"In the name of the Emperor of Austria, I command you to deliver Herr Hauptmann Leo Goritz."
Renwick laughed madly.
"I regret that that is impossible."
"I beg that you will listen to reason. Austrian troops are all about you. You cannot resist by daylight. If you will deliver the person of Herr Hauptmann Goritz and Countess Strahni, we will leave you in peace."
Renwick paused. Far below in the valley to his right, a new sound broke the stillness of the early morning—rifle-fire close at hand, rapid volleys, and then a scattering of shots which echoed with a new significance up the mountain side. He peered through one of the crenelations of the rampart beside him and could just see through the morning mists the moving mass of rushing men,—horses—guns in mad confusion.
"Well, what is your reply?" came the voice of the Austrian officer.
Renwick laughed again.
"Why should you leave us in peace if you can take the drawbridge?" he shouted.
"Hauptmann Goritz is wanted on the charge of murder. I give you this chance. Will you take it?"
"I regret that it is impossible," replied Renwick.