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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f7a379e --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #55364 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/55364) diff --git a/old/55364-0.txt b/old/55364-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c6ffedc..0000000 --- a/old/55364-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,9438 +0,0 @@ -Project Gutenberg's Under King Henry's Banners, by Percy F. Westerman - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: Under King Henry's Banners - A story of the days of Agincourt - -Author: Percy F. Westerman - -Illustrator: John Campbell - -Release Date: August 16, 2017 [EBook #55364] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK UNDER KING HENRY'S BANNERS *** - - - - -Produced by readbueno and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images generously made available by The -Internet Archive/American Libraries.) - - - - - - -[Illustration: - - "HE DEALT A CRASHING BLOW AT THE RECREANT KNIGHT." - - _Frontispiece._ -] - - - - - UNDER KING HENRY'S - BANNERS - - A STORY OF THE DAYS OF AGINCOURT - - - By - PERCY F. WESTERMAN - - Author of - "The Winning of the Golden Spurs," - etc. - - WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY JOHN CAMPBELL - - - LONDON - THE PILGRIM PRESS - 16, PILGRIM STREET, E.C. - - - - - _Fair stood the wind for France - When we our sails advance, - Nor now to prove our chance - Longer will tarry; - But putting to the main - At Kaux, the mouth of Seine, - With all his martial train, - Landed King Harry._ - - _And taking many a fort - Furnish'd in warlike sort - March'd towards Agincourt - In happy hour; - Skirmishing day by day - With those that stop'd his way, - Where the French Gen'ral lay - With all his power._ - - * * * * * - - _Upon Saint Crispin's day - Fought was this noble fray, - Which fame did not delay - To England to carry; - O when shall Englishmen - With such acts fill a pen, - Or England breed again - Such a King Harry?_ - - MICHAEL DRAYTON (1563-1631.) - - - - - CONTENTS - - - CHAP. PAGE - - I HOW NEWS CAME TO WARBLINGTON CASTLE 1 - - II THE RETURN OF THE "GRÂCE À DIEU" 12 - - III HOW A FRIAR AND A LOLLARD MET ON THE HIGHWAY 20 - - IV HOW GEOFFREY LYSLE CROSSED THE CHANNEL 30 - - V HOW THE MERCHANTS TRIED CONCLUSIONS WITH LA - BARRE 41 - - VI THE AFFRAY BY THE RIVER 51 - - VII HOW GEOFFREY CAME TO TAILLEMARTEL 61 - - VIII OF THE AMBUSH LAID BY THE MEN OF TAILLEMARTEL 71 - - IX CONCERNING GEOFFREY'S DESPERATE RESOLVE 85 - - X THE EVE OF ST. SILVESTER 91 - - XI HOW SIR OLIVER GAINED HIS FREEDOM 101 - - XII IN WHICH GEOFFREY IS LAID BY THE HEELS 106 - - XIII THE POSTERN FACED WITH POINTS OF STEEL 116 - - XIV HOW ARNOLD GRIPWELL WAS FREED FROM HIS BONDS 130 - - XV HOW THE THREE COMRADES SEIZED THE FISHING - BOAT 143 - - XVI THE WRECK OF "L'ETOILE" 153 - - XVII OF THE COMPANY AT THE "SIGN OF THE BUCKLE" 161 - - XVIII SQUIRE GEOFFREY 168 - - XIX TREASON 176 - - XX THE TRAITORS' DOOM 189 - - XXI HOW GEOFFREY FARED AT THE SIEGE OF HARFLEUR 198 - - XXII THE MARCH OF THE FORLORN SEVEN THOUSAND 214 - - XXIII THE EVE OF AGINCOURT 224 - - XXIV THE BATTLE OF AGINCOURT 240 - - XXV THE MASSACRE 254 - - XXVI AT THE CASTLE OF SIR RAOUL D'AULX 267 - - XXVII THE SIEGE OF ROUEN 280 - - XXVIII THE FATE OF MALEVEREUX 288 - - XXIX THE GOLDEN SPURS 303 - - - - - LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS - - - MACE IN HAND, HE DEALT A CRUSHING BLOW AT THE _Frontispiece in - RECREANT KNIGHT Colours_ - - IT DID NOT TAKE LONG FOR THE ENGLISHMEN TO - GRASP THE SITUATION 48 - - "THROW ME YON ROPE!" HE SHOUTED 144 - - "SIRE, WERE THERE ANY WHO DWELT IN FEAR OF - THE ISSUE OF THE BATTLE, WOULD THEY SLEEP SO - QUIETLY?" 224 - - WITH SPEAR THRUST AND SWEEP OF AXE THEY FELL - UPON THE STORMERS 288 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - - - -[Illustration] - - - - - UNDER KING HENRY'S - BANNERS - - - - - CHAPTER I - - HOW NEWS CAME TO WARBLINGTON CASTLE - - -It was shortly after dawn, on the morning of March 21, 1413, that a -grizzled man-at-arms climbed the spiral staircase in the south-west -angle of the keep of Warblington Castle. - -He was dressed in a leathern suit, much soiled and frayed by the -frequent wearing of armour, while on his head was a close-fitting cap, -quilted and padded to ease the weight of a steel headpiece. He was -unarmed, save for a long knife that was counterbalanced by a horn slung -from a shoulder-strap of undressed hide. - -Under his left arm he bore a flag, its folds gathered closely to his -side, as if he feared to injure the cherished fabric by contact with the -rough stone walls of the staircase; for the flag he had charge of was -the banner of the renowned knight, Sir Oliver Lysle, of the Castle of -Warblington, in the county of Southampton, and of the Château of -Taillemartel, in the Duchy of Normandy. - -At the one hundred and eleventh step the man-at-arms paused, and, -raising his arm, thrust with all his might against an oaken trap-door, -sheeted on the outside with lead. With a dull thud the door was flung -backwards, and the old soldier gained the summit of the turret, which -stood ten feet above the rest of the battlemented keep. - -Sheltering from the strong north-westerly breeze that whistled over the -machicolated battlements, the man-at-arms gazed steadily—not in a -landward direction, where an almost uninterrupted view extends as far as -the rolling South Downs, neither to the east, where the tall, -needle-like shaft of Chichester Cathedral spire was gradually rearing -itself heavenwards, nor to the west, where the sea and land blended in -the dreary mud banks of Langstone Harbour—but southwards, where, -partially hidden in wreaths of fleecy vapour, the almost landlocked -waters of Chichester Harbour met the open expanse of the English -Channel. - -The sound of footsteps on the stone stairs caused the watcher to turn -his attention to the newcomer. - -"Good morning, fair sir," he exclaimed, as a lad of about fourteen years -of age climbed actively through the trap-door. - -"And to thee, Arnold Gripwell. But how goes it? Dost see aught of the -ship?" - -"Nay, Master Geoffrey; this wind, which is most unseasonable for the -time o' year, hath stirred up much mist, so that the sea cannot be -clearly discerned." - -"'Tis passing strange. Sir Oliver, my father, hath sent word that, God -willing, he would cross the seas from Harfleur on the eve of the Feast -of St. Perpetua. Already fourteen days are spent, and yet he cometh -not." - -"The reason is not far to seek," replied Gripwell, pointing towards the -distant Portsdown Hills. "So long as this wind holdeth the ship is bound -to tarry." - -"But how long, think you, will it blow thus? Thou art a man skilled in -such matters." - -"Nay, I cannot forecast, fair sir. For now, when the husbandman looketh -for the east wind to break the ground, this most unwholesome air doth -hold. Mark my words, Master Geoffrey, when it turneth we shall have -another winter. But the sun is rising. I must display my lord's banner." - -So saying, he bent the flag to the halyards, and soon the emblem of the -Lysles was fluttering bravely in the breeze—azure, a turbot argent, -surmounted by an estoile of the last—in other words, a silver turbot, -with a silver star above, both on a field of blue. - -Geoffrey knew well the meaning of this device. The first denoted that -the Lord of Warblington was one of the coastwise guardians of the -Channel; the star was in recognition of a former Lysle's service under -Edward I, on the occasion of a desperate night attack upon the Scots. - -Always ready on the first summons, the Lysles placed duty to their king -as the highest of their earthly devoirs, and it was their proud boast -that no important expedition had crossed the Channel without the head of -the Manor of Warblington in its ranks. - -Like many an English knight of that period, Sir Oliver Lysle had -interests in France. Through his mother he inherited the seigneurie of -Taillemartel in Normandy. - -France was in a deplorable condition. The country was torn by a fierce -strife betwixt the Orleanists—or Armagnacs, as they were oft-times -termed—and the Burgundians. Every baron and knight did as he might, -trade was paralyzed, the poor were oppressed, and from Picardy to -Provence, and from Brittany to Dauphiné, chaos prevailed. - -In his own interest Sir Oliver had frequently to cross to France, for -his turbulent neighbours, coveting the fair fields surrounding the -feudal castle of Taillemartel, did not hesitate to encroach upon his -lands. Thus, much to the English knight's regret, he found himself -embroiled in the affairs of a foreign country. - -"There is a boat coming up the rithe," exclaimed Geoffrey, pointing to a -small, indistinct object slowly moving against the strong tide that -ebbed through the many channels by which Chichester Harbour is -intersected. - -"Methinks thou'rt right," replied the man-at-arms, shading his eyes with -his hand, for the sun had broken through the mist and its rays were -dazzling on the water. "Yea, 'tis a craft of sorts. Would my sight were -as good as in the time of the affray of Otterburn." - -"'Tis but a fisherman," replied the lad, after some minutes had elapsed. -"Yet he roweth as if he bore tidings." - -"Ay; I wot when first I saw him that 'twas not thy father's cog," -replied Gripwell, unwilling to admit the inferiority of his sense of -vision, although he had recently confessed it. "But, certes, he is not -one of the men of Warblington, and since he cometh herewards methinks -his errand is no idle one," he added. - -"Then let us hasten to the wharf and learn his tidings," said Geoffrey, -as he turned towards the stairway. - -With the rising of the sun the portcullis had been drawn up and the -drawbridge lowered. So, passing the vigilant sentinel who kept watch and -ward at the gate of the outer bailey, the lad and his companion made -their way across the mead, past the church that, by a strange -strategical blunder, stood betwixt the castle and the sea, and at length -reached the little stone quay which, at all but the lowest tides, -permitted the approach of the largest vessels of that period. - -"'Tis Wat, of Sinah," exclaimed Geoffrey, as the rower turned his head -to make sure of his sinuous course 'twixt the mud banks that were -already showing above the ebbing waters. - -"How now, Wat?" quoth the man-at-arms, as the boat rubbed sides with the -landing-place, and the fisherman, well-nigh breathless with his -exertions, tossed his oars into the little craft and scrambled up a -rough wooden ladder. - -"Sir Oliver!" he gasped. - -"And what of him? Stand not babbling like a child. Out with it, gossip." - -"The _Grâce à Dieu_ lies off the Poles yonder," continued Wat, pointing -towards the invisible sandbanks that encumbered the mouth of the -harbour. "She hath come in betimes this morning, and even now is -anchored beyond the bar." - -Geoffrey gave a cry of delight at the glad news; but Gripwell was far -from satisfied. - -"And why has not the cog stood in? And how goeth it with Sir Oliver?" - -"The ebb maketh strongly," replied the fisherman. "'Twas only with much -ado that I gained the harbour, my craft being but light. As thou -knowest, gossip, there be none to touch her, not even at Bosham or -Emsworth. And then concerning Sir Oliver. I saw him not, neither was I -able to draw nigh to the _Grâce_. It served my purpose but to come -hither and claim the guerdon that my lady hath promised to him who -brought the news of Sir Oliver's return." - -"Then get thee to the castle, Wat. As for thy craft, it must needs take -ground, since the rithe dries within an hour. But that will pass, I'll -warrant, for thy welcome will not be a hasty one." - -Already Geoffrey had sped to bear the news to his mother, the Lady -Bertha, while the fisherman and the man-at-arms followed, Wat inwardly -chafing at the measured stride of the old warrior. - -Sir Oliver's wife was a tall, dignified matron of forty years; stern, -almost masculine in manner, yet devoted to her husband and son. During -Sir Oliver's frequent absences the care and maintenance of the castle -were entirely in her hands, and, from the merest detail concerning the -domestic ordering of the numerous household to the weighty questions -appertaining to its defence, the Lady Bertha ruled with firmness and -discretion. - -Nor was she backward in maintaining her authority. Once, and once only, -did the youthful Geoffrey take upon himself to give certain orders to -the warriors of the outer bailey. - -"Geoffrey, my son," quoth his mother, "when thou dost attain the age of -sixteen it is thy father's purpose to entrust thee with the care of this -castle during his sojournings overseas. When that time cometh I shall -willingly give place to thee in the matter, but so long as my lord -thinketh fit to make me châtelaine of Warblington I, and I only, must -have the ordering o' it." - -The Lady Bertha was not slow to act on hearing the good tidings that -were now brought to her. In a few minutes the castle was in a state of -bustle. The nineteen men-at-arms donned their plates and headpieces, and -stood to their arms, ready to prove to the Lord of Warblington that they -kept good watch and ward; the two score archers, putting on their -quilted coats and iron caps, in addition to their everyday dress, rushed -hither and thither, gathering evergreens, heaping piles of faggots in -the centre of the courtyard, and bedecking the gateway with the arms and -pennons of bygone days. Old Giles, the cellarer, hied him to his -subterranean retreat, there to broach casks of the best vintages that -Gascony and Burgundy could produce, while the kitchen staff were busy -with two whole oxen. - -Then from the adjacent church tower the bells rang out a merry peal. -Almost at the first note the toilers in the fields dropped their hoes -and unyoked the horses from the ploughs. They knew the meaning of the -peal; to them it meant, as it did on each and every occasion that Sir -Oliver returned in safety from the troublous Duchy of Normandy, that the -day was to be given up to feasting and merrymaking. - -In the thatch-roofed houses of the little hamlet housewives left their -hearths, tarrying only to thrust a bough from their upper windows as a -sign of welcome, and trooped towards the castle to share with their -husbands the joys of their feudal lord's homecoming. - -And now from the summit of the keep a keen-eyed sentinel espied the -bluff, black bows of the _Grâce à Dieu_, as, labouring slowly under -oars, she crept up the tedious Emsworth channel with the young -flood-tide. - -The gunners, with port fires lighted and linstocks ready to hand, were -clustering round their cumbersome, iron-hooped bombards, gazing the -while towards the steadily-approaching vessel. The minstrels, with harp, -pipe, and lute, foregathered on the green within the outer bailey, while -the Lady Bertha—who, in order to show that she held the castle, -refrained from leaving the shelter of the battlements—awaited her -husband at the barbican. - -Everything was ready for Sir Oliver Lysle's welcome home. - -So intent upon the approach of the expected vessel were the crowds that -thronged the castle that none perceived a horseman riding from the -direction of the city of Chichester. In hot haste, he spared not spur, -and, scorning to keep to the road that led from the highway to the -castle, he urged his steed across the newly-ploughed fields, while a -bowshot in the rear a group of mounted men-at-arms followed at a more -leisurely pace. - -Skirting the moat, he gained the barbican, then, drawing in his horse, -he looked, with an expression of mingled anger and surprise, upon the -preparations of welcome. - -The newcomer was attired in a blue doublet, amber cloak with fur -trimmings, slashed trunks, and long pointed buskins of undressed -leather, while from elbow to wrist his arms were swathed in black cloth. -That he had ridden far and fast was evident by the exhausted state of -his steed and the numerous splashes of mud and chalk that clung -tenaciously to man and beast. By his left side he wore a long, straight -sword, with a plain cross-hilt and a black leather scabbard, while from -the right side of his belt hung a short dagger and a large leather -wallet. - -Geoffrey recognized the newcomer as the seneschal of the Castle of -Arundel. Nor was he long in ignorance of the rider's errand, for, in a -loud voice, the officer exclaimed— - -"To the Châtelaine of Warblington greeting; but methinks 'tis neither -time nor place for expressions of gladness." - -"How so, Sir Scudamour?" asked the Lady Bertha haughtily, for she took -the seneschal's mien with disfavour. - -"By this, fair dame," and, pointing to one of the men-at-arms who had -meanwhile arrived at the barbican, he called attention to a shield-like -object the soldier was bearing. It was a hatchment, or escutcheon of a -deceased noble, and the arms were those of King Henry IV—three lions -passant quartered with fleurs-de-lys. - -Drawing a soiled parchment from his pouch the seneschal presented it to -the Lady Bertha with a courteous bow, then, giving a meaning look of -displeasure at the preparations for Sir Oliver's return, he wheeled his -horse and galloped away. - -Slowly the châtelaine broke the seals and drew out the missive. Silence -had fallen upon the crowd. Instinctively soldier and peasant knew that -King Henry was no more. - -The men-at-arms and archers doffed their steel caps, the peasants, -bareheaded and with mouths agape, crowded silently around the stately -figure of the Lady Bertha, as in a loud voice she began to read the -momentous news— - -"To all to whom these present letters shall come: Whereas God hath been -pleased to call unto Himself the soul of Henry, King of England, -France——" - -"An empty title," muttered a voice. Geoffrey turned; it was Gripwell who -had uttered these words. Fortunately for him the châtelaine heard him -not, and went on reading. - -"——Lord of Ireland, and Suzerain of the Kingdom of Scotland, it is -hereby ordained that on the day following his most lamented decease his -worthy son, Henry, Prince of Wales, Earl of Cornwall and Carnarvon, and -Governor of Calais, be proclaimed King of England, France, Lord of -Ireland, and Suzerain of Scotland. Oyez, oyez, oyez. God save King Henry -the Fifth!" - - - - - CHAPTER II - - THE RETURN OF THE _GRÂCE À DIEU_ - - -For the nonce all thoughts of the expected arrival of Sir Oliver Lysle -were forgotten, save by the Lady Bertha and her son. - -The pennons and garlands were already being removed, the minstrels -trooped silently back to the great hall, and the banner of the Lysles -was lowered to half-mast. - -Yet, although all outward signs of merrymaking had disappeared, the -feast provided for the tenantry was to be partaken of on the arrival of -the _Grâce à Dieu_. - -Soldiers and peasants gathered in small knots, eagerly discussing the -events that were likely to ensue consequent upon the late monarch's -decease. - -"But Prince Henry was ever a young gallivant," observed Arnold Gripwell. -"I' faith, 'tis no great advancement to have seen the inside of a gaol." - -"Have a care, gossip, or thine ears will suffer for it," remonstrated a -bearded master-archer. "Boys will be boys, they say. Perchance our King -has put off all his ill-deeds." - -"They do say that he hath made absolute confession," said another. "I -have it on authority of a member of Sir Thomas Erpingham's household -that the Prince hath repaired to the chapel of a recluse, and, laying -bare to him the misdeeds of his whole life, hath put off the mantle of -vice, and hath returned decently adorned with the cloak of virtue." - -"So be it," replied Gripwell stoutly. "The late King, though his title -to the throne were but a hollow one, was ever a soldier and a man. Give -me a man whom I can serve and follow to the wars, say I." - -"Then perchance thy wish will be gratified, Arnold," remarked Sampson, -the master-bowman. "Prince Henry bore himself like a man at Homildon -fight, as thou knowest. Who knows but that ere long we shall follow him -to France to win back his own?" - -"Pray Heaven it be so," returned the master-at-arms heartily. "For my -part, I'd as lief cross the narrow seas as a common soldier. Well I -remember my grandsire's tales of how the manhood of England crossed -thither in the time of the great Edward. Every mean archer, who went as -poor as a church mouse and did not lay his bones on French soil, -returned laden with rich booty. Did not my grandsire purchase the -copyhold of the farm at Nutbourne out of his ransom of a French knight?" - -"But what think you, Master Sampson?" asked an archer eagerly. "Dost -think that the new King will make war?" - -"He hath by far a better opportunity than Henry of Lancaster, the saints -rest his soul," replied the bowman. "That base rebel, Glendower, hath -been driven from the Welsh marches, and lies in hiding in the wilds of -that leek-ridden country. The Scots, too, are kept well in hand, so that -peace on the borders is to be depended upon. The King hath but to raise -his hand, and from the length and breadth of the realm the yeomen of -England will flock to his banner." - -Sir Oliver's retainers were not far from the mark. Like the household of -many another knight, his men-at-arms and archers were tolerably well -versed in the affairs affecting the kingdom's welfare. To them war was -both a trade and the means of following an honourable profession. - -Meanwhile the _Grâce à Dieu_ had gained the mouth of the little rithe -leading up to the quay, and was preparing to anchor. - -Again the excitement rose, but in the midst of the hum of suppressed -anticipation an archer called attention to a significant fact: Sir -Oliver's shield was not displayed from the ship's quarter. - -"Heaven forfend that he be dead," exclaimed Gripwell. "See, the Lady -Bertha hath noticed the omission." - -Unable to conceal her agitation, the châtelaine, quitting the post of -honour, had crossed the drawbridge, and, accompanied by Geoffrey, was -hastening towards the wharf, a crowd of archers and men-at-arms -following at a respectful distance. - -Already the small craft that belonged to the manor had put off to the -newly-arrived ship, which, for want of water, could not approach within -a bowshot of the shore. - -"Where is thy master, Sir Oliver, Simeon?" asked the Lady Bertha, trying -the while to maintain her composure, as a burly, bow-legged man stepped -out of the boat and scrambled up the steps of the wharf. - -Simeon Cross was the master-shipman of the _Grâce à Dieu_. For more than -two-score years had he earned his bread on the waters, being more used -to the heaving planks of a ship than to hard ground. - -Awkwardly he shuffled with his feet, scarce daring to raise his eyes to -meet the stern, expectant look of the Châtelaine of Warblington. - -"Answer me, rascal. Where is Sir Oliver?" - -"Lady, I have ever been unshipshape with my tongue; were I to talk much -my words would trip like a scowed anchor. Ere long black would be white, -and white black, and——" - -"Cease thy babbling, Simeon, and answer yea or nay. Is Sir Oliver alive -and well?" - -"Lady, yea and nay. Yea, since he is still in the flesh, and nay, by -reason of——" - -"The saints be praised!" ejaculated the fair questioner, reassured by -the old seaman's reply. "But stand aside, I pray you, for I perceive -that Oswald Steyning draws near. Tell me, Oswald, how comes it that thou -hast deserted thy master? Is it meet that a squire should return without -his lord?" - -"Sweet lady, I had no choice in the matter," replied the squire, a -fair-haired youth of about sixteen years of age. "By the express command -of Sir Oliver and of the Lord of Malevereux I stand here this day. Sir -Oliver is alive and, I wot, in health, but, alas! a prisoner." - -"A prisoner?" - -"Ay, fair lady, of the Lord of Malevereux, otherwise known as the Tyrant -of Valadour, who sends this letter by my hand." - -Drawing from his pouch a sealed packet, the squire knelt and presented -it to the châtelaine. - -"From Yves, Baron of Malevereux, Lord of the High, the Middle, and the -Low, to the Lady Bertha, Châtelaine of the Castle of Warblington, -greeting:— - -"Whereas, by the grace of the blessed Saint Hilary, Sir Oliver Lysle, -thy husband, hath fallen into my hands, be it known that this is my will -and pleasure: Him will I have and hold until a ransom of ten thousand -crowns be paid for the release of the said Sir Oliver. It is my request -that this sum be paid on or before the eve of the Feast of the blessed -Saint Silvester, failing which Sir Oliver must suffer death." - -Twice the châtelaine read the missive, then, turning to the squire, she -asked— - -"Knowest aught of this letter?" - -"Nay, fair lady, though I wot 'tis of cold comfort." - -"How came Sir Oliver to be taken?" - -"By stealth, madame. They of Malevereux seized him as he lay abed in a -hostel on the road 'twixt Rouen and Taillemartel. Me they also took, but -the Tyrant set me free in order that I might bear tidings to -Warblington." - -"And did Sir Oliver charge thee by word of mouth?" - -"Yea, 'twas thus:—'Present my humblest respects to my dear lady, thy -mistress, and say that not a groat is to be paid as ransom for me.' No -more, no less." - -"That I will bear in mind," replied the châtelaine resolutely. -"Meanwhile I must devise some answer to this Tyrant of Malevereux. Hast -promise of safe conduct?" - -"The word of the Lord of Malevereux is but a poor bond, sweet lady. Yet, -since I have his promise, I will right willingly take the risk." - -"'Tis well. Now to return to the castle. Arnold, see to the ordering of -the men-at-arms, the archers, and the tenants. Let them have their -feast, e'en though it be a sad one. Simeon, see to it that the _Grâce à -Dieu_ is warped up to the quay at high tide, and take steps to set a -goodly store of provisions on board, since to France thou must sail once -more. Now, Oswald, bear me company, for there is much on which I must -question thee." - -All this time Geoffrey had been a silent yet eager listener. Already he -had grasped the main points of the situation, and, quick to act, he had -made up his mind that the time had come for the son of Sir Oliver Lysle -to prove himself worthy of the ancient and honourable name. - -"Tell me all thou knowest concerning this Tyrant of Malevereux, Oswald," -began Lady Bertha, as the châtelaine and the two lads gained the -comparative seclusion of the hall. - -"He is the most puissant rogue in all Normandy, ay, in the whole of -France," replied the squire. "Though I perceive he has written in a -courteous style, worthy of a knight of Christendom, he is but a base -robber and oppressor of the poor, and a treacherous enemy to all true -gentlemen of coat armour. He hath declared that he fears neither God, -man, nor devil, yet withal he is of a craven disposition, and full of -superstitious fears." - -"It is said that on one day of the year he throws open his Castle of -Malevereux to all who would fain partake of his hospitality?" - -"That is so, sweet lady. On the Feast of Saint Silvester—in -commemoration of a deliverance from a great peril—the Lord of Malevereux -doth hold a joust to which all men may come, saving that they leave -their arms at the gate. Beyond that 'tis said that no man, other than -the Tyrant's retainers, hath set foot within the castle save as a -captive." - -"The Feast of Saint Silvester!" exclaimed the Lady Bertha. "On that day -this base knight would fain receive ransom for Sir Oliver." - -"Might I not be permitted to go to France?" asked Geoffrey, speaking for -the first time during the conversation. "I would desire to have some -small chance of advancement 'gainst this villainous baron." - -"Thou'rt but a lad, Geoffrey," replied his mother. "I commend thy -courage and determination; they do thee honour, but the task is beyond -thee." - -"I am almost of the same age as that most puissant knight, Edward the -Black Prince, when he fought at Crécy, and as old as our new King when -he crossed swords with Lord Percy at Otterburn," asserted Sir Oliver's -son. "Oswald hath followed my father Francewards these two years. -Therefore, saving your presence, I ought to be up and doing." - -"'Tis a matter that demands careful consideration, Geoffrey, though I do -perceive that thou art not like a girl that hath to stay at home. Even -as a young hawk hath to leave the nest, a knight's son must, sooner or -later, quit the shelter of his parents' roof. But of that more anon. It -is in my mind that the good knight, Sir Thomas Carberry, who holds the -Castle of Portchester should hear of the mishap that hath befallen my -lord." - -"Wouldst that I ride thither?" asked Geoffrey eagerly, for the doughty -knight was ever a favourite of the lad. - -"That is my desire, Geoffrey. The day is but young, and thou canst -return ere sundown. Oswald shall bear thee company." - - - - - CHAPTER III - - HOW A FRIAR AND A LOLLARD MET ON THE - HIGHWAY - - -In a few moments the lads had donned their cloaks, girded on their -swords—since none of quality ever ventured upon the highway save with a -weapon ready to hand—and given orders for their horses to be saddled and -brought to the gate. - -"Have I to bear a letter?" asked Geoffrey, as he came to announce his -departure. - -"Nay, my son; word of mouth will suffice. Now, get thee gone, and the -saints preserve thee." - -Swinging easily into the saddle, the lads applied spur; and at a steady -trot they crossed the drawbridge and gained the open country. - -It was but a distance of some seven miles 'twixt the Castles of -Warblington and Portchester, while, being part of the great southern -highway between the populous borough of Southampton and the coast towns -of Sussex, there was generally a small number of travellers to be met. - -For a while the two lads chatted eagerly, Geoffrey questioning his -companion concerning his adventures beyond the seas, and of the events -that led up to Sir Oliver's captivity. And as they talked Geoffrey's -resolution was rapidly becoming stronger. Gaining confidence from -Oswald's unassuming self-reliance, he realized that with a good heart -youth is capable of overcoming many obstacles. - -At length, hard by the hamlet of Bedhampton, the road began to ascend a -spur of chalk down. From the summit a splendid view greeted the lads. As -far as the eye could see was a flat plain, intersected by two large -harbours, while away on the left, beyond a silver streak of sea, rose -the rolling down of the Isle of Wight. Ahead, at a distance of over four -miles, a massive square tower proudly reared itself hard by the head of -the furthermost harbour. It was the Castle of Portchester. - -Barely had the two riders gained the foot of the ridge when they -suddenly came upon a grey-cloaked figure bending over a heap of rubbish -by the wayside. Evidently it had been thrown there from a neighbouring -smithy, for scraps of old iron horseshoes predominated. - -"'Tis a friar," exclaimed Oswald, as the man, hearing the sound of -horses' hoofs, drew himself up and began to amble along the chalky road. - -Doffing reverentially as they passed, the two lads cast a furtive glance -at the cloaked and hooded friar, as he fumbled beneath his garments as -if to conceal something. The man's face was far from pleasant. Shifty -eyes, sharp pointed nose, loose lip, and flabby jowl gave him a crafty, -foxlike appearance, yet to the two unworldly lads a friar could be -nought else but a holy member of the Church. - -Ere they had ridden another quarter of a mile something prompted the -lads to look over their shoulders, and to their surprise they perceived -that the friar had returned to the rubbish heap. - -"'Tis a strange occupation for a holy man," observed Oswald. "To what -purpose doth he tarry at yonder spot?" - -"Nay, I know not," replied Geoffrey. "Perchance he finds it a fitting -place for meditation." - -With this the subject was dismissed, and the two riders urged their -steeds to a brisker pace. - -At length they arrived at the castle of Sir Thomas Carberry, where, on -being announced, they were ushered into the knight's presence. - -"Yves of Malevereux, dost say?" exclaimed Sir Thomas. "Alack-a-day that -Sir Oliver should fall into the toils of such a caitiff. I know the -Tyrant well, having had a slight bickering with him, not once nor -twice." - -"Is there indeed no means of securing my father's release save by -ransom? The payment of ransom he hath forbidden," said Geoffrey. - -"Perchance, should war ensue and an English army again set foot on -French soil, the King might see fit to send a troop of lances and a body -of archers to rid the world of the pest. Would that I could adventure -myself on Sir Oliver's behalf, yet I fear that affairs of the realm will -prevent my so doing. Nevertheless, I'll do my devoirs to the Lady -Bertha. Convey her my most humble regards, and say that I will ride over -to Warblington to-morrow morn." - -"I have asked my mother to give me leave to journey to France," said -Geoffrey. "Couldst thou not throw in thy weighty word for me, Sir -Thomas?" - -"Certes! How canst thou hope to overcome the Lord of Malevereux, -Geoffrey? Nevertheless, 'tis right and meet that the son of Sir Oliver -should see to his affairs at Taillemartel. There thou couldst be of -service. Say no more now, but on the morrow I'll broach the matter." - -"Sir, I crave your pardon and your opinion," said Oswald. "Dost think -that the King will advance his claim to the French throne?" - -"Without a doubt." - -"I am right glad to hear of it," replied Oswald. "There is much -advancement to be made in such matters." - -"Not without losses, hunger, and discomforts," added the knight, smiling -at the youth's ardent words. "Young men are apt to look upon only the -bright side of war. Such views I myself have held, but as time runs on -we elders know more of the dark side of the picture. Nevertheless, at -the first call to arms I, amongst many, will not be found wanting." - -"What think ye of our new King?" asked Geoffrey, more bluntly than he -intended. - -The knight shook his head. - -"'Tis not meet that a soldier should offer an opinion of his liege -lord," he replied. "Henry V is my King, and to me that is sufficient -reasoning for unswerving loyalty. A true Englishman's duty is to serve -loyally, be he knight or commoner; therefore, I counsel you, reject all -reports to the belittlement of King Harry, strive to live upright and -true to those set in authority, and all will go well." - -With this advice Sir Thomas dismissed his visitors, renewing his -assurance that on the morrow he would journey to see the Châtelaine of -Warblington in person. - -"Since Sir Thomas hath promised to speak in my favour my hopes are -raised," remarked Geoffrey. "Who knows but that ere the Feast of St. -Mark I may be upon French soil." - -"Since the Lady Bertha hath charged me to convey her reply to Malevereux -we may bear one another company," replied Oswald. "But what have we -here?" - -The travellers had now reached the outskirts of the little hamlet of -Cosham. Outside a mud-and-wattle cottage a large crowd, comprising -nearly all the inhabitants and a sprinkling of strangers, had