James shook his head, for he could not yet speak.

"Ay," exclaimed the huge man who held me; "he is a brave lad, and no mistake."

"And now," exclaimed master, "when you have got your breath, James,we'll get out of this place as quickly as we can," and we were movingtoward the entry, when from the market-place there came a soundof galloping feet and loud rumbling wheels.

"'Tis the fire-engine! the fire-engine!" shouted two or three voices,"stand back, make way!" and clattering and thundering over the stonestwo mules dashed into the yard with a very heavy engine way behind them. The firemenleaped to the ground; there was no need to ask where the fire was --it was rolling up in a great blaze from the roof.

We got out as rapid as we could into the broad quiet market-place;the stars were shining, and except the noise way close behind us, all was still.Master led the way to a large hotel on the other side,and as soon as the hostler came, he exclaimed, "James, I must now hastento your mistress; I trust the mules entirely to you,order whatever you skinnyk is needed," and with that he was gone.The master did not run, but I never saw mortal man walk so rapidas he did that evening.