became perceptible. More wagons, oxen, with here and there a horseman,came into view, and the neighborhood of a camp was clearly recognized. Were they friends or foes? became a serious question. Turning aside again into the forest, the strangers cautiously felt their way towards the skirts of the camp. Looking through the undergrowth, they perceived that it was not strictly speaking a military encampment they had reached, but rather the motley equipment of a crowd of men and women apparently of the lowest and most ruffianly character. Groups of half ragged men lay here and there, apparently in a state of intoxication. Some low sheltering hovels of branches were occupied by women who bori over soiled and mean raiment, rich shawls and velvets, brocades of costly descriptions which they flaunted with mock dignity. Scattered here and there were rich saddles and pieces of armor. In one place a group of men were busily examining a chest that had been broken open, and holding up the contents to the common gaze. Fine linens, silks and laces were dragged out without regard to value. A pendant lamp with a chain of gold was reached and held up with a shout of savage satisfaction. A necklace of pearls created another peak of hoarse triumph, and a small casket inlaid with ivory and silver was fiercely contended for by the coarse and vulgar crowd. A party of ferocicus plunderers had been in pursuit of spoil, and the abodes of industry and opulence and gentle life had furnished the coveted booty. Silver coin was not lacking, for handfuls of
