324 THE INVISIBLE PRINCE.

said he, “that you do her this violence ?”—“ Ha, ha, my little
master,” cried he who seemed to be the ringleader of the rest ;
“whomadeyouanexaminer?”—“ I command ye,” said Leander,
* to let her alone and go about your business.” —“ yes, to be
sure,” eried they laughing ; whereupon the prince alighted, put

 

on his red cap, not thinking it otherwise prudent to attack four
who seemed strong enough to fight a dozen. They must have
had good eyes, who could have seen him when his cap was on.
One of them stayed to take care of the young lady, while the three
others went after Gris-de-line, who gave them a great deal of
exercise. The robbers thinking he was fled, “It is not worth.
while to pursue him,” said they, “Only let us catch his horse.”
‘The young lady continued her cries and complaints: “Oh my
dear princess,” said she ; “how happy was I in your palace!
How is it possible for me to live without your company! Did
you but know my sad misfortune, you would send your amazons
to rescue poor Abricotina.” Leander having listened to what she
said, without delay seized the ruffian that held her, and bound