And at the same time was heard the cry of pain and a brutal laugh.
"More energetic measures are well enough, but you will get no information.--Four!"
"But it is worth trying."
"Five!"--and a bloody hand fell at Erwin's feet.
"It will be labor in vain; you don't know these bandits; all they are fit for, is to lie and steal!--Seven!--And besides, it is too late now,--here is the last--Eight!--It is all over. Long live the Emperor!" said Hesso.
Among the victims, some had fainted with pain, others had still strength enough to bind up their bleeding arms.
"Have you no orders to dress their wounds?" asked Erwin. "The Emperor has prescribed their punishment, but he does not wish the poor wretches to bleed to death."
"You are right," was the reply. "Where is that quack Lutold? Come here with your plasters, old man."
And while the surgeon, thanks to the interference of the young Count, discharged his duty, Rechberg and his squire took their way to the Imperial camp.