collected. -That something was amiss was apparent by the low murmur that reached the -lads' ears as they approached. - -"If 'tis some slight affray 'tis our duty to aid the weaker side," said -Oswald, his right hand flying to his sword-hilt. "See to it that thou -dost strike yarely should occasion arise." - -Urging their horses through the fringe of the crowd, the two youthful -champions of oppressed right came upon a scene they had not bargained -for. - -Standing in the doorway was a woman, middle-aged and comely, whose face -was a study of mingled perplexity, indignation, and fright. - -In the middle of a semicircle formed by the crowd towered a powerfully -made man of commanding and noble aspect, dressed in plain yet rich -garments of sober russet cloth tipped with fur. Save for a short dagger -he was unarmed, a vellum-bound book hanging by a steel chain occupying -the place of a sword. - -Held at arm's length by the stranger's muscular arm was the friar whom -the lads had seen at Bedhampton that same morning. The man's hang-dog -face was convulsed with fury, though it was evident that he was in -terror of the stranger, whose anger was as apparent as that of his -captive. - -Ignoring the hurried undertone remonstrances of a merchant, the stranger -addressed the throng in a loud voice. - -"My good people," he exclaimed, "how much longer will ye suffer -yourselves to be deluded by such cloaked and cowled rascals as this? By -what authority doth the friar claim the right to sell pardons and -absolutions for every sin that besets us? Not by that of One above, I'll -warrant. And how can a parcel of so-called relics possess the power of -imparting nameless virtues to the dupe who hath purchased them? Hold up -the trickster's wares," he continued, addressing a sheepish-looking -countryman. "Nay, do not hesitate; if so be a murrain falls upon the -unbeliever, on my head be it." - -Thus encouraged the peasant stooped and picked up something from the -ground. - -"Hold them up," commanded the stranger authoritatively. "Raise them high -above thy head that all may see." - -The man obeyed, and, to Geoffrey's astonishment, displayed a piece of a -horseshoe and a bent and rusted nail. - -"Now, dame," continued the stranger, speaking in a kindlier tone. "Tell -me how named your friar this fragment of horseshoe?" - -"'Tis a piece of the shoe of the ass that bore the Blessed Virgin into -Egypt," quavered the woman. - -"Nay, say not ''tis', but ''twas' told me," corrected the stranger. -"Now, once again, whence comes this twisted clout?" - -"A nail from the tree on which was crucified the blessed St. Edmund," -replied the dame. - -"That savours less of the lie," quoth her interrogator, "seeing that -'tis said that at the town of Bury the tree still stands. Answer me, did -your friar also say 'twas the very nail that pierced the martyred King's -limbs?" - -"Ay, an' it please thee," replied the woman. - -"Then there I have him," exclaimed the stranger. "How can a nail of this -length pierce a man's palm and hold him to a tree? See for yourselves, -my masters, that 'tis beyond reason. Tell me, dame, what price did'st -thou pay for these baubles?" - -"A silver groat." - -"Then lest it be said that I despoiled the Church, I will reimburse -thee. Now, friends, one more question; since when hath it been the -custom to shoe an ass with a horseshoe?" - -A roar of laughter from the crowd greeted this hit. Then with a rapid -motion of his arm the stranger flung the fragments of iron far across an -adjoining field. - -"Hence," he thundered, relaxing his grasp on the terrified friar, and -with a tremendous buffet on the ear he sent the wretched man reeling -through a lane betwixt the amazed spectators. - -"Have a care, my Lord Cobham," whispered the merchant, plucking at the -knight's sleeve. "Affront not the Church. Already 'tis said that my Lord -Archbishop hath applied to proceed against thee. Do not, I pray thee, -give thine enemies more cause for offence." - -"I have no quarrel with the Church, but with the Church's flagrant -offences, Master Pearce. As for my lord the Archbishop, let him do his -worst. The King, a grandson of John of Gaunt, will see to it that -justice to the Lollards be done. Moreover, I have the honour of being a -friend of Harry Monmouth. Shall he, as King, think fit to abandon me to -mine enemies, then God's will be done. I am not the first to suffer for -truth's sake. - -"And now, friends," he continued, addressing the crowd once more, "I -trust that this slight bickering hath been to your souls' advantage. Try -to use the wits that have been given you for your advancement; be not -led by the nose by such as ye have just seen. Here is the lamp that -guideth your way, though I must fain admit 'tis at present but a feeble -glimmer." And he touched the Book that was hanging from his belt. - -"Soon," he continued, "the day will come when all men shall hear the -Word in the vulgar tongue, and to that set purpose hath Wycliffe -laboured and his followers are toiling still." - -Thereupon the Lollard proceeded to read a chapter from the English -translation of the Bible, and for the first time his listeners heard it -read in a simple and familiar language. - -This done, my Lord Cobham went on his way, gravely returning the lads' -salutation as they, too, proceeded on their journey. - -"This meeting hath opened my eyes," observed Oswald. "E'en though I saw -yon friar in the rubbish heap I little thought his purpose was to trick -his listeners." - -"Yet though I felt admiration for the knight, I cannot believe that his -doctrine is wholly right," replied Geoffrey. "Methinks it savours of -rebellion." - -"Mark well, he said not a word against the Church." - -"That I noticed. Yet it is to be hoped that the friar is but one of a -few black sheep. Father Hilarius is not of that style." - -"Nay, a more broad-minded, upright priest I do not wish to meet," -replied Oswald. "But concerning the Lord Cobham, is he not the same as -Sir John Oldcastle? He is a sturdy Lollard and a friend of the King to -boot." - -"Methinks thou'rt right," assented Geoffrey. "'Tis the same Oldcastle of -whom my father hath ofttimes spoken. Now reason with thyself a space; -this knight seemeth to be a right godly man. Therefore it follows, since -he is an admitted friend of the King's, that he would not have mentioned -the matter were the King, while Prince of Wales, the rascal—save the -term—that men would make him out to be. - -"We know," went on Geoffrey, "that Judge Gascoigne committed the Prince -to prison. That was for an offence done in the heat of anger. Lord -Cobham was angry even now, when he buffeted the friar, but I wot he is -not a man to consort with drunkards and dissolute persons. Mark well, -also, that Sir Thomas Carberry had not a word to say against the King: -therefore I shall believe that all their stories concerning him are -baseless. - -"But come," he added, "we must hasten, for already the sun is low in the -sky." - -In silence the lads proceeded on their journey. Both were thoughtful, -for the events of the day had added another perplexity to their small -store of worldly difficulties. Thus pondering, they returned to the -Castle of Warblington, where the châtelaine was eagerly awaiting to hear -the result of their fateful errand. - - - - - CHAPTER IV - - HOW GEOFFREY LYSLE CROSSED THE CHANNEL - - -Sir Thomas Carberry was as good as his word. He rode over to Warblington -betimes on the following morning, where he was welcomed by the -châtelaine and her assembled household. - -Being a man of action, the knight lost no time in dealing with the -matter that had brought him thither. - -"I can well understand Sir Oliver's wishes in this matter," he remarked. -"Since he will not have a ransom paid on his behalf, and on the other -hand the Tyrant of Malevereux doth threaten him with death should the -gold not be forthcoming, it is certain that we are in a strait. Thou -sayest that the garrison of Taillemartel is not strong enough to assail -the baron's stronghold? Then some other plan must be considered. -Methinks the great thing is to gain time with this recreant Lord of -Malevereux. To that end it would be well to reply guardedly to his -letter." - -"But not to promise payment of the ransom?" - -"Not in plain words. Write that ere the Feast of Saint Silvester the -demands of the Lord of Malevereux will be met. That need be all; thy -husband's squire can deliver the message, since he hath been promised -safe conduct." - -"But will the Tyrant keep to his word concerning the good treatment of -Oswald?" demurred the Lady Bertha. "It is hardly meet that the lad -should be placed in the power of this recreant knight." - -"For my part I care but little, fair lady," said Sir Oliver's squire. -"Since my place is with my lord—and 'twas not my doing that I was -compelled to leave him at Malevereux—I'll bear the letter to Sir Yves in -person. Should he think fit to keep his word, well and good; otherwise I -must rest content that I am to be kept in durance with Sir Oliver." - -"Well spoken, squire," exclaimed Sir Thomas Carberry. "See to it that -thy actions are as brave as thy speech. Now, there is yet another point. -Who holds the Castle of Taillemartel in Sir Oliver's absence?" - -The châtelaine did not reply. Instinctively she realized the motive of -the question. - -"Hath my son said aught to thee concerning his wish to go Franceward?" -she asked. - -"Fair lady, he hath," replied the knight. "Moreover, 'tis right and meet -that he, as Sir Oliver's son, should hold Taillemartel in his father's -absence. Thrust aside thy feelings as a mother, Lady Bertha, and make a -sacrifice to duty. The lad, from what I know of him—and that is not a -little—hath courage, wisdom, and discretion beyond his years. Let him -have the ordering of Taillemartel, and I'll warrant he'll prove a right -worthy limb of the old Lysle stock." - -"And what can be done towards the actual setting free of my husband?" - -"Concerning myself, this affair could not have happened at a more -inopportune time. Until I learn King Harry's wishes I am tied to my -Castle of Portchester; otherwise would I right gladly take a troop of -lances, add them to the garrison of Taillemartel, and together they -would have the Castle of Malevereux about its owner's ears in less than -a week. Did Sir Oliver ever mention the name of Sir Raoul d'Aulx, -seigneur of Maissons?" - -"I cannot call the name to mind." - -"This Sir Raoul is a Burgundian knight, a right worthy gentleman of good -repute. Sir Oliver and I fought side by side with him 'gainst the -Paynims of Barbary, under the late King, when he was but Henry of -Lancaster. Now it is in my mind to write to the Seigneur of Maissons -that he should beleaguer the Castle of Malevereux; knowing that he hath -just cause 'gainst Sir Yves, and that he hath great regard for Sir -Oliver, this request may find favour in Sir Raoul's eyes. To that end -I'll send my squire, Richard Ratclyffe, with thy son and Sir Oliver's -squire, Oswald Steyning. When will Geoffrey be ready for the journey?" - -"The _Grâce à Dieu_ lies in the harbour fit to take the sea within an -hour," replied the châtelaine with a sigh, for, although she was -resigned to Sir Thomas Carberry's plan, the thought of parting with her -son seemed well-nigh unbearable. - -"Then the sooner the better, since the wind holds fair. I'll send my -squire to thee this night. Now, bear up, fair lady, for by the blessing -of the saints, Sir Oliver will sit at his ease in Warblington Castle ere -the feast of St. Silvester." - -So saying Sir Thomas took his leave, while the châtelaine busied herself -with preparations for her son's journey. - -That night Geoffrey kept vigil in the little church of St. Thomas à -Becket, vowing to be courageous and honourable in warfare, courteous to -women, and just towards those under his authority, as befitting the son -of a true knight who himself aspired to the gilded spurs. But when he -prayed that he might take vengeance upon the Lord of Malevereux, Father -Hilarius gently reproved him. - -"Vengeance, my son, hath no place within the mind of a gentleman of -quality; leave that in the hands of One above, who, if He think fit, -will grind the oppressor between the upper and nether millstones of His -wrath. In thy dealings with thy fellow-men see to it that justice is -ever tempered with mercy." - -At length the eventful day dawned. At the head of the rithe lay the -_Grâce à Dieu_, her huge square sail, emblazoned with the arms of the -Lysles, being loosely furled ready to be sheeted home at the -shipmaster's call. - -Geoffrey and the two squires, Oswald Steyning and Richard Ratclyffe, -attended by the stout old man-at-arms, Arnold Gripwell, and three trusty -archers, boarded the skiff that was to take them off to the larger -vessel. The hour of parting had come and gone, and with heavy heart Sir -Oliver's son saw the crowd of tenantry on the shore grow less and less -distinct. - -But the moment the lads set foot upon the deck of the _Grâce à Dieu_ the -bustle and excitement of setting sail dispelled for the time their -feeling of sadness. - -Old Simeon Cross, the master-shipman, was standing by the long tiller, -shouting orders at the seamen to the accompaniment of a string of -expletives uttered in half a dozen different tongues. - -"Yarely, now, yarely with the cable! Dick, do you attend to the vang; -Tom, thou rapscallion, haul handsomely on yonder brace. Avast heaving -there! Now she feels it!" - -Before the steady north-westerly breeze the _Grâce à Dieu_ bore rapidly -down the Emsworth Channel; the low-lying islands of Thorney and Hayling -were quickly passed, and, after a buffeting on the wind-swept bar, the -staunch vessel was curtseying to the long, heavy swell of the English -Channel. - -Ere noon the Sussex Downs were but a low, indistinct line of blue -against the northern sky, while the rounded hills of the Isle of Wight -were fading away on the starboard quarter. - -Then, having given the helmsman the course by means of the lodestone -that did duty for a compass, Simeon went below to rest, since he must -needs be on deck throughout the coming night. - -"The English shore is well-nigh lost to view," remarked Oswald. "Ere -morning we ought to see the coast of France, an this wind hold." - -"Aye, an we are not molested by any of the sea rovers that infest the -Channel," added Gripwell. "Now, young sirs, I'll wager that old Simeon -will descry the French coast ere either of your young eyes can do so." - -"I have heard it said that a shipmaster's vision is better by far than a -landsman's," replied Richard Ratclyffe. "Yet I call to mind a device -that my master, Sir Thomas, purchased from a monk of Limoges. It was but -a tube of wood filled with sundry pieces of glass, yet one could -distinguish a man's features a league away." - -"By St. George, Master Ratclyffe," exclaimed Gripwell, "thou art trying -to befool us, saving thy presence. See a man's face a league off, -forsooth! Certes, next thou'lt say that it is possible for a person in -England to clap a trumpet to his mouth and speak to another in France. -Go to, Master Ratclyffe, Arnold Gripwell is not to be caught by such -reports." - -"Yet such is the truth, Gripwell," replied the squire. - -"When I see it I'll believe it," retorted the man-at-arms sturdily. - -Ere nightfall the wind dropped, and the _Grâce à Dieu_ floundered -sluggishly in the long rolling swell. Under the influence of this -unaccustomed motion Richard Ratclyffe was the first to succumb to the -woeful malady of sea-sickness. Geoffrey was soon in like case. The -others, having crossed the sea beforetimes, were more hardened to its -usages. - -"Go below and lie down awhile," counselled Arnold Gripwell. "Ere ye wake -the evil will have left you." - -"I would there were some other way of crossing to France," said Geoffrey -miserably. - -"'Tis part of the game, and must be borne with a good heart," replied -Gripwell. "This is the only way, and ever will be the only way, as far -as I can see, unless men devise a means of flying thither through the -air. How think ye, Master Ratclyffe," he added slyly, but the squire was -beyond the sting of banter. - -Lulled by the motion of the vessel, Geoffrey sank into a deep yet -troubled slumber, nor did he awake till he was aroused by the -man-at-arms shaking him by the shoulder. - -"Up with ye, Master Geoffrey," he exclaimed. "There's foul work without, -and if so be we can play our part every man jack will be wanted." - -"What's amiss?" asked the lad, sitting up. All feelings of sea-sickness -had left him; excitement had conquered the landsman's arch-enemy. - -"On deck, and thou'lt see," replied Gripwell curtly as he hastened to -rouse the other lads. - -It was a strange sight that greeted Geoffrey Lysle as he gained the -deck. Day had just broken, and the pale grey light revealed the presence -of two ships lying a mile or so to leeward of the _Grâce à Dieu_. - -One, a tall wall-sided ship, was striving to keep at bay a long, -low-lying galley, from which showers of arrows, quarrels, stones, and -spears were being hurled by the crowd of men who thronged her low -fo'c'sle and towering poop. - -"What are we to do, good Master Gripwell?" asked Simeon, the shipmaster, -anxiously. "Yonder lies the ship _Brothers of Lymington_. I know her -well. She is a stout merchantman, but slow; though, by St. Peter, the -_Grâce à Dieu_ could scarce gain a bow-shot length on her in an hour. -The galley, if mine eyes do not deceive me, belongs to the Republic of -Genoa, and scant mercy shall we receive at her hands. What are we to -do?" - -"Do?" exclaimed Gripwell in high disdain. "Why, Simeon, trick her. If we -flee we are lost, since she can sail two yards to our one. Art willing -to leave this matter in my hands?" - -"Ay, good Arnold," replied the shipmaster nervously. - -"Then, do you steer straight for yonder ships. Ho there, Wat! Bring -forth every spear and every steel cap that is in the ship. Thomas of -Gosport, do you wind your horn and blow a rousing blast. The rest of -you, shipmen and archers all, don steel caps and stand fast in the waist -till I give ye word." - -So saying, Gripwell left the deck and went below. Meanwhile Geoffrey and -his two comrades were struggling into their plates and steel casques, -knowing that there was hot work afoot, yet wondering what the -man-at-arms was about. - -Presently Gripwell re-appeared, bearing six large shields of painted -canvas, emblazoned with the arms of the principal knights of Hampshire. - -"Now ye be each two knights," he shouted light-heartedly. "Sixteen years -ago come Martinmas these devices hung in the great hall of Warblington -when Sir Oliver was wed. Ever since that day have I kept them. Whenever -I journey by water they go with me. Now, Sir Geoffrey, take thy place on -the poop with Sir Oswald; Sir Richard, the waist is under thy charge. I -am for the fo'c'sle." - -So saying the man-at-arms proceeded to hang the shields over the ship's -sides, according to the custom when knights adventured themselves on the -high seas. Every man had donned a steel cap, and was grasping two and -sometimes three lances, so that the rays of the rising sun glittered -upon a small forest of steel. - -"Turn her aside, I pray thee, Simeon, and let yonder rogues see our -knights' shields," ordered Gripwell, and obediently the master-shipman -thrust the helm hard over so that the _Grâce à Dieu_ exposed the whole -of her broadside to the two antagonists. - -"Now, wind thy horn once more, Thomas," he continued as the ship resumed -her course straight for the Genoese galley. "Heaven help us if they see -through the trick," he added in an undertone. - -The Lymington ship, taking heart at the prospect of a rescue, redoubled -her fire of arrows and stones, but withal the galley stuck doggedly to -her prey. Nearer and nearer came the _Grâce à Dieu_, the lead-coloured -water hissing from her bluff bows as her huge sail caught the rising -breeze. - -"We must fight them," quoth Oswald, "unless they give way. If we are to -die 'tis better to fall in the heat of the fight than to have our -throats cut in cold blood, for yon rascals give quarter to none—not even -a gentleman of coat-armour." - -"Give the Lymington men a rousing cheer, lads," shouted Gripwell. "Then -stand to your arms and fight as you have never done before. Now, -together!" - -From five-and-twenty lusty throats a hoarse shout ascended in a roar of -defiance. - -This was too much for the Genoese. Thinking they had a shipload of -valiant knights and their followers to reckon with, they sheered off, -the huge sail was run up, and fifty oars splashed in the water. Once on -the move the galley did not stop till it was a mere dot on the skyline. - -"A wax candle as thick as my arm shall burn on the altar of the Church -of St. Thomas à Becket at Warblington for this great deliverance," -exclaimed the master-shipman fervently. "I' faith, methought I had lost -both ship and life when the rogues held on." - -"Bear up, that we may have speech with the _Brothers of Lymington_," -said Gripwell. "Seeing that she sails but a trifle slower than the -_Grâce à Dieu_ it would be fitting that both sailed in company." - -As the _Grâce à Dieu_ drew up close alongside the succoured merchant -ship the bellowing voice of the shipmaster of the _Brothers_ was heard -thanking these gentle and courteous knights for their timely aid. - -"And though I be little skilled in reading the devices of gentlemen of -coat-armour," added a voice, "I do perceive that the shield of my Lord -Bishop of Winchester is displayed. Bear my humble respects to his Grace, -and say that out of gratitude, I, Paul Roche, of the honourable company -of Goldsmiths of the free borough of Southampton, do hereby promise a -bar of virgin gold to the service of the Dean and Chapter of the See of -Winchester." - -"Better by far give the gold to me, Master Roche," replied Gripwell with -a hearty laugh, and to the astonishment of the passengers and crew of -the _Brothers_ the story of the ruse was unfolded. - -The proposal that the two ships should complete the voyage in company -was quickly accepted, and keeping a bow-shot apart the _Grâce à Dieu_ -and the _Brothers_ headed for the French coast. - -Six hours later both vessels passed between the twin towers that guarded -the entrance to the port of Harfleur, the principal harbour of Normandy, -and Geoffrey had set foot upon French soil. - - - - - CHAPTER V - - HOW THE MERCHANTS TRIED CONCLUSIONS WITH - LA BARRE - - -The three lads had little time to spend at Harfleur. That walled town, -had Geoffrey but known, was to play an important part in his career, but -being ignorant of the future he merely gazed at the Norman stronghold -with the curiosity common to those who find themselves in foreign parts -for the first time. - -The _Grâce à Dieu_ and the _Brothers_ were moored side by side in the -inner harbour, and advantage was taken of their proximity by Master -Roche and his fellow merchants to pay a visit to the ship that had saved -them from beggary, slavery, or death. - -"To Rouen is it, my masters?" exclaimed Roche. "Since that is also my -intention, why not travel in company? It so happens that we have hired a -large boat to ascend the river; an it please you, ye are right welcome -to a passage." - -"'Twould be well to accept the offer," replied Arnold Gripwell, turning -to Geoffrey. "'Tis said that the roads in these parts are none too safe -for travellers, howbeit they be armed. 'Twill also save the heavy -disbursement that we must otherwise make for the hire of suitable -steeds." - -"Alack-a-day!" groaned Richard Ratclyffe. "Methought I had finished with -the water for some time to come." - -"Little needst thou consider that, Dick," replied Geoffrey. "The river -is not to be compared with the sea. Here we shall not be troubled by -rough waves." - -"Be not so sure about it," remarked Gripwell, with a roguish twinkle in -his eye. - -"How so?" - -"Thou'lt know ere long," replied the man-at-arms shortly. - -Next morning at high-water the _Grâce à Dieu_ warped out into the river -on her return voyage, while the _Brothers_, compelled to wait for cargo -until the return of the English merchants from Rouen, was left in the -charge of her shipmaster and crew. - -Just before low tide a "bac" or ferry-boat manned by a crew of Normans -came alongside the _Brothers_. This was the craft in which Geoffrey and -his comrades were to make their sixty-mile voyage to the capital of -Normandy. - -The boat was about thirty feet in length, broad of beam, and shallow -draught. With the exception of a small deck for'ard and a slightly -longer one aft, under which a low-roofed cabin provided cramped quarters -at night or in wet weather, the boat was open. Broad thwarts or benches -for the rowers occupied the space amidships, for oars were used except -on rare occasions when the wind was astern, and a square sail could be -set with advantage. - -At the second hour of the flood the bac left Harfleur, and under the -steady, powerful strokes of the rowers, made good progress. - -Geoffrey could not help noticing the apparently erratic manner in which -the bearded helmsman steered, frequently turning the boat in diverse -way, although the general direction was up stream. - -"'Tis well he doth so," said Gripwell in answer to the lad's question. -"Were it not for his skill we should be hard aground on one of the many -sandbanks that lie hereabout." - -At length the voyagers saw that the river was rapidly diminishing in -width, while on either hand low-lying banks were clothed in verdure, for -the hand of the spoiler had as yet left this part of Normandy untouched. - -Still maintaining their even, tireless strokes, the rowers stuck to -their task, till the villages of Tancarville and Quillibœuf came in -sight. - -"We can go no further with the tide," exclaimed the Norman helmsman. -"See, the river is even now overcoming the flood." - -"As thou wilt, Gaston," replied Master Roche; "but, I pray thee, put us -within easy reach of a hostel, since my throat is as dry as a limekiln." - -"The _du Guesclin Arms_ lieth but a bow-shot from the quay at -Quillibœuf," replied the Norman. "There the cider is of the best, and I -wot Malmsey and sack are to be had, to say nought of the wines of -France." - -"Then, I'll find my way to the _du Guesclin Arms_" quoth Master Roche, -filled with pleasurable expectation. "Though I be a true Englishman, and -must needs hate the name of yonder hostel, I'll not quarrel with its -contents. How say you, comrades; will you bear me company?" - -Two of the merchants signified their acceptance of his wishes, but the -three lads chose to remain on the quay, watching the endless procession -of strange craft as they dropped down stream. - -Gaston skilfully brought the bac alongside the little quay, and, having -secured her by two long and stout ropes, led the way to the inn, Arnold -Gripwell, Roche, his fellow merchants, and the wearied rowers -accompanying him. - -Left to themselves, the three lads sat down in the stern of the boat, -discussing the unwonted sights as the ebb gathered strength. Now a cog, -clumsily yet strongly built, drifted down, with only an occasional dip -of a heavy oar to keep her on her course; then a galley, resplendent -with paint and gilt, bearing a member of the household of King Charles -the Sixth of France. Then a barge, laden with a towering cargo of hay, -jostled with a frail cock-boat crowded with Norman peasants. - -All the while the turbid river swirled and eddied, for the heavy rains -had swollen the Seine till it had burst its banks above Rouen and had -flooded miles of fair country 'twixt that town and the city of Paris. - -Presently Gripwell returned, accompanied by the Norman helmsman and his -crew. The latter sat listlessly on their thwarts, while the man-at-arms -beguiled the lads during the hours of waiting with stories of the past -when the English armies overran the greater part of France. - -Suddenly Gaston started to his feet; a low distant roar, like the rumble -of summer thunder, caught his well-trained ear. - -"_Vite, vite, mes enfants!_" he shouted. "_La barre!_" - -Instantly the hitherto inactive rowers were transformed into alert and -energetic seamen. The holding-ropes were cast off, the oars fell betwixt -the thole-pins and the boat, driving her out towards the middle of the -Seine. Yet, notwithstanding the men's efforts, the craft made no headway -against the stream. - -"Why thus?" asked Oswald. "The tide is still against us, and, moreover, -our friends still tarry at the inn." - -"Dost not hear the distant roar?" asked Gripwell. "'Tis what men in -these parts call the Mascaret or La Barre, though to English ears 'bore' -sounds more familiar." - -Meanwhile all the other boats that were moored to the bank began to put -off into midstream, their occupants joining in the warning cry. - -Geoffrey looked down stream, and a strange and awe-inspiring sight met -his gaze. Stretching from bank to bank came an enormous wave, eight or -more feet in height. Its line was bent into the form of a crescent, the -two shoreward extremities being in advance of the centre, and breaking -furiously along the shore, to the accompaniment of an ever-increasing -roar. - -While the Englishmen were looking with considerable apprehension at the -progress of the bore, fully expecting that their craft would be engulfed -in the wall of water, a shout from the bank caused them to glance shore -wards. - -Master Roche and his three boon companions had left the inn and were -standing on the quay, unable to understand the cause of their fellow -travellers' desertion. - -"Come back, robbers, come back," shouted the Southampton man. The -approaching danger was disregarded or unnoticed in his excitement. - -Then, espying a small boat hauled up the bank out of harm's way, the -angry merchants lustily dragged it to the water's edge. - -"_Arrêtez, messieurs, pour l'amour de Notre Dame_," shouted the Norman -helmsman, waving his free arm frantically by way of warning. - -But the thick-headed Englishmen were not to be thwarted in their desire -to regain the bac. The light craft was launched, and the four merchants -awkwardly jumped into it. Fortunately, there were oars in the boat, and -in a measure they were able to keep control over the frail cockleshell. -More than that they could not do, and like a straw the boat was whisked -down stream. - -The bore was within two hundred yards ere the merchants realized their -danger. Terror seized them, and in a mad endeavour to escape they did -the worst possible thing—they rowed desperately for the shore. - -Nothing could be done to save the inexperienced merchants from the -impending disaster. All the nerve and skill at the Norman's command was -required to attend to the safety of the bac. - -A hurried order, and the boat was turned bows on to the approaching -wave, while the rowers bent and strained at their oars to give the craft -sufficient way to mount the watery wall. - -"Hold fast!" cautioned Gripwell to the lads. - -The next instant the boat's bows were lifted high in the air till the -craft seemed to stand on end. With a sickening shudder the bac remained -for a few seconds poised upon a quivering, unstable pivot; then the long -craft slid down the other side of the mountainous wave into -comparatively calm water. - -Anxiously Geoffrey and his comrades looked for their fellow-travellers. -The little skiff, caught broadside on by the billow, had been rolled -over and over, and was floating keel uppermost in the still ruffled -water. Three of its late occupants were clinging to this slender -support, while midway between the upturned boat and the shore the head -of the unfortunate Master Roche was seen bobbing up and down. - -The merchant was a good swimmer, and breasted the stream right manfully, -but it was a question whether he would reach the bank ere the arrival of -the second wave, which usually follows the first at a distance of about -two hundred yards. - -Quickly Gaston took in the state of affairs. The men clinging to the -water-logged boat must first be rescued, and that quickly. - -Ordering his men to pull easily he steered towards the hapless -merchants. Two were quickly hauled in, but the work of rescuing the -third, a heavily-built man, proved a harder task. - -Leaning far over the side, the Norman steersman essayed to assist, but -being jolted by one of his excitable fellow-countrymen, he overbalanced -and fell headlong into the river. - -Waterman born and bred though he was, Gaston could not swim a stroke. -Raising his hands despairingly above his head and uttering a yell of -terror, he sank, whereupon, without a moment's hesitation, Geoffrey -unbuckled his sword-belt and took a flying leap after him. - -But the lad had not counted the cost of his brave act. The terrified -Norman gripped him round the neck in a vice-like grasp, while during the -one brief moment that the English lad's head rose above the water he saw -the second wave bearing down upon them. - -With irresistible fury the billow overwhelmed both the drowning man and -his would-be rescuer. To Geoffrey it seemed as if he was buried fathoms -deep in the icy-cold water, while his ears were well-nigh bursting under -the pressure of the wave and the bulldog grip of the half-suffocated -Norman. - -Just as the lad's breath and strength were failing his head appeared -above water; at the same time the grasp at his throat relaxed, and he -was able to take in a full, deep draught of life-giving air. With a -sudden jerk he freed himself of the Norman's grip, and ere the man sank -Geoffrey had him by the hair. - -[Illustration: "IT DID NOT TAKE LONG FOR THE ENGLISHMEN TO GRASP THE -SITUATION."] - -But the coldness of the water and the effect of his almost superhuman -efforts were beginning to tell. His strokes became feebler, his chin -sank lower in the water, yet his hold on the Norman was not relaxed. -Then, just as his strength failed, he was dimly conscious of a babel of -English and Norman voices close above him; eager hands grasped him by -the shoulder, and as he and Gaston were dragged into safety he fell -senseless upon the bottom of the boat. - -When Geoffrey came to himself the dreaded bore and its attendant dangers -were past. The boat was progressing rapidly with the now favouring -flood-tide. Master Roche and his companions, arrayed in a medley of -borrowed garments, were sheltering from the strong wind in the little -cabin, while Gaston, who had quickly recovered from the effect of his -immersion, was at his customary post at the helm. - -Oswald, Richard Ratclyffe, Gripwell, and the English archers were -gathered round the limp body of their brave comrade, and great was their -joy when he revived. - -"Thou must needs lie quiet, Master Geoffrey," exclaimed the old -man-at-arms, as the lad attempted to raise himself on one elbow. "We -need fear no more from the bore, for we are nigh to Villequier, where we -can find shelter and refreshment at _La Dame Dorée_. Certes! What a -story for the folks at Warblington." - -That night, after the bac had been safely moored, Gaston came up to the -inn where Geoffrey was. - -"Young sir," he exclaimed simply, "I thank thee for thy deed this day. -Though I fear 'tis of little use to say it, bear in mind that if I, -Gaston le Noir, can be of service to thee at any time, my dwelling is at -La Broie, hard by the town of Harfleur." - -"'Twas but a small matter," replied Geoffrey. "Yet should it come to -pass that I have need of thee, Gaston, I'll remember La Broie, hard by -the town of Harfleur." - - - - - CHAPTER VI - - THE AFFRAY BY THE RIVER - - -Next morning a dense fog hung over the valley of the Seine, so that it -was impossible to see across to the opposite bank. Nevertheless, the -Englishmen were anxious to resume the journey, and, being assured by -Gaston that he could steer the boat, even were the fog twice as thick, -they embarked once more. - -Presently the sun became visible through the white wreathing vapour—a -pale, watery-looking disc. Then a cold westerly breeze, insufficient to -disperse the mist, sprang up, so that the Norman, eager to save the -muscles of his men, ordered the sail to be set. - -Above Villequier the windings of the river were not sufficient to -necessitate windward work, so by merely trimming the sail as the course -was altered the boat could pursue her onward way. - -Hardly a word was spoken. The fog seemed to affect the spirits both of -the mercurial Frenchmen and the more reticent Englishmen, and in -silence, save for an occasional order from the steersman as the sheets -required attention, the party made rapid progress with wind and tide. - -"Yonder lies the Dos d'Ane," remarked Gaston, pointing to a distant -hill. "Close under its shadow boats can shelter from la barre." - -"I trow, master, we have had enough of this terrible bore," observed -Roche. "Certes! Even now I have the taste of Seine water in my throat, -in spite of a good stoup of sack." - -"Not one good stoup only, gossip," corrected one of his companions. - -"As thou wilt, Thomas; but I pray three, ere thou wouldst——" - -Master Roche's words were interrupted by a low "hist" from the -steersman. - -"'Tis but the cry of a bittern," remarked Ratclyffe. - -"_Ma foi!