But the _plaisant_ stepped aside, the blow grazed his shoulder, while his own blade, by a rapid counter, passed through the throat of his antagonist. With a shriek, the blood gushing from the wound, the master of the boar fell lifeless on the stairs, his sword clattering downward. At that gruesome sight, his fellows paused irresolute, and, seeing their indecision, the jester rushed headlong upon them, striking fiercely, when their hesitation turned into panic and the knaves fairly fled. Below, the irate landlord stamped and fumed, cuffing and striking as he moved among them with threats and abuse.
"White-livered varlets! Pigeon-hearted rogues! Unmanned by a motley fool! A witling the lords beat with their slippers! Because of a chance blow against an imbecile, or a disabled man, you hesitate. A fig for them! What if they be dead? The spoil will be the greater for the rest."
Thus exhorted, the knaves once more took heart and gathered for the attack. Glaves were provided for those in front, and the _plaisant_ waited, grimly determined, yet liking little the aspect of those terrible weapons and feeling the end of the unequal contest was not far distant, when a light hand was laid on his arm.
"Follow me quickly," said Jacqueline. "We may yet escape. Don't question me, but come!" she went on hurriedly.
Impressed by her earnestness, the jester, after a moment's hesitation, obeyed. She led him to her room, closed and locked the door--but not before a scampering of feet and sound of voices told them the rogues had gained the upper passage--and drew him hastily to the window.
"And at the foot of the ladder, our horses!" he exclaimed, in surprise. "Who has done this?"
Her response was interrupted by a hand at their door and a clamor without, followed by heavy blows.
"Quick, Jacqueline!" he cried, and helped her to the long ladder, set, as it seemed, providentially against the wall.
"Can you do it?" he asked, yet holding her hand. Her eyes gave him answer, and he released her, watching her descend.
The door quivered beneath the general onslaught of the now exultant outlaws, and, as a glave shattered the panel the jester threw himself over the casement. A deafening hubbub ensued; the door suddenly gave way, and the band rushed into the room. At the same time the _plaisant_ ran down the ladder and sprang to the ground at the young girl's side. From above came exclamations of wonder and amazement, mingled with invective.