capital marksman, I believe?"

   "Father's the best shot in all Switzerland," piped a youthful voice.

   "He can hit an apple on a tree a hundred yards away. I've seen him.

   Can't you, father?"

   Walter, who had run away when the fighting began, had returned on
seeing his father in the hands of the soldiers.

   Gessler turned a cold eye upon him.

   "Who is this?" he asked.

   "It is my son Walter, your Excellency," said Tell.

   "Your son? Indeed. This is very interesting. Have you any more
children?"

   "I have one other boy."

   "And which of them do you love the most, eh?"

   "I love them both alike, your Excellency."

   "Dear me! Quite a happy family. Now, listen to me, Tell. I know you are
fond of excitement, so I am going to try to give you a little. Your son
says that you can hit an apple on a tree a hundred yards away, and I am
sure you have every right to be very proud of such a feat.
Friesshardt!"

   "Your Excellency?"

   "Bring me an apple."

   Friesshardt picked one up. Some apples had been thrown at him and

   Leuthold earlier in the day, and there were several lying about.

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