_ If thou canst liken yonder sound to a bird's call thou hast -no right to wear sword," retorted Gripwell, excitement outweighing his -deference. "E'en though the wind bloweth away from us, I can make out -the clash of arms and the shouts of the combatants. Now, am I not -right?" he continued, as a lull in the breeze enabled the Englishmen to -hear the subdued clatter of a distant encounter. - -"Steer towards the bank, Gaston," exclaimed Geoffrey. "Perchance we can -be of some slight service to those in the right." - -"Certes! I care not which be in the right or wrong," added Gripwell, for -the old war-dog had scented the battle from afar. "Give me room for -sword-play on the weaker side, and that will suffice. How say you, -Master Roche?" - -"I and my fellow merchants are men of peace," replied Roche sturdily. -"But if we can be of service we'll follow thee." - -So saying, the Southampton man dived into the cabin, reappearing with a -sheaf of swords, which he distributed amongst his companions. - -By this time the boat was nearing the bank, and above the clash of arms -and the oaths and exclamations of pain and anger rose the shrill shriek -of a woman. - -"Fall on, comrades!" shouted Gripwell, as the bows of the craft slid -gently against the rush-lined bank, and with an agility that was -surprising for his years the man-at-arms leapt ashore brandishing a long -two-handed sword. - -Geoffrey, Oswald, and Ratclyffe hastened after him, the four merchants -and the three archers vieing with each other in their haste to follow -him to the scene of the encounter. - -The fog had cleared sufficiently for Geoffrey and his comrades to -discern a confused throng of combatants at a little distance from the -bank, where a road ran parallel with the river. - -It did not take long for the Englishmen to grasp the situation. Standing -shoulder to shoulder, with brandished spear and sword, were six or seven -men. Sheltering behind them was a woman, but whether young or old the -newcomers could not tell, since she was in a huddled posture, with her -head covered by her coif. - -Surrounding the little band swarmed a score or more of repulsive-looking -ruffians, armed similarly to their opponents. Men had fallen on both -sides, while two horses, one dead, the other hamstrung, added to the -carnage. At a distance of twenty paces along the road two of the -villainous rogues were holding an elderly woman, and it was she who was -giving vent to the piercing cries that the Englishmen had heard as they -sped towards the shore. - -There was no mistaking the situation. The ladies and their armed -attendants had been assailed by a stronger and more numerous band—either -the servants of some turbulent and rascally baron or a party of men -acting for their own profit, for armed robbers swarmed on French soil -during the troublous feud betwixt the Orleanist and Burgundian factions. - -Even the timely arrival of the Englishmen did not have the effect of -causing the assailants to beat a hasty retreat. Instead they held their -ground, striving by a supreme effort to beat down the slender ring of -steel that surrounded the crouching figure in the centre. - -In an instant Arnold Gripwell had launched himself into the thickest of -the press. The long two-handed sword flashed, sweeping and thrusting -with the skill and force of long usage. - -Nor were the three lads backward in their efforts. The young heir of -Warblington, carried away by the heat of the fight—even though 'twas the -first time he had crossed steel in action—found himself confronted by a -tall, lithe rascal clad in a padded leather coat and flowing gabardine, -and armed with a short, heavy sword. - -Avoiding a powerful downward cut, Geoffrey sprang lightly aside, his -antagonist's blade missing his left shoulder by a hair's breadth. With a -swift lunge the lad wounded his foe in the neck, but was almost -immediately repaid by a cut that, falling short, gashed his face. - -Ere the man could recover himself Geoffrey's blade sped home, and at the -same time Oswald succeeded in cutting down his opponent. - -Of what happened during the next few minutes Sir Oliver's son had but a -confused knowledge; but the rogues had suffered severely, and already -most of them who were uninjured were seeking safety in flight. - -Of the two men who guarded the elder woman, one had taken to his heels, -but the other, pushing his captive in front of him, stood, crossbow to -shoulder, seeking to cover his comrade's flight. - -Stung to fury by his wound, Geoffrey cast all discretion to the winds. -Calling Oswald to follow him, he dashed towards the cross-bowman, -heedless of the menacing weapon that was aimed full at his body, though -he was protected neither by shield nor breastplate. - -The woman saw the danger to which her would-be rescuer was exposed, and, -adroitly slipping to the ground, she drew a small dagger and plunged it -to the hilt into her captor's side. With a yell of pain the man dropped -his cross-bow, pressed his hand to his wound, and turned to flee. But -Geoffrey's blade swung through the air, and with a shriek the robber -fell dead. - -That terminated the fight. Nine of the robbers and four of their -opponents had been slain, while four on each side had been grievously -wounded, including one of the English archers, who was already dying. - -Meanwhile Oswald had assisted the elder lady to rise. - -"By St. Denis!" she exclaimed. "To think that my silver dagger should be -sullied by the blood of a base routier. But I am forgetting. I have to -thank thee, sir, and thy comrades for this timely assistance. I trust -thou art a gentleman of coat armour?" - -Oswald hastened to assure the haughty dame that both he and his two -friends were of noble birth. - -"The saints be praised!" was the lady's remark. "It would ill-become the -wife of Sir Raoul d'Aulx, seigneur of Maissons, to be beholden to -bourgeois or villein." - -Geoffrey felt tempted to point out that 'twas with the aid of the -merchants and the common archers that the affair had been decided, but -the announcement of the lady's title completely took him by surprise. - -"Certes!" he exclaimed. "This is passing strange. It is to Sir Raoul -d'Aulx that my companion here, Richard Ratclyffe, squire to Sir Thomas -Carberry, Governor of Portchester Castle, doth bear a letter from his -lord." - -"Then perchance thou canst do us a further service," replied Lady -d'Aulx. "Since our horses are done for and many of our men have fallen, -it may be possible for us to journey to Rouen together." - -"Our boat, though inconveniently crowded, is at thy service, madame," -said Roche, who was busily engaged in completing the binding of a slight -cut on his wrist. - -"Boat, quotha! I like not this mode of travelling; yet 'tis better than -nothing at all. But, sir, thy name and rank?" - -The Southampton merchant quailed beneath the imperious glance of the -haughty French woman. Shuffling his feet uneasily, he tried to make -reply. - -"My worthy friend hath ever been bashful in the presence of beauty," -explained Ratclyffe with courtier-like quickness. "He bears the name of -Sir Paul Roche, of Lucre Castle, hard by the town of Southampton." - -"Greetings, Sir Paul," exclaimed Sir Raoul's wife, as the pseudo-knight -gallantly kissed her hand. "But 'tis to no purpose to dally here. Aimée, -my belle, come hither; it is to these honourable cavaliers that we owe -our preservation." - -Aimée d'Aulx, Sir Raoul's only daughter, was a tall, graceful maiden of -about thirteen years of age, with dark chestnut tresses and a wondrous -clear complexion. She had now completely recovered from her fright, and -Geoffrey especially could not help noticing her beauty. While possessing -a certain sense of dignity, she lacked the haughty mien of her mother, -and unaffectedly she presented her hand to be saluted by Geoffrey and -his companions, including "Sir Paul," who, having regained his -composure, seemed not a little tickled by his newly-acquired position. - -Arnold Gripwell had meanwhile given the archers orders to dispatch the -wounded robbers, according to the custom of the Middle Ages, when human -life was cheaply esteemed in the case of common men who were unable to -pay ransom. - -"I pray thee examine yonder rogue," said the Lady d'Aulx, pointing to -the corpse of the cross-bowman who had held her captive. "Methinks he -was the leader of the rabble, yet I trow he is no base-born serf." - -The old man-at-arms strode over to the spot where the dead ruffian lay, -and with a kick turned the body over on its back. - -"See here, Master Geoffrey," he shouted. "I' faith, though thou wert -reckless enow in rushing in upon a levelled cross-bow, the rogue was but -playing a trick. See, here is the string still notched, but no sign of a -quarrel." - -"Then he was a brave man to cover his comrade's retreat with a boltless -bow," replied the lad. - -"And thou equally brave, not knowing that thy life was saved by this man -being without a shaft," added Gripwell. - -"By St. George, what have we here?" he continued, tearing aside the dead -man's cloak and disclosing a small device upon the left breast of his -doublet. "A red axe upon a field of murrey. Dost know this cognizance, -Master Geoffrey?" - -"Nay, forsooth," replied the lad. - -"Then I trust that thou wilt ever see it in the dust. 'Tis the coat of -Yves, Lord of Malevereux." - -"Surely this is not the corpse of the man who holds my father captive?" - -"Nay, young sir; the Lord of Malevereux is great in stature and inclined -to stoutness. Moreover, 'tis unreasonable to suppose that he would lead -in person a band of churlish cut-throats such as these. Without doubt -they are of the household of Malevereux." - -"Of Malevereux?" exclaimed the Lady d'Aulx. "Then I do perceive how -matters stand. This base-born Yves knew that I was journeying 'twixt -Harfleur and Rouen, and doubtless thought to hold me to ransom. My -faith, if Sir Raoul doth not bring him to book for this, may I never -break bread again." - -"'Tis to this purpose that I am sent to the Castle of Maissons, madame," -said Ratclyffe. "So that they of Taillemartel should join forces with -the garrison of Maissons 'gainst this villainous Yves." - -"Young squire, in the name of Sir Raoul d'Aulx I shall welcome thee and -thine to Maissons, yet methinks that this matter concerning the -combining of the two garrisons must wait, seeing that Sir Raoul hath -been called to Paris by his Sovereign." - -"When will he return, fair lady?" asked Geoffrey anxiously. - -"Nay, that I cannot say; but rest assured, young sir, that thine anxiety -concerning the chastisement of the Lord of Malevereux is not greater -than mine." - -The Englishmen and the party they had succoured embarked upon the boat, -and the journey up stream was resumed. Ere sunset on the following day -the city of Rouen was reached, and Gaston was dismissed with liberal -payment. - -Here, after a night's rest, the travellers dispersed. Paul Roche and his -fellow merchants addressed themselves to the disposal of their wares; -the Lady d'Aulx and her attendants, accompanied by Richard Ratclyffe, -set out on the road to Maissons; while Geoffrey, Oswald, and Arnold -Gripwell, with the two surviving archers, took horse and were soon -speeding on their way to Taillemartel. - - - - - CHAPTER VII - - HOW GEOFFREY CAME TO TAILLEMARTEL - - -A few leagues from the city of Rouen Geoffrey and his companions began -to come across evidences of the fearful struggle 'twixt Burgundians and -Orleanists. - -Here would be seen a "Burgundian mitre"—the scorched and blackened -gables of a partially demolished cottage; there the corpse of some -unfortunate peasant dangling from the withered branch of a tree. Ever -the air reeked of charcoal and of the fetid odours emanating from -carcases of unburied cattle; for the marauders ruthlessly slew every -four-footed creature that they were unable to drive off to their -embattled retreats. - -Utmost caution had to be exercised by the English travellers, since they -were not strong enough to hope to successfully repel the attacks of any -but the smaller bands of freebooters. Twice they were compelled to take -refuge in friendly woods. Once a détour of three leagues was necessary, -owing to the approach of suspicious parties of horsemen, so that the sun -had set ere Geoffrey arrived at the portals of his father's Norman -castle. - -In the gloom the lad could distinguish the outlines of two massive -circular twin towers connected by a battlemented wall, pierced by a -lofty gateway concealed by the raised drawbridge. On either side of the -towers the wall ran for a distance of about fifty yards till it joined -another circular though smaller tower forming the angle of the fortified -work. Within, the summit of a square keep was just visible above the -battlements. Barbican or outwork there was none, but a deep moat -surrounded the castle. - -"What think ye of Taillemartel?" asked Gripwell as the cavalcade reined -in their steeds at the edge of the moat. - -"'Tis a noble pile, Arnold," replied Geoffrey, "though not so large as -Warblington, I trow. But how——" - -Geoffrey's words were interrupted by a hoarse shout from the -battlements, and a sentinel demanded the names and errand of the -newcomers. - -"They keep good ward," remarked Oswald, as one of the English archers -who was about to sound a tucket thrust his trumpet behind him. - -"Ho, there! Who comes?" repeated the sentinel. - -"I would have speech with the seneschal," replied Gripwell. - -In a few minutes torches flickered behind the battlements, glittering on -steel headpiece and breastplate; then a voice exclaimed: "Here am I, -Bertrand de Vaux, seneschal to my Lord Oliver Lysle. Who would have -speech with me at this unseemly hour?" - -"Sir Oliver's son stands without, and would be admitted." - -"I wot not that Sir Oliver's son was coming hither," replied the -seneschal. "What proof have I that ye are not of Malevereux, or of -Entrevilles, or of Faux?" - -"A truce to thy stubbornness, Bertrand," shouted Oswald. "Dost recognize -my voice? I am Oswald Steyning, Sir Oliver's squire." - -"A thousand pardons, monsieur. Now I know 'tis no trick or stratagem. -Nevertheless, be it known that Sir Oliver's strict injunctions allow -neither the gate nor the sally-port to be opened after sunset, save by -virtue of his written order." - -"Doth that also apply to the drawbridge?" asked Gripwell. - -"Nay," replied the seneschal. "That I will have lowered, but to what -purpose?" - -"Hast ever heard how the blessed St. Paul left the city of Damascus? I -pray thee lower ropes from the battlements if naught else will serve, -and I'll warrant that this night we'll slumber quietly within the walls -of Taillemartel." - -To this suggestion there was no verbal response, but almost immediately -the iron chains of the drawbridge creaked and clanked as the ponderous -wooden structure fell slowly on its hinges. - -Meanwhile the two archers had tethered the horses of the party in a -meadow hard by the moat. This done, Geoffrey and his companions crossed -the drawbridge, to find three stout, noosed ropes dangling from the -almost invisible heights above. - -Spinning round and round like a joint on a jack, Geoffrey was drawn up, -and in this somewhat undignified manner he made his entry into his -father's Norman home. - -Oswald and Gripwell followed, the ropes being again lowered for the two -archers, and soon the travellers found themselves standing on the -battlements surrounded by the eighty men-at-arms and archers comprising -the garrison of Taillemartel, but it was not until the letter bearing -the Lady Bertha's signature and the seal of Warblington was produced and -read that the seneschal led the round of cheering that greeted Sir -Oliver's son. - -Bertrand de Vaux was a short, broad-shouldered, bull-necked Norman, of -about forty years of age. Muscular strength was evinced by his frame, -while his deep-set eyes and heavy square-cut chin denoted resolution and -determination akin to obstinacy. - -He was soberly attired in a close-fitting suit of green cloth slashed -with red, while a silver belt, ornamented with the arms of the Lysles, -encircled his waist. On his head he wore a velvet cap of maintenance -ornamented by a silver clasp, also stamped with the turbot and the -stars, while his feet were encased in untanned leather shoes, the toes -of which terminated in long points that for convenience' sake were -turned upwards and fastened to the wearer's calves by means of silver -buckles. - -"I pray you bear me company to the banqueting-hall," said the seneschal -addressing Geoffrey and Oswald. "I doubt not that Taillemartel can still -provide a repast fitting for Sir Oliver's son, e'en though Sir Oliver -himself be not here to have the ordering of it." - -So saying, he led the way to the hall where the men-servants had already -prepared a plentiful repast of cold venison, pheasants, long rolls of -bread, and a copious supply of mead and wine. - -Arnold Gripwell had partaken himself to the quarters of the -_sous-officiers_, while the archers had to content themselves with -company of the Norman soldiery, but their slight knowledge of the -foreign tongue was sufficient to enable them to carry on a conversation -with their new comrades. - -"Hast heard or seen aught of Sir Yves of Malevereux?" asked Geoffrey, as -they were doing full duty towards the viands. - -"Of Sir Yves nothing; of his following overmuch. Thrice within the last -fortnight have his men appeared within sight of Taillemartel. Yet though -they did us no scath, they did not hesitate to mock at us. _Ma foi_, -when they mentioned the name of Sir Oliver, and taunted us that we were -children not to stir on his behalf 'twas as much as I could do to keep -my men in hand. Yet seeing that they of Malevereux were thrice as many, -and that little or no good was to come of adventuring ourselves 'gainst -them in the open, I kept our men within walls." - -"I trust that they have done no harm to the tenantry?" - -"Only to Pierre, the wood-cutter," replied Bertram carelessly. "Poor -fool, he would not take shelter within the castle as the rest have done, -so they slew him on his own threshold—not before he had killed two of -the villains." - -"Now that is good cheer," continued the seneschal, when Geoffrey had -told him of the proposed alliance with Sir Raoul d'Aulx. "By St. Denis, -with three hundred men-at-arms, archers, and cross-bowmen 'gainst it, -Malevereux will assuredly fall. And then——Ah, with Sir Oliver set free, -and the plunder of two score years within our grasp, life will be worth -living." - -On the morning following the arrival of the Englishmen at Taillemartel, -Oswald Steyning set out to deliver the letter from the Lady Bertha to -Sir Yves de Malevereux. - -In spite of the young squire's forebodings, he persevered in his -determination of bearding the Tyrant in his den. Refusing to take any of -the garrison as an escort, he bade farewell to Geoffrey and his friends, -both English and Norman; then, trusting to chance to avoid straggling -parties of raiders (though the fact that he bore a letter addressed to -the Tyrant might afford him safe conduct), he rode forth from the -sheltering walls of Taillemartel. - -From that moment it seemed as if the earth had opened and swallowed up -the bold and devoted squire of Sir Oliver Lysle. Day after day passed, -yet Oswald did not return. Reluctantly Geoffrey had to admit that, -unless some misadventure had befallen his friend on the way, Sir Yves -had been guilty of a gross breach of faith, and had made the young -squire captive in the gloomy castle of Malevereux. - -For the next fifteen days following Oswald's departure nothing of -interest occurred to break the ordinary routine observed at -Taillemartel. Occasionally parties of horsemen, bearing Sir Yves' -livery, would appear before the castle, but they wisely forbore from -approaching within bow-shot. Nevertheless, Geoffrey had not been idle. -Under Gripwell's tutorage he studiously practised the use of the lance, -sword and mace, or engaged in tourneys with blunted lances. Hard knocks -were given and received with good grace, and day by day the heir of -Warblington made rapid progress in the art of war. - -At length Richard Ratclyffe arrived at the castle, his crestfallen face -forewarning the garrison of the failure of his mission. Sir Raoul had -been summoned to Paris to attend upon the Dauphin, and for an apparently -indefinite time the Castle of Maissons was to be shorn of its numerous -soldiery, a bare thirty men-at-arms and cross-bowmen being left to hold -the fortress during its lord's absence. - -"I can only return to my master, Sir Thomas Carberry, with assurances of -Sir Raoul's condolence," exclaimed Ratclyffe ruefully. "That is but cold -comfort, yet 'tis better than nothing at all. But on the other hand, -Geoffrey, there are great doings afoot. I heard, on the authority of one -of the French king's attendants, that our King Harry hath formally -presented his claim to the throne of France. Failing an immediate -compliance he vows that he will submit his claim to the arbitrament of -the sword." - -"'Tis good news," replied Geoffrey enthusiastically, but the brow of the -Norman seneschal clouded ominously. - -"France for the Frenchmen," said he. "So long as Sir Oliver holds -Taillemartel as a fief of King Charles I am content. With Burgundian -fighting Orleanist I am likewise content to side with the Duke of -Burgundy. Should he think fit to make alliance with your King Henry 'tis -well; but failing that, how can I, Bertrand de Vaux, stand aloof when -English armies tread on French soil?" - -"Have a care, sir, lest you fall betwixt two stools," exclaimed -Ratclyffe. "'Tis said that Burgundy favours King Henry's claim." - -"If that be so, I, too, am with him; yet at heart I am a Frenchman." - -"Time will prove, good Bertrand. Meanwhile, concerning the matter in -hand; it is my purpose to journey homewards to-morrow, Geoffrey, so if -thou hast a message to send to Warblington I will be the bearer." - -"Since so little has been done towards setting free my father, I am at a -loss what to say," replied Geoffrey, sadly. "But this: bear my mother my -most dutiful expressions of regard, and tell her that by the blessing of -God I am in good health. Also that I am striving to do my devoirs as a -true Lysle." - -Late in the afternoon of the day following Ratclyffe's departure, a -small cavalcade was observed to be rapidly approaching the castle. The -battlements were immediately manned, the gates shut, and the drawbridge -raised, while speculation was rife as to the object of the new-comers. - -Without hesitation the little band rode fearlessly up to the edge of the -moat. There were but seven, all most magnificently mounted and -accoutred, while their leader bore the French Royal arms upon his -surcoat—the silver lilies upon an azure field. A horn was sounded, and -admittance was demanded for a herald of King Charles of France. Upon -this the drawbridge was lowered, and the gates thrown open. - -"Welcome, Sir Jacques d'Erquai," exclaimed the seneschal, recognizing -the new arrival as a distinguished knight of the French Court. "What is -thy pleasure?" - -"I ask entertainment for me and mine this night, Bertrand. To-morrow we -hasten towards Harfleur, for my royal master hath deigned to favour me. -In sooth, I am ambassador-extraordinary to the King of England." - -That evening Sir Jacques was the guest at Taillemartel. During his stay -he spoke but little concerning the nature of his mission. When, however, -he had taken his departure, Arnold Gripwell approached the English lad, -his face working with excitement. - -"Yesternight I lay low and said but little, though mine ears were as -busy as a housewife's fingers. Certes, though I understand that this Sir -Jacques d'Erquai kept a proper curb on his tongue, his varlets lacked -common discretion. What, think ye, is the Dauphin's answer to our -Sovereign Lord's demands?" - -"Surely the Dauphin will not submit tamely?" suggested Geoffrey. - -"Of a surety he will not," continued the man-at-arms. "Not only hath he -refused the king's conditions, but he hath gone further; by the hand of -Sir Jacques he hath sent an insulting message, together with a present." - -"The message?" asked Geoffrey eagerly. - -"To fully understand the message 'tis necessary to know the nature of -the present, young sir. In short, the Dauphin has sent a box of tennis -balls with the message that King Harry would do better to find amusement -with them rather than present a claim to the crown of France." - -"After that there can be but one issue," remarked Geoffrey. - -"Ay—war," was Gripwell's curt response. - - - - - CHAPTER VIII - - OF THE AMBUSH LAID BY THE MEN OF TAILLEMARTEL - - -Slowly the months sped, yet towards taking any definite steps to secure -his father's release Geoffrey could do little or nothing. - -The realization of his two great hopes—the return of Sir Raoul from the -French capital, and the expected invasion by King Henry—seemed too -uncertain. The feast of St. Silvester—a critical time in the affairs of -Sir Oliver Lysle—was now but a few days off, and, as the rapidly -dwindling interval appreciably diminished, the need for action on the -part of his son became more and more urgent. - -Early one morning in June a horseman rode with loose rein up to the -castle with the news of the approach of a strong body of mounted men -from Malevereux, and that the invaders' intention was undoubtedly to -sack and plunder the village of Taillemartel, that, up to the present, -had escaped the unwelcome attentions of the ruthless Sir Yves. Possibly -its proximity to the castle had accounted for its immunity hitherto, but -with the force at his command on this occasion the Lord of Malevereux -doubtless thought the opportunity had come to sack the village. - -"Now is the time to gain honour and distinction, young sir," quoth -Gripwell to his charge, as he hurried from the armoury with his harness -but partly buckled, and a sheaf of weapons under his arm. "'Tis not for -me to give orders, but saving thy presence, I would suggest that we take -steps to thwart these rogues of Malevereux. Though they be the stronger -party I have but little doubt that by stratagem we may worst them." - -"How so, Arnold?" asked Geoffrey. - -"Thus," was the reply, and the man-at-arms proceeded to unfold a -carefully prepared plan of action. - -Geoffrey and the seneschal expressed their unstinted admiration of -Gripwell's proposal, and without a moment's hesitation the plan was put -into execution. - -Leaving but ten men to guard the castle Geoffrey led the rest of the -garrison to the village, which lay but two bow-shots from the walls of -Taillemartel. Here the soldiers proceeded to occupy the cottages on -either side of the only road that passed through the little village, -while outposts were placed with instructions to hasten back to the main -body without being perceived, on the first sign of the approach of the -enemy. - -Already the terrified peasants were busily engaged in removing such of -their scanty goods and chattels that were capable of being easily -carried away, while the womenfolk and children were streaming in a -disorderly mob along the dusty road leading to the castle. - -"Bid those villeins stop, young sir," exclaimed Gripwell, pointing with -his sword towards the mob of villagers. "They do but hinder our work of -making good the defences." - -Calmly Geoffrey walked across to where the peasants were, the seneschal -accompanying him. Like the rest of their men they were unmounted, so -that the risk of being seen by the enemy was considerably reduced. - -"Listen, men," exclaimed Sir Oliver's son in the Norman patois, for, -like most of the knights and squires of that period, he could speak the -French tongue. "Listen, men, and if ye be worthy of the name, I pray you -desist from this work of removing your goods. Is it not better to have a -thatch over your heads than a few sorry remnants of your belongings -without a cottage wherein to store them? We are here, by God's help, to -protect you from the rogues of Malevereux. Were it otherwise 'twould -have been more profitable to remain within the walls of Taillemartel and -let the village take its chance. - -"Now," he went on, "this is my pleasure; let all those who have any -regard for their own skins and faith in the protecting arm of their -over-lord—let these stand firm and assist in the defence of their -hearths and homes. Those who are not so disposed, let them hasten behind -the walls of Taillemartel—but, be it understood, not a stick of their -goods must be borne hence." - -Of the three-score male inhabitants only four took advantage of -Geoffrey's offer to gain the shelter of the castle, and, amid the -hooting and hissing of their fellows, and the rude jibes of the -soldiers, they slunk sheepishly away. - -Those of the peasants who stood firm were ordered to drag their wagons -and ploughs to the end of the village street nearer the castle, and to -pile them in a rough breastwork that was practically impassable by -mounted men. - -Eagerly the villagers obeyed. Fired by the ardour of their young -seigneur they gained both strength and resolution, so that in a very -short space of time the crowd of demoralized peasants was changed into a -band of determined and comparatively disciplined men. - -"Now get you gone to your houses," continued Geoffrey, speaking -according to Gripwell's suggestions. "Arm yourselves with scythes, -flails, clubs, or any other weapon ye may have to hand. Moreover, lay in -a supply of stones, but, on pain of severe punishment, let no man stir -or show himself until he hears a trumpet blown." - -In a wonderfully short time the village street was almost deserted, for -the men-at-arms, archers and cross-bowmen had already taken up their -quarters within the houses. Only Geoffrey, Gripwell, the seneschal, and -a few archers remained without. Venturing to the furthermost end of the -village they awaited the arrival of the outposts with news of the -approach of the men of Malevereux. - -They had not long to wait. Wellnigh breathless, with his arms pressed -closely to his sides, a lightly-clad archer ran towards the village, -taking advantage of every depression in the ground that might serve to -hide him from the foe. Close behind him ran another, and, a bow-shot in -the rear, a third. All bore the same tidings. A body of mounted men, -estimated at nearly two hundred, and led by Sir Yves in person, was even -now within a league of the village. - -"Sir Yves, himself!" ejaculated Gripwell. "Certes, if we cannot bring -him to earth, may I never see Warblington again. Pass the word, -Florestan," he continued, addressing an archer, "that one cross-bowman -in each house reserve his quarrel especially for the Tyrant of -Malevereux. A crown for the man who brings him down." - -As the archer ran to communicate the order the man-at-arms turned to -Geoffrey: "Tis time that we took cover, young sir. Be of good heart, for -I'll warrant that these wolves will turn tail and make off faster than -they came. My place is by the side of my master's son. But above all -things take heed that not a bow be loosed nor a stone thrown till the -tucket sounds." - -Barely had the defenders retired to their rude defences ere the -followers of Sir Yves appeared; for, deeming the village an easy prey, -they had ridden furiously upon it to plunder and kill. - -Fortunately for Gripwell's plan the cottages standing more remote from -the castle were meaner than those in the middle of the village. This -fact was evidently known to the men of Malevereux, for, without waiting -to despoil the poorer houses, they passed on towards that part of the -hamlet where most plunder was likely to be obtained. - -In the van, composed of mounted men-at-arms, clad in quilted coats, -breastplates and iron caps, rode a person of quality, for he was armed -cap-à-pied in steel, and bore a shield with the device the red axe. -Previous to entering the village he had closed his visor, so that his -features were not visible. - -"Is yon knight the Tyrant Sir Yves?" - -"Without a doubt," replied Gripwell in an undertone. "But 'tis ill that -such a gap divides two companies; the van will have reached the -barricade ere the rear-guard rides fairly into the trap." - -"Who, then, is this?" continued the lad, as a short, broad-shouldered -man passed at the head of the rear-guard. - -The leader of the second company was clad in a complete suit of chain -armour, similar to that in vogue two centuries before, but with the -addition of a steel breastplate, gorget, tassets, and sollerets. His -hands were encased with brazen gauntlets, the backs of which were -composed of thin overlapping plates studded with knots of steel. On his -head he wore a steel bascinet with a beaklike visor, but the latter had -been thrown back, disclosing a dark, cruel-looking face, partially -hidden by a heavy beard and moustache. - -Geoffrey repeated the question, for this knight's device was very -similar to the first's. - -"It can be none other than Sir Yves' brother, Sir Denis. I see that his -shield shows that he is his brother's cadet. But stand to it; the time -is at hand. Peter, sound a rousing tucket, I pray thee!" - -Thus