Here I stand, here I stand.

I will keep my oath." The carpenter bent his head, and said in a hollow tone: "Come, people, let God's will be done; we have sworn." The burgomaster quietly entered his friend's house.

Frau Van Hout had seen and heard all this, and on the very same day told the story to Maria, her eyes sparkling brightly as she exclaimed: "Never did I see any man so noble as he was in that hour! It is well for us, that he rules within these walls.

Never will our children and children's children forget this deed." They have treasured it in their memories, and during the night succeeding the day on which the burgomaster acted so manly a part, a letter arrived from the Prince, full of joyous and encouraging news.

The noble man had recovered, and was striving with all his power to rescue brave Leyden.