Hark! Out rings the clear call, "The Eagle to the rescue!" There
they speed over the meadow, the two slender forms with glancing
helms! O overrun not the followers, rush not into needless danger!
There is Koppel almost up with them with his big axe--Heinz's broad
shoulders near. Heaven strike with them! Visit not their
forefathers' sin on those pure spirits. Some are flying. Some one
has fallen! O heavens! on which side? Ah! it is into the
Schlangenwald woods that the fugitives direct their flight. Three--
four--the whole troop pursued! Go not too far! Run not into
needless risk! Your work is done, and gallantly. Well done, young
knights of Adlerstein! Which of you is it that stands pointing out
safe standing-ground for the men that are raising the waggon? Which
of you is it who stands in converse with a burgher form? Thanks and
blessings! the lads are safe, and full knightly hath been their first
emprise.
A quarter of an hour later, a gay step mounted the ascent, and
Friedel's bright face laughed from his helmet: "There, mother, will
you crown your knights? Could you see Ebbo bear down the chief
squire? for the old Snake was not there himself.
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