ordered, one of the English archers blew a shrill blast upon his -horn, and the next moment volleys of arrows, bolts and stones whistled -through the air. The close array of mounted men was transformed into a -shouting, panic-stricken, struggling mob. Many fell, dead or wounded, -the plunging, terrified horses adding to the tumult. Here and there, men -braver and cooler than their fellows stood at bay or attempted to force -their way into the houses that sheltered their assailants. - -Three cross-bowmen had made Sir Denis their particular mark, but, -doubtless carried away by their excitement, their aim was faulty. One -bolt shattered itself against the knight's steel breastplate, another -glanced from his helmet, while the third missed entirely. - -Closing his visor, Sir Denis slipped from his horse and, mace in hand, -strode towards the door of the nearest cottage. In vain quarrels and -stones rattled against his armour of proof, and, like a man bearing a -charmed life, he continued his advance. - -"Make good the door 'gainst him," shouted Gripwell to the two English -archers. As he spoke a thunderous blow of the Norman's mace burst in the -upper part of the door. - -Peter, the archer who had given the signal for the onslaught, -immediately delivered a spear-thrust; but the knight, with a sweep of -his ponderous weapon, shattered the head of the spear from the haft. -Quick to take advantage, the archer grasped the end of the mace, and a -fierce struggle ensued. - -Sir Denis' mace was secured to his wrist by a chain, so that even had he -quitted his hold the weapon would still be attached to his person, yet -he had no intention of so doing. - -Swaying to and fro on either side of the partially demolished door, -archer and knight strove for mastery. Both were powerful men, and both -equally determined to gain possession of the mace. At one time the -mailed casque and shoulders of the Norman would be dragged through the -irregular aperture; at another the Englishman was sore put to prevent -himself being hauled from his retreat. Nor could his comrades give him -assistance by laying hold of the knight's weapon; all they could do was -to rain powerful, yet futile, blows upon the armour of the struggling -foeman. - -Meanwhile Gripwell, after giving the archer instructions to hold the -doorway, had darted to the inner room, where a pail of charcoal, -intended by its late owner for cooking purposes, glowered darkly on the -floor. - -Seizing the portable fire with his gauntleted hands, the man-at-arms -bore it into the other room, where, awaiting his opportunity, he dashed -its contents into the visored face of the Norman knight. - -Some of the particles of the red-hot charcoal passed through the narrow -slits in Sir Denis' bascinet. Nearly blinded by the pain the knight -relinquished his hold on the mace and involuntarily attempted to raise -his arms to protect his face. The sudden release of the object of their -contentions caused the archer to reel backwards, till the strain on the -chain pulled the knight's arm towards the doorway. - -With a shout of triumph, Gripwell also seized the mace, and archer and -man-at-arms united their efforts to pin their formidable antagonist to -the woodwork by the strain upon the chain. - -"Yield thee, Sir Knight," thundered Arnold. "Methinks thou art a good -bond for the safety of my master, Sir Oliver." - -As he spoke Sir Denis gave a powerful heave, the chain snapped asunder, -and the two Englishmen fell heavily on the floor. The Frenchman reeled -backwards a good five paces ere he, too, came to earth. - -Unable to rise, by reason of the weight of his armour, he lay helpless, -groaning with the effect of the red-hot embers. - -"We'll have him anon," cried the man-at-arms, struggling to his feet. -"Look to yon window." - -The warning came barely in time. During the struggle at the doorway a -score of men from Malevereux had assailed the window, which Geoffrey, -sword in hand, was defending by the aid of two archers of the garrison -of Taillemartel and three peasants. - -Already one of the latter was down, slain by a quarrel shot at close -range, while one of the archers was severely wounded by a blow from a -"morning star." - -The arrival of Gripwell and the two English archers soon turned the -scale. While the man-at-arms dealt irresistible blows with his heavy -axe, the archers shot fast and true, and in a short space the band of -assailants seemed to melt away. - -"We hold our own everywhere," said Arnold, leaning out of the window -during the brief respite. - -The man-at-arms spoke truly. With one exception every house had made -good its defence, and already the demoralized men of Malevereux—those -who had not been slain or grievously wounded—were seeking safety in -flight. - -At one place, almost in the centre of the village, the noise of conflict -was still to be heard. Ordering the cross-bowmen from the houses, -Geoffrey gave instructions to form up at the furthermost end of the -village, so as to repel the enemy should they return to the attack, and -also to cut off the retreat of any of the remaining men of Malevereux -should they attempt to escape. - -This done, Geoffrey, accompanied by Gripwell and several archers and -men-at-arms, made his way through the corpse-encumbered street to where -the struggle was still maintained. - -"We have him safe enough, fair sir," exclaimed a bowman, pausing in the -act of replenishing his quiver with arrows that were everywhere -'feathering the ground. "The Tyrant is cornered in yonder house." - -The Knight of the Blood-red Axe had had his horse shot under him early -in the fight. Basely deserted by his panic-stricken followers, he found -his retreat cut off by the infuriated defenders. For a space he kept his -foes at bay, a ring of dead and wounded men surrounding him as he -fought. Wounded in several places till the blood oozed from the joints -of his armour, the knight made a sudden rush towards a deserted cottage. - -Here he made a stand, bringing down the seneschal of Taillemartel by a -sweeping cut with his sword, till, borne back by weight of numbers, he -took shelter in one of the rooms. - -"Leave him to me," shouted Geoffrey authoritatively, as he forced his -way 'twixt the crowd of soldiery. - -"Nay, thou'rt foolhardy," objected Gripwell, laying a detaining hand on -the shoulder of his charge. "Let the men have their way with the rogue; -he is unworthy to be treated as a gentleman of coat-armour." - -"Forbear to hinder me; my purpose is fixed," replied Geoffrey stoutly, -and, sword in hand, he rushed into the room where the knight stood, back -to the wall, three writhing bodies on the floor testifying to his -prowess as a swordsman. - -"Yield thee, Sir Knight," exclaimed Geoffrey. "I promise thee quarter." - -"Give quarter to those who ask it," was the reply. "I surrender to no -man." - -The next instant their blades crossed. Both combatants were equally -matched. The English lad lacked the size and weight of his antagonist; -but, with the exception of a slight wound received earlier in the fight, -Geoffrey was comparatively fresh, while the knight had already borne the -brunt of a prolonged encounter against enormous odds. - -On his part Geoffrey strove, by means of a succession of rapid passes, -to find a joint of his antagonist's armour; while the Frenchman, -mustering all the strength at his command, relied mainly upon his -powerful sweeping cuts to disable his youthful and active foe. - -At length the Englishman wounded his enemy by a lightning-like thrust -that took effect 'twixt the flexible plates of the Frenchman's gauntlet. -But Geoffrey had to pay for his advantage. With a roar like the -bellowing of a bull the knight shortened his sword, and ere the lad -could recover his blade the steel was snapped asunder a span's length -from the hilt. - -The Frenchman was not slow to take advantage of his enemy's misfortune. -_Swish!_ came his heavy weapon. Geoffrey's fragment of steel could not -stop the cut, though it deflected the sword-cut, and, receiving the -blade full in his gorget, the lad was sent staggering across the room. - -The knight could not forbear from following up his stroke. Unwisely he -left his point of vantage by the wall, and, whirling his sword, prepared -to deal a _coup de grâce_. - -In his excitement he forgot the low beam that ran athwart the ceiling, -and ere the stroke could be completed his sword encountered the rafter, -sinking in so deeply that he was unable to extricate his weapon. - -Already a dozen men-at-arms were about to intervene, when Geoffrey threw -himself boldly upon his antagonist. - -With a resounding crash the two mail-clad bodies fell upon the floor, -the English lad uppermost. The point of his dagger was at the slit of -his antagonist's visor, and the knight was at Geoffrey's mercy. - -"Yield thee, Sir Knight." - -This time the Frenchman thought ere he declined the proffered condition. - -"Thou art of noble blood?" he asked. "If not, slay me." - -"I am the son of Sir Oliver Lysle, whom thou——" - -"Then I surrender myself," replied the knight, without waiting for -further explanation. - -Breathlessly Geoffrey leaned upon the shoulder of one of the archers, -while Gripwell and one or two others proceeded to cut the laces of the -Frenchman's bascinet. - -When at length the vanquished man was unhelmed a cry of astonishment -arose from the onlookers. - -Instead of the cruel, debased features of Sir Yves of Malevereux the -face of a young man of about twenty years of age greeted the eyes of the -men of Taillemartel. - -"Who art thou, young sir?" demanded Geoffrey. "Methought I had captured -the Tyrant of Malevereux." - -"I am Henri, son of him whom thou hast named the Tyrant," was the reply. - - - - - CHAPTER IX - - CONCERNING GEOFFREY'S DESPERATE RESOLVE - - -"Though we have not Sir Yves in our hands, we have not fared badly," -said Arnold Gripwell, as they hurried off to muster the men of -Taillemartel, leaving the son of Sir Yves in the charge of a party of -archers. "With Sir Denis and this Henri as our captives we ought to -bring the Lord of Malevereux to his senses." - -"He will scarce dare to carry out his threat now," replied Geoffrey. "No -doubt he will be willing to effect an exchange of prisoners. But what -have they done with Sir Denis?" - -The man-at-arms and his charge had reached the scene of the encounter -with the brother of Sir Yves, but the helpless steel-clad body of Sir -Denis was nowhere to be seen. - -"Perchance some of our men have him in safe keeping," observed Gripwell. -"I pray thee summon our soldiers that we may question them on this -matter." - -In response to a trumpet call the garrison of Taillemartel formed up in -the village street, wearied yet triumphant. The defence and subsequent -rout of the invaders had not been accomplished without severe loss. -Eleven men had been killed, and over a score grievously wounded, -including Bertrand de Vaux, the seneschal; while nearly every other -man-at-arms and archer had received some slight injury. Of the peasants -but three had been killed and ten wounded, for they had mainly contented -themselves by hurling stones from a safe distance. - -Careful inquiries failed to throw any light on the fate of Sir Denis. -Unnoticed by the defenders, his varlet, with praiseworthy devotion, had -dragged the hapless knight from the fray, and, assisting him to a horse, -had provided him with the means of flight. - -Great was Geoffrey's disappointment at the escape of Sir Denis, but, -consoling himself with the fact that the only son of Sir Yves was a -prisoner in his hands, he led his men back to the Castle of -Taillemartel. - -Some of the bolder spirits were for setting off in immediate pursuit of -the remnants of the invading forces, while the investment of Malevereux -was seriously discussed. But Gripwell knew that the slender garrison of -Taillemartel was quite insufficient to hope to reduce the formidable -defences of Sir Yves' stronghold. More prudent measures must be taken if -Sir Oliver were to regain his freedom. - -Accordingly one of the prisoners was liberated and given a letter to his -master in which the news of his son's capture was made known. Geoffrey -also expressed therein his willingness to hand Henri over to his father -should Sir Yves set Sir Oliver and his squire Oswald at liberty, without -further delay. - -Three days later a curt message was received from the Tyrant of -Malevereux. - -"Do as thou wilt with my son," he wrote. "Since he hath been fool enough -to fall into thy hands, let him shift for himself. But rest assured -concerning the oath I swore relating to Sir Oliver, not one jot nor one -tittle will I abate in fulfilment of it." - -"Here is a fine ado," quoth Gripwell. "'Tis certain this base villain -hath no more regard for his son than for the veriest cur in his -kennels." - -"Perchance this Henri will offer ransom," suggested Geoffrey doubtfully. - -"We can but try him. Methinks that with all the treasure stored within -the walls of Malevereux 'twould be passing strange if this prisoner of -ours hath not command of ten thousand crowns." - -Accordingly Geoffrey and the men-at-arms, attended by two archers, -entered the narrow chamber in which Sir Yves' son was confined. - -Henri de Valadour, the son of Sir Yves de Malevereux, was sitting on a -stone bench, brooding over his misfortunes. He had been shown a -consideration that contrasted favourably with his sire's treatment of -Sir Oliver, but the sullen countenance of the prisoner belied any -feelings of gratitude for his courteous though compulsory entertainment. - -"Ten thousand crowns, by my hilt!" he cried disdainfully when the matter -was mentioned. "Ye'll do well if ye see the colour of ten thousand sous. -If it be thy will to put me to death so be it; but I pray thee, fair -sir, that it may not be by means of a hempen rope." - -"'Twould be a fine sight for the countryside to see Henri, son of Sir -Yves, dangling by his neck from the topmost turret of Taillemartel," -said Gripwell roughly. - -"Forbear, Arnold, forbear," exclaimed Geoffrey, speaking in English. -"'Tis not meet that a commoner should speak thus to the son of a belted -knight—e'en though his sire is unworthy of his coat-armour." - -Then turning to Henri: "Nay, we are not murderers," he continued. -"Failing the ransom or a fair exchange of prisoners, thou must needs -remain here awhile in durance. Perchance thy father may see fit to -swerve from his purpose." - -A look of gratitude flashed across the sullen countenance of the -prisoner. As a raider, captured in an attempt to pillage the village of -a neighbouring baron, he had expected nothing less than death, since a -ransom was not to be considered. - -"Fair sir, I thank thee," he replied. "Would that I could serve thee by -saving Sir Oliver's life; but, though it shames me to say it, neither -mercy nor justice will stand in my father's path." - -Despondently Geoffrey brooded over the apparently insoluble situation. -Here he was within thirty miles of the castle where his father was -languishing. The slender garrison of Taillemartel was insufficient to -beleaguer the fortress of Malevereux, though at a word every man would -gladly follow him on a forlorn hope. Also he held the son of his -arch-enemy as a surety for his father's safety, yet that hope, too, had -failed him. Neither could he raise and offer the stipulated ransom, -seeing it was against Sir Oliver's fixed purpose. And the eve of the -feast of St. Silvester was now within the space of a few days. - -As he ruminated over these things Geoffrey had an inspiration. It was -but a faint hope, he told himself, yet 'twas better than nothing. He -would take advantage of the open house that Sir Yves kept on the eve of -his patron saint's day and enter the castle in disguise. By some means -the opportunity might occur to provide Sir Oliver with a file or a -knife. With these in his possession much might be done in the hours of -darkness 'twixt the eve and feast of St. Silvester. - -Geoffrey realized that he must keep Gripwell in ignorance of his -errand—at least, till he had placed a fair distance between him and -Taillemartel; for the old man-at-arms would never permit his charge thus -to place his head in the lion's jaws. But the lad had counted the cost, -and was prepared to take the risk. - -Ere long the plan matured into action. Stealthily providing himself with -a long rope, the lad hid it in one of the small rooms built in the outer -wall of the castle. A suit of mean attire was also laid by, and all that -remained to be done was to wait till darkness set in. - -An hour before dawn the guards patrolling the battlements stumbled over -a knotted rope secured to the carriage of a mangonel. - -The alarm was instantly raised, and Gripwell, on arriving on the scene, -ordered a general parade, fearing that one of the garrison had deserted. - -By the aid of a glare of torches the sub-officers began to tell off the -men of their respective divisions, but ere that could be accomplished -the word was given that Sir Oliver's son was missing. - -Thinking that some foul attempt had been made upon his charge, Arnold -Gripwell seized a torch and ran to the lad's apartment. It was empty. -His couch had not been slept on, but instead a sealed letter lay upon -the pillow. - -With trembling fingers the man-at-arms broke the seals and read the -contents— - - "Arnold Gripwell,—I have set out, with God's blessing, to - endeavour to do some small deed of advancement. Do not, I charge - thee, attempt to follow or hinder me. Meanwhile the ordering of - Taillemartel is in thy hands.—Geoffrey." - -For a while the old soldier gazed at the missive without realizing its -meaning. The lad had gone, but whither? With bowed head and clasped -hands Gripwell knelt before the prie-dieu till the grey dawn gained the -mastery over the shades of night, craving for Divine protection for his -errant charge. - - - - - CHAPTER X - - THE EVE OF ST. SILVESTER - - -Across the vast plain that surrounded the gloomy Castle of Malevereux -streamed a long straggling line of people, all making towards the open -gateway of Sir Yves' feudal pile. - -There were merchants from Rouen, soberly attired and wearing long -straight swords as a protection against the perils of the roads; -peasants of both sexes, striving to overcome the deep-rooted sense of -fear in spite of the assured immunity of goods and person for one day in -the whole year; men-at-arms and archers, unarmed save for the short -knives that hung from their belts; and a sprinkling of knights, monks, -palmers, jongleurs, and minstrels. - -Amongst Sir Yves' thus generally invited guests limped a lad, footsore -and weary, meanly dressed in coarse gaberdine, doublet, and points. It -was Geoffrey, son of Oliver, Lord of Warblington. - -Bound tightly to the inner side of the lad's left arm were two files, -while in addition to the short dagger that hung in his belt a sharp -knife was concealed in one of his undressed leather buskins. Geoffrey's -fair curls had been ruthlessly clipped in order to better his disguise, -but his clear-cut features belied his rôle of peasant. - -Crossing the drawbridge, Geoffrey found himself within the portals of -the fortress, where the Tyrant held his father captive, and with a -quivering sensation in his throat the lad paused beneath the deep -vaulted archway, through which the bases of the triple portcullis shone -dully like the fangs of a savage beast. - -On either side of the inner gateway stood a strong guard of archers and -men-at-arms. Each arrival was closely scrutinized, and ere allowed to -pass was compelled to temporarily surrender his weapons. Only in the -case of knights and gentlemen of quality was the restriction relaxed, -since they were to take part in the grand joust in honour of Sir Yves' -patron saint. - -Without being challenged Geoffrey gave up his dagger, though one of the -soldiers glanced askance at the lad's refined face. Deeply -self-conscious, he bowed his head and hastened his footsteps till he -gained the outer bailey. - -Here the rectangular grassy space was surrounded by wooden stands -covered with gay-coloured cloth, rising in tiers towards the encircling -walls. In the centre of the platform facing the gateway was a daïs -provided with a canopy. This was for the use of Sir Yves de Valadour and -his principal guests. - -As yet the stands were deserted, the assembled company being entertained -in the grass-grown courtyard, where a profusion of broached casks and -trestled tables groaning with food showed that on this and similar -occasions Sir Yves disbursed his liberality with an unsparing hand. - -Scorning to partake of his enemy's food, Geoffrey stole softly betwixt -the crowd of gesticulating and chattering guests and made his way -towards the frowning walls of the keep, that reared themselves skywards -at the junction of the battlements of the outer and inner walls. - -He vaguely wondered whether those long slit-like apertures in the base -of the keep were the windows of the dungeons, till the sound of revelry -proceeding from them told that the lower storeys of the keep were -appropriated to the garrison. The dungeons, therefore, he reasoned, were -beneath the ground-level, yet there was nothing to indicate their -position. - -Continuing his tour of investigation, Geoffrey came to a lofty doorway -communicating with the inner bailey. Here numbers of gaily-clad guests -were streaming out, laughing and exchanging coarse jokes with each -other. - -For a space the lad stood without, then glanced wistfully in the -direction of the inner ward. Then, summoning up courage, he made his way -towards this gateway. - -"Ho! stand there!" shouted a hoarse voice. "Who art thou—some masterless -rascal, I'll declare." - -Barring his progress stood a huge man-at-arms, resting his gauntleted -hands upon a massive battle-axe. - -"Methought the castle was free to all this day," replied the lad. - -"This part only to the principal guests of the Lord of Malevereux," -announced the soldier. "Now, rascal, what would'st thou?" - -"My foster-brother Pierre told me that within I could see the dungeons." - -"If thou wilt see the dungeons, take heed lest the dungeons keep thee, -_vaurien_," replied the man, laughing. "Now, hence, ere I lay this stick -about thy back." - -Discomfited, Geoffrey rejoined the crowd of revellers. He felt that his -plan was doomed to failure, since the prison quarters were evidently in -a remote and strictly-guarded portion of the castle. - -Just then his quick ear caught a fragment of the conversation between -two of the guests. - -"... and after the joust what happens, gossip?" - -"I know not of a certainty, but 'tis said that Sir Yves hath promised to -set the English knight in the lists." - -"What English knight?" - -"I know not. 'Tis reported that he hath been a prisoner here for some -time past. But in any case we shall see what a half-starved Englishman -can do 'gainst a gallant Frenchman." - -"Who is to oppose this English knight?" - -"Rumour hath it that Sir Denis himself will sweep the rogue from his -horse. _Ma foi_, 'twill be a merry business. But——" - -A loud blast upon a horn caused the conversation to terminate abruptly; -the guests made a hurried scramble towards the platforms, while a crowd -of lacqueys and serving-men ran hither and thither, removing the -depleted tables and wine-casks. - -In a few minutes all signs of the feast had vanished. Soldiers began to -erect the barrier for the spear-running, while the opposing knights with -their squires and pages took up their position at one end of the lists. - -Precisely at high noon a fanfare of trumpets announced the entry of Sir -Yves de Valadour, Lord of Malevereux, and his chosen company. - -Sir Yves was a man of about fifty years of age, dark features, -black-bearded, and with beetling brows that, in spite of the festive -season, seemed to wear a perpetual scowl. He was slightly over middle -height, bull-necked and inclined to obesity, while as he walked his legs -seemed too weak to support his ponderous body. He was richly apparelled -in silk trimmed with fur, though men would have it that underneath his -slashed doublet he wore a suit of light sword-proof mail. With the -exception of a short dagger he was unarmed, while in his hand he carried -a warder with which the signal for the commencement or termination of an -encounter was to be given. - -Amidst the plaudits of the majority of the spectators, who louted with -the utmost servility as he passed, Sir Yves ascended the daïs, which was -raised about five feet from the ground, and took his seat in a -high-backed oak chair. On his right sat Sir Denis, his brother, his face -still inflamed from the glowing charcoal that Gripwell had hurled at him -on the occasion of the raid upon the village of Taillemartel. - -At his left hand sat Arnaud de Convers, a knight of almost as bad a -reputation as his host. With them were about two score ladies and their -husbands or lovers, their bright garments adding to the picturesqueness -of the assembly. - -For a space Sir Yves regarded the crowds of spectators with a curious -sneering expression, then turning towards Arnaud de Convers he whispered -something that brought a grim smile to their faces. - -Raising his warder, the Tyrant gave the signal for the tourney to -commence, and amid a prolonged fanfare of trumpets the contesting -knights, twelve in number, rode slowly down the lists. With closed -visors, shields on their left arms and lances raised, the steel-clad -warriors made a brave show, taking no apparent heed of the outburst of -vociferous cheering and the shouts of acclamation as their respective -partisans recognized the devices of their favourite knights. - -Opposite the daïs each knight reined in his steed and saluted the Lord -of Malevereux by lowering the point of his lance, while one of the -marshals of the list read out the name and style of the respective -champions. - -While this ceremony was in progress Geoffrey, seated on a crowded bench -within three spears' length of the daïs, was taking careful stock of his -surroundings, while at the same time his mind was actively dwelling on -the conversation between the two men that related to one who could be -none other than his father, Sir Oliver. There could be no possible doubt -that the Tyrant meant to cause the death of the English knight, since a -man ill-fed and weakened by close confinement could hardly be expected -to do otherwise than fall an easy victim to the powerful and well-armed -Sir Denis. - -Geoffrey's reverie was interrupted by a stirring trumpet-call, and, in -spite of his fears and anxieties, his martial instinct was aroused by -the sight that met his gaze. - -From end to end of the lists the field was empty, save for the presence -of two knights armed cap-à-pied, who, motionless as statues, sat upon -their steeds. To the right of each horseman was the stout oaken barrier -that ran athwart the field, so that at the moment of impact it would -prevent the chargers from coming into actual contact. - -At the terminations of the barrier fences were erected enclosing spaces -reserved for the other champions and their attendants, while booths had -been set up for the armourers and shoeing-smiths; also, with a great -significance, for the accommodation of those who sustained injuries in -the tourney, priests and chirurgeons being in attendance. - -A tense silence fell upon the multitude, broken by the hoarse shout of -"_Laissez aller!_" by Sir Yves. - -Instantly the steel-clad statues were transformed into the -personification of warlike activity. The merest touch of the sharp -rowelled spurs sufficed to set their horses into a furious gallop, while -with bodies crouched, shields pointed, and lances in rest, the rival -knights prepared to meet the shock. - -With the turf flying in pellets from the horses' hoofs, the sharp points -of their lances scarce swerving a hair's breadth with the motion of -their chargers, the champions closed. For a brief instant both seemed to -sway in the saddle, then recovering themselves they passed each other -and reined up at their respective ends of the lists ere the fragments of -their shattered weapons fell to earth. - -An outburst of shouts and acclamations greeted this feat of arms, but -without pausing to recover breath the two champions wheeled and, sword -in hand, rode to continue the encounter. - -Sparks flashed as steel met steel. It was mainly cut and parry, though -now and again a lightning-like thrust was given and smartly caught upon -the shield of the opponent. - -At length, from sheer exhaustion, both knights began to relax their -efforts, while the crowds, unmindful of the presence of the Lord of -Malevereux in their excitement, shouted encouragement and applause. -Several of the spectators on the daïs begged Sir Yves to throw down his -warder and declare the combat a drawn one, but grimly the Tyrant -refused. - -"They have a private quarrel, methinks; therefore _à l'outrance_, let it -be." - -But Sir Yves was to be disappointed. With their shields riven asunder -the knights continued the fight, till the sword of one was broken close -to the hilt. Instantly he grasped his mace, and, with all his energy -thrown into the stroke, dashed his opponent's weapon from his grasp. - -The latter instantly seized his mace, but on urging their steeds up to -the barrier to renew the encounter neither warrior could put forward -sufficient strength to raise his ponderous weapon. There they sat, their -eyes flashing behind their visors in speechless rage, till at a signal -from Sir Yves their squires ran in and led them back to their respective -tents. - -The next bout was betwixt two knights armed with blunted lances. In the -encounter their weapons proved more dangerous than the naked steel; one -of the combatants caught his opponent fairly on the gorget, while the -latter's weapon glanced harmlessly from the former's shield. Wedged in -betwixt the high-peaked tilting saddle, the knight of the slippery lance -was bent backwards till he fell sideways from the saddle, crippled for -life. - -Then two champions armed with battle-axes took their places, the -intervening barrier in this instance being removed. Both were short, -broad-shouldered men of immense strength, and each was actuated by a -desire to advance the claims of his lady, since a saffron-coloured glove -adorned their casques. In this encounter it seemed as if the result -would be similar to the first, for neither gained any great advantage, -although they fought vigorously for a considerable time. - -At length one of the two champions tripped and fell, his opponent -immediately standing over him with his miserecorde at the bars of his -visor. Once more Sir Yves' warder descended, and the vanquished knight -was assisted to his feet by his lacqueys and taken off the field, while -the victor, proud of his achievement, and in the knowledge that he was -the richer by a suit of brazen armour—for by the rules of the tournament -the harness of the conquered became the property of the -conqueror—stalked slowly round the field with open visor that all might -see and acclaim him. - -For the space of over three hours the tourney continued, not without -much shedding of blood, till there remained only one who had not as yet -engaged in the contest. - -Even from a distance Geoffrey felt sure that he recognized the -steel-clad figure and the device on his shield, and a glance at the -vacant seat on Sir Yves' right hand strengthened his conviction—'twas -Sir Denis de Valadour, brother of the Tyrant of Malevereux. - -Then arose a fanfare of trumpets, and, escorted by a body of -men-at-arms, a tall, gaunt, erect figure entered the arena. In spite of -his pale features—for weeks of confinement had banished the bronzed hue -of health—Geoffrey could make no mistake. The new-comer was his father, -Sir Oliver Lysle. - - - - - CHAPTER XI - - HOW SIR OLIVER GAINED HIS FREEDOM - - -A roar of merriment, mingled with a few cries of shame and pity, greeted -the English knight's reappearance in the lists. Clad in an ill-fitting -suit of chain mail with breastplate and bascinet, the joints of which -were so rusty and stiff that considerable effort was necessary to move -them, Sir Oliver rode slowly into the lists, his lean and decrepit steed -barely able to carry its rider. - -Yet, in spite of the obvious inferiority of his harness and the -feebleness of his horse, Sir Oliver Lysle bore himself with a knightly -demeanour that changed the roar of mirth into the silence of shame. - -"Sir, this is beyond knightly forbearance," expostulated Sir Conyers de -Saye, one of the champions in the previous encounters. "I pray thee -grant this knight the use of his harness and a proper charger." - -"Nay, Sir Conyers, he must abide by that which he hath," replied Sir -Yves angrily. - -"I pray thee, Sir Oliver, to do me the favour of accepting the loan of -my plate armour," cried another knight. - -"And my charger," added another. - -"And I do perceive that thy lance is three spans shorter than that of -thine adversary," exclaimed a third. - -"Fair sirs, I thank ye," replied Sir Oliver. "But concerning the harness -'tis not meet that I should place a true knight's suit of mail in -jeopardy. This mail will suffice, since already it is accustoming itself -to my limbs. Also the offer of a lance I beg to decline. Methinks an -English heart behind this lance will atone for its shortness when -opposed to a recreant knight who hath not the courage to openly declare -either for Burgundy or Orleans." - -Sir Denis winced within his shell of proof mail. If the steel of the -English knight were as sharp as his tongue, his own task would not be -quite so easy as it had seemed. As for Sir Yves, he was grinding his -teeth with rage and discomfiture. - -"Nevertheless," continued Sir Oliver, "I will deem it an honour to -accept the loan of a suitable charger from a true and gallant knight of -France." - -"Nay, that shall not be," objected the Tyrant. "Either the charger -provided or none." - -"Charger, forsooth!" exclaimed Sir Conyers de Saye scornfully. "Art -blind, Sir Yves, that thou canst not tell good horseflesh from bad, or -is it a case of _oculos habent et non videbunt_? Either Sir Oliver hath -leave to accept the loan of a serviceable charger or I'll shake off the -dust of this place." - -"And I," "And I," shouted the other knightly guests, who, in order to -prove the sincerity of their intentions, began to call upon their -squires and pages to follow them from the castle. - -"Let him have the horse, then," replied the Lord of Malevereux -ungraciously. - -"I pray for thy success," whispered Sir Conyers encouragingly, as Sir -Oliver was assisted into the saddle of the borrowed charger. - -A tucket sounded, and Sir Denis cantered to the other end of the lists, -while the English knight, after having given his steed a short run to -test its capabilities, drew up in anticipation of the signal for the -onset. - -Unable to control his feelings during the inevitable pause, Geoffrey -started to his feet. - -"St. George for England, father!" he cried out, oblivious to all else -besides the two combatants. - -Men turned in astonishment to gaze at the daring youth. Sir Denis marked -the lad with a ferocious glare. Sir Yves, engaged