"I do swear that I am innocent of the crime they lay to my charge;" and he kissed the book; then holy water was sprinkled upon his feet, and given him to drink.
The decisive moment approached. He looked round, he saw Ethelgiva, her eyes full of tears, her lips moving in prayer.
All fear departed from him.
The bishop blindfolded him.
"My son, trust in God, and in His strength go forward," he whispered.
Alfgar could see nought now. A line of red string was stretched from the bishop's hand to that of a priest at the other extremity, to guide him. Canute advanced, took the end from the priest's hand and held it.
Alfgar started one step. The first iron is passed safely--two, the second cleared. The excitement is intense. Three cleared-- four, five. Ah, he nears the sixth! No, he misses it!--seven, eight--one more--nine! SAVED BY GOD!
Ethelgiva fainted. A deep sound of applause, not even suppressed by the character of the place. Elfwyn received his adopted son in his arms:
"Saved, saved!" he cried.
"Thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory!" replied Alfgar.