princely generosity to the + generals and officers and his popularity among the troops had failed to + attach them to him now that he had declared against the emperor, and it + appeared to Malcolm that he would be able to bring over to the Swedish + cause only the corps which he immediately commanded. + </p> + <p> + Still his defection could not but cause a vast gap in the Imperial + defences, and the loss of the services of the greatest of their leaders + would in itself be a heavy blow to the Imperialist cause, which had been + almost solely supported by his commanding talents and his vast private + income. Terzky arrived on the following morning, and the same afternoon + Wallenstein with the whole of the troops at Pilsen marched towards Egra. + </p> + <p> + Among the officers attached to Wallenstein's person was a Scotchman named + Leslie, to whom and a few other confidants Wallenstein had confided his + designs. Wallenstein had at once introduced Malcolm to him, and the two + rode in company during the march to Egra. Malcolm did not find him a + cheerful companion. They chatted at times of the engagements in which both + had taken part although on opposite sides; but Malcolm saw that his + companion was absent and preoccupied, and that he avoided any conversation + as to the turn which events had taken. + </p> + <p> + At the end of the first day's ride Malcolm came to the decided conclusion + that he did not like his companion, and, moreover, that his heart was far + from being in the enterprise on which they were engaged. The following day + he avoided joining him, and rode with some of the other officers. Upon + their arrival at Egra the gates were opened at their approach, and Colonel + Butler, an Irishman who commanded the garrison, met Wallenstein as he + entered, and saluted him with all honour. Wallenstein was pleased to find + that the disaffection which had spread so rapidly through the army had not + reached Egra. + </p> + <p> + A few hours after he had entered the town Wallenstein received the news + that an Imperial edict had been issued proclaiming him a traitor and an + outlaw; he also learned that the corps under the Duke of Saxe-Lauenburg + was within a day's march of Egra. As soon as the duke retired to his + apartments Leslie sought out Colonel Butler, and revealed to him the + purposes of Wallenstein, and informed him of the Imperial order absolving + the army from their allegiance to him. The two men, with Lieutenant + Colonel Gordon, another Imperialist officer, at once determined to capture + Wallenstein and to hand him over as a prisoner to the emperor. + </p> + <p> + In the afternoon Leslie had an interview with Wallenstein, who told him of + the near approach of the Dukes of Saxe-Lauenburg and Saxe-Weimar, and + informed him of his plans for advancing from Egra direct into the heart of + Bohemia. + </p> + <p> + The treacherous officer at once hurried away with the news to his two + associates, and it was agreed that the near approach of the Saxons + rendered it impossible for them to carry out their first plan, but that + instant and more urgent steps must be taken. That evening a banquet was + given by Butler to Wallenstein and his officers. The duke, however, was + too anxious to appear at it, and remained in his own apartment, the rest + of the officers, among them Wallenstein's chief confidants, Illo, Terzky, + and Kinsky, together with Captain Neumann, an intimate adviser of Terzky, + were among the guests. Malcolm was also present. + </p> + <p> + The banquet passed off gaily, Wallenstein's health was drunk in full + bumpers, and his friends boasted freely that in a few days he would find + himself at the head of as powerful an army as he had ever before + commanded. Malcolm had naturally been placed at the table near his + compatriots, and it seemed to him that their gaiety was forced and + unnatural, and a sense of danger came over him. + </p> + <p> + The danger indeed was great, although he knew it not. The drawbridge of + the castle had been drawn up, the avenues leading to it guarded, and + twenty infantry soldiers and six of Butler's dragoons were in hiding in + the apartment next to the banqueting hall. + </p> + <p> + Dessert was placed on the table; Leslie gave the signal, and in an instant + the hall was filled with armed men, who placed themselves behind the + chairs of Wallenstein's trusted officers with shouts of “Long live + Ferdinand!” The three officers instantly sprang to their feet, but Terzky + and Kinsky were slain before they had time to draw their swords. + </p> + <p> + Neumann in the confusion escaped into the court, where he too was cut + down. Illo burst through his assailants, and placing his back against a + window stood on his defence. As he kept his assailants at bay he poured + the bitterest reproaches upon Gordon for his treachery, and challenged him + to fight him fairly and honourably. After a gallant resistance, in which + he slew two of his assailants, he fell to the ground overpowered by + numbers, and pierced with ten wounds. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm had sprung to his feet at the commencement of the tumult, but was + pressed down again into his chair by two soldiers, while Leslie exclaimed, + “Keep yourself quiet, sir, I would fain save you as a fellow countryman, + and as one who is simply here in the execution of his duty; but if you + draw sword to defend these traitors, you must share their fate.” + </p> + <p> + No sooner had the murder of the four officers been accomplished than + Leslie, Butler, and Gordon issued into the town. Butler's cavalry paraded + the streets, and that officer quieted the garrison by telling them that + Wallenstein had been proclaimed a traitor and an outlaw, and that all who + were faithful to the emperor must obey their orders. The regiments most + attached to Wallenstein had not entered the city, and the garrison + listened to the voice of their commander. + </p> + <p> + Wallenstein knew nothing of what had taken place in the castle, and had + just retired to bed when a band of Butler's soldiers, led by Captain + Devereux, an Irishman, burst into his apartment. The duke leaped from his + bed, but before he could snatch up a sword he was pierced through and + through by the murderers' halberts. + </p> + <p> + So fell one of the greatest men of his age. Even to the present day there + are differences of opinion as to the extent of his guilt, but none as to + the treachery with which he was murdered by his most trusted officers. + That Wallenstein owed much gratitude to the emperor is unquestionable, but + upon the other hand he had even a greater title to