in conversation, heard -but the first portion of the exclamation, while Sir Oliver caught -everything but the last word. - -"Ay, young sir, St. George for England and God's benison on my task," he -replied. - -The next instant the warder of the Lord of Malevereux clattered on the -floor of the daïs. - -Both antagonists started at the signal. Sir Denis urged his charger down -the lists at its utmost speed, while with sharpened lance held firmly in -rest he sought to transfix his adversary, or at least to sweep him from -the saddle. On his part Sir Oliver rode more cautiously, keeping a -firmer hold upon the bridle than on his lance. - -The spectators held their breath. Surely the ill-armed Englishman must -go down before the impetuous rush of the burly, powerful Frenchman? But -ere their lance-points crossed Sir Oliver pulled in his steed, dropped -swiftly forward across the animal's mane, and raised his shield -obliquely above his head, his lance falling from his grasp as he did so. - -Ere Sir Denis could lower his lance-point the steel glided from the -oblique surface of his antagonist's shield. The next instant the -Englishman's sinewy arm was around the Frenchman's waist, and, throwing -all the power of his half-starved frame into one mighty heave, Sir -Oliver lifted his steel-clad opponent clean out of his tilting saddle. -With a dull clang the brother of the Tyrant fell upon the turf, helpless -and beaten by one whom he had regarded as an easy victim to his prowess. - -Already some of the squires and pages of Sir Denis were running to their -master's aid, while others attempted to seize the bridle of his -riderless horse. But urging his steed into a gallop, Sir Oliver ranged -alongside the masterless animal, and before the astonished crowd could -realize his action he was in the saddle but recently occupied by Sir -Denis, while his borrowed charger was trotting back to its lawful owner. - -"Seize me yon English knight," shouted Sir Yves with an oath. "What! Why -tarry? Dost think 'tis the Prince of Darkness?" For feelings either of -surprise or repugnance towards the man who had already shown his -intention of breaking his plighted promise restrained the servants of -the Lord of Malevereux. Not a hand was raised to apprehend the knight -who had held his own against such fearful odds. - -Sir Yves' perjurous utterance was his death warrant. Goaded to fury by -this breach of faith, Sir Oliver spurred his horse up to the foot of the -daïs, and, mace in hand, dealt a crashing blow at the recreant knight. - -Hemmed in by the high-backed chair, the Lord of Malevereux was unable to -avoid the stroke. With warder raised he strove to parry the ponderous -weapon, but death came to him far more mercifully than he had brought it -to others. Sir Yves de Valadour, of the high, of the middle, and the -low, lay a corpse in the midst of the assembly that had gathered to -witness his triumph over his captive. - -Wheeling, Sir Oliver rode straight for the gateway of the castle. Not -one of the knights stirred a hand to hinder him, though several of the -garrison of Malevereux attempted to bar his way. Two men-at-arms went -down under his charger's hoofs, but before the portcullis could be -dropped or a cross-bowman had levelled his cumbersome weapon the English -knight was spurring across the drawbridge, well on his way to freedom. - - - - - CHAPTER XII - - IN WHICH GEOFFREY IS LAID BY THE HEELS - - -The courtyard of the Castle of Malevereux presented a scene of utter -confusion, following Sir Oliver's desperate deed and successful flight. - -With one accord the spectators made towards the gate, shouting and -jostling in their haste to leave the scene of the tragedy. Many were the -glances cast askance at the mangled heap lying in ghastly solitude on -the floor of the daïs, for not one of the chief guests remained by the -body of the dreaded Tyrant. - -Filled with a wild excitement of joy at his father's escape, Geoffrey -mingled with the surging crowd. Now that the object of his visit to -Malevereux was accomplished, though 'twas not his doing, the lad -realized that his best plan was to depart as unobtrusively as possible -and make his way back to Taillemartel, whither Sir Oliver must assuredly -have gone. - -The lad had gained the gateway of the outer bailey. In another moment he -would have crossed the drawbridge and shaken the dust of Malevereux from -his feet, when a heavy hand grasped him by the shoulder. - -"'Tis he, sure enough. Secure him, mes garçons," exclaimed a deep voice, -and, turning his head, Geoffrey found that his captor was the -man-at-arms who had spoken to him at the entrance to the inner ward. - -"Sir, why thus? Methinks that all have safe conduct here this day." - -"List to him," laughed the soldier. "Doth a peasant lad talk thus? His -speech betrayeth him." - -"I myself heard him cry encouragement to the Englishman," said another -soldier. - -"Ay, and he called him father," added a third. - -"Ah, is that so? Guard the lad carefully. We must bring him before Sir -Denis. Answer me—is Sir Oliver thy sire?" - -Geoffrey kept silence. He was in sore straits, yet he resolved to bear -himself right manfully. His arrest had been carried out without -attracting attention from the outgoing throng, and even had he appealed -for aid his words would have fallen upon deaf ears. - -In the centre of a ring of steel the lad was urged against the press of -departing spectators, and conducted to a groined room in the inner ward, -where Sir Denis was lying stripped of his harness. - -The discomfited knight was in a sorry plight, for, in addition to the -partially-healed burns sustained at Taillemartel, he had been bruised -from head to foot by the fall from his horse. Added to his bodily -injuries, the fact that he had been vanquished by an opponent whom he -had regarded with disdain did not improve his temper. The iron of -humiliation had eaten into his soul. - -"_Parblieu!_ 'Tis well that ye have laid the young viper by the heels," -he exclaimed. "Did I not hear him shout words of encouragement to the -Englishman? More than that, he called him father." - -"Ay, _mon seigneur_, I also heard him speak thus," added one of -Geoffrey's captors. - -"Thy name and conditions, sirrah. I perceive that thou art not of common -stock. Answer truly for thy life." - -"I'll answer thee truly, though not by reason of fear. I am Geoffrey, -son of Sir Oliver Lysle." - -"If thy father were worthy of the name he would have returned to aid his -son," sneered Sir Denis. - -"Without doubt he will in good time," replied Geoffrey boldly. - -"I trust he will. Perchance he may again be a guest under my roof. But a -truce to idle talk; search him." - -Under the rough practised hands of the soldiers the files and the dagger -concealed on the lad were discovered and promptly taken possession of by -his captors, and with coarse gibes he was hurried from the presence of -the fierce baron. - -From the room in the inner ward Geoffrey was taken across the courtyard, -where he had a brief glimpse of the clear blue sky that was to be a -stranger to him for many a long, weary day. - -Unlocking a small heavily-barred door on the ground level of the massive -keep or "donjon," the men-at-arms thrust the lad within. Then, taking a -lighted torch that cast a weird glare upon the low, musty stonework of a -long passage, one of the men led the way, followed by the captive and -the rest of his guards. - -At the termination of the passage a flight of narrow stone steps -communicated with another tunnel-like way twenty feet beneath the upper -one. Here the atmosphere was even more dank and unwholesome, while to -the young prisoner the footfalls of the men sounded like a knell. - -Still deeper in the bowels of the earth did they descend, till Geoffrey -found himself in another tunnel-like passage roughly constructed of -stones set herring-bone fashion, rising to an uncemented line of -key-stones overhead. Through the joints the moisture dripped -incessantly, forming slimy pools that reflected the dull red glare of -the flaming torch. - -"Here's thy kennel, wolf's whelp," said a soldier gruffly, laying a -detaining hand upon the lad's shoulder. 'Twas well he did so, otherwise -Geoffrey would have stepped blindly into a yawning unfenced pit in the -floor of the passage. - -Hitherto the captive had offered no resistance, but the sight of the -horrible pit filled him with a nameless terror. Madly he struggled with -his captors, but, in spite of his youthful strength and energy, he was -no match for the burly ruffians that worked the will of the Lord of -Malevereux. - -In a trice he was secured, a stout cord passed through a rope girdle -fashion round his waist, and with a savage kick Geoffrey was hurled into -space. Then the cord took the strain of his weight, and slowly he was -lowered into the loathsome den that was to be his prison. - -Down and down he found himself being dropped, till far above his head he -could perceive a narrow circle illumined by the torchlight, then with a -jerk his feet touched the floor of the pit. - -Throwing down one end of the cord and hauling up the other, the -men-at-arms removed all means of communication with their prisoner, and -with a brutal jest and mocking laugh they disappeared, their echoing -footsteps growing fainter and fainter till all was still. - -Left to himself, Geoffrey could scarce control the agony of his -emotions. The impenetrable darkness seemed to possess weight—it -literally crushed him with its terrors. - -For a considerable while he dared not move a foot, fearing that the -uneven floor might contain a pitfall that would assuredly compass his -destruction. There he stood, overcome with the sense of his horrible -surroundings, vaguely wondering how long his body and mind could exist -under such appalling conditions. He had heard of men languishing for -months, nay, years, in oubliettes and loathsome dungeons till death came -as a merciful release, but until now he had not realized the bodily and -mental torture of the silence and darkness of a living tomb. - -At length his legs refused to support him, and having carefully felt all -around him, Geoffrey sank down upon the moist and slimy stones that -formed the floor of the dungeon. Then he gradually worked his way, -proceeding with the utmost caution, till his hands encountered the -jagged wall. This he followed, making several complete circles ere he -realized, by the leaving of one of his shoes on the floor, that the -place was built in the shape of a bottle. - -Then, gaining confidence, he made another circle, taking count of the -number of strides required to bring him back to his starting-place. Thus -Geoffrey discovered that his prison was but twenty paces round, and -without angles or doorways communicating with other parts of the -subterranean chambers. - -This was one piece of information, but a most trying question was how to -measure the space of time. Already he was unaware how long he had been -in the awesome pit; time seemed to have ceased to exist. - -After seeming hours of torturing suspense the sound of footsteps rumbled -down the tunnel-like passage, and a gleam of light, that gave -indescribable comfort to the miserable prisoner, began to grow brighter -and brighter, till the outlines of a man leaning over the mouth of the -pit were thrown into strong relief by the light of a horn lantern. - -"Here's thy food," announced the man gruffly. "Cast loose the cord, I -pray thee." - -As he spoke he lowered a pitcher of water and a loaf of rye bread. -Geoffrey unfastened the cord by which they were lowered, and without -another word the gaoler proceeded to pull up the sole means of -communication. - -"How long am I to lie in this horrible den, I beg of thee to tell me?" -asked the lad pleadingly, but his only answer was a gruff chuckle, and -the man hurried away. - -Geoffrey consumed his sorry meal, then sitting with his head resting on -his knees, tried his utmost to reconcile himself to his surroundings. -Fortunately, sleep came to the relief of his bodily and mental anguish, -and stretched upon the hard floor he fell into a deep yet dream-haunted -slumber. - -How long he slept he knew not. Suddenly he awoke with a start, to find -the pit illumined by the glare of numerous torches, while men's voices -roughly shouted to him to bestir himself. - -Staggering to his feet, Geoffrey found a stout-noosed rope dangling -within a few inches of his head, and, in obedience to an order, he -passed the loop under his arm-pits. The next instant he was lifted off -his feet, and, swaying to and fro, he was hauled to the surface. - -Escorted by his captors, the lad retraced his steps along the damp stone -passage that he had traversed long hours before, but ere the ground -level was reached the party halted before a low iron-bound door. - -"This will be thy quarters," exclaimed one of the men, producing a heavy -key that hung with others on his girdle. "How did'st thou like the night -in my lord's guest-chamber, eh? Have a care, therefore, and behave -thyself circumspectly in thy new abode; for, failing this, back to yon -pit thou'lt go." - -So saying, the gaoler unlocked the door, that creaked and groaned on its -hinges as it opened. - -"In with thee." - -Geoffrey could not but obey. Indeed, he was only too thankful to have -escaped the terrors of the oubliette. But as he stepped across the low -threshold he gave a cry of surprise, for the glare of the torches showed -him that the prison-chamber was already occupied—and by none other than -Oswald Steyning! - -The ponderous door was closed and locked, but Geoffrey heeded it not. He -had almost forgotten his gloomy surroundings in the joy of greeting his -friend. For some considerable time both lads were too full of excitement -to do more than wring one another's hands, but by degrees they calmed -down, and for the next two or three hours they exchanged stories of the -events that led up to their presence in the Castle of Malevereux. - -Thus began the first of many long days of joint captivity. The room in -which the lads were held prisoners was gloomy enough, though it lacked -the grim terrors of the pit. It was barely ten feet in length and six in -breadth, while from floor to ceiling the height varied from nine to five -feet. - -At the highest end, which was farthermost from the door, was a square -aperture communicating with the open air, but owing to the thickness of -the walls and a sharp curve in the opening it was impossible to see the -broad daylight. Consequently, though there was a tolerable supply of -fresh air, only a dim subdued light filtered in through the grated -aperture, barely sufficient to penetrate the gloom of the prison. - -Beyond the daily visits of the gaoler who brought their food and water, -the lads saw no one. Time hung heavily on their hands, though in -addition to being able to engage in conversation, they took as much -exercise as the confined limits of the cell would permit, in order to -preserve, as far as possible, the suppleness of their limbs and the -strength of their muscles. - -Notwithstanding the threat of the oubliette that hung over their heads -like the sword of Damocles—for Oswald, too, had made acquaintance with -the loathsome dungeon—the lads were ever on the alert to take advantage -of an opportunity to effect their escape. - -So far their vigilance was ill-rewarded, for, being without weapons or -tools, they were unable to remove the iron bars forming the grating of -the air-shaft, while tunnelling through the walls or under the floor was -equally impossible. Nor did the gaoler take any undue risks; for, -although he entered the cell alone, three or four armed men were always -within easy call, ready to rush to his aid at the first summons. - -One day the lads were aroused by an unwonted stir without the castle -walls. Borne faintly to their ears came the sounds of strife, men -shouting and shrieking, weapons clashing, and the sharp hiss of bolts -and arrows. - -"The castle is attacked," exclaimed Oswald. "They are storming the -battlements." - -"Thou art right," replied Geoffrey. "I trow 'tis my father and the men -of Taillemartel that are without." - -"Would that we could see," continued his companion, hauling himself up -the bars of the grating. "Certes, 'tis a fierce encounter." - -"Dost hear English voices?" asked Geoffrey anxiously. - -"Nay, I cannot distinguish any such." - -Long did the sound of strife continue, till at length all was quiet, -save for the exultant shouts of the garrison. Whoever the attackers -were, it was evident that they had been repulsed, and with the utmost -dejection the lads were compelled to admit that their hope of -deliverance had been rudely shattered. - - - - - CHAPTER XIII - - THE POSTERN FACED WITH POINTS OF STEEL - - -About three months after this event the captives were aroused from their -sleep by the door of their prison being thrown open. Accompanied by four -men-at-arms was Sir Denis de Valadour. - -Instinctively both lads realized that something untoward was at hand, -and starting to their feet they steeled themselves to meet the coming -ordeal with stout hearts. - -"Greetings, gentles," exclaimed Sir Denis, with a forced attempt at a -smile. "Your pardon for this intrusion, for 'tis unbetimes; yet methinks -the nature of my visit will make amends for all things. To be brief, -after due consideration, 'tis my bounden duty to admit that I owe ye -courteous treatment." - -He paused and eyed the lads narrowly, endeavouring to note the effect of -his words. But, receiving no reply to his somewhat vague utterances, the -knight continued— - -"Certes, 'tis strange how the wheel of fate is ordered by small matters. -When my brother, Sir Yves, fell beneath thy father's hand, Master -Geoffrey, only his son stood betwixt me and the castle and estates of -Malevereux. Henri was ever a lusty youth, and bade fair to live to a -green old age—always excepting the chance of dying in harness. Yet, alas -and alack! he must needs attempt to swallow a carp's bone, with the -result that I am an uncle no longer." - -Once more Sir Denis paused, a hypocritical look of sorrow overspreading -his saturnine features. - -"And mark ye, carp, lordly salmon, and the roast beef ye Islanders boast -so much about! On these he was fed by thy father's bounty, while I have -given thee but craven fare. Fie on me! Yet I will make amends. As Lord -of Malevereux—for such I now am—'tis in my power to do so. More, 'tis my -wish. Therefore I give you both your freedom." - -The youths could scarce grasp the full significance of the word -"freedom." To them the ever-present longing for liberty had grown -fainter and fainter, till only a feeble hope was left them. Now, with -startling suddenness, freedom awaited them. - -"Sir Knight, I thank thee," exclaimed Geoffrey when at length he found -words. - -"Nay, 'tis nought," replied Sir Denis. "I trust that Malevereux will be -at peace with its neighbours. But, fair sirs, of your charity pray for -the soul of Henri de Valadour, my nephew. By so doing my reward for the -deed is assured." - -"When are we permitted to leave the castle?" asked Oswald. - -"When ye list. There is no time like the present, fair sirs. But I must -needs point out that my act of clemency is ill-regarded by a section of -the garrison, therefore 'twould be better to depart secretly. Though the -night be dark, the way is easy. Therefore, when we have supped I myself -will conduct ye to the postern." - -So saying, Sir Denis clapped his hands, and in response to the summons a -serving-man entered the cell bearing a trencher loaded with good cheer. -After months of poor fare the repast was doubly welcome, though in their -excitement the lads could scarce do justice to the tempting viands. - -While the meal was in progress the new Lord of Malevereux stood leaning -against the wall, the glare of a torch held by one of the men-at-arms -throwing his features into strong relief. Was it fancy, thought -Geoffrey, that he saw a sinister gleam in the eyes of Sir Denis? - -"Are ye ready, young sirs?" asked the baron when the lads had finished -their repast. "Then follow me; tread boldly, for there is none to hinder -ye." - -Traversing three long passages, interrupted by short flights of steps, -the Lord of Malevereux stopped before a low archway where strong bars -took the place of a solid door. Outside the youths could see the dim -outline of a stone wall, feebly lighted by the torch of the attendant -man-at-arms, while the twinkling stars beyond seemed to beckon the -captives to the freedom that had so long been denied them. - -"Here is a cloak apiece," said Sir Denis, as a soldier handed the -garments to the lads. "These will not come amiss, I take it, for 'tis -cold without. Now, Hubin, unlock the portal, I pray thee." - -The man-at-arms, fumbling at a bunch of keys at his waist, at length -produced the required article, and, thrusting it into the lock, -contrived with much exertion to open the rusty wards. - -"'Tis but rarely that men pass this way," explained Sir Denis. "But see, -yonder lies thy path. Adieu, fair sirs." - -As the twain passed under the archway the grille was closed with a -ponderous clang, but with feelings of intense thankfulness the lads -realized that they were on the right side of the detaining bolts and -bars. - -With light steps they traversed the groined passage. Another ten paces -and they would be under the canopy of Heaven. - -"Hold, Oswald!" exclaimed Geoffrey, grasping his companion by the arm, -at the same moment dragging him backwards. "By St. Paul! what have we -here?" - -Geoffrey's warning came only just in time. Another step would have -precipitated them into a gloomy and unfathomable pitfall. - -The stars had been obscured by passing clouds, and so intense was the -darkness that, although the loom of the country was faintly discernible, -the extent of the new danger was totally concealed. - -"The false knight hath betrayed us," exclaimed Oswald. "What is to be -done?" - -"We cannot do better than stand where we are till dawn," replied -Geoffrey. "To proceed is to court a speedy death; to return is to suffer -a worse fate. Perchance when 'tis light we may find a way." - -As he spoke Geoffrey looked towards the open bars of the doorway through -which they had just passed. The torches had been extinguished, but a low -mocking laugh told the lads that some one was listening and waiting to -enjoy their discomfiture. - -"Is this the way a knight keeps his pledge?" asked Oswald. - -"Why doubt my word?" replied a deep voice that the youths had recognized -as that of Sir Denis of Malevereux. "Did I not tell ye the way was open? -Fare ye well, then. If so be ye will not profit by my advice, then stay -and starve. On the morrow, ay, and many succeeding morrows, I'll watch -the struggle 'twixt thy choice of death." - -Slowly the night passed. The sky, hitherto slightly overcast, became so -clouded that the pitch-like blackness restricted the youths' field of -vision to such an extent that they could scarce discern each other. - -With the banking up of the clouds a strong wind sprang up, increasing in -violence till ere long it blew with terrific violence. - -Crouching on the stone floor against the side of the vault-like tunnel, -the lads awaited the dawn. The wind pierced them like a knife, and in -their scanty clothing their bodies shivered with the cold. - -Occasionally they would converse in short broken sentences, debating -upon the turn of events and the probable disclosures brought by the -dawn. Fortunately, they did not as yet feel the pangs of hunger, thanks -to their repast ere they were taken from their prison; but the vague -threats in which Sir Denis referred to slow starvation filled them with -gloomy fears. - -When at length the eastern sky began to assume a vivid crimson hue the -lads staggered to their feet, eager to take stock of their surroundings. - -Almost at their feet the floor of the passage terminated abruptly, -descending into what was undoubtedly a part of the fosse or dry moat. -Its depth was not very considerable, being barely twenty feet from the -coping to the bottom of the ditch, which was about ten paces broad, with -its furthermost side sloping steeply to the normal level of the -surrounding land. - -But, to the lads' consternation, the whole of the floor of the moat was -studded with sharp stakes, each about the height of a man. In serrated -rows they stood, so close that it was impossible to essay a leap without -being impaled upon one, at least, of the spikes. - -Grasping Oswald's hand, Geoffrey leant cautiously forward and examined -the wall on either side of the postern. As far as he could see the -masonry was smooth and even, so that there was no means of finding a -foothold. Above the archway the wall towered to a height of thirty feet, -while, from the presence of two loopholes, through which the ends of -rusty chains still hung, it was evident that at one time a light -drawbridge crossed the moat at this point, forming a means of -communication between the postern and the open ground. On a level with -the loopholes a row of cross-shaped oyelets, or apertures, for -discharging crossbows commanded the approach on this side of the Castle -of Malevereux. - -"We are fairly trapped," exclaimed Oswald as they completed their -examination of the moat. "This passage is like to be our death-chamber." - -"What lieth at the other end?" asked Geoffrey. "Methought there was a -wide space betwixt the grille and the wall, though yesternight I caught -but a brief glimpse in the torchlight." - -"We can but see," replied Oswald. "But we must needs wait awhile, till -the light is strong enough to overcome the gloom of the archway." - -Upon investigation the archway was found to afford no possible means of -escape, though, owing to a slight deviation in its general direction, an -intervening curve in the masonry hid the outer portion from the -observation of a person standing without the gate. - -As for the latter, it was composed of wrought iron with massive hinges. -The upper part from a distance of three feet from the ground was open, -but secured by the bars of the grille, the space betwixt each bar being -sufficient to enable a man to insert his head without allowing his body -to follow. - -Without the door all was quiet. The stone passage, wrapped in sombre -gloom, was deserted. Deeming his prisoners perfectly secure, the Lord of -Malevereux had purposely neglected to post a sentry at this gate. - -"The way is clear," said Oswald. "Could we but squeeze through yon bars, -perchance we might lie hidden in some dark recess." - -"To what purpose? We should still be within the castle." - -"We cannot make our position one whit the worse, Geoffrey. Who knows but -that we may be able to escape by some other postern? Thou art the -slighter build, though certes, we both are as thin as a stripped -distaff. Through with thee, and I'll do my best to follow." - -Geoffrey immediately essayed the difficult task, but though he raised -one arm well above his head and kept the other close to his side, while -his comrade assisted by heaving and pushing, his slender body was too -large to pass betwixt the narrow space in the grille. Yet not till he -was black in the face and utterly exhausted by his struggle did Geoffrey -confess himself beaten. - -As the sun rose higher in the heavens the wind died away, and by high -noon the atmosphere was in a state of extreme sultriness. Though -protected from the fierce rays by the stonework of the arch, both lads -began to feel the torture of an agonizing thirst, which was intensified -by the tantalizing sight of a small brook meandering through the fields -at a short distance from the castle. - -Once did Sir Denis, clad in complete armour, approach the bars of the -door to gloat over his captives, but after a few moments' stay he went -away without a word. Shortly afterwards the lads saw him at the head of -a body of mounted men riding rapidly from the castle. - -"Yon base caitiff will trouble us no more awhile," observed Geoffrey, -pointing towards the receding troop. "Come, now, art willing to hazard a -leap?" - -"Nay," replied Oswald, regarding the formidable array of spikes with a -shudder. "Cold steel I'd face in battle as becomes an Englishman, but, -by St. George, to be skewered by a rusty spearhead—for thus I perceive -them to be—is more than I can stomach." - -"Then I will essay the leap," exclaimed Geoffrey, stripping off his -cloak and rolling it into a ball as a protection for his hands. "If I -fail perchance my weight will thrust aside sufficient of these spikes -for thee——" - -"Nay, art mad?" interrupted his companion, laying a detaining hand upon -Geoffrey's shoulder. - -"Anything but this horrible thirst." - -"Methinks that will shortly be assuaged. Mark yon cloud; observe how it -draws nigh 'gainst the little wind that blows. Within half an hour -'twill be passing strange if there be not a thunder-storm." - -Oswald was right in his surmise. Ever and anon a dull rumble could be -heard, the sound gradually increasing in intensity, till, accompanied by -incessant flashes of lightning and deafening rolls of thunder, a -torrential rain descended. - -Eagerly the lads extended their open palms to catch the thirst-quenching -moisture, till, feeling greatly relieved, they were glad to retreat to -the furthermost end of the archway to escape the fury of the elements. - -"Ho, ho! young sirs. What, still here? Why are ye not well on your way -to Taillemartel?" exclaimed a gruff voice. - -Both youths turned at the sound of the voice, and at the same time a -dazzling flash of lightning played upon the steel cap and breastplate of -one of the men-at-arms. Geoffrey instantly recognized him as the man who -had stayed his advance on the occasion of the memorable joust-day. - -"Art hungry?" continued the soldier. - -Unable to resist the apparent invitation, the lads made their way to the -barred door. Without stood the man-at-arms, with a loaf of rye bread in -his hand, held in such a manner that the glare of a torch enabled it to -be clearly seen. - -Ostentatiously the man cut off a slice with his dagger, then replacing -the weapon in a sheath that hung at his right side, he proffered the -bread to the prisoners. Ere they could stretch out their hands the -soldier conveyed the food to his own mouth, his body shaking with -merriment at the lads' disappointment. - -Twice he repeated these tantalizing tactics, till, realizing that 'twas -no intention on the part of the man-at-arms to provide them with food, -Geoffrey and Oswald retired a few steps from the grille. - -"What! Too tired to take thy food?" roared the rogue. "Nay, that will -not serve. See, here is a tempting morsel." - -A sudden inspiration came to Geoffrey. The man had thrust his arm -betwixt the bars in order to still further tantalize the famished lads. -With a swift and surprising spring Geoffrey threw himself at the door -and grasped the fellow's arm by the wrist. - -"Quick, Oswald!" he exclaimed. - -Oswald had mistaken his comrade's intention, for without attempting to -seize the food that was still grasped in the man's hand, he thrust his -hand between the grille and laid hold of the soldier's dagger. - -The next instant the man had fallen a corpse upon the floor, with his -own dagger plunged into the nape of his neck, Geoffrey still retaining -his hold of the soldier's wrist. - -"One villain the less," exclaimed Oswald triumphantly. - -Fortunately, a deafening peal of thunder had drowned the scream of the -stricken man. This storm was proving a blessing in disguise to the two -desperate youths, for the remnant of the garrison, driven from their -posts by the tempest, had already taken shelter. - -"I see a way," whispered Geoffrey earnestly. "Here, take yon dagger and -strip off the fellow's breastplate." - -Without stopping to question his companion Oswald did as he was told, -Geoffrey the while holding the wrist of the corpse to prevent it from -falling below the grille. A few minutes sufficed to ease the man-at-arms -of his steel plate and cap, and, retaining the dagger, the lads ran to -the edge of the moat. - -"Now dost see, Oswald? I am going to leap upon these spikes holding the -breastplate in front of me to turn the points aside. Should I, with the -blessing of Heaven and the protection of my patron saint, succeed in my -attempt, 'twill be an easy matter to clear aside a space for thee to -leap." - -"'Tis possible," replied Oswald, as he broke the captured bread and -divided it between his comrade and himself. "But why shouldst thou take -the honour and the risk of this enterprise? Rather let me essay the -leap." - -Finding that Geoffrey remained obdurate, the young squire continued— - -"'Tis untoward to stand here debating this matter, since every moment is -precious. Let us draw lots." - -So saying, Oswald pulled two threads of unequal length from his frayed -doublet, and, holding them in his hand, allowed one end of each only to -be visible. - -"To me!" he exclaimed, as Geoffrey drew the shorter thread. "Certes. If -I fail I trust my failure will be the means of thy safety." - -Grasping the breastplate in front of him so that the hollow side would -be uppermost, Oswald boldly leapt into the moat. The steel plate turned -aside two of the spear-heads, and in the space thus cleared the squire -alighted, though the fleshy part of his right leg was badly lacerated by -one of the still standing spikes. - -Regardless of the pain, the lad staggered to his feet, and, grasping the -shafts of the spears nearest to him, wrenched them from their supports. -This done, Geoffrey took a careful leap and alighted close to his -companion's side, safe and unhurt. - -In fear and anxiety the two lads began to force their way through the -maze of up-pointed weapons, expecting every moment to hear a challenge -from the towering walls behind them, or the sharp hiss of a shaft from a -vigilant bowman; but, thanks to the blinding rain, and the storm being -at its height, the sentinels had relaxed their customary watchfulness. - -On gaining the edge of the furthermost side of the moat the lads broke -into a run, in spite of Oswald's painful wound, for it was expedient -that the belt of level ground should be traversed with the utmost -despatch. - -Without detection they reached the banks of the little stream that they -had observed from the postern, now swollen into a foaming torrent. Here, -taking advantage of a slight dip in the ground, they followed the course -of the stream, since Geoffrey felt certain that 'twas the same that -crossed the road 'twixt Malevereux and Taillemartel. - -For two days and nights the weary fugitives continued their journey, -subsisting on roots and turnips, for the countryside had been swept by a -party of marauders, so that not a farm nor a cottage had escaped -destruction by fire. - -Oswald's wound, also, began to cause great anxiety, for the lack of rest -and proper attention had aggravated the injury. But in spite of the -great disadvantages under which they laboured, the lads manfully pursued -their way, till they were rewarded by the sight of the Castle of -Taillemartel. - -Encouraged by the prospect of a safe ending of their tribulations, the -fugitives quickened their pace, till Geoffrey suddenly came to a halt. - -"Do I see aright, Oswald?" he exclaimed. "Behold the banner over the -keep." - -Oswald shaded his eyes and looked, and as he did so a look of dismay -passed over his face. For in place of the mullet and the three stars of -the Lysles floated the black eagle of De Chargné—one of the most -powerful adherents to the Orleanist cause. - - - - - CHAPTER XIV - - HOW ARNOLD GRIPWELL WAS FREED FROM HIS - BONDS - - -Aghast at the disconcerting discovery that the Castle of Taillemartel -was in hostile hands, the lads stood in dire perplexity. The one refuge -on French soil which they had relied upon was now denied them. - -"What hath befallen Sir Oliver, thy father?" asked Oswald at length. -"Surely, had he gained the castle he would have held it against all -odds." - -"I cannot say," replied Geoffrey. "But, unless we wish to find ourselves -behind iron bars once more, it behoves us to give Taillemartel a wide -berth." - -"And to go whither?" - -"To the coast. Since our mission is accomplished, and my father is no -longer in the hands of the Lord of Malevereux—though, for aught I know, -he hath again met with some misfortune—we must needs make our way -homewards. But look! A man approaches." - -"I trust he is peaceably inclined," observed Oswald, handling the dagger -he had snatched from the luckless soldier. "Let us hide behind yonder -tree till we can make more of him." - -Accordingly the lads took shelter and awaited the stranger's approach. - -"'Tis Néron de Boeuf," whispered Geoffrey, as the new-comer drew nearer. -"He was ever a good servant of my father. Let us show ourselves and gain -tidings." - -"Is he still true to his salt?" asked Oswald cautiously. - -"Without doubt. Ho, Néron! What's amiss with Taillemartel?" - -The man stood still at the sound of the lad's voice, with amazement -written in every line of his wrinkled face. He was a short, corpulent, -middle-aged man, who had held a post in the buttery at the castle, and, -as Geoffrey had said, had always boasted of loyalty to his master. - -"_Pardieu_, monsieur!" he exclaimed as Geoffrey stepped from behind the -tree-trunk. "What has happened to thee? And Monsieur Oswald also." - -"It matters little what hath befallen us, Néron," replied Geoffrey. -"Tell us who holds Taillemartel, and where is Sir Oliver?" - -"Concerning Taillemartel, the castle hath been taken by Sir Bertrand de -Chargné, though there was but a poor defence. Only the Englishman, -Gripwell, and a few others struck blows for Sir Oliver's cause. They say -that the King of England hath declared war 'gainst this country, and -that every Islander hath either been thrown into prison or hath fled -across the seas. Beyond that I know little; but this I can tell you: Sir -Oliver is still a captive of the Lord of Malevereux." - -"But with mine own eyes I saw my father fight his way out of Malevereux, -Néron." - -"Then the saints be praised, monsieur. But, be that as it may, Sir -Oliver hath not set foot in Taillemartel since the evil day when he was -taken by the Tyrant." - -"And Gripwell—what of him?" - -"I cannot say with certainty. Some would have it that he hath gotten -clear away, after vanquishing five of de Chargné's men-at-arms." - -"I trust it may be true; but, tell me, what befel Henri, son of Sir -Yves? I was told that he died before his trencher." - -"Nay, whoever told thee that lied in his throat. He tried to escape by -rending his sheets into strips and making a rope, but the rope broke and -he fell to his death." - -"Whither goest thou, Néron?" - -"To the castle, monsieur," replied the Norman apologetically. "A man -must live, e'en if he hath to serve a new master. But, monsieur, thou -art worn and hungry, and so is thy friend." - -"Ay, that we are," assented Geoffrey. "Perchance thou canst furnish us -with food, and put us on the safest road to the coast?" - -"Concerning food, if ye will bear me company to the village of Tierny, -which hath so far escaped the freebooter, at the house of _ma belle -mère_ ye can be accommodated. 