his head in token of refusal.

"Sir Knight," said Manfred, "this is not courteous, but by my good
faith I will not cross thee, nor shalt thou have cause to complain
of the Prince of Otranto. No treachery is designed on my part; I
hope none is intended on thine; here take my gage" (giving him his
ring): "your friends and you shall enjoy the laws of hospitality.
Rest here until refreshments are brought. I will but give orders
for the accommodation of your train, and return to you." The three
Knights bowed as accepting his courtesy. Manfred directed the
stranger's retinue to be conducted to an adjacent hospital, founded
by the Princess Hippolita for the reception of pilgrims. As they
made the circuit of the court to return towards the gate, the
gigantic sword burst from the supporters, and falling to the ground
opposite to the helmet, remained immovable. Manfred, almost
hardened to preternatural appearances, surmounted the shock of this
new prodigy; and returning to the hall, where by this time the
feast was ready, he invited his silent guests to take their places.
Manfred, however ill his heart was at ease, endeavoured to inspire
the company with mirth. He put several questions to them, but was
answered only by signs. They raised their vizors but sufficiently
to feed themselves, and that sparingly.

"Sirs" said the Prince, "ye are the first guests I ever treated
within these walls who scorned to hold any intercourse with me:
nor has it oft been customary, I ween, for princes to hazard their
state and dignity against strangers and mutes. You say you come in
the name of Frederic of Vicenza; I have ever heard that he was a
gallant and courteous Knight; nor would he, I am bold to say, think
it beneath him to mix in social converse with a Prince that is his