Before Hildebad and the people could find an answer to the man who seemed to be Justice personified, the general attention was drawn away to the thick forest which bounded the view to the south, and which suddenly seemed to become alive.
CHAPTER XIV.
For the quick trampling of approaching horses and the jingling of armour was heard in the wood, and soon a little group of horsemen appeared issuing from under the trees, and far in front galloped a man on a coal-black charger, which sped on as if rivalling the rushing of the wind.
The long black locks of the rider waved in the air, as well as the thick black mane which formed the crest of his helmet. Bending forwards, he urged his foaming horse to greater speed, and as he reached the southern entrance to the Ting, sprang from his saddle with a clash.
All gave way as they met the furious glance of his eye. His handsome face was ghastly pale.
He rushed up the incline, sprang upon a stone near Witichis, held on high a roll of parchment, cried with a last effort, "Treachery! treachery!" and fell prone, as if struck by lightning.
Witichis and Hildebad ran to him; they had barely recognised their friend.
"Teja! Teja!" they cried, "what has happened? Speak!"
"Speak," repeated Witichis once more, "it concerns the kingdom!"
At this word the steel-clad man raised himself with a superhuman effort, looked about him for a moment, and then said in a hollow voice: