"In other words," said the King, "two armed ruffians are incapable of tackling one priest. Next time I should try four."
"That is what I propose doing to-night, sire," said the General impassively.
The King turned to Saunders, who was seated on his left.
"What does the Englishman advise?" he asked.
"A company of Guards and a squadron of Dragoons," said Saunders curtly.
"An open arrest?" demanded his Majesty.
"Yes, and an open trial," affirmed Saunders. "After all, simplicity has its charms, and Father Bernhardt's popularity is so great that it can hardly be enhanced by a visit to the picturesque prison in the Cathedral Square."
"The Strafeburg!" said Meyer, naming the prison in question. "I fear the good citizens might essay a rescue."
"They certainly would," conceded Saunders, "but the Strafeburg was not erected by a speculative builder. It is made of stone, not papier-maché, and the gentlemen who keep guard over it are not armed with pea-shooters."
The General nodded sagely.