Thinking perhaps of my danger, she shuddered slightly, and passed her arm within mine, while I prepared to guard her with my life.
We might have escaped without further trouble, but for the action of one of the Nationals, who, angered by the girl's taunts, threw himself across our path.
I requested him to stand back, but he refused insolently, and endeavoured to run me through with his bayonet.
At this several of his comrades came to his assistance, and there was nothing for it but to cut my way out.
Some of the citizens now interfered, crying "Shame" on the soldiers for attacking a girl; and, while our opponents stood undecided, I received a welcome though unexpected reinforcement.
There was a movement in the crowd as of a person pushing his way through; and all at once I beheld my brother, who, crying, "A Botskay to the rescue!" sprang between us and the soldiers.
In either hand he held a loaded pistol, and there was an air of determination in his handsome face which showed he would not hesitate to fire.
I had just told the girl who the newcomer was, when a second man broke through the crowd and joined us.
A giant of a fellow he was, wearing a round hat and furred coat, and carrying in his hand a ponderous club which would have crushed the skull of an ox.
My fair companion cried delightedly, "Franz! Franz!" and the man bowed to her with an air of respectful deference.