the gratitude of + Ferdinand, whose crown and empire he had repeatedly saved. Wallenstein was + no bigot, his views were broad and enlightened, and he was therefore + viewed with the greatest hostility by the violent Catholics around the + king, by Maximilian of Bavaria, by the Spaniards, and by the Jesuits, who + were all powerful at court. These had once before brought about his + dismissal from the command, after he had rendered supreme services, and + their intrigues against him were again at the point of success when + Wallenstein determined to defy and dethrone the emperor. The coldness with + which he was treated at court, the marked inattention to all his requests, + the consciousness that while he was winning victories in the field his + enemies were successfully plotting at court, angered the proud and haughty + spirit of Wallenstein almost to madness, and it may truly be said that he + was goaded into rebellion. The verdict of posterity has certainly been + favourable to him, and the dastardly murder which requited a lifetime of + brilliant services has been held to more than counterbalance the faults + which he committed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV MALCOLM'S ESCAPE + </h2> + <p> + After the fall of Wallenstein's colonels Malcolm was led away a prisoner, + and was conducted to a dungeon in the castle. It was not until the door + closed behind him that he could fairly realize what had taken place, so + sudden and unexpected had been the scene in the banqueting hall. Five + minutes before he had been feasting and drinking the health of + Wallenstein, now he was a prisoner of the Imperialists. Wallenstein's + adherents had been murdered, and it was but too probable that a like fate + would befall the general himself. The alliance from which so much had been + hoped, which seemed to offer a prospect of a termination of the long and + bloody struggle, was cut short at a blow. + </p> + <p> + As to his own fate it seemed dark enough, and his captivity might last for + years, for the Imperialists' treatment of their prisoners was harsh in the + extreme. The system of exchange, which was usual then as now, was in + abeyance during the religious war in Germany. There was an almost personal + hatred between the combatants, and, as Malcolm knew, many of his + compatriots who had fallen into the hands of the Imperialists had been + treated with such harshness in prison that they had died there. Some, + indeed, were more than suspected of having been deliberately starved to + death. + </p> + <p> + However, Malcolm had gone through so many adventures that even the scene + which he had witnessed and his own captivity and uncertain fate were + insufficient to banish sleep from his eyes, and he reposed as soundly on + the heap of straw in the corner of his cell as he would have done in the + carved and gilded bed in the apartment which had been assigned to him in + the castle. + </p> + <p> + The sun was shining through the loophole of his dungeon when he awoke. For + an hour he occupied himself in polishing carefully the magnificently + inlaid armour which Wallenstein had presented him, and which, with the + exception of his helmet, he had not laid aside when he sat down to the + banquet, for it was very light and in no way hampered his movements, and + except when quartered in towns far removed from an enemy officers seldom + laid aside their arms. He still retained his sword and dagger, for his + captors, in their haste to finish the first act of the tragedy, and to + resist any rising which might take place among the soldiery, had omitted + to take them from him when they hurried him away. + </p> + <p> + On examination he found that with his dagger he could shove back the lock + of the door, but this was firmly held by bolts without. Thinking that on + some future occasion the blade might be useful to him, he pushed the + dagger well into the lock, and with a sharp jerk snapped it off at the + hilt. Then he concealed the steel within his long boot and cast the hilt + through the loophole. + </p> + <p> + Presently a soldier brought him his breakfast—a manchet of bread and + a stoup of wine. He was visited again at dinner and supper. Before the + soldier came in the first time Malcolm concealed his sword in the straw, + thinking that the soldier would be sure to remove it if he noticed it. The + man who brought his breakfast and dinner was taciturn, and made no reply + to his questions, but another man brought his supper, and he turned out of + a more communicative disposition. + </p> + <p> + “What has happened?” he repeated in reply to Malcolm's question. “Well, I + don't know much about it myself, but I do know that Wallenstein is dead, + for the trooper who rides next to me helped to kill him. Everyone is + content that the traitor has been punished, and as the troops have all + pronounced for the emperor every thing is quiet. We had a good laugh this + afternoon. The colonel sent out one of our men dressed up in Wallenstein's + livery to meet the Duke of Saxe-Lauenburg and invite him to come on at + once and join him here. The duke suspected no danger, and rode on ahead of + his troops, with a few attendants, and you should have seen his face, + when, after passing through the gates, he suddenly found himself + surrounded by our men and a prisoner. Bernhard of Saxe-Weimar will be here + tomorrow, as they say, and we shall catch him in the same way. It's a rare + trap this, I can tell you.” + </p> + <p> + The news heightened Malcolm's uneasiness. The capture of Duke Bernhard, + the most brilliant of the German generals on the Protestant side, would be + a heavy blow indeed to the cause, and leaving his supper untasted Malcolm + walked up and down his cell in a fever of rage at his impotence to prevent + so serious a disaster. + </p> + <p> + At last he ate his supper, and then threw himself upon the straw, but he + was unable to sleep. The death of Wallenstein had made a deep impression + upon him. The Imperialist general was greatly respected by his foes. Not + only was he admired for his immense military talents, but he carried on + the war with a chivalry and humanity which contrasted strongly with the + ferocity of Tilly, Pappenheim, and Piccolomini. Prisoners who fell into + his hands were always treated with courtesy, and although, from motives of + policy, he placed but little check upon the excesses of his soldiery, no + massacres, such as those which had caused the names of Tilly and + Pappenheim to be held in abhorrence by the Protestants of Germany, were + associated with that of Wallenstein. Then, too, the princely dignity and + noble presence of