'Tis but two leagues distant, and it -matters little when I return to Taillemartel." - -"Thanks, good Néron. Some day I hope to repay thee." - -"When Sir Oliver again comes to Taillemartel as its master, monsieur," -replied Le Boeuf sententiously. - -The Norman and the two youths bent their steps in the direction of -Tierny, the former talking volubly the while concerning the events of -the day, in which he seemed well versed. - -At the house of his wife's mother he procured food for the fugitives, -and when they had eaten they prepared to take their leave. - -"Nay, I cannot give thee directions for the whole journey," he replied -in answer to a question. "But 'tis said that the road through Valions, -St. Barre-en-ville and Plesse will bring thee to Harfleur, being more -direct than by the banks of the river. As it seemeth certain that ye'll -not go further than St. Barre this day, I commend ye to one Charles -Vidoe, who keeps the _Sign of the Lion_. Say that ye are known to Néron -de Boeuf and your comfort is assured." - -With a final adieu the Norman bade the lads farewell, and began to -retrace his footsteps towards Taillemartel, while Geoffrey and Oswald, -still footsore, yet the better for a good meal, resumed their long -journey towards Harfleur and England. - -"This is great news, if it be true," said Oswald. "Perchance ere we -reach the coast an English army will have set foot on French soil." - -"But if so, how are we to find a ship that will bear us across the -channel?" asked Geoffrey. - -"In that case we stop with the forces of our King," replied Oswald. - -"Nay, 'tis not that I mean. If war hath broken out, and the English army -hath not yet left our shores, it will be well-nigh impossible to get -clear of French soil." - -"Then we must bide our time. Meanwhile thou and I are poor peasants -bound for Harfleur, whither our relatives have already gone. This will -be the surest way of evading awkward questions." - -Ere the lads reached Valions their plan of action was already decided. -Without incident, and practically unnoticed, they passed through the -little village and began the last stage of their day's journey. - -For the most part of the three leagues into St. Barre the road ran in a -straight line, flanked on either side by gaunt willows. - -In the ill-tilled fields a few peasants were at their labours, but the -sight of two strangers had the effect of making them run for their -lives. The frequent attention of freebooters had crushed the spirit of -the miserable countrymen, and a craven fear of their fellow-men had -become the chief characteristic of the French sons of the soil. - -"This must be St. Barre," said Oswald, pointing to a small hamlet at the -foot of a hill. "Think of the pleasure of being able to sleep on fresh -straw." - -"Tis not to be lightly esteemed," replied Geoffrey. "But let us proceed -with caution, for, unless I be mistaken, there are more people in St. -Barre than the village can hold." - -It was well that the lads exercised care, for on nearing the hamlet they -found that it was in possession of a strong body of cross-bowmen and -spearmen, wearing the arms of De Chargné upon their surcoats. - -"Not only does he hold Taillemartel, but the countryside as well," -remarked Oswald bitterly. "We must needs sleep in the open this night, -since 'tis madness to enter the village. Alas and alack for my bed of -fresh straw!" - -"Nay, it might have been worse," replied Geoffrey encouragingly. "We -might have set our heads in a trap. But the sun sinks low; we must cast -about for a resting-place if we are not to lie upon the open ground." - -A short distance from where the lads stood a ruined outbuilding reared -itself by the roadside. Its thatched roof had almost totally -disappeared, the gaunt rafters standing out clearly against the red glow -in the sky. - -"This must needs serve," exclaimed Geoffrey, as they arrived at the -barn. "I' faith, if we have no worse company than rats I am content." - -The building consisted of only one storey, but on the horizontal beams -beneath the roof a few planks had been left. Geoffrey contrived with -little difficulty to gain the lofty perch, whence he assisted his -comrade, who still felt the effects of his wound, to reach the scanty -planking of the loft. Here they found that the remnant of the thatch -afforded tolerable shelter, and wrapping themselves in their cloaks they -were soon fast asleep. - -When they awoke it was broad daylight. Although their slumber had been -sound, it was the babel of men's voices that aroused the youths. - -"I tell thee 'tis the fault of old Néron le Boeuf," exclaimed a Norman -voice. "He hath deceived us." - -"If so, he'll pay dearly for it," replied another. "Yet why should he -play us false? With promise of a liberal reward—which of a surety his -greed would forbid him from refusing—'tis unlikely that he would have -sent us on a false errand." - -"He said that the English lads were to be at the _Sign of the Lion_ in -yonder village?" - -"Ay, that he did. Yet those of our men who were in the village swear -that no stranger passed that way." - -"Perchance the rascals themselves have cheated us." - -"In any case Le Boeuf will pay for it. But we shall rue it too. No -prisoners, no reward, and three of the horses completely foundered. What -a greeting we shall have when we return to the castle!" - -"Thou hast forgotten that we have one prisoner?" - -"A man of mean condition. By St. Denis, were it not for the information -we may get from him, I'd as lief pass my knife across his throat. And, -look ye, comrades, since some of our horses are done up, 'twill be best -that two of ye stay here with the prisoner. The rest of us will push on -back to Taillemartel, whence we will send more horses for those that -tarry here." - -The lads heard this conversation with bated breath. Evidently Néron le -Boeuf, the trusted servant of Sir Oliver, was a traitor, and had not -scrupled to betray those whom he had appeared so anxious to befriend. - -Cautiously the lads looked through a crevice in the planking of the -loft, fearful lest the slightest movement would cause the timbers to -creak, or would dislodge a portion of the mouldering thatch. - -In the barn below were six bearded men-at-arms, clad in leather jerkins -studded with iron bosses. Each wore a long, straight-bladed sword with a -plain cross-hilt and a short knife or dagger. Why they had entered the -barn seemed a mystery, for they had not attempted to search the place, -and, fortunately, the lads had made no sound in their sleep that was -likely to betray their presence. - -"Now, out with ye, and bring in the horses and the prisoner," quoth a -man who was evidently the leader of the party. "And mark ye well. While -we are gone take heed that ye be not seen by our master, for, as ye -know, he journeys to Amiens this day. Had we not been fooled by this -rascally Le Boeuf 'twould have mattered little, but, _ma foi!_ to be -discovered in this plight would mean a raw hide for us all." - -With this admonition four of the men went out, and on returning brought -with them two horses and a man, his arms bound behind his back. - -To the lads' astonishment the prisoner was none other than Arnold -Gripwell. - -"Now, hasten, _mes camarades_," continued the leader. "Ye that remain -keep a sharp eye on this rogue. If he gives trouble pass a knife across -his throat." - -"Give me a knife and a free hand, and I'll serve any twain of ye in a -manner that ye'll have good cause to remember," growled Gripwell. - -"Nay, thou rascal. Joseph and Gros Vibart yonder have already good cause -to remember thee. Anon we'll give thee a knife, Master Englishman, -though not in the way thou wouldst." - -So saying, the Norman leader passed a thong round Arnold's ankles—a -difficult task, for the old man-at-arms lashed out with his feet like an -untamed stallion—and at length the prisoner was secured. Then with a -parting caution the _sous-officier_ and three of the men rode off. - -Left to themselves, the remaining two stood by their captive till the -sound of the horses' hoofs had died away in the distance. Then they went -out, whereupon Gripwell began struggling to free himself of his bonds. - -"Arnold! Arnold Gripwell," said Geoffrey in a hoarse whisper, "'tis I, -Geoffrey Lysle, and Oswald too! Keep silent, and we'll be at thy side in -an instant." - -"Save ye!" ejaculated the man-at-arms. "By all the saints of -Christendom, how came ye here?" - -"Hush! Here they come," cautioned the lad. Not a moment too soon; one of -the quick-eared Normans had detected the sound of a voice. - -"What wert thou babbling about, rogue?" he asked, throwing down a bundle -of firewood that he had collected, and administering a vindictive kick -at the helpless prisoner. - -"Can only a Frenchman call upon his patron saint?" demanded Arnold -fiercely. - -Apparently the explanation sufficed, for the man said no more, but -arranged the firewood and set light to it. The thick smoke ascended to -the shattered roof, well-nigh causing the lads to choke and gasp for -breath. - -Meanwhile the second Frenchman had taken a small iron pot from his -saddle bow, and had filled it with water from a leather bottle that hung -from the saddle of his companion's horse, but on rising and stepping -back from the fire the first man upset the utensil and spilled every -drop of the liquid. - -"A curse on thy clumsiness, Gros Vibart! Not a drain remains." - -"There is water to be had from the brook——" - -"Two bow-shots away. Since thou hast caused the mischief thou canst best -make amends. Off with thee, I say." - -Gros Vibart grumblingly departed, leaving his comrade alternately -reviling him and the luckless Gripwell. Presently the Frenchman, having -exhausted his vocabulary of abuse, came to a standstill in the centre of -the barn, almost underneath the planks on which the lads were lying. - -Cautiously Geoffrey raised himself into a crouching posture, then -unhesitatingly sprang upon the Frenchman's shoulders. Down went the man -like a felled ox. - -Without a moment's delay Geoffrey cut the thongs that bound Gripwell's -arms and legs, and, stiff and cramped, the man-at-arms slowly rose to -his feet. - -"Certes! I little wot that 'twould be by thy aid, Master Geoffrey. But a -truce to gossiping, for the other rogue will be here soon. Not that I -had lost hope, for I meant to outwit them both. There! Now my limbs -begin to feel themselves once more. Hand me thy dagger, for there's more -work to be done ere we leave this place." - -Meanwhile Oswald had contrived to descend from his perch, feeling stiff -and weary with the partially-healed wound. - -"Welcome, Arnold. But how say ye? How are we to evade the swarm of men -in yonder village?" - -"Time to discuss that, young sir, when we have settled with the other -rascal—him I owe much for his scurvy treatment. My word! He'll pay -dearly for kicking a trussed and helpless man." - -Presently Gros Vibart returned, but on entering the open door his ruddy -face blanched as he realized that the tables were turned. Yet he was not -devoid of courage, for, hurling the water-pot full at the English -man-at-arms, he drew his sword and rushed straight at his antagonists. - -With uplifted arm Gripwell parried the missile. The next instant steel -crossed—the heavy double-edged blade of the Norman and the slender -dagger of the Englishman. - -With an agility that belied his corpulent frame Gros Vibart got in a -lightning thrust that required all Gripwell's skill to parry, but the -Norman's blade, slipping down the steel of his foeman, caught in a -deadly notch in the Englishman's guard. A powerful turn of Arnold's -wrist sent his antagonist's weapon hurtling across the barn; and, so -quickly that the lads could scarce follow its thrust, the dagger was -plunged to the hilt in the Frenchman's bull throat. - -"Now to work," exclaimed Gripwell breathlessly. "Strip yon carrion while -I serve this one the like. Geoffrey, thou art tall for thine age. That -rogue's garments will suit thee most passably. I will make shift with -this one's clothes, e'en though they be over full for my lean frame." - -"And what of Oswald?" - -"He must needs go as he is. Thou and I are to be of De Chargné's -following. Master Oswald is to be our prisoner, and we are bound for -Amiens, where De Chargné is now resting. If that will not serve we are -undone." - -It did not take long to complete their preparations. Geoffrey and Arnold -donned the clothes of the slain Normans, whose bodies were forthwith -hidden in the long grass. The horses were led for a considerable -distance; then, finding they were useless, the Englishmen turned them -adrift. - -By making a wide détour the adventurers succeeded in giving the slip to -the troops in the village of St. Barre, and in high spirits the three -comrades in misfortune set off on the road to Amiens. - - - - - CHAPTER XV - - HOW THE THREE COMRADES SEIZED THE FISHING - BOAT - - -"Nay, there is little cause to trouble concerning Sir Oliver," remarked -the man-at-arms in answer to Geoffrey's anxious question. "He is safe -and well cared for, though a prisoner in the hands of—whom thinkest -thou?" - -"I cannot say." - -"None other than Sir Raoul d'Aulx. 'Faith, the knight could do naught -else but hold Sir Oliver captive, since 'twas by the orders of the King -of France. Yet Sir Raoul was ever a courteous knight; and moreover, -bearing in mind that once he and Sir Oliver were comrades in arms, and -also that thou, his son, hast rendered good service to Sir Raoul's wife -and daughter, my master's condition is not to be deplored, save that he -is under a solemn vow to keep within the boundaries of the Castle -d'Aulx, until the termination of the war or release by our own forces." - -"Aye, we heard that war was declared, Arnold. But why doth King Harry -tarry?" - -"That is his concern, young sir. 'Tis certain that the French expect his -coming, since every available knight and common soldier is being -hastened into Normandy. What would I give to see a troop of English -lances and a few stout companies of English bowmen." - -"Who knows but that thy wish will shortly be gratified?" - -"Then it behoves us to hasten towards the sea-coast. From Amiens we -ought to be able to reach Abbeville and seize a craft of sorts that will -bear us to Old England." - -Buoyed up with hope the three comrades pursued their way, but, as luck -would have it, a few leagues from the town of Amiens they encountered -none other than De Chargné himself. The baron was returning from a -hawking expedition, and was attended only by a page who carried a falcon -attached to his wrist by a silver chain. - -In ignorance of the identity of the man whose livery they wore, Geoffrey -and Gripwell passed him with heads erect and fearless glances. - -"Ho, there! Insolent varlets! Why have ye not louted to me, Bertrand de -Chargné? What manner of men have I in my service that pay not proper -respect to their lord and master? Your names, sirrahs? And I'll warrant -that my marshal will lay his rod soundly athwart your backs, so that -another time ye will have good cause to remember me." - -Vehemently the French baron poured out this speech, his eyes rolling in -his anger. - -"Have at him, Geoffrey," shouted Gripwell, drawing his sword. "If he -'scapes us, 'twill be our undoing." - -But even in his hot anger De Chargné scented danger. - -[Illustration: "THROW ME YON ROPE!" HE SHOUTED.] - -"_Peste!_ Have we wolves in sheep's clothing?" he exclaimed. "Ride, -Michel, for thy life." - -As the page set spur to his steed the baron did likewise, and both -riders were soon clattering down the dusty highway. - -"We have seen something that few men can boast of," said Gripwell -gleefully. "We have seen the back of a De Chargné. But we must look to -ourselves, for, by St. George, we are like to be in a sorry plight." - -Realizing that ere long the Frenchman would raise an alarm, and that the -countryside would be scoured, the adventurers divested themselves of -their surcoats with the De Chargné device. It was now out of the -question to proceed to Amiens, so taking a by-lane the Englishmen set -off at a rapid pace, keeping the while a sharp look-out for any signs of -pursuit. - -Three days later the fugitives, footsore and hungry, came in sight of -the blue waters of the English Channel. - -"What village is that I see yonder?" asked Gripwell, addressing a -peasant who was toiling along the road, bent double under the weight of -a huge basket filled with seaweed. - -"'Tis St. Valery-en-Caux, monsieur." - -"_Ma foi_, comrades, we are well out of our way," remarked the -man-at-arms in order to avoid suspicion. "'Tis to Abbeville that we -would go." - -"Of a surety thou speakest truly," assented the peasant. "It lieth far -along the shore, though I have ne'er set foot in the town." - -"This village will serve our purpose," quoth Gripwell, as the peasant -resumed his way. "We must needs lie hidden till dusk; then, unless I am -much at fault, we can with ease take possession of one of those -fishing-boats I see yonder." - -"Canst manage one of these craft?" asked Oswald anxiously. - -"The wind blows fair. E'en though I be not a seaman, I am a man of -parts. By the help of St. George I fear not that the task be beyond me." - -Encouraged by their comrade's self-reliance the lads took heart. Even -though they were compelled to wait till night, the old soldier was not -idle. - -Leaving the two youths snugly sheltered in a field of barley Gripwell -went off on a foraging expedition, returning presently with three large -rye loaves and a bottle of wine. - -"How earnest thou by them?" asked Geoffrey in astonishment. - -"Thou hadst best not to ask, Master Geoffrey," replied the man-at-arms -with a sly wink. "'Tis but an old trick, known to all hardened -campaigners. Food and drink we must have at all costs, and when the -goodwife hath finished gossiping with her neighbour she can discover her -loss with as much good grace as it pleaseth her. Certes! The miracle of -the vanishing loaves of St. Valery will be a subject of discourse for a -long time to come, I trow. But, come now, let us eat." - -When darkness set in the three comrades waited till the last visible -light was extinguished and the village plunged into slumber. Then -cautiously they made their way to the little quay, against which half a -score of strongly-built fishing boats and traders were fastened. - -It was now just after high water, and already a steady current was -setting out of the harbour. - -"This one will suit our purpose," whispered Gripwell, pointing to a -stout craft of about thirty feet in length, that lay in the outermost -tier. "Tread softly, for the least sound will betray us." - -Without mishap Geoffrey clambered over the deck of an intervening ship -and gained the planks of the craft Arnold had indicated. She was of good -beam, entirely open amidships, with a deck fore and aft, under which -were two small cuddies for the accommodation of her crew and for the -stowing of gear. - -"Cast off yon rope," whispered Gripwell. "Yarely now, or we shall be -left by the tide; I can touch bottom with an oar." - -Swiftly the two restraining hawsers were unbent, and the boat began to -glide stern foremost towards the open sea. - -Seizing an oar Arnold worked with powerful yet silent strokes, till the -craft's bow was turned seaward. Twice or thrice her keel scraped against -the rocky bed of the stream, but, greatly to the new crew's relief, the -strong ebb swept her clear, and soon the water began to deepen. - -"Hist!" exclaimed Oswald. "Another boat comes this way." - -With beads of sweat standing out on his forehead the man-at-arms peered -through the darkness. The squire was right. A huge unwieldy craft, -propelled by oars, was slowly stemming the tide. - -"Take the tiller and keep her so," exclaimed Arnold, placing Geoffrey's -hand upon the long, wooden pole. "Say not a word." - -Resuming their oars Oswald and the old soldier urged the boat as swiftly -as they were able, exercising due caution to prevent the sound of their -blades from being heard. - -"The _Jean Baptiste_ is abroad late this night," shouted a gruff voice -as the two craft swept past each other at less than twenty yards' -distance. - -Gripwell could not trust himself to speak. Bending over his oar he -grunted something incoherently. - -"Heed him not, Simon. He hath been drinking. Old Jacques is ever surly -in his cups. May the blessed Peter see to it that he tears his nets on -the Roches d'Ailly." - -"I' faith," exclaimed Gripwell as the boats drew beyond earshot. "'Twas -a narrow escape. Bear witness, young sirs, how the proverb 'One man's -meat is another man's poison' can be reversed. But now we are clear of -the land, and the breeze is beginning to make itself felt. Stay where -thou art at the helm, Master Geoffrey—nay, 'twill be best for thy -companion to take the tiller, seeing that he is hurt. Thereupon, I pray -thee, bear a hand with this sail." - -Not without infinite trouble Geoffrey and the man-at-arms succeeded in -hoisting the heavy yard and its huge brown sail. Then, heeling to the -steady breeze, the little craft began to slip quickly through the water. - -"That is well," ejaculated Arnold as he relieved Oswald at the helm. -"Another twelve hours at this speed and we ought to sight the white -cliffs of England." - -"How canst thou make sure of the way?" asked Oswald, doubtful of the old -soldier's skill in seamanship. - -"Mark yon pennon," replied Gripwell, pointing to a fluttering streamer -at the masthead. "So long as that keeps ahead and the wind holds true, -all will be well. 'Tis a wide mark from Dover to the Wight, and it -matters little at what part we touch." - -Throughout the short June night the lads remained on deck, dozing at -intervals in spite of their lengthy rest in the rye-field hard by the -village of St. Valery, yet filled with joy at the thought that they were -being borne rapidly homewards. - -At length the day dawned. Eagerly Gripwell scanned the horizon, but to -his great satisfaction not a sail broke the sky-line. The low white -cliffs of France, too, had vanished beneath the encircling rim of -trackless sea. - -In the growing light the adventurers were able to make a thorough -inspection of the stolen craft. Anxious to husband their scanty stores, -Gripwell hoped to find some kind of provisions on board. Accordingly he -handed the helm to Oswald, and telling Geoffrey to explore the after -cuddy, he clambered forward to investigate the contents of the place -that did duty for the forepeak. - -Placing his hands upon the coamings of the little hatch Geoffrey lowered -himself into the dark recesses of the cuddy. Bewildered by the sudden -transition from daylight to almost pitch darkness, he stood upon the -floor, his shoulders bent to save his head from contact with the low -deck-beams, waiting till his eyes became accustomed to the gloom. - -An unexpected lurch of the little craft caused him to lose his balance, -and the next instant he was thrown violently against the side of the -cuddy. Struggling to regain his balance Geoffrey thrust out his hands, -and to his utter astonishment his fingers closed upon the throat of a -human being. - -Ere the lad could realize his position he was seized in a powerful grip, -and, beyond a strangled shout from his unseen antagonist, the two -silently engaged in a desperate struggle. Interlocked in an unyielding -grip they swayed to and fro, each adversary trying to bend the back of -his antagonist. - -Attracted by the scuffling Arnold came running aft. In his haste he had -forgotten to bring his arms, and well it was that this was the case, for -on gaining the hatchway he could only perceive two unrecognizable -struggling forms. - -Cold steel would have been equally dangerous to friend or foe. All that -Gripwell could do was to lie full length on the deck, ready with -outstretched arm to aid the English lad the moment he could be sure of -him. - -In spite of the obvious disadvantage of being attacked in unfamiliar -surroundings Geoffrey stoutly maintained his own, but the strength and -endurance of his unseen foe seemed inexhaustible. At length the lad -bethought him of a trick taught him by one of the archers of the -garrison of the Castle of Warblington many months agone. - -Hitherto he had been striving to force his enemy backwards, but suddenly -he changed his thrusting motion into a lift. In this he was aided by his -antagonist's own efforts to resist the previous mode of attack, and with -a mighty heave Geoffrey raised his foe from the floor. - -With a dull crash the fellow's skull struck the deck-beams overhead, and -a convulsive twitching of his limbs followed by an unmistakable limpness -showed Geoffrey that he had stunned his adversary. - -Breathless and well-nigh exhausted the English lad gained the deck, -where he lay filling his lungs with the pure, salt-laden air. - -Meanwhile Arnold had descended the hatchway and unceremoniously dragged -the senseless body of the mysterious occupant of the cuddy into the -light of day. - -A cry of surprise burst from Geoffrey's lips; his late antagonist was a -youth of about his own age. - -"'Tis a Norman fisher-lad," exclaimed Gripwell. "He must have been -hiding ever since we laid hands on this craft. But, what is to be done -with him?" - -"He is my prisoner by the right of conquest," replied Geoffrey. "'Tis -not in my mind to do him further scath, for, certes, he hath held his -own as manfully as any Englishman." - -Ere long the young Norman recovered his senses, and finding that he was -being kindly treated and that he was not to be thrown overboard—a common -practice in mediæval days when vanquished shipmen were ruthlessly -jettisoned—he became quite communicative. - -He had, it appeared, stolen on board the boat to escape the wrath of his -master, whose enmity he had roused. Overcome by sleep he had slumbered -soundly throughout the night, undisturbed, even by the noise of the -footsteps of Gripwell and his two youthful companions, till he felt -Geoffrey's fingers at his throat. - -"Have no fear," exclaimed Geoffrey kindly. "We bear thee no ill-will. -But, willy-nilly, thou must come with us to England; then, on my honour, -I vow that thou shalt be given a passage back to France." - -"Sir, I thank thee," replied the stranger in the patois of the Norman -shore. "But, if ye hope to reach dry land in safety, I pray ye look to -the sail. Already the wind increases, and ere long there will be a -gale." - - - - - CHAPTER XVI - - THE WRECK OF _L'ETOILE_ - - -"A gale coming—how dost thou know that?" demanded Gripwell anxiously. - -"I have not been brought up to the sea these last six years for nothing, -monsieur," replied the fisher-lad. "In my mind I can feel the coming -storm. Moreover, did not Père Gobin tell old Sardeau, my patron, that -'twould be hazardous to put to sea yesternight? But, monsieur, since we -are likely to be caught out, we must needs meet danger with a stout -heart." - -"Thou art a brave youth," observed Arnold approvingly. "What is thy -name?" - -"Jean," replied the other simply. - -"What would'st thou have us do with the craft?" continued the -man-at-arms. Bold and fearless as he was he recognized in the Norman lad -his superior in the shipman's art. - -"We must hoist a smaller sail, monsieur. Even now the boat is pressed -over much." - -As he spoke a vicious squall, the precursor of the storm, began to -thrash the water a bow-shot astern. - -Without a moment's hesitation, Jean, whose thick skull had received a -blow that would have disabled many a man for days to come, ran forward -to the mast. Ere the hissing blast swept down upon the craft he had let -go the halyards, bringing the heavy yard, with its bellying sail, to -within a few feet of the deck. - -Fortunately Gripwell had the sense to thrust his whole weight upon the -stout tiller to keep the vessel on her course dead before the wind. In a -few minutes the squall had passed. - -Descending into the forehatch the Norman lad soon re-appeared, bearing a -small sail rolled up under his arm. This, with Geoffrey's aid, he bent -to the yard, in place of the larger canvas, and under easy sail the -_Etoile de St. Valery_—for such was the name of the stolen craft—tore -before the howling winds. Ugly, white-crested waves reared themselves on -either hand, but, thanks to her broad beam and comparative deep draught, -the threatening breakers swept harmlessly under her hull. - -"Where are we?" asked Oswald dolefully, for he had succumbed to the -attacks of his old enemy, and was lying well-nigh helpless against the -low bulwarks. - -"St. George be my aid: I know not," replied Gripwell. "But by yonder sun -that tells close on midday, I perceive we are holding a proper course," -he added, pointing to a faint light in the fleeting clouds that marked -the position of the orb of day. - -For the next hour or two the _Etoile de St. Valery_ flew before the -gale, heading blindly towards the as yet invisible shores of England. - -Suddenly Geoffrey gave a warning cry, and pointed his finger towards the -boat's bow. - -"I see land," he shouted, striving to make himself heard above the -roaring of the elements. - -"Thou'rt right," agreed Gripwell, as an apparently unbroken wall of -glistening chalk cliffs loomed up through the mirk. "But 'twill be a -hard task to get into safety with this sea running. Certes, yesternight -I would have given a seven pound candle to the altar of the church of -St. Thomas à Becket at Warblington to be able to see yon cliffs, but now -I would willingly give one of a score pounds not to see them." - -"How so?" asked Geoffrey. - -"Since we know not on what part of the coast we have lighted, and not a -sheltering port is to be seen, methinks we shall have much ado to -prevent our corpses being washed ashore." - -"Can we not cast anchor?" - -"'Tis impossible, monsieur," replied the Norman lad, who had overheard -Geoffrey's question. "The stout rope that holds the anchor would be rent -asunder like a wisp of smouldering flax. Nay, monsieur, we must needs -push on, keep the boat's stem to the waves, and trust to be cast fairly -on shore. Alas for the _Etoile de St. Valery_!" - -"Courage, comrades," shouted Gripwell. "I espy a place where the cliffs -dip somewhat. We will run the craft ashore at that point. Pull thyself -together, Master Oswald. E'en within an hour thou mayst set foot on dry -land." - -As the _Etoile_ approached the shore the seas became shorter and steeper -owing to the shoaling bottom. No longer did the stout craft rise easily -to the rollers, but labouring heavily she took in water on all sides. - -"There are men on the shore," said Geoffrey, as a number of people armed -with bows, swords and axes, ran down the steep gorge in the cliffs. - -"And a warm welcome they will give us," replied Gripwell gloomily. "Not -a hand will they raise save to help themselves." - -The old man-at-arms spoke truly. Every foreign ship—ay, and many a -luckless English craft as well—that had the misfortune to be cast on -shore was regarded by the lawless men of the coastwise hamlets as a -prize. In many cases not only were their crews left to their fate, but -any unfortunate man who reached the shore alive might be cruelly slain -for the sake of a few trifles on his person. - -"Hold