“Because I have with me articles of value, and because I have been warned against a certain ‘Host of the Sun,’ who is said to be roving about these parts.”
“Your replies argue much for your audacity, but little for the goodness of your cause. I will give you till to-morrow to discover the truth to me.”
“I shall abide by what I have already said.”
“Let him be conducted to the tower.”
“To the tower? I hope, Herr Superior, that there is still justice in this country. I shall require satisfaction.”
“I will give it you as soon as you are acquitted.”
The next morning the superior reflected that the stranger might be innocent after all; a dictatorial address could effect nothing with his obstinacy, and it might, perhaps, be better to treat him with respect and moderation. He collected the jury of the place, and had the prisoner brought forward.
“Forgive me for the first outbreak, sir, if I accosted you somewhat hardly yesterday.”
“Very readily, if you treat me thus.”
“Our laws are severe, and your affair made a noise. I cannot release you without committing a breach of duty. Appearance is against you, and I wish you would say something, by which it might be refuted.”