the duke had greatly impressed the young soldier, and + the courtesy with which he had treated him personally had attracted his + liking as well as respect. To think that this great general, this princely + noble, the man who alone had baffled the Lion of the North, had been + foully murdered by those he had trusted and favoured, filled him with + grief and indignation, the more so since two of the principal assassins + were Scotchmen. + </p> + <p> + The thought that on the morrow Duke Bernhard of Weimar—a leader in + importance second only to the Chancellor of Sweden—would fall + unsuspiciously into the trap set for him goaded him almost to madness, and + he tossed restlessly on the straw through the long hours of the night. + Towards morning he heard a faint creaking of bolts, then there was a sound + of the locks of the door being turned. He grasped his sword and sprang to + his feet. He heard the door close again, and then a man produced a lantern + from beneath a long cloak, and he saw Wallenstein's steward before him. + The old man's eyes were bloodshot with weeping, and his face betokened the + anguish which the death of his master had caused him. + </p> + <p> + “You have heard the news?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Alas!” Malcolm replied, “I have heard it indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “I am determined,” the old man said, “to thwart the projects of these + murderers and to have vengeance upon them. None have thought of me. I was + an old man, too insignificant for notice, and I have passed the day in my + chamber lamenting the kindest of lords, the best of masters. Last evening + I heard the soldiers boasting that today they would capture the Duke of + Saxe-Weimar, and I determined to foil them. They have been feasting and + drinking all night, and it is but now that the troopers have fallen into a + drunken slumber and I was able to possess myself of the key of your + dungeon. + </p> + <p> + “Here is your helmet. I will lead you to the stable, where I have saddled + the best and fastest of my master's horses. You must remain there quietly + until you deem that the gates are open, then leap upon the horse, and ride + for your life. Few will know you, and you will probably pass out of the + gate unquestioned. If not, you have your sword to cut your way. Once + beyond the town ride to meet the duke. Tell him my master has been + murdered, that Egra is in the hands of the Imperialists, and that + Saxe-Lauenburg is a prisoner. Bid him march on this place with his force, + take it by assault, and leave not one of the assassins of my lord living + within its walls.” + </p> + <p> + “You will run no risk, I hope, for your share in this adventure,” Malcolm + said. + </p> + <p> + “It matters little to me,” the old man replied. “My life is worthless, and + I would gladly die in the thought that I have brought retribution on the + head of the murderers of my master. But they will not suspect me. I shall + lock the door behind us, and place the key again in the girdle of the + drunken guard, and then return to my own chamber.” + </p> + <p> + Quietly Malcolm and his conductor made their way through the castle and + out into the courtyard. Then they entered the stables. + </p> + <p> + “This is the horse,” the steward said, again uncovering his lantern. “Is + he not a splendid animal? He was my master's favourite, and sooner than + that his murderers should ride him I would cut the throat of the noble + beast with my dagger; but he has a better mission in carrying the avenger + of his master's blood. And now farewell. The rest is in your own hands. + May Heaven give you good fortune.” So saying, the old man set down his + lantern and left Malcolm alone. + </p> + <p> + The latter, after examining the saddle and bridle, and seeing that every + buckle was firm and in its place, extinguished the light, and waited + patiently for morning. In two hours a faint light began to show itself. + Stronger and stronger it grew until it was broad day. Still there were but + few sounds of life and movement in the castle. Presently, however, the + noise of footsteps and voices was heard in the courtyard. + </p> + <p> + Although apprehensive that at any moment the stable door might open, + Malcolm still delayed his start, as it would be fatal were he to set out + before the opening of the gates. At last he felt sure that they must be + opened to admit the country people coming in with supplies for the market. + He had donned his helmet before leaving his cell, and he now quietly + opened the stable door, sprang into the saddle, and rode boldly out. + </p> + <p> + Several soldiers were loitering about the courtyard. Some were washing at + the trough and bathing their heads beneath the fountain to get rid of the + fumes of the wine they had indulged in overnight. Others were cleaning + their arms. + </p> + <p> + The sudden appearance of a mounted officer armed from head to foot caused + a general pause in their occupation, although none had any suspicion that + the splendidly attired officer was a fugitive; but, believing that he was + one of Leslie's friends who was setting out on some mission, they paid no + further heed to him, as quietly and without any sign of haste he rode + through the gateway of the castle into the town. The inhabitants were + already in the streets, country women with baskets were vending their + produce, and the market was full of people. Malcolm rode on at a foot pace + until he was within sight of the open gate of the town. When within fifty + yards of the gate he suddenly came upon Colonel Leslie, who had thus early + been making a tour of the walls to see that the sentries were upon the + alert, for Duke Bernhard's force was within a few miles. He instantly + recognized Malcolm. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” he exclaimed, “Captain Graheme—treachery! treachery! shut the + gate there,” and drawing his sword, threw himself in Malcolm's way. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm touched the horse with his spur and it bounded forward; he parried + the blow which Leslie struck at him, and, with a sweeping cut full on the + traitor's helmet, struck him to the ground and then dashed onward. A + sentry was beginning to shut the gate, and his comrades were running out + from the guardhouse as Malcolm galloped up. + </p> + <p> + The steward had fastened the holsters on to the saddle, and Malcolm, + before starting, had seen to the priming of the pistols in them. Drawing + one he shot the man who was closing the gate, and before his comrades + could run up he dashed through it and over the drawbridge. + </p> + <p> + Several bullets whizzed around him, but he was soon out of range, and + galloping at full speed in the direction in which the steward had told him + that Duke Bernhard was encamped. In half an hour he reached the Swedish + lines, and rode at once to the tent of the duke who was upon the point of + mounting; beside him stood a man in the livery of Wallenstein. As he rode + up Malcolm drew his pistol, and said to the man: + </p> + <p> + “If you move a foot I will send a bullet through your head.” + </p> + <p> + “What is this?” exclaimed the duke in astonishment, “and who are you, sir, + who with such scant courtesy ride into my camp?” + </p> + <p> + Malcolm raised his vizor. “I am Captain Graheme of Munro's regiment,” he + said, “and I have ridden here to warn your excellency of treachery. + Wallenstein has been foully murdered. Egra is in the hands of the + Imperialists, the Duke of Saxe-Lauenburg has been beguiled into a trap and + taken prisoner, and this fellow, who is one of Butler's troopers, has been + sent here to lead you into a like snare.” + </p> + <p> + “Wallenstein murdered!” the duke exclaimed in tones of horror. “Murdered, + say you? Impossible!” + </p> + <p> + “It is but too true, sir,” Malcolm replied; “I myself saw his friends + Illo, Terzky, and Kinsky assassinated before my eyes at a banquet. + Wallenstein was murdered by his favourites Leslie and Gordon and the + Irishman Butler. I was seized and thrown into a dungeon, but have escaped + by a miracle to warn you of your danger.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a blow indeed,” the duke said mournfully. Turning to his + attendants he ordered them to hang the false messenger to the nearest + tree, and then begged Malcolm to follow him into his tent and give him + full details of this terrible transaction. + </p> + <p> + “This upsets all our schemes indeed,” the duke said when he had concluded. + “What is the strength of the garrison at Egra?” + </p> + <p> + “There were Butler's dragoons and an infantry regiment in garrison there + when we arrived; six regiments accompanied us on the march, and I fear + that all these must now be considered as having gone over to the + Imperialists.” + </p> + <p> + “Then their force is superior to my own,” the duke said, “for I have but + six thousand men with me, and have no artillery heavy enough to make any + impression upon the walls of the town. Much as I should like to meet these + traitors and to deal out to them the punishment they deserve, I cannot + adventure on the siege of Egra until I have communicated this terrible + news to the Swedish chancellor. Egra was all important to us as affording + an entrance into Bohemia so long as Wallenstein was with us, but now that + he has been murdered and our schemes thus suddenly destroyed I cannot risk + the destruction of my force by an assault upon the city, which is no + longer of use to us.” + </p> + <p> + Much as Malcolm would have liked to have seen the punishment of + Wallenstein's treacherous followers, he could not but feel that the duke's + view was, under the circumstances, the correct one. The tents were + speedily struck, and the force fell back with all speed towards Bavaria, + and after accompanying them for a march or two, Malcolm left them and rode + to join his regiment, the duke having already sent off a messenger to + Oxenstiern with a full account of the murder of Wallenstein. + </p> + <p> + As none could say what events were likely to follow the changed position + of things, Malcolm determined at once to carry out the original intention + of placing Thekla under the care of his friends at Nuremberg, in which + direction it was not probable that the tide of war would for the present + flow. After staying therefore a day or two with his regiment, where his + relation of the events he had witnessed caused the greatest excitement and + interest, Malcolm obtained leave from his colonel to escort Thekla to + Nuremberg. + </p> + <p> + In order that they might pass in perfect safety across the intervening + country Munro gave him an escort of twelve troopers, and with these he + journeyed by easy stages to Nuremberg, where the worthy syndic of the + clockmakers and his wife gladly received Thekla, and promised to treat her + as one of their own daughters. + </p> + <p> + Here Malcolm took possession of his arms and valises, which he had sent, + upon starting for Prague, to the care of Jans Boerhoff; not indeed that he + needed the armour, for the suit which Wallenstein had given him was the + admiration and envy of his comrades, and Munro had laughingly said that + since Hepburn had left them no such gallantly attired cavalier had ridden + in the ranks of the Scottish brigade. + </p> + <p> + There were many tears on Thekla's part as her young protector bade her + adieu, for there was no saying how long a time might elapse before she + might again see him, and Malcolm was sorely tempted to tell her that he + had her father's consent to wooing her as his wife. He thought it, + however, better to abstain from speaking, for should he fall in the + campaign her grief would be all the greater had she come to think of him + as her destined husband, for her hearty affection for him already assured + him that she would make no objection to carrying out her father's wishes. + </p> + <p> + Shortly after rejoining his regiment Malcolm received a communication from + the Swedish chancellor expressing in high terms his approbation of the + manner in which he had carried out his instructions with regard to + Wallenstein, and especially for the great service he had rendered the + cause by warning the Duke of Saxe-Weimar of the trap which the + Imperialists had set for him. + </p> + <p> + The death of Wallenstein was followed by a short pause in the war. It had + entirely frustrated all the plans and hopes of the Protestants, and it + caused a delay in the movement of the Imperialists. The emperor, when he + heard of Wallenstein's death, heaped favours and honours upon the three + men who had plotted and carried out his murder, and then appointed his son + Ferdinand, King of Hungary, to the chief command of the army, with General + Gallas as his principal adviser. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Lorraine marched with an army to join the Imperialists, who + were also strengthened by the arrival of 10,000 Spanish veterans, and + early in May the new Imperial general entered the Palatinate and marched + to lay siege to Ratisbon. To oppose the Imperial army, which numbered + 35,000 men, Duke Bernhard, after having drawn together all the troops + scattered in the neighbourhood, could only put 15,000 in the field. With + so great a disparity of force he could not offer battle, but in every way + he harassed and interrupted the advance of the Imperialists, while he sent + pressing messages to Oxenstiern for men and money, and to Marshal Horn, + who commanded in Alsace, to beg him march with all haste to his + assistance. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately Horn and Duke Bernhard were men of extremely different + temperaments. The latter was vivacious, enterprising, and daring even to + rashness, ready to undertake any enterprise which offered the smallest + hope of success. Marshal Horn, on the other hand, although a good general, + was slow, over cautious and hesitating, and would never move until his + plans appeared to promise almost a certainty of success. Besides this, + Horn, a Swede, was a little jealous that Duke Bernhard, a German, should + be placed in the position of general-in-chief, and this feeling no doubt + tended to increase his caution and to delay his action. + </p> + <p> + Consequently he was so long a time before he obeyed the pressing messages + sent by the duke, that Ratisbon, after a valiant defence, surrendered on + the 29th of July, before he had effected a junction with the duke's army. + The Imperialists then marched upon Donauworth, and this place, after a + feeble defence, also capitulated. The duke, heartbroken at seeing the + conquests, which had been effected at so great a loss of life and + treasure, wrested from his hands while he was unable to strike a blow to + save them, in despair marched away to Swabia to meet the slowly advancing + army of Marshal Horn. + </p> + <p> + No sooner was the junction effected than he turned quickly back and + reached the vicinity of Nordlingen, only to find the enemy already there + before him, and posted on the more advanced of the two heights which + dominate the plain. By a skillful manoeuvre, however, he was enabled to + throw within its walls a reinforcement to the garrison of eight hundred + men. + </p> + <p> + Nordlingen, an important free town, stands on the south bank of the Ries, + some 18 miles to the northeast of Donauworth. It was surrounded by a wall, + interspersed with numerous towers, sufficiently strong to guard it against + any surprise, but not to defend it against a regular siege by a numerous + army. The vast plain on which the town stands is broken near its centre by + two heights rising at a distance of three thousand yards from each other. + </p> + <p> + The height nearest to the town, which is very steep and craggy, is known + as the Weinberg, the other is called Allersheim; a village stands some + three hundred yards in advance of the valley between the heights, and is + nearer to the town than either of the two eminences. + </p> + <p> + The Scotch brigade formed part of Duke Bernhard's command. It was now + nearly two years since a pitched battle had been fought, for although + there had been many skirmishes and assaults in the preceding year no great + encounter had taken place between the armies since Gustavus fell at + Lutzen, in October, 1632, and the Scotch brigade had not been present at + that battle. In the time which had elapsed many recruits had arrived from + Scotland, and Munro's regiment had been again raised to the strength at + which it had landed at Rugen four years before. Not half a dozen of the + officers who had then, full of life and spirit, marched in its ranks were + now present. Death had indeed been busy among them. On the evening of + their arrival in sight of the Imperialist army the two Grahemes supped + with their colonel. Munro had but just arrived from the duke's quarters. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose we shall fight tomorrow, Munro,” Major Graheme said. + </p> + <p> + “It is not settled,” the colonel replied; “between ourselves the duke and + Horn are not of one mind. The duke wants to fight; he urges that were we + to allow Nordlingen to fall, as we have allowed Ratisbon and Donauworth, + without striking a blow to save it, it would be an evidence of caution and + even cowardice which would have the worst possible effect through Germany. + Nordlingen has ever been staunch to the cause, and the Protestants would + everywhere fall away from us did they find that we had so little care for + their safety as to stand by and see them fall into the hands of the + Imperialists without an effort. It is better, in the duke's opinion, to + fight and to be beaten than to tamely yield Nordlingen to the + Imperialists. In the one case honour would be satisfied and the reformers + throughout Germany would feel that we had done our utmost to save their + co-religionists, on the other hand there would be shame and disgrace.” + </p> + <p> + “There is much in what the duke says,” Nigel Graheme remarked. + </p> + <p> + “There is much,” Munro rejoined; “but there is much also in the arguments + of Horn. He reasons that we are outnumbered, the enemy is superior to us + by at least a third, and to save the town we must attack them in an + immensely strong position, which it will cost us great numbers to capture. + </p> + <p> + “The chances against our winning a victory are fully five to one. Granted + the fall of Nordlingen will injure us in the eyes of the princes and + people of Germany; but with good management on our part the feeling thus + aroused will be but temporary, for we should soon wipe out the reverse. Of + the 35,000 men of which the Imperial army is composed, 8000 at least are + Spaniards who are on their way to Flanders, and who will very shortly + leave it. + </p> + <p> + “On the other hand the Rhinegrave Otto Ludwig is with 7000 men within a + few marches of us; in a short time therefore we shall actually outnumber + the enemy, and shall be able to recover our prestige, just as we recovered + it at Leipzig after suffering Magdeburg to fall. We shall recapture the + towns which he has taken, and if the enemy should dare to accept battle we + shall beat him, and shall be in a position to march upon Vienna.” + </p> + <p> + “Horn's arguments are the strongest,” Nigel Graheme said gravely; “the + course he advises is the most prudent one.” + </p> + <p> + “Undoubtedly,” Munro replied; “but I think that it will not be followed. + The duke is of a fiery spirit, and he would feel it, as most of us would + feel it, a disgrace to fall back without striking a blow for Nordlingen. + He has, too, been goaded nearly to madness during the last few days by + messengers and letters which have reached him from the reformed princes + and the free towns in all parts of Germany, reproaching him bitterly for + having suffered Ratisbon and Donauworth to fall into the hands of the + enemy without a blow, and he feels that his honour is concerned. I have + little doubt that we shall fight a great battle to save Nordlingen.