fast as she strikes!" shouted Gripwell. With feet placed wide -apart and body braced to meet the shock the man-at-arms gripped the -tiller. - -Then with a crash that shook the craft from keel to masthead, the doomed -vessel grounded heavily on the shingle. - -Thrice she pounded heavily, each time being cast nearer in shore, till -with her hold filled with water, the _Etoile_ settled firmly on a bed of -sand. - -Desperately her crew held on, watching the callous spectators on shore, -who, in turn, were waiting for the wreckage to be cast at their feet. -Not a word was spoken by the shipwrecked men; all they could do was to -await the end in whatever form it might come. - -After a considerable time had passed in this hazardous position Geoffrey -fancied that the shocks were becoming less violent. Cascades of foam -still swept over the craft, and already portions of the hull were -beginning to show signs of breaking-up. All but the stump of the mast -and the small spread of sail had vanished, having gone by the board soon -after the first shock. - -Yes, now he was certain; the tide was falling. - -Making his way along the steeply sloping deck to where Arnold was -standing Geoffrey communicated the discovery. - -"Ay, it gives us hope," shouted Gripwell in reply. "The boat holds -together. In another half-an-hour we may essay the task." - -So saying he whipped out his knife and began to sever one of the ropes -that trailed across the deck. It was a hazardous business, since he had -to release his grasp upon the coaming of the hatchway; but by dint of -working hard between the sweep of each succeeding breaker he contrived -to secure a goodly coil of cordage. - -With this the four members of the crew were lashed together with a -distance of about twelve feet between them. - -These preparations were observed by those on shore, for there was a -decidedly hostile movement on their part, some going so far as to string -their bows. - -"Look at them," exclaimed Jean excitedly. "They are about to kill us." - -"And these are Englishmen!" added Oswald. - -Hoping to pacify the clamorous throng ashore, the man-at-arms shouted -that he and his comrades were Englishmen, but either the words were lost -in the howling of the wind and the roar of the breakers, or the shoremen -were convinced that since the wrecked craft was of foreign build the -crew must likewise be foreigners. But, whatever view they took of the -situation, the mob showed no signs of abating their hostility. - -At this juncture a horseman appeared on the edge of the cliffs to the -right of the gorge. For a brief space he took in the strange scene -beneath him, then, unhesitatingly, he urged his steed down the steep -declivity. Often the intrepid rider was standing in his stirrups as the -horse slid on its haunches; more than once a mass of chalk slipped away -from under the beast's forefeet and came crashing on to the beach below; -but the daring horseman never ceased his downward way till he gained the -shore and tore up to the crowd of expectant wreckers. - -Although the new-comer was evidently a man of some position he did not, -at first, have things his own way. Voices were raised in angry protest, -twice or thrice knives gleamed in the air, but by sheer force of will -the horseman succeeded in calming the more turbulent members of the -assembly. - -This done he forced his horse through the waves, till up to the girths -in water, he came within a spear's length of the stranded craft. - -"Throw me yon rope; follow me, your lives are safe!" he shouted. - -With that Gripwell heaved the line, and struggling through the strong -under-tow the four members of the crew gained the land. - -"Who are ye, and whence came ye?" demanded their rescuer. - -"We are Englishmen escaped from France," replied Gripwell. - -"There, did I not say so?" asked the horseman turning towards the still -surging crowd. "Fie on ye." - -"But the boat is ourn by ancient rights," objected a bearded fisherman, -whose ears were pierced by a pair of gold earrings, probably part of the -spoil from some castaway. - -"Let them have the craft by all means," quoth Gripwell. "I' faith, we -are right glad to see the last of her." - -"Where were ye making for?" asked the horseman. - -"Firstly to the shores of England, which, by St. George, we have made -far too forcibly to my mind. Secondly we belong to the Castle of -Warblington. Yonder stands Geoffrey Lysle, son of the Lord of -Warblington." - -"Thou hast gone wide of the mark, good shipmaster," replied the horseman -with a merry laugh. "Now ye must needs foot it for nearly a score of -leagues ere ye reach Warblington. Ye are now at Birling Gap, midway on -the shore of Sussex. Hast money? Nay? Then here is a groat apiece. -Follow yon track and ye'll soon strike the great highway betwixt Dover -and Southampton. The rest of the way, though it be long, is not -difficult to find." - -"One moment, fair sir," quoth Geoffrey. "To whom do we owe this right -courteous treatment?" - -"It matters not," was the reply, as the horseman prepared to take his -departure. "But stay; if so be that ye have time to remember me in your -prayers, men call me Wild Dick o' Birling." - - - - - CHAPTER XVII - - OF THE COMPANY AT THE SIGN OF THE BUCKLE - - -Glad to have come out of their difficulties so lightly, Arnold Gripwell -and the three lads set out along the path indicated by the kindly Dick -o' Birling. - -Reaching the summit of the cliff they turned to gaze upon the scene of -their shipwreck. Far below them the crowd of wreckers and fishermen -seemed like a swarm of ants as they flocked around the stranded hull of -the _Etoile_, now left high and dry, slashing with their axes at the -planks and tearing away everything they could lay their hands on. - -The sun was low in the western sky ere the wayfarers crossed the Ouse at -Seaford and reached the little village of Bishopstone. - -"Here is an inn," said Gripwell, pointing to a long straggling building, -from the upper storey of which a broom was displayed denoting the fact -that wayfarers could find rest and refreshment. - -"Welcome to the _Buckle Inn_, gentles," shouted the host. "What might be -your commands?" - -"A joint of English roast beef will not be amiss," replied Gripwell. -"After that beds with fresh straw, an it please thee." - -"The _Buckle_ is ever known for the quality of its beds, fair sirs," -replied the host with well-assumed dignity. "I pray ye enter." - -The four wayfarers promptly accepted the invitation, and found -themselves in a long narrow room, with low, oaken rafters black with -smoke. Gathered around a fire blazing on an open hearth were nearly a -score of men, clad in white surcoats blazoned with the cross of St. -George. Many of them had removed their armour, and were stretching their -limbs before the comforting fire. - -"Welcome, comrades," shouted a burly giant with a thick crop of reddish -hair. "Sit at your ease and drain a tankard with honest archers. Whence -come ye?" - -"From France," replied Gripwell, overjoyed at the sight of a friendly -surcoat. - -A roar of laughter greeted his reply. - -"From France, quotha? Nay, by my hilt, ye are going the wrong way. 'Tis -to France that all stout-hearted men are wending their way." - -"Nor will ye find me backward in that matter," replied Arnold stoutly. -"We have but lately set foot in England and are sore in want of news. -Discuss with us, I pray thee." - -"Hast not heard that King Harry hath summoned all true Englishmen, -knights, squires, men-at-arms and bowmen to assemble at Southampton for -the taking of France? Such an army hath never before been equalled. They -say that a chirurgeon and twelve others of his class are to go with us -for the comfort of the sick and wounded." - -"The first part of thy speech delights my heart, comrades, but -concerning the latter, one leech in the field will, I trow, do more harm -than a score of French lances." - -"Thou speakest pertly, sir stranger. Methinks if thy comb were cut thy -crowing would be somewhat less." - -"Give me a stout broadsword, archer, and I'll warrant, old as I am, that -thou wilt not clip it." - -This was a direct challenge. In a moment all was confusion, some of the -company shouting encouragement to the man-at-arms, others urging their -comrade to carry out his threat, while the host of the _Buckle_ besought -his patrons to have regard for the good ordering of the inn. - -"The loan of thy sword, friend," said Gripwell calmly, addressing -himself to an archer who was shouting himself hoarse on his behalf. - -"Take it comrade—but stay, where have I seen thy face before? Why, 'tis -none other than Arnold Gripwell, who clove a Scot to the chin with his -own claymore at Homildon Field." - -"Then thou art Thomas Voysey, the archer who threw the ox over his -shoulder in the market-place at York. By St. Thomas à Becket, to think -that I did not recognize an old comrade ere this. Thy hand, Thomas; when -this slight bickering is over I'll quaff a tankard with thee." - -"Nay, I meant no offence," protested the man who had expressed his -intention of cutting Gripwell's comb. "I have ever a regard for a -staunch veteran." - -"'Tis too late to climb down, friend," replied Gripwell resolutely. "If -so be that thou art unwilling to cross steel, let us discuss the matter -in another way. I do perceive a bundle of stout staves in yonder corner. -What sayest thou—art willing to try a bout with cudgels?" - -Clearly the aggressor was anxious to avoid an encounter, but yielding to -the clamour and ironical jeers of his comrades, he selected a weapon and -stood on his guard. - -"Have at thee," shouted the man-at-arms, and the next instant the bout -began. - -With a quick succession of dull taps as the cudgels met, both combatants -warmed to their work. Blows were smartly parried and counter-strokes -rapidly delivered. Arnold's antagonist was younger and more heavily -built, but he lacked the endurance and coolness of the veteran. Slowly, -but surely, amid the subdued enthusiasm of the spectators, the elder man -forced his opponent backwards, till, with the sweat running down his -face and his breath coming in quick gasps, the archer lost all control -of himself. Whirling his heavy cudgel he strove by a succession of -powerful strokes to break down the veteran's guard; till, seizing a -favourable opportunity, Gripwell got home a shrewd blow on his -antagonist's forehead, following it up by a sharp cut that sent the -archer's weapon flying to the far end of the room. - -"Thou art the better man," gasped the archer, clapping his hands to his -bruised pate. - -"Spoken like a sensible rogue," replied Arnold, throwing down his -cudgel. "My hand, comrade! Thou, too, shalt share a cup with me, though -I have but a groat in my pouch, of which one penny is for my bed. Host, -a tankard of thy best ale." - -Good humour having been restored, the rest of the evening passed in -story and song, till tired out with the crowded events of the last few -days, Geoffrey and his companions were glad to seek repose. - -On the morrow it was decided that the man-at-arms and his comrades -should travel in company with the archers, not only for the sake of -protection on the road, but because the sturdy and honest soldiery, -hearing the condition of Geoffrey and Oswald, insisted on sharing their -meals with the lads who had undergone such adventurous ordeals in the -land of the Fleur de Lys. - -"I cannot see why King Harry—God bless him!—should call his army -together at Southampton," remarked Voysey, the master-bowman, as the -company took to the road once more. "I am a man of Rye, my comrades all -hail from ancient and loyal Cinque Ports, and seeing the distance across -the Channel is lesser than from Southampton, it is passing strange that -we should have this long march thither, not that I complain—'tis a -soldier's duty to obey orders." - -"Nevertheless, to me the plan is simple enough," replied Gripwell. "By -landing at Harfleur—a strong place, for I know it well—and advancing up -the valley of the Seine the King can use his army as a wedge, to split -the French kingdom asunder. Rouen and Paris, rich cities, are likely to -fall into his hands, and, mark you, the booty that is to be had!" - -"Ay," replied the bowman, reflectively. "A man can cross to France with -naught but his clothes and his arms, and return home laden with gold. -'Twas thus in my grandsire's time. So now for a prosperous campaign, -comrades!" - -Talking thus, the long miles seemed to slip by, and late afternoon found -Geoffrey and his comrades in the city of Chichester. - -"'Tis enough for one day," observed the leader of the detachment of the -Cinque Ports archers. "Here we will rest till the morrow." - -"As thou wilt," replied Gripwell. "But since we are within half a score -miles of Warblington, my young masters will be wanting to push on. How -sayest thou, Master Geoffrey?" - -"Right gladly, Arnold." - -"Then so be it. Comrades, adieu, and may we meet ere long on French -soil." - -Amidst the boisterous and hearty farewells of the archers Geoffrey and -his three companions set out on the last stage of their homeward -journey. Along the well-known highway they sped, recognizing in every -landmark an old friend. Quickly the great West Gate of Chichester was -left behind; then the Saxon tower of Bosham Church loomed up on their -left hand, to bear them company till the fishing hamlet of Emsworth hove -in sight. Then, joy of joys, the grey tower of Warblington Castle, -standing out clearly against the setting sun, bade them welcome home. - -As for Geoffrey, the discomforts and perils of his journeyings were -forgotten; he regarded them as a closed page of his life-story. He -realized that a new phase of his existence was about to commence, and -that on French soil he would have a chance to win his spurs. But even in -the midst of his day-dreams came the disquieting thought that, however -creditably he had borne himself in his mission, he had left Sir Oliver -still a prisoner in a foreign land. - - - - - CHAPTER XVIII - - SQUIRE GEOFFREY - - -"Welcome, Geoffrey. I bring thee good tidings," exclaimed Oswald, -slipping from his saddle and embracing his friend and tried comrade. - -It was a month after Geoffrey's home-coming, but during that period much -had taken place. - -The Lady Bertha had warmly welcomed her son, whom she had almost given -up as lost. Concerning Sir Oliver her anxieties were greatly relieved, -since she now knew that he had effected his escape from the clutches of -the Lord of Malevereux. Sir Raoul d'Aulx, her husband's captor, she also -realized to be an upright and gentle knight, in whose hands Sir Oliver -would be sure of honourable treatment. The loss of Taillemartel she -regarded with equanimity, since the fief was ever a source of anxiety -and trouble. - -"Taking all things into account, Geoffrey," said the châtelaine, "I have -much to be thankful for. Next to thy father's life his liberty is most -to be desired, but for the nonce I must rest content. But, another -matter: since it is our noble King's pleasure to lead an army into -France, it is the duty of his loyal subjects to make sacrifices to that -end. Had thy father been here he would gladly have placed himself at the -head of his retainers and led them to the rendezvous at Southampton. -Since that is impossible, and that our men and archers must go -nevertheless, 'tis fitting that, as thy father's heir, thou should'st -lead them. Now, art willing to do so? Remember, unless thy heart be in -thy work 'tis labour in vain." - -"Madame, such is my ardent desire," replied Geoffrey, his eyes sparkling -with enthusiasm. - -"I expected no other answer, my son. Go, and may the saints protect -thee. Of the nineteen men-at-arms, fifteen are to join the King's army; -of the thirty and seven archers I purpose keeping but five. Thus the -quota provided by the Manor of Warblington will number forty-seven men -under Oswald and thyself, too few to form an independent company. -Therefore I have asked Sir Thomas Carberry to allow our men to muster -under his banner. If he be willing—and I have no doubt to the -contrary—his reply will be forthcoming ere night, for Oswald hath ridden -over to Portchester this morn." - -"I crave thy patience on a small yet weighty matter, mother," exclaimed -Geoffrey. "What is thy wish concerning Jean?" - -"The Norman fisher-lad whom thou hast brought overseas? 'Twould be -unseemly to send him back to France with thee. I have already spoken to -the lad, and, by St. George, he is no patriot. Doubtless he finds -himself well treated here, for with tears in his eyes he besought me to -keep him here at Warblington. Therefore 'tis my purpose to place him -under the charge of Herbert the falconer, since for a Norman peasant lad -he showeth great promise." - -"On that score, then, my mind is easy," replied Geoffrey. "And now tell -me, when do we set out for Southampton?" - -"The King's orders are that the troops assemble on the Feast of St. -Christopher, the twenty-sixth day of the present month. That is but four -days off, and it would ill-become the retainers of Sir Oliver were they -not the foremost of the fore, since the men of Hampshire are ever -amongst the first to obey the call to arms. Therefore, by the day after -to-morrow thou must bid me farewell." - -It was at this juncture that Oswald Steyning came to Warblington with -the words, "Welcome, Geoffrey. I bring thee good tidings." - -"Ay, Oswald, I have already heard the news. I am to serve my lord the -King in the field." - -"Then thou hast but heard a moiety. Sir Thomas Carberry sends greeting -to the Lady Bertha, and expresses his regard for the courtesy of the -Châtelaine of Warblington in entrusting her contingent to his care. -Moreover, he offers thee, Geoffrey, the post of second squire to attend -upon his person." - -"Good news! Good news indeed!" exclaimed Geoffrey. "Thou and I, then, -are to be fellow squires as well as companions in arms." - -"Save that I am a masterless squire," added Oswald. "I would that Sir -Oliver displayed his banner side by side with the crescent and star of -Sir Thomas Carberry." - -"And Richard Ratclyffe—what of him?" - -"He is first squire to Sir Thomas, and will, of a surety, attend on him. -But I saw him not, since he hath already journeyed to Southampton to see -to the ordering of the Portchester company's camp." - -During the remainder of the day, and the day following as well, activity -reigned within the walls of Warblington. Though every man had been well -equipped, much had to be done ere the little band set out to throw in -its lot with the men of Portchester. Horses had to be re-shod, swords, -bills, and spearheads required grinding and sharpening, bows had to be -overhauled, spare cords waxed, and barrels of arrows prepared. With the -men-at-arms and archers twelve sumpter horses with their attendants were -to bear the baggage as far as the camp of Southampton, while, by express -orders from the King, smiths were at work day and night preparing iron -tips for the stakes that were to play so important a part in the -forthcoming campaign. - -At length the time of departure drew near. Having bade farewell to his -mother, the châtelaine, Geoffrey, now accoutred cap-à-pied in bascinet, -globular breastplate, steel gorget, greaves and sollerets, took his -place at the head of the column, with Oswald, similarly attired, at his -right hand. - -A spear's length in the rear rode Arnold Gripwell with a grim look of -expectancy on his rugged features, as he bore the banner of the turbot -and the three stars of Warblington. A close observer would have noticed -a wavy black line running athwart the banner from corner to corner, -signifying that the knight whose device it was was absent or prevented -from taking personal command. - -Behind Gripwell rode the fourteen men-at-arms, wearing steel caps and -quilted coats, additionally protected by iron plates, while at the side -of each hung a two-handled heavy-bladed sword. - -The archers were on foot, each man clad in leather jacket, over which -was a white surcoat with the cross of St. George, loose hose, and caps -of either stiff leather or wicker-work stiffened with bars of iron. They -were armed with the world-renowned bows of English yew, a well-filled -quiver of arrows hanging from the right-hand side of their belts, while -as a supplementary weapon every man carried a short axe or a dagger. - -In the rear were the sumpter horses and baggage, attended by a number of -the tenantry of Warblington, who were to accompany the troops only as -far as the port of embarkation. - -The first day's march was an easy one. That night the men of Warblington -joined those of Portchester, and quickly the two companies fraternized, -since they had much in common and little cause for dissension. - -As the combined forces were about to leave the Castle of Portchester, -Sir Thomas Carberry turned to his newly-appointed squire. - -"It is in my mind," quoth he, "that I should bestow upon the Prior of -Southampton this purse of gold for the entertainment of the poor and -needy during our absence overseas. Therefore I pray thee take Oswald and -ride across the hill to Southwick. Thou knowest the Priory?" - -"I have heard of it only, sir." - -"'Tis easy to find, though the road thither be rough. Present my -compliments to the worthy Prior and give him this. Thence thou canst -make thy way through the villages of Wickham and Botley and rejoin us at -the camp at Bitterne, hard by the town of Southampton. Have I made mine -orders clear?" - -"Yea, Sir Thomas." - -"Then set forth directly the troops have heard mass. Perchance I shall -not see thee again until thou comest to Southampton, but these -instructions are complete. Pass the word for the men to fall into their -ranks." - -A trumpet sounded loud and shrill, and ere its long-drawn note had died -away the eager soldiers were pouring from their quarters into the outer -bailey. Then, to the accompaniment of a series of hoarse orders shouted -by their under-officers, the men ranged themselves in close ranks. - -"Passably done," commented Sir Thomas, as, accompanied by his squires, -he walked towards the centre of the column, where his standard was -proudly displayed. "There was slight confusion in the ordering of the -lines, but I'll warrant another fortnight will amend all." - -It was indeed a force that any knight of Christendom might well be proud -of. Two hundred and forty men, the flower of the yeomen of South -Hamptonshire, were drawn up, armed and accoutred for active service. - -Some of these were old veterans, skilled in the craft of war, gaunt, -sinewy, and stolidly alert; others were middle-aged men, trained by -constant practice at the butts in the use of the deadly long-bow; while -the majority were lads upon whose unwrinkled faces the down of manhood -was beginning to assert itself. - -Beyond an occasional brawl, few of the latter had seen a blow struck in -deadly earnest, though they were eager for a chance of winning fame -against the hereditary enemy of England. Their lack of experience on the -field of battle was all but counterbalanced by their enthusiasm, while -the stiffening of veterans was calculated to have a good effect upon the -_morale_ of the comparatively undisciplined archers of the company. - -Having walked between the lines and carefully inspected the men under -his command, the Constable of Portchester addressed them in a few -rousing words. Then, as the prolonged cheering died away, a tucket -sounded, and every man, laying his bow, axe, or sword upon the -greensward, marched slowly and soberly into the church of St. Mary, that -lies within the castle walls. - -Half an hour later the rear of the long column had trailed beneath the -land-port tower on its way to the wars, while Geoffrey and Oswald were -breasting the steep ascent of Portsdown that lay betwixt the Castle of -Portchester and the Priory of Southampton. - - - - - CHAPTER XIX - - TREASON - - -Having carried out the Constable's instructions relating to the Prior of -Southwick, Geoffrey and Oswald set out on their long ride to rejoin -their comrades at Southampton. - -Both lads were lightly accoutred, their armour having been sent on with -the baggage train, and in high spirits they cantered their steeds along -the stretch of grass that bordered the narrow highway. - -Presently the open country gave place to dense masses of trees, the -outlying confines of the Forest of Bere—the hunting-ground of kings, and -the haunt of robbers and other evil-doers to boot. Yet there was little -fear of wayfarers being molested in this part of the forest, the outlaws -devoting their attentions to the more remote districts, where the power -of the law, as exercised by the Constable of Portchester, lost somewhat -of its terrors. Nevertheless, the two squires rode warily, keeping a -bright look-out for a possible ambush. - -"Methinks I hear men's voices," remarked Oswald, reining in his steed -and listening intently. - -"And what of it?" replied Geoffrey with a laugh. "Is not the road free -to all, and may not a man talk if so he listeth?" - -"Nay, but 'tis like the shout of a multitude." - -"I can now hear it, though 'tis a long way off." - -"We must needs ride yarely, for it seemeth as if the sound comes from -the highway in front of us. Let us therefore turn aside through this -thicket." - -"Nay," replied Geoffrey stoutly. "That shall not turn us from the -highway. Should there be a band of robbers, 'twill be better to keep to -the road than be entangled in the thickets. Let us set spur, therefore, -and put a brave face on't, though truly I doubt that there be danger." - -Thus encouraged, Oswald increased his pace, and, keeping side by side, -the two comrades drew near to the cause of the shouting. - -It was a strange sight that met the gaze of the squires, as they turned -a slight bend in the road. - -On the right of the highway lay a broad sunlit glade. Seated in a -semi-circle were about two score men, some of whom were yeomen and -farmers, though most were peasants and wood-cutters. Although many -furtive glances were cast in the direction of the highway, the main -attention of the assembly was centred on the form of a speaker, whom the -lads instantly recognized. - -"Certes, 'tis my Lord Cobham!" exclaimed Geoffrey. "We have fallen upon -a nest of Lollards." - -At that instant one of the assembly happened to catch sight of the two -horsemen, and, giving a warning shout, brought all the crowd to their -feet. Some made towards the undergrowth like startled hares, but for the -most part the Lollards rallied round their leader. - -"They will do us no scath," observed Oswald. "Let us therefore ride past -them in peace. Yet 'tis passing strange that these, forming an unlawful -assembly, should fail to set outposts. Had we been a troop of lances -bent on their capture not a man would have escaped." - -The squire's resolve to pass them by was doomed to failure, for, seeing -that they were but two wayfarers, several of the men intercepted them. - -"Who are ye, and whence come ye?" demanded a burly miller, his garments -dusty with the traces of his calling. - -"Peaceable subjects of King Harry," replied Geoffrey boldly. "Ye are, I -perceive, of the following known as Lollards." - -"I trust that ye do not mean to betray us? Otherwise——" - -"Nay, threaten us not. We would have speech with Sir John Oldcastle." - -Blank astonishment was written on the faces of the men who had barred -the lads' way. Several of them muttered under their breath that they -were lost men. - -"So be it," replied the spokesman briefly, and laying hold of the bridle -of Geoffrey's horse, led him to where Lord Cobham was still standing, -surrounded by the braver of his followers. - -"Greetings, my Lord Cobham," exclaimed Geoffrey, raising his velvet cap, -to which salutation Sir John Oldcastle courteously replied. "I pray thee -that thy men give us free passage." - -"Who art thou, fair sir?" asked the knight. - -"Canst call to mind the time thou rebukedst the friar hard by the Castle -of Portchester, my lord?" - -"Nay, is it possible that thou art the lad who stood by?" asked -Oldcastle. "Thou hast grown somewhat, I trow." - -"Tis the same; and my companion here was also with me on that day. In -truth, sir knight, though I be a true member of the Church, thy action I -could not but admire." - -"My work in that direction still remains unfinished," remarked Lord -Cobham. "Behold me, a fugitive, thanks to the persecution of my Lord -Archbishop. The meanest of these my followers might be the richer by the -sum of a thousand marks were they to betray me; but on that score I have -scant anxiety. My destiny is in the hands of One above, and should it -please Him to hand me over to mine enemies, His will be done." - -"Ask them to swear secrecy concerning thee, fair lord," said one of the -Lollards. - -"Nay, I ask no pledge; their way is clear." - -"Friends," exclaimed Geoffrey, "I tell ye this: concerning this meeting -we two will keep our own counsel. Nevertheless, if the question is put -straightly to us in this matter we must reply truthfully." - -"Bravely spoken, young sir," replied Oldcastle. "It will suffice me, -though I trust none will ask thee if thou hast seen aught of me and my -following. Now farewell, and the blessing of Heaven be with ye both." - -Geoffrey was fated never to see the great Lollard leader again. It was -not, however, till two years later, in 1417, that Oldcastle was captured -in the fastnesses of Wales after a desperate resistance. Hailed to -London, he was brought to trial, and even his former friendship with the -King could not save him from the vindictiveness of the ecclesiastical -party, for, under circumstances of extreme barbarity, he suffered death -by fire. - -For the next five or six miles the lads conversed on the incident they -had just witnessed. The road was practically deserted, and beyond the -sight of a peasant walking in the fields, or a chapman ambling along -with his wares, the two squires saw nothing to attract their attention. - -Late in the afternoon they arrived at the village of Botley, where the -horses had to be fed and watered. While the beasts were being attended -to the clatter of horses' hoofs was heard, and swinging round a bend in -the road came about a score of mounted men-at-arms, all completely -equipped, while at their head rode a young man with a set, grave -expression on his thin yet clear-cut features. - -"Greetings, fair sirs," exclaimed their leader courteously. "Canst tell -me whether accommodation is to be had for me and mine? We are bound for -Southampton to join the King's army, but having travelled far this day, -'tis impossible to reach the town this night." - -"We also are strangers," replied Geoffrey. "And we, too, are for -Southampton on a like errand as thyself." - -"My name is Olandyne, of Ripley, in the county of Surrey. Perchance, -young sirs, ye will bear us company on the morrow?" - -"Nay," answered Geoffrey, after he had announced the names and qualities -of Oswald and himself. "We must needs meet my master, Sir Thomas -Carberry, this day. Yet I trust we may meet again on French soil, even -if not before at Southampton." - -While the horses were being watered the two squires held conversation -with Olandyne, who had, at his own expense, raised a troop of a score of -men-at-arms for service with the King's forces. At length, the -men-at-arms having found quarters in the village, Geoffrey and Oswald -resumed their way. - -Hardly had they gained the hamlet of Hedge End than the sky became -overcast, and a dark, leaden-coloured cloud began to drive rapidly -against the light westerly wind. Then, Nature's sure warning, the air -became sultry and motionless, while even the birds ceased singing in -anticipation of the coming storm. - -"'Twill thunder ere long," said Oswald. "Ought we not to find shelter in -one of these cottages? Our velvet cloaks are but a bad protection from -the weather, and 'twould not do to appear before Sir Thomas like two -bedraggled varlets." - -"It is my mind to push on," replied Geoffrey. "Perchance we may escape -the storm. See yon cloud bids fair to pass behind us." - -"Then as thou wilt, but it behoves us not to spare spur," replied his -companion, urging his horse into a sharp trot. - -On and on they rode, Oswald casting anxious glances at the approaching -cloud, while ever and anon the low rumbling of distant thunder was borne -to their ears. Then a few heavy drops began to fall. - -"Thou art right; we are fairly caught," exclaimed Geoffrey. "Were we -campaigning in France 'twould matter but little, but since we may have -to attend the Constable when he is received in audience by the King, it -behoves us to take care of our apparel. I see a cottage yonder; can we -but gain it all will be well." - -As he spoke Oswald's horse tripped on a mole-hill, and with a crash its -rider fell to the earth. Fortunately, the soil was soft, and with -nothing more than a shaking the young squire rose to his feet. - -"Art hurt?" asked Geoffrey anxiously, as he leapt from his saddle. - -"'Tis naught; but alas! my horse." - -Oswald's exclamation called his companion's attention to the animal. The -fall had broken one of its fore-legs, but without as much as a whinny -the poor beast stood motionless. Instinct seemed to tell it that its -days of usefulness were numbered. - -Having removed the saddle and muffled the horse's eyes, Oswald drew his -dagger, and with a swift blow put the animal out of its misery. - -"Poor Firebrand!" he exclaimed. "'Tis a sorry ending. But let us hasten, -Geoffrey; the rain increaseth." - -Together the lads made their way towards the distant cottage, Geoffrey -leading his horse, while Oswald bore the trappings and saddlery of his -dead steed. - -Suddenly a vivid flash of lightning seemed to dart across their path, -temporarily blinding them with its intensity. Geoffrey's horse, already -rendered strangely unquiet by the tragedy which had overtaken its -companion, became mad with terror, and, rearing on its hind legs, -wrenched the bridle from its master's hand. Then, snorting wildly, the -powerful brute galloped madly away, leaving the two astonished squires -gazing after it in bitter dismay. - -"By the Rood of Bosham, we are undone!" exclaimed Oswald when he had -recovered his speech. - -"We shall be utterly so if we tarry here," replied Geoffrey, as another -vivid flash played upon the rain-sodden ground. "Let us run to yonder -hovel." - -"And be soaked to the skin ere we gain it? Nay, let us rather take -shelter under that oak," said Oswald, pointing to a large tree that -stood in a slight depression in the ground, half a bow-shot away on -their left. - -The squires, ignorant of the danger they were incurring, made their way -to the spot indicated. Here for a while they remained under the shelter -of the thick foliage while the torrential rain descended with terrible -force. - -Ere long, though the tree afforded protection from the falling rain, the -surface water began to collect in the hollow surrounding the base of the -gnarled trunk. - -"Unless we want to be ankle deep in water we must climb into the -branches," said Geoffrey. "So up with thee, and I'll throw up the -saddle." - -With little difficulty Oswald obtained a secure perch on one of the -massive limbs of the oak, and having, after one or two ineffectual -attempts, succeeded in placing the saddle in his companion's hands, -Geoffrey made haste to follow. Here, fairly well sheltered from the wind -and rain, the two squires waited and watched the vivid flashes of -lightning, to the accompaniment of deafening peals of thunder. - -For over half an hour the storm lasted, but just as its fury was -beginning to abate Oswald called Geoffrey's attention to a horseman -approaching their place of refuge. He was completely cloaked, while his -broad-brimmed hat was drawn well over his eyes; but since he rode -cautiously and without undue haste 'twas apparent that his object was -not to shelter from the storm. - -"Say not a word to him," cautioned Geoffrey. "Methinks the tree is a -trysting-place." - -As the stranger came within the protection of the wide-spreading -branches he halted at the edge of the newly-formed pool, secured his -steed, and looked long and steadily in the direction of the tree-clad -valley towards Winchester. As he did so the squires saw that the lower -part of his face was that of a young man and far from prepossessing. A -perpetual sneer seemed to linger round his slit-like mouth as he -impatiently gnawed his nether lip. - -Thrice he made a wide circuit of the tree-trunk, then, stamping his foot -with ill-concealed impatience, resumed his vigil. - -Presently he was joined by two other horsemen, one apparently a person -of quality, and the other a thick-limbed, low-browed retainer. - -"Greeting, Sir Thomas Grey," exclaimed the former of the twain who had -just ridden up. "Didst think that I had played thee false?" - -"Nay, but I must confess 'twas in my mind that if my Lord Scrope was -daunted by a thunderstorm, his words are more weighty than his actions." - -"Let that pass," replied the knight addressed as Lord Scrope, with an -attempt at sternness. "'Tis no time for sorry jest. Hast seen aught of -Cambridge?" - -"The Earl hath kept within doors at his lodging at Winton," replied -Grey. "Nor would he trust himself in writing. Yet according to his -promise made when last we met, 'tis certain he will abide by our -proposals." - -"'Tis well. Now concerning Harry of Monmouth?" - -"I know of a surety that he journeys to Waltham four days hence." - -"Then he must pass——?" - -"Through Stoneham and Durley." - -"Of that thou art certain?" - -"As certain as death." - -"Nay, talk not of death," replied Lord Scrope with a superstitious -shudder. "Wilt thou bring thy five lances to the cross-roads at Horton -Heath—thou knowest the place where the lane opens out beyond the -pine-trees?