"If we take into consideration," continued the Bürgermeister, "how much damage the said Arno of Arnstein has caused, death by the sword is too mild. Shall he not die on the wheel, or be quartered?"
"Of course!" said the chamberlain, with a knowing nod.
"Certainly!" agreed the syndic.
"How wise!" cried one part of the councillors; "How just!" another.
"I am of opinion," resumed the Bürgermeister, "that the execution should take place immediately, before the said Arno does any more mischief."
"Of course! of course!" cried the assembly.
"But—but—a—" resumed his Worship, hesitating and undecided, "we must first have the criminal in our power, and that is—not—so—easy a matter. Can any one offer advice as to what is to be done?"
Silence! All were dumb. At last one cried, "We must take him prisoner!"
"Quite right," voted the councillors; "he must be taken prisoner."
"That is also my opinion," said the Bürgermeister. "Nevertheless it—is—no—easy matter—to accomplish. We could march out at once with all the armed men we possess, and storm——"