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV NORDLINGEN + </h2> + <p> + While Colonel Munro and his companions were discussing the matter a + council of war was being held, and Duke Bernhard's view was adopted by all + his generals, who felt with him that their honour was involved in the + question, and that it would be disgraceful to march away without striking + a blow to save the besieged city. Horn, therefore, being outvoted, was + forced to give way. Up to nightfall the Imperialists had showed no signs + of an intention to occupy the Weinberg, their forces being massed on and + around the Allersheim Hill. It was determined therefore to seize the + Weinberg at once, and the execution of this step was committed to Horn. + </p> + <p> + The choice was most unfortunate. The service was one upon the prompt + carrying out of which victory depended, and Horn, though a brave and + capable commander, was slow and cautious, and particularly unfitted for + executing a service which had to be performed in a dark night across a + country with which he was not familiar. Taking with him four thousand + chosen musketeers and pikemen and twelve guns he set out at nine o'clock, + but the rough road, the dikes, and ditches which intercepted the country + impeded him, and the fact that he was unacquainted with the general + position of the country made him doubly cautious, and it was not until + midnight that he reached the foot of the hill. + </p> + <p> + Here, unfortunately, he came to the conclusion that since he had + encountered such difficulties in crossing the flat country he should meet + with even greater obstacles and delays in ascending the hill in the dark; + he therefore took the fatal resolution of remaining where he was until + daylight, and accordingly ordered the column to halt. Had he continued his + march he would have reached the summit of the Weinberg unopposed, and the + fate of the battle on the following day would have been changed. But the + Imperialist leaders, Gallas and Cardinal Infanta Don Fernando, had not + been unmindful of the commanding position of the hill upon which Horn was + marching, and had given orders that it should be occupied before daylight + by four hundred Spaniards. + </p> + <p> + The commander of this force was as over prompt in the execution of his + orders as Horn was over cautious. He reached the top of the Weinberg + before midnight, and at once set his men to work to intrench themselves + strongly. As soon as daybreak enabled Horn to see the fatal consequences + which had arisen from his delay he ordered his men to advance. With their + usual gallantry the Swedes mounted the hill and rushed at the + intrenchment. It was defended with the greatest obstinacy and courage by + the Spaniards; but after desperate fighting the Swedes forced their way + into the work at two points, and were upon the point of capturing the + position when an ammunition wagon accidentally exploded in their midst, + killing great numbers and throwing the rest into a temporary disorder, + which enabled the Spaniards to drive them out and again occupy the + intrenchments. + </p> + <p> + Before the Swedes had fully recovered themselves the Spanish cavalry, + which at the first sound of the conflict the cardinal had ordered to the + spot, charged them in flank and forced them to a precipitate retreat down + the hillside. Bitterly regretting his delay at midnight, Horn brought up + fresh troops, and after addressing encouraging words to those who had been + already repulsed, led the united body to the assault. + </p> + <p> + But the Weinberg, which had been occupied in the early morning by only + four hundred men, was now defended by the whole of the Spanish infantry. + Vain now was the energy of Horn, and ineffectual the valour of his troops. + Time after time did the Swedes climb the hill and strive to obtain a + footing on its crest, each assault was repulsed with prodigious slaughter. + Duke Bernhard was now fully engaged with the Imperialists on the + Allersheim, and was gradually gaining ground. Seeing, however, how + fruitless were the efforts of Horn to capture the Weinberg, he despatched + as many of his infantry as he could spare to reinforce the marshal. Among + these was Munro's regiment. + </p> + <p> + “Now, my brave lads,” Colonel Munro shouted, as he led his regiment + against the hill, “show them what Scottish hearts can do.” With a cheer + the regiment advanced. Pressing forward unflinchingly under a hail of + bullets they won their way up the hill, and then gathering, hurled + themselves with a shout upon the heavy masses of Spanish veterans. For a + moment the latter recoiled before the onset; then they closed in around + the Scotch, who had already lost a third of their number in ascending the + hill. + </p> + <p> + Never did the famous regiment fight with greater courage and fury; but + they were outnumbered ten to one, and their opponents were soldiers of + European reputation. In vain the Scotchmen strove to break through the + serried line of pikes which surrounded them. Here and there a knot of + desperate men would win a way through; but ere others could follow them + the Spanish line closed in again and cut them off from their comrades, and + they died fighting to the last. + </p> + <p> + Fighting desperately in the front rank Munro and his officers encouraged + their men with shouts and example; but it was all in vain, and he at last + shouted to the remains of his followers to form in a solid body and cut + their way back through the enemy who surrounded them. Hemmed in as they + were by enemies the Scottish spearmen obeyed, and, headed by their + colonel, flung themselves with a sudden rush upon the enemy. Before the + weight and fury of the charge the veterans of Spain gave way, and the + Scots found themselves on the crest of the hill which they had lately + ascended. No sooner were they free from the Spanish ranks than the + musketeers of the latter opened fire upon them, and numbers fell in the + retreat. When they reached the foot of the fatal hill, and bleeding and + breathless gathered round their commander, Munro burst into tears on + finding that of the noble regiment he had led up the hill scarce enough + remained to form a single company. Seven times now had Horn striven to + carry the hill, seven times had he been repulsed with terrible slaughter, + and he now began to fall back to join the force of Duke Bernhard. The + latter, recognizing