V
The next day, the wind blowing from Brabant, the snow melted and the meadows were flooded.
And the bell called borgstorm called the judges to the tribunal of the Vierschare, under the penthouse, because of the dampness of the turf.
And the populace surrounded the tribunal.
Joos Damman, being interrogated, confessed that he had killed his friend Hilbert in single combat with the sword. When they said to him: “He was smitten with a poignard,” Joos Damman replied: “I struck him on the ground because he died not quick enough. I confess this murder of my own will, being under the protection of the laws of Flanders which forbid the prosecution, after ten years, of a manslayer.”
The bailiff, addressing him:
“Art thou not a sorcerer?” said he.
“No,” replied Damman.
“Prove this,” said the bailiff.