"Be still, young man, remember that your life is in my hands. When I have finished with your comrade I shall begin with you."
Bertel looked at him with contempt.
"Smith, go on with your work!" said the Jesuit.
And the smith again took the pincers from the fire.
At the same instant a great confusion and noise arose in the next room. They shouted:
"To arms! The Swedes are upon us!"
The door flew open. Some of the peasants seized their guns, others were lying in a drunken sleep on the floor. Outside one could plainly hear the Swedish officer's commands.
"Set the house on fire, boys, we have them all in a trap!"
At these words the Jesuit jumped out of the window.
A hot but short skirmish began by the door. The peasants were overpowered in a few moments and begged for mercy. In reply to this appeal, the foremost were killed, and the rest taken prisoners and bound; the house and booty were taken, and Bertel and his mutilated comrade were released.