“When morning came upon us, we soon discovered that the whole country was aroused, because of the destruction of Furstenberg and the looting of Sonneck.  No one knew where the next raid would strike, and therefore the whole country-side was in a turmoil.  Now, the only fact known to the despoiled was that a long black barge had appeared in front of the Castle while the attack was made from behind.  We realized that it would be impossible for us to go up the river except in darkness, so in case of a search we concealed the treasure where it was not likely to be come at, and each day lay quiet at an unfrequented part of the river, rowing all night.  Not until we reached the Main did we venture on a daylight voyage.  It was agreed among us unanimously that the money should be placed in Herr Goebel’s keeping until you returned.”

“That was all excellently done,” commented Roland.  “I have just been to see Herr Goebel, and was surprised to learn how much we had actually taken.  And now I ask you to make a great sacrifice.  This city is starving.  If we give that gold to its relief, the merchants of Frankfort will contribute an equal amount.  I do not know how long such a total will keep the wolves from the doors of Frankfort; probably for six months.  I shall learn definitely to-morrow.”  Here Roland outlined his plan of relief, which was received in silence.

Kurzbold spoke up.

“I should like to know how much the total is?”

“That is a matter with which you have nothing to do,” growled Greusel; then, turning to Roland, who had not yet taken a seat, he said:  “So far as my share is concerned, I agree.”

“I agree,” added Ebearhard; and so it went down along each side of the table until eighteen had spoken.

Kurzbold rose with a smile on his face.

“I don’t know how it is, ex-Captain, that the moment you come among us there seems to arise a spirit of disputation.”

“Curiously enough, Herr Kurzbold, that same thought arose in my mind as I listened to your hilarity before I entered.  I beg to add, for your satisfaction, that this is my last visit to the guild, and never again shall I disturb its harmony.”

“There is no lack of harmony,” cried Ebearhard, laughing, as he rose.  “The agreement has been practically unanimous—­quite unanimous in fact, among those entitled to share in the great treasure.  I believe Herr Kurzbold has a claim, if it has not been forfeited, to the loot of Rheinstein.”

“Now, even the genial Ebearhard,” continued Kurzbold, “although his words are blameless, speaks with a certain tone of acerbity, while my friend Greusel has become gruff as a bear.”

“You need not labor that point, Herr Kurzbold,” said Roland.  “I have resigned.”

“I just wished to remark,” Kurzbold went on, “that I rose for the purpose of stating I had some slight share in something; stolen property; honor among thieves, you know.  Are my rights to this share disputed?”