THE TWO CAPTAINS.
Page: 17

Her cry for help was unavailing, partly because the Turks imagined
that the magic power of the maiden was annihilated by the almost
equally wondrous deed of the youth, and partly also because the
faithful Heimbert, quickly perceiving his comrade's daring feat, had
led both troops to a renewed attack, and now stood by his side on the
height, fighting hand to hand with the defenders. This time the fury
of the Mussulmans, weakened as they were by superstition and
surprise, could avail nothing against the heroic advance of the
Christian soldiers. The Spaniards and Germans speedily broke through
the enemy, assisted by the watchful squadrons of their army. The
Mohammedans fled with frightful howling, the battle with its stream
of victory rolled ever on, and the banner of the holy German empire
and that of the royal house of Castile waved victorious over the
glorious battle-field before the walls of Tunis.




CHAPTER VII.



In the confusion of the conquering and the conquered, Zelinda had
wrested herself from Fadrique's arms and had fled from him with such
swiftness that, however much love and desire might have given wings
to his pursuit, she was soon out of sight in a spot so well known to
her. All the more vehement was the fury of the excited Spaniard
against the infidel foe. Wherever a little host made a fresh stand
to oppose the Christians, he would hasten forward with the troops,
who ranged themselves round him, resistless as he was, as round a
banner of victory, while Heimbert ever remained at his side like a
faithful shield, guarding off many a danger to which the youth,
intoxicated with rage and success, exposed himself without
consideration. The following day they heard of Barbarossa's flight
from the city, and the victorious troops advanced without resistance
through the gates of Tunis. Fadrique's and Heimbert's companies were
always together.

Thick clouds of smoke began to curl through the streets; the soldiers
were obliged to shake off the glowing and dusty flakes from their
mantles and richly plumed helmets, where they often rested
smouldering. "I trust the enemy in his despair has not set fire to