that the battle was lost, and that Horn, if not + speedily succoured, was doomed, for the Imperialists, flushed with + victory, were striving to cut him off, made a desperate attack upon the + enemy hoping to draw their whole forces upon himself, and so enable Horn + to retire. For the moment he succeeded, but he was too weak in numbers to + bear the assault he had thus provoked. John of Werth, who commanded the + Imperial cavalry, charged down upon the Swedish horsemen and overthrew + them so completely that these, forced back upon their infantry, threw them + also into complete disorder. + </p> + <p> + The instant Horn had given the orders to retreat, Colonel Munro, seeing + the danger of the force being surrounded, formed up the little remnant of + his regiment and set off at the double to rejoin the force of the duke. It + was well that he did so, for just when he had passed over the intervening + ground the Imperialist cavalry, fresh from the defeat of the Swedes, swept + across the ground, completely cutting off Horn's division from that of the + duke. A few minutes later Marshal Horn, surrounded on all sides by the + enemy, and feeling the impossibility of further resistance with his + weakened and diminished force, was forced to surrender with all his + command. + </p> + <p> + Duke Bernhard narrowly escaped the same fate; but in the end he managed to + rally some nine thousand men and retreated towards the Maine. The defeat + was a terrible one; ten thousand men were killed and wounded, and four + thousand under Horn taken prisoners; all the guns, equipage, and baggage + fell into the hands of the enemy. + </p> + <p> + Nordlingen was the most decisive battle of the war; its effect was to + change a war which had hitherto been really only a civil war—a war + of religion—into one with a foreign enemy. Hitherto France had + contented herself with subsidizing Sweden, who had played the principal + part. Henceforward Sweden was to occupy but a secondary position. Cardinal + Richelieu saw the danger of allowing Austria to aggrandize itself at the + expense of all Germany, and now took the field in earnest. + </p> + <p> + Upon the other hand Nordlingen dissolved the confederacy of the Protestant + German princes against Ferdinand the Second. The Elector of Saxony, who + had ever been vacillating and irresolute in his policy, was the first to + set the example by making peace with the emperor. The Elector of + Brandenburg, Duke William of Weimar, the Prince of Anhalt, the Duke of + Brunswick-Luneburg, the Duke of Mecklenburg, Pomerania, and the cities of + Augsburg, Wurzburg, and Coburg, and many others hastened to follow the + example of all the leading members of the Protestant Union. + </p> + <p> + Dukes Bernhard of Weimar and William of Cassel were almost alone in + supporting the cause to maintain which Gustavus Adolphus had invaded + Germany. The Swedish army, whose exploits had made the court of Vienna + tremble, seemed annihilated, and well might the emperor deem that his + final triumph over Protestantism was complete when he heard of the battle + of Nordlingen, for as yet he dreamed not that its result would bring + France into the field against him. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm Graheme was one of the few officers of Munro's regiment who burst + his way through the Spanish lines on the top of the Weinberg. He was + bleeding from several wounds, but none of them were serious. Nigel was + beside him as they began to descend the hill; but scarcely had he gone a + step when he fell headlong, struck by a ball from an arquebus. Malcolm and + one of the sergeants raised him, and between them carried him to the foot + of the hill; then, when the remains of the regiments started to rejoin + Duke Bernhard, they were forced to leave him. Although Malcolm kept up + with his regiment in the retreat he was so utterly exhausted by loss of + blood that he could no longer accompany them. By the death of so many of + his seniors he was now one of the majors of the regiment, if that could be + called a regiment which was scarce a company in strength. A few days after + the battle Colonel Munro received orders to march with his shattered + remnant, scarce one of whom but was from wounds unfit for present service, + by easy stages to North Germany, there to await the arrival of + reinforcements from Scotland, which might raise the regiment to a strength + which would enable it again to take the field. + </p> + <p> + Malcolm remained behind until his strength slowly returned. The colonel, + before leaving, had bade him take his time before rejoining, as months + would probably elapse before the regiment would again be fit for service. + As soon as he was able to travel he journeyed to Nuremberg. On arriving at + the abode of Jans Boerhoff he learned that Thekla was no longer an inmate + of the family. The Count of Mansfeld had died in prison, and the countess + had arrived at Nuremberg and had taken up her abode there. Malcolm made + his way to the house she occupied. The meeting was an affecting one. + Malcolm was greatly grieved over the death of his staunch friend, and + joined in the sorrow of the countess and her daughter. A few days after + his arrival the countess said to him: + </p> + <p> + “I am of course aware, Malcolm, of the conversation which the count had + with you concerning Thekla, and my wishes fully agreed with his on the + subject. In other times one would not speak of marriage when Thekla's + father had been but two months dead; but it is no time for + conventionalities now. All Southern Germany is falling away from the + Protestant cause, and ere long we may see the Imperialists at the gate of + Nuremberg, and it may be that in a few months the whole of Germany will be + in their power. Therefore, I would that there should be no delay. Thekla + is nearly seventeen; you are twenty-one—over young both to enter + upon the path of matrimony; but the events of the last few months have + made a woman of her, while you have long since proved yourself both in + thoughtfulness and in valour to be a man. Thekla is no longer a great + heiress. Since Nordlingen we may consider that her father's estates have + gone for ever, mine may follow in a few months. Therefore I must ask you, + are you ready to take her without dowry?” + </p> + <p> + “I am,” Malcolm said earnestly, “and that right gladly, for I love her + with all my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “It needs no questioning on my part,” the countess said, “to know that she + loves you as truly, and that her happiness depends wholly on you. I saw + her anguish when the news