"'Well?' he asked, sternly.
"'May I bid farewell to my mother?'
"'No! your mother is too good for such as you. Begone!'
"And with the last harsh word, he lifted an axe from the wall and hurled it after me.
"Then the door shut, and I found myself writhing with pain upon the wet ground.
"The axe had penetrated into my leg. I tried, but could not remove the cruel torment.
"I prayed hard and received strength to stand and then, soon, I was able to drag myself the three weary miles to the prison.
"By this time, my high boot was filled with blood, and the warden received me fainting in his arms.
"When I came to, the warden was binding up my wound, and cursing under his breath.
"'Don't curse. Axel,' I said feebly.