And the bell that is called Borgstorm summoned the judges to the tribunal of the Vierschare. And they sat under the penthouse, because the grassy banks where they were accustomed to sit were too damp. And round about the tribunal stood the people of the town.
Joos Damman was brought before the judges. He was not in bonds, and he still wore the dress of a nobleman. Katheline was also brought there, but her hands were tied in front of her, and she wore a grey dress, the dress of a prisoner.
On being examined, Joos Damman pleaded guilty to the charge of having killed his friend Hilbert with a sword in single combat; and this he confessed willingly because, as he said, he was protected by the law of Flanders, which made a murderer safe from conviction after the space of ten years.
Then the bailiff asked him if he was a sorcerer.
“No,” replied Damman.
“Prove it,” said the bailiff.
“That I will do at the right time and in the proper place,” said Joos Damman, “but not now.”
Then the bailiff began to question Katheline. She, however, paid no attention to his questions, but kept her eyes fixed on Hans, saying:
“You are my green master. Beautiful you are as the Sun himself. Put out the fire, my pet!”
Then Nele spoke on Katheline’s behalf.