came of the terrible defeat at Nordlingen and of + the annihilation of some of the Scottish regiments. My heart was wrung by + her silent despair, her white and rigid face, until the news came that you + were among the few who had survived the battle, and, in the outburst of + joy and thankfulness at the news, she owned to me that she loved you, her + only fear being that you cared for her only as a sister, since no word of + love had ever passed your lips. I reassured her on that score by telling + her of your conversation with her father, and that a feeling of duty alone + had kept you silent while she remained under your protection. + </p> + <p> + “However, Malcolm, she will not come to you penniless, for, seeing that it + was possible that the war would terminate adversely, and determined to + quit the country should he be forbidden to worship according to his own + religion here, the count has from time to time despatched considerable + sums to the care of a banker at Hamburg, and there are now 10,000 gold + crowns in his hands. + </p> + <p> + “There are, moreover, my estates at Silesia, but these I have for sometime + foreseen would follow those of my husband and fall into the hands of the + emperor. Before the death of the count I talked over the whole matter with + him, and he urged me in any case, even should you fall before becoming the + husband of Thekla, to leave this unhappy country and to take refuge + abroad. + </p> + <p> + “Before his death I had an interview with my nearest kinsman, who has + taken sides with the Imperialists, and to him I offered to resign Thekla's + rights as heiress to the estate for the sum of 10,000 crowns. As this was + but three years revenue of the estates, and it secured their possession to + him whether the Imperialists or Swedes were victorious in the struggle, he + consented, after having obtained the emperor's consent to the step, and I + have this morning received a letter from him saying that the money has + been lodged in the hands of the banker at Hamburg, and Thekla and I have + this morning signed a deed renouncing in his favour all claim to the + estate. Thus Thekla has a dowry of 20,000 gold crowns—a sum not + unworthy of a dowry even for the daughter of a Count of Mansfeld; but with + it you must take me also, for I would fain leave the country and end my + days with her.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you keep the dowry so long as you live, countess,” Malcolm said + earnestly. “It is more than the richest noble in Scotland could give with + his daughter. My own estate, though small, is sufficient to keep Thekla + and myself in ease, and my pleasure in having you with us will be equal to + hers. You would wish, of course, that I should quit the army and return + home, and, indeed, I am ready to do so. I have had more than enough of + wars and fighting. I have been preserved well nigh by a miracle, when my + comrades have fallen around me like grass. I cannot hope that such fortune + would always attend me. The cause for which I have fought seems lost, and + since the Protestant princes of Germany are hastening to desert it, + neither honour nor common sense demand that I, a soldier of fortune and a + foreigner, should struggle any longer for it; therefore I am ready at once + to resign my commission and to return to Scotland.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it,” the countess said; “but regarding Thekla's dowry I shall + insist on having my way. I should wish to see her in a position similar to + that in which she was born, and with this sum you can largely increase + your estates and take rank among the nobles of your country. Now I will + call Thekla in and leave you to ask her to agree to the arrangements we + have made. + </p> + <p> + “My child,” she went on, as Thekla in obedience to her summons entered the + apartment, “Malcolm Graheme has asked your hand of me. He tells me that he + loves you truly, and is willing to take you as a penniless bride, and to + carry you and me away with him far from these terrible wars to his native + Scotland—what say you, my love?” + </p> + <p> + Thekla affected neither shyness or confusion, her colour hardly heightened + as in her sombre mourning she advanced to Malcolm, and laying her hand in + his, said: + </p> + <p> + “He cannot doubt my answer, mother; he must know that I love him with my + whole heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, my daughter,” the countess said, “I will leave you to yourselves; + there is much to arrange, for time presses, and your betrothal must be + quickly followed by marriage.” + </p> + <p> + It was but a few days later that Malcolm led Thekla to the altar in St. + Sebald's Church, Nuremberg. The marriage was a quiet one, seeing that the + bride had been so lately orphaned, and only Jans Boerhoff and his family, + and two or three Scottish comrades of Malcolm's, who were recovering from + their wounds at Nuremberg, were present at the quiet ceremony. The + following day the little party started for the north. Malcolm had already + received a letter from Oxenstiern accepting his resignation, thanking him + heartily for the good services he had rendered, and congratulating him on + his approaching wedding. + </p> + <p> + Without adventure they reached Hamburg, and there, arranging with the + banker for the transmission of the sum in his hands to Edinburgh, they + took ship and crossed to Scotland. + </p> + <p> + Three months later Malcolm was delighted by the appearance of his uncle + Nigel. The latter was indeed in dilapidated condition, having lost an arm, + and suffering from other wounds. He had been retained a prisoner by the + Imperialists only until he was cured, when they had freed him in exchange + for an Imperial officer who had been captured by the Swedes. + </p> + <p> + Thekla's dowry enabled her husband largely to increase his estates. A new + and handsome mansion was erected at a short distance from the old castle, + and here Malcolm Graheme lived quietly for very many years with his + beautiful wife, and saw a numerous progeny rise around them. + </p> + <p> + To the gratification of both, five years after her coming to Scotland, the + Countess of Mansfeld married Nigel Graheme and the pair took up their + abode in the old castle, which was thoroughly repaired and set in order by + Malcolm for their use, while he and Thekla insisted that the fortune he + had received as a dowry with his wife should be shared by the countess and + Nigel. + </p> + <p> + THE END <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Lion of the North, by G.A. 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