The Children of Spinalunga 163

we must hold for our safety. If with your
good-will, well and good!”

“We are bound by our loyalty to Flor-
~ ence,” replied the Syndic briefly.

“The sword cuts all bonds,” said the
Free-lance, with a laugh; “but we would
gladly avoid strife. Throw in your lot
with us. All we ask is a pledge that in
the hour of need you will not join Florence
against us.”

“What pledge do you ask?” inquired
the Syndic.

“Let twenty of your children ride back
with us to Pisa,’ said the Free-lance.
“These shall answer for your fidelity.
They shall be cherished and well cared for
during their sojourn.”

Who but Messer Gianni was the angry
man on hearing this?

“ Our children!” he cried; “are we, then,
slaves, that we must needs send you our
little ones as hostages? Guards, here!
Shoot me down this brigand who bids me
surrender your children:to him!”

Bolts flew whizzing from the cross-bows ;
the Free-lance shook his iron gauntlet at the

Syndic, and galloped down the ridge un-