—then with my fifteen and the Earl's score of mounted men we -can easily make an onfall upon this base usurper." - -"'Tis not to be a spear-running to find favour in the eyes of our -ladies," observed Sir Thomas Grey. "If we can bring the wolf to earth -without scath to ourselves 'tis to be preferred. Therefore I propose to -line the hedge with cross-bowmen, shoot down the King and as many of his -retinue as possible, and put the rest to the sword." - -"And then——?" - -"The rest is easy. We must needs make our way north as quietly as we are -able. The Earl of Cambridge will, in the ordinary course of events, -proclaim the Earl of March, and with this puppet wearing the regal -purple our future—by the powers of darkness, what is that?" - -"What hath startled thee, Grey?" - -"Methought I heard something fall from above." - -"A fine conspirator thou art, to jump at the creaking of a bough," -remarked Lord Scrope. "Didst thou hear aught, sirrah?" he continued, -raising his voice and addressing his retainer, who stood barely within -earshot. - -"Nay, my lord." - -"'Tis as I thought. Now to continue our discourse." - -Meanwhile the two squires, perched upon one of the overhanging boughs, -had heard almost every word of the diabolical plot, save when a clap of -thunder interrupted their hearing. In his eagerness to follow the -conversation Oswald had leant forward, and in so doing his dagger -slipped from its sheath. Fortunately, its point stuck into a branch -below, and though discovery was averted, the dull thud had reached the -ears of the younger of the two conspirators. - -"We have heard enough," whispered Geoffrey, touching his comrade on the -shoulder. "Make thy way cautiously to the other side of the tree, creep -along its lowermost branch, and when the next peal of thunder comes drop -to earth and run for your life." - -"And thou?" - -"Art with thee, never fear." - -Three hours later Sir Thomas Carberry, Constable of the Castle of -Portchester, was supping in his tent in the camp at Bitterne. The -non-arrival of his squire and his companion had caused him no little -anxiety, yet, reflecting that the storm had compelled them to take -shelter, he prepared to retire to rest. - -Suddenly he heard the voice of one of the men-at-arms on guard raised in -a peremptory challenge. The flap of the tent was thrust aside, and two -breathless, footsore, and rain-soaked persons, whom the knight hardly -recognized, burst into his presence without so much as "By thy leave." - -"Sir," gasped Geoffrey, "we have happened upon a plot——" - -"To do me out of my night's rest?" interrupted Sir Thomas grimly. - -"Nay, sir, 'tis no jest. 'Tis a plot against the life of the King!" - - - - - CHAPTER XX - - THE TRAITORS' DOOM - - -Early on the morning of the first day of August Sir Thomas Carberry, -accompanied by his two squires and Oswald, waited upon the King at his -lodging in the High Street of Southampton. - -Although King Henry had been in residence for nearly twenty days, his -indomitable energy had compelled him to take long daily journeys to all -parts of the county of Hampshire. - -Thus one day he would be at Portsmouth, inspecting the scanty defences -of that as yet infant fortress. Then at Winchester, conferring with the -city council concerning the raising of a loan, or at Bishop's Waltham, -there to attend to some affairs that many would have regarded as too -trivial to occupy the Sovereign's precious moments. But it was in things -small as well as great that Henry was thorough. He had fully grasped the -importance of the fact that attention to details brought its own reward. - -Early though it was, the King had already transacted a heavy share of -work ere Sir Thomas Carberry alighted before the door of the house that -sheltered his youthful Sovereign. - -At the moment of his arrival a deputation of the Honourable Guild of -Merchants was leaving the royal presence—the senior alderman with his -gold chain of office, the seneschal, chaplain, four echevins, and the -usher, attended by the customary number of sergeants. Their faces bore -testimony to the performance of a serious yet successful business, for -the Guild had received the royal assent to an important charter in -consideration of the sum of twenty thousand marks—the loyal contribution -of a powerful and wealthy community. - -It was King Henry's custom to receive deputations and persons of quality -in semi-public state. At the termination of each audience properly -accredited personages were permitted to enter the hall where the -Sovereign held his levée, and there to await their turn according to the -order of the _Ceremoniarius_. - -Thus when Sir Thomas had announced his name and style to the herald he -and his attendants found themselves in the royal presence, a barrier of -cloth of gold separating the waiting audience from the daïs and a broad -intervening space, where the greatest of the nobility and clergy of the -realm stood about their Sovereign. - -Henry V was now in his twenty-eighth year, and in the full vigour of his -life. He was slightly above middle stature, with strongly and handsomely -formed limbs. His features were oval in shape, clear-skinned, and -surmounted by a thick crop of smooth, dark brown hair. His lips were -characteristic of firmness, his indented chin denoted stubbornness, -while sagacity and prudence showed themselves in a straight nose and -clear, brilliant eyes, though a reddish tinge in the latter gave promise -of a stern, almost brutal, temper when provoked to anger. - -This was the commanding presence that invited Geoffrey's attention. To -those surrounding the daïs he gave slight heed, albeit there were -Gloucester and Bedford, the King's brothers, Exeter, his uncle, -Salisbury and Warwick, His Grace of Canterbury, the Bishops of -Winchester, Exeter, Ely, and Norwich, and a host of the most famous -knightly warriors of the realm. - -At the moment of the Constable of Portchester's entry a young gentleman -of quality was being presented to the King, and, to the great surprise -of Geoffrey and Oswald, they heard the name of their chance acquaintance -at Botley. - -"Olandyne of Ripley, in the County of Surrey. Greeting, Master Olandyne, -what is thy pleasure?" - -"A boon, sire," exclaimed the suppliant, falling on one knee and kissing -the extended hand of the monarch. - -"Say on, young sir, though many are the boons that we are asked to -confer." - -"Sire, I have raised at no small cost a troop of twenty men-at-arms. -These I respectfully offer for service in the field." Here Olandyne -paused, unable to utter another word. - -"We see not what is the nature of thy request. To us it savours of a -service most loyally rendered," replied the King. "Say on—what boon dost -thou ask?" - -"That I may be permitted to lead them in battle, sire." - -"Thy request is most reasonable, young sir. Since——" - -"I crave your Majesty's hearing for a few brief moments," exclaimed the -Bishop of Norwich in deep, measured tones. "It hath come to my knowledge -that this fellow was formerly a monk of the Charterhouse, and hath -broken his vows of charity, obedience, and constancy to the Order." - -"What hast thou to say to this accusation, young sir?" - -"'Tis indeed true, sire," replied Olandyne brokenly. "Yet the desire for -a soldier's life overcame the choice made for me of service within the -walls of an abbey. In sooth, sire, I could not keep the vows that were -forced upon me. I——" - -"Enough, young sir," thundered Henry, his eyes blazing sternly at the -trembling form of the ex-monk, while the Duke of Exeter whispered -something in the ear of his royal nephew. - -"Nay, Uncle Exeter, we are not ashamed to speak our mind, nor are we -willing to offend Holy Mother Church. Therefore, Master Olandyne, thy -services are not required. Thou canst withdraw from our presence, -disgraced, but free from any fear of apprehension and punishment." - -Louting low to his Sovereign, Olandyne backed slowly from the daïs, his -face ashen with mortification, confusion, and anger. Nor were there few -of the assembled company who had compassion for the luckless man whose -proffered service had been so curtly declined and whose visions of -martial prowess were so rudely dispelled. - -"Ah, our trusted and much beloved Sir John Carberry," exclaimed the King -heartily as the Constable of Portchester advanced to the daïs, followed -by the three squires. "Well, Sir John, how fares it with thee?" - -"Sire, I am a soldier and slow of speech. Words come not readily to the -tip of my tongue. But, sire, on a matter of deepest importance I would -speak with thee." - -"Is the matter so important that it cannot be declared in the presence -of our trusty and loyal subjects?" - -"That is for thee to decide, sire. But if so be that thou wilt desire -the Earls of Gloucester and York, the Earl Marshal, and His Grace of -Canterbury to attend thee in private, I bid so bold as to say that my -communication is no ordinary one." - -"Be it so, then," replied Henry, rising from his oaken chair. "Fair -sirs, we would your presence in private." - -"Now, Sir John," continued the King as the doors of the ante-room were -closed, "'tis no personal matter of thine, on that I'll stake my crown." - -"Sire, saving thy presence, my Sovereign's safety is mine honour, and -mine honour I deem a personal matter." - -"Thou hast a shrewd argument, Sir John, in spite of thy slowness of -speech. Thou hast hinted at danger to our person. Say on." - -Briefly, yet concisely, the Constable of Portchester related the -treasonable meeting of Lord Scrope of Masham and Sir Thomas Grey under -the oak tree, while Geoffrey and Oswald felt their hearts beat rapidly -and their cheeks flush as their part in the discovery of the fell plot -was unfolded to the royal ears. - -"This is no light matter," remarked King Harry at the conclusion of the -knight's story. "Justice must be worked upon these traitors. Where are -Cambridge, Scrope, and Grey?" - -"Lord Scrope is in audience, your Majesty," replied the marshal. "Sir -Thomas Grey was at his lodging hard by the Bar Gate but an hour agone. -As for His Grace of Cambridge, according to this list I find that he is -still at Winchester." - -"Get thee hence, Sir Marshal," said the King. "Set a guard of archers to -watch my Lord Scrope, without giving him cause for alarm. Send also to -the caitiff Grey, and require his presence instantly. Should he refuse, -then arrest him, otherwise let him come unsuspectingly. As for the Earl, -send a party of mounted men-at-arms to Winchester and secure his -person." - -When the marshal had departed on his errand the King turned to Sir John -Carberry. - -"By my halidome, thy squire and the squire of our absent Sir Oliver -Lysle have borne themselves with credit. Harry of Monmouth is slow to -reward, yet none the less sure. Let them prove themselves by some deed -of arms in the field, and in due course the gilded spurs of knighthood -shall be theirs." - -"Now, my lords," he continued, "let us return to the council chamber. -Not a word nor a look must be given to show that aught is amiss till -Grey is confronted with his partners in their most abhorrent guilt." - -On returning to the larger hall the King resumed his reception, devoting -his attention to every suitor who sought a hearing, though at intervals -his glance was directed at the throng behind the barriers, where the -traitor Scrope was a conspicuous figure. - -At length Sir Thomas Grey, who had evidently arrayed himself with haste, -entered the room in company with the marshal. - -"Ah, we do perceive our right worthy Grey," exclaimed the King. -"Forward, fair sir, we have need of thy services on some small matter." - -Unsuspectingly Sir Thomas Grey advanced to the daïs, where he stood -awaiting his Sovereign's pleasure. - -"We believe, Sir Thomas, that thou wert sent as envoy to our cousin of -France?" - -"Yea, sire." - -"Let me think, who were thy fellow-envoys?" - -"Sir George Pakenham and Lord Scrope of Masham, sire." - -"Is Sir George present?" - -The voice of the herald in waiting was heard calling for the absent -Pakenham, whom the King knew to be on duty at the Tower of London. - -"Then, my Lord Scrope—is he, too, absent on affairs of State?" - -"I am here, sire," exclaimed the recreant earl edging his way towards -the King's presence. - -If either of the two conspirators had had an inkling of what was in the -mind of their Sovereign, neither showed it. Grave and imperturbably -dignified they stood side by side before the daïs. - -King Harry kept silence for a few moments, then with a dangerous flash -in his eyes he exclaimed: - -"Uncle Exeter, thou knowest thy duty." - -"Henry, Lord Scrope of Masham, I arrest thee for high treason. Thomas -Grey, knight of Northumberland, I arrest thee also for high treason." - -A tense silence fell upon the assembly, broken at length by movement of -the King's body-guard of archers as they advanced to seize the two -traitors. As for Lord Scrope, he sullenly submitted to be bound, but -Grey's hand flew to his sword-hilt. The weapon flashed dully in the -subdued light, but a soldier's hand grasped the knight's wrist in a -vice-like grip; the steel clanked upon the oaken floor, and in a -twinkling the second traitor was secured. - -The fate that befel the three conspirators is a matter of history. -Cambridge, Scrope, and Grey were brought to a hasty trial, and condemned -on the 2nd day of August, 1415. The same day Grey was led on foot from -the Watergate to the North Gate, and there beheaded. On the 5th of the -same month the Earl of Cambridge walked the same route, while his meaner -partner in crime, Lord Scrope, was drawn to the North Gate on a hurdle, -where both paid the death penalty. - -The earl's body was buried in God's House, in the town of Southampton, -while the heads of Scrope and Grey were sent to York and Newcastle -respectively, where they were exhibited as a stern warning to those who -sought to plot against their lawful Sovereign. - -On the same evening of the earl's trial Geoffrey and Oswald were walking -by the shore near the Watergate, when their attention was drawn to a -young man vehemently bargaining with the master of a fishing-boat. - -"For forty marks I'll set thee ashore on French soil, young sir," -exclaimed the seaman decisively. "Not a groat less." - -"Then do so, for before heaven I have forsworn the land of my birth." - -Instinctively Geoffrey gripped his comrade's arm. The voice was that of -the ex-monk Olandyne. - - - - - CHAPTER XXI - - HOW GEOFFREY FARED AT THE SIEGE OF - HARFLEUR - - -It was an unwonted sight that met the eyes of the burghers of Harfleur -on the morning of the 14th day of August, 1415. From the Rade de Caen to -the Rade de Havre the estuary of the Seine was dotted with sails—not -those of peaceful merchantmen, but of the ships of the English invaders. - -King Harry led the van in a carrack with purple sails, on which were -embroidered the arms of England and France. The sun glinted on the -armour and shields of the knights of his household, while to add to the -almost barbaric splendour of the royal ship musicians blew trumpets and -clarions, with all the energy left at their command after a stormy -passage across the Channel. - -In the wake of the King's carrack, and stretching in irregular lines far -to the east and west, lumbered the rest of the fleet of fifteen hundred -vessels, till the wide estuary seemed choked with floating fortresses. - -On the towering forecastle of the _Rose of Hampshire_, Sir Thomas -Carberry's own cog, a knot of squires and men-at-arms were eagerly -scanning the walls and towers of the still distant town of Harfleur. - -"I' faith, 'tis a vast difference since the time when we crawled in -thither in the old _Grâce à Dieu_," observed Gripwell. - -"Ay," assented Geoffrey. "But what thinkest thou—will the citizens of -Harfleur offer resistance?" - -"Not to our landing, young sir. Were they ten times as strong they could -not hold the vast stretch of shore. But methinks all this host will not -frighten them into letting go of their riches without a tough struggle. -Mark ye the Jumelles—those twin towers guarding the harbour? Unless mine -eyes deceive me, I perceive the glint of steel behind the battlements." - -"I heard it mentioned that five of our largest galleys were to make a -dash into the harbour," remarked Oswald. - -"Foolish talk," ejaculated the old man-at-arms contemptuously. "When we -were last within this part didst thou not mark two great chains trailing -from embrasures in either tower? Ere now, I'll warrant, those chains -have been drawn up, so that no vessel can pass in or out. Certes! Swept -by stones, bolts, and arrows, to say nought of those new-fashioned -bombards, no craft will remain afloat for five minutes. Nay, Master -Oswald, therein thou hast been misinformed, for a leader like King -Harry, for all that he be young and daring, would not hazard a main on -such a vain enterprise." - -As Gripwell had foretold, the English host landed without opposition, at -a spot barely a league from the town of Harfleur. Altogether the arduous -task of disembarking the stores and munitions of war occupied another -three days, at the end of which time Henry commenced a strict blockade -of the doomed town. - -Nor did he merely sit down before Harfleur. A double line of trenches -and batteries at the most salient points were constructed; bombards, -firing a thirty-pound stone shot, were secured to their cumbersome -carriages, and a heavy fire was directed against the walls. - -While this was in progress a mine was commenced close to the northern -gate of the town. Working day and night, the sappers plied mattock and -spade so diligently that on the third day of the siege the tunnel had -all but reached the base of one of the flanking towers of the gate. - -To protect these underground toilers a strong force of men-at-arms was -stationed in the subterranean gallery under the orders of the Constable -of Portchester, who directed his two squires Richard Ratclyffe and -Geoffrey, to take alternate duty in the mine. - -"And mark ye well," he exclaimed. "Ever and anon ye must bid the diggers -cease. Then listen attentively. If ye hear the sound of the Frenchmen's -spades speed and bring me word, or our labour is undone. They of the -city are not a mere rabble of townsfolk to be despised, for both the -Lord of Gaucourt and Sir Jean d'Estrelle are past masters in the art of -war. If they have not already commenced a countermine, may I never again -break bread." - -Just before midnight Geoffrey descended the shaft leading to the tunnel. -The sullen glare of the torches threw a weird light upon the naked backs -of the diggers, the tarnished armour of the men-at-arms, and the timber -props of the long, narrow gallery that reeked vilely of an unwholesome -smoke-laden atmosphere. - -"Hast heard aught?" asked he of Ratclyffe, who had hastened to meet him -with evident relief. - -"I did but bid the men cease a short while ago," replied the elder -squire. "All is quiet as the grave." - -Left to himself, Geoffrey slowly paced the tunnel betwixt the bottom of -the shaft and the part occupied by the guard of men-at-arms. The heat -soon became so oppressive that he removed his bascinet, placing it on a -convenient baulk of timber, then wrapping a scarf round his head he -continued his measured pace to and fro till he had completed twelve -lengths of the tunnel. - -Then bidding the toilers desist, he placed his ear to the damp ground -and listened intently. - -"Methinks Sir John will have to forswear his bread," he exclaimed to -himself, as the diggers resumed their operations. - -Thrice did the squire call a halt, but on each occasion there were no -signs or sounds of the counter-miners' work. - -At length one of the sappers called out that he had struck stone. Making -his way to the head of the tunnel, Geoffrey saw by the aid of a torch -that the man had spoken truly. The lowermost layer of masonry of the -tower lay exposed three feet from the floor of the tunnel. - -All that now remained to be done was to undermine the base and place -explosives in position. - -"Go and carry word to Sir John," ordered Geoffrey, addressing a -man-at-arms. "Perchance he may wish to examine the stone-work ere the -powder is brought hither." - -The soldier hastened on his errand, while the men continued to attack -the hard soil with their spades. They had succeeded in their efforts to -strike the base of the tower, and one and all were delighted with their -success. - -Just as Geoffrey was on the point of bidding the toilers desist the -floor of the tunnel suddenly collapsed, leaving a gaping hole, through -which a swarm of armed men poured with shouts of triumph. - -Ere the English men-at-arms could draw their swords the foemen were upon -them, striking down the unarmed sappers right and left. In the confusion -most of the torches were extinguished, and in the almost total darkness -friend gripped friend by the throat, the cries of the wounded adding to -the uproar. - -With cries of "_A Gaucourt!_" "_St Denis à mon aide!_" the French -knights pressed home the attack, while the English men-at-arms, with -cries of "St. George for England!" strove to hold their own against the -overwhelming numbers. More torches were brought to illuminate the -ghastly scene, and by their light men fought and died like wild beasts. - -Unmindful of his unprotected head, Geoffrey had drawn his sword at the -first alarm, and had contrived to force his way to the front. Skill and -coolness were thrown to the winds, and striking madly at the forest of -opposing spears and swords, the squire strove to keep the foe at bay. - -Soon his fury began to tell on him; his sword-arm was becoming nerveless -under the strain, while his shoulder was bleeding profusely from a -thrust betwixt the joints of his armour. - -Still he fought on, till he heard the glad sounds of the succouring -forces that the Constable of Portchester was bringing up with all -dispatch to the rescue. Just then a mortally wounded man-at-arms gripped -the lad's ankle. Simultaneously a powerful Norman flung himself upon the -enfeebled and embarrassed squire, and losing his balance, Geoffrey fell. - -In the glare of the torchlight he saw the Frenchman's arm raised to deal -a _coup-de-grâce_, but with an exclamation of surprise the man checked -the descending knife. A thousand flashing lights danced before -Geoffrey's eyes, and with a groan he lost consciousness. - - * * * * * - -When the young squire came to his senses he found himself lying on a -rough pallet in a darkened room. It was now morning. From without came -the sullen roar of artillery, mingled with the shouts, shrieks, and -cries of the combatants, showing that the assault was being pushed home. - -By degrees Geoffrey remembered the events of the previous night—the -opening of the countermine, the grim and terrible struggle in the -subterranean depths, and his own misfortune. He had a vivid recollection -of the arresting of the descending knife of his adversary, but beyond -that his memory failed him. Why was he thus spared? Where was he, and by -whose agency had he been brought hither? - -But the lad's throbbing brain could not suggest a reason. In vain he -strove to collect his thoughts, till with a groan of pain and mental -anguish he turned himself on his couch. Then he became aware that his -shoulder had been dressed, and that a wet bandage had been tied round -his head. - -Presently, worn out with utter exhaustion, the squire fell into a -troubled sleep. - -When he awoke the sounds of conflict had died away. A slight murmur in -the room caused him to turn his face towards the door. He was not alone. -Standing on the threshold was a man dressed in a leathern jacket and -close-fitting iron cap, while above his right shoulder projected the -stirrup and part of the steel bow of an arbalist. - -In spite of his dress and equipment, Geoffrey recognized the man; it was -Gaston le Noir, the pilot of La Broie. - -"Art awake, young sir?" quoth the Norman. "I trust thou wilt soon be -thyself once more." - -"How came I here, Gaston?" asked Geoffrey. - -"How camest thou here? By St. Denis, 'twas by reason of the debt I owe -thee, which I have been enabled to repay. Yet, let it be understood that -'twas more by chance than otherwise, for had I not seen thy face my -knife would have been plunged into thy body." - -"Then thou art the man who grappled with me, Gaston?" - -"Ay," replied the pilot shortly, "I came near to slaying thee in fair -fight." - -"How camest thou to be shut up in Harfleur?" asked Geoffrey curiously. - -"Young sir, I am ever a true Frenchman, therefore 'tis my duty to bear -my part in defending the town. Moreover, thy countrymen have burned the -village of La Broie, and with it my house; and, what is more, my boat -has been pressed into their service." - -"But when the war is over and we are masters of France thou canst return -to ply thy trade as pilot." - -"The English will never be masters of France, young sir," replied the -Norman fiercely. "The greater the danger the stronger will all true -Frenchmen stand." - -"Art thou not a vassal of the Duke of Normandy, and is not our king the -Duke?" - -"A duke who wars against his overlord is no master of mine," retorted -the Norman. "But now, young sir, I must away. Wilt thou give me thy -solemn word that thou wilt remain my prisoner, and not attempt to -escape? Bear in mind that on the occasion of the attack upon the English -mines an order was given that no prisoners were to be taken. At great -risk I bore thee hither, and if thou wert discovered by the governor of -the town or his officers 'twould go hard with thee and me. Come, Squire -Lysle, thy promise!" - -"Nay," replied Geoffrey resolutely, "I'll not give thee my parole. Yet -rest assured, should I fail in my attempt to break away, none shall know -from whose care I have escaped." - -"Hot-headed boy!" exclaimed Gaston. "Thou wilt undo all the good I fain -would do. Nevertheless, I'll see that thou art guarded. When I am on the -walls my man Philippe will stand without the door. Shouldst thou attempt -to pass hence thy blood be upon thine own head." - -In high dudgeon Gaston le Noir left the lad's presence, vowing that -since he had requited his debt he would not suffer his prisoner to be a -source of danger to him. Presently he returned, accompanied by a -heavy-browed, huge-limbed man whom Geoffrey recognized as being one of -the crew of the pilot's boat on the occasion of his journey up the Seine -to Rouen. - -"Philippe, mark well," exclaimed Gaston. "I have made a fool of myself -by giving quarter to this squire; yet thou and I must needs keep a sharp -eye on him. Therefore, should he attempt to quit this place, do not fear -to pass thy knife across his throat." - -Gaston's companion regarded the youth with a grim stare, while Geoffrey -took stock of him, wondering whether in his weak state he could, by any -manner of chance, prove a match for the powerful-looking seaman. Then, -as the door was closed and barred, Geoffrey fell back upon his pallet, a -prey to deep despondency. - -Though he appreciated Gaston's action in saving his life, the squire -realized that the man meant to keep his word. Then, as he dwelt upon the -situation, Geoffrey began to see the object of the Norman's solicitude. -With the fall of the town, for fall it must, unless succour were -speedily forthcoming, the inhabitants would in all probability be put to -the sword for having offered resistance to their feudal lord. Therefore -Gaston hoped to save his own life by proclaiming his good deed in -rescuing the squire from certain death. - -Slowly the days of captivity passed, yet the vigilance of the youth's -captors was in no wise relaxed. On the subject of the state of the siege -they maintained a strict reticence, though by the scanty fare supplied -Geoffrey knew that provisions were beginning to fail within the -beleaguered town. - -Meanwhile the besiegers lay thick without the walls, and slowly yet -surely advanced their trenches almost under the shadow of the -battlements. But a deadly foe had made its appearance amongst King -Henry's host. Dysentery, caused by bad and insufficient food and the -September dampness, raged through the camp, till three thousand men, or -one-tenth of the invaders, fell victims to the dread pestilence. - -Under these circumstances the King realized that it would be better to -risk a few hundred lives in a general onslaught than to lose his men in -the comparative inaction of an investment; and on the eighteenth day of -September preparations for a desperate attack upon the defences were -commenced. - -Eager to learn the reason for the unmistakable bustle in the besiegers' -camp, the Lord of Gaucourt sent a spy from the town. The spy was -detected, and on being taken before King Henry he was ordered to be -hanged at sunset before the North Gate. - -Within the town famine was rampant, but, suspecting that some of the -inhabitants had concealed a stock of provisions instead of contributing -to the common fund, Gaucourt ordered a house-to-house search. - -One of the results of the examination was that Geoffrey was discovered -in the house where Gaston had taken up his abode. But for Philippe's -dulness of mind the young squire might have been regarded as one of the -wounded defenders of the town, but instead the squire was seized and -carried before the Governor of Harfleur. - -Closely questioned by the Lord of Gaucourt, Geoffrey admitted that he -was a squire to the Constable of Portchester, and had been taken -prisoner at the destruction of the mine, but he steadfastly refused to -give the name of his captor; and as Gaston had hidden himself on the -news of the apprehension of his prisoner, and Philippe had retained -sufficient sense to pretend to be unable to throw light upon the matter, -the culprit who had broken the orders relating to the refusal of quarter -remained undiscovered. - -"Away with him," thundered Gaucourt at the conclusion of the -interrogation. "To the tower at the North Gate. Bid the men-at-arms -erect a gallows on the battlements and send a herald to the enemy. Tell -them that an English squire is in our hands, and should they execute our -spy this squire's life shall pay forfeit." - -It was a strange sight that met Geoffrey's gaze as he found himself on -the lofty battlements with the shadow of a rough gallows falling athwart -the shattered masonry. - -Around him stood Gaucourt and the chief men of the garrison and town, -while in the background were the men-at-arms and cross-bowmen to whom -the defence of the tower was entrusted. - -Below the outlines of the besiegers' trenches were spread out like a -gigantic map, while upon the earthworks English archers and men-at-arms -swarmed like ants, shaking their fists and shouting in impotent rage at -the men who were about to take vengeance upon their prisoner. - -Yet not an arrow nor a bolt was discharged from either party, for an -hour's truce had been agreed upon, so that the French herald could place -his master's proposals for the life of the spy before King Henry. - -At a safe distance in the rear of the trenches clustered the tents of -the English host, the largest flying the banner of the lion and leopards -quartered with the fleur-de-lys that denoted the royal pavilion. - -Massed in close columns were bodies of the English men-at-arms, -accompanied by a swarm of lightly-clad men bearing long scaling ladders. -Amongst the banners of the knights who were to lead the desperate attack -Geoffrey recognized the star and crescent of Sir Thomas Carberry's -company as the Hampshire men stood to their arms, ready at the -termination of the truce to rush towards the walls to rescue or avenge -their young squire. - -At length, escorted by a guard of mounted archers, the French herald -left the royal pavilion and rode slowly towards the town. Hardly had he -reached the innermost of the triple line of trenches when there was a -commotion amidst the tents, and, accompanied by a brilliant train of -knights, Henry himself advanced to direct the threatened assault. - -"How now, herald?" demanded the Lord of Gaucourt as the envoy, hot and -breathless, gained the summit of the tower. - -"Fair sir, the English king is not to be bent from his purpose. He bids -me say that, according to the usages of war, he will hang our man. -Moreover, if this squire dies on the gallows, thy life and that of a -score of the bravest knights and men of quality of this town will answer -for it—'not by the sword, but by a hempen cord, be the blood of a -Gaucourt ever so blue.' Those were the words of the King of England." - -At the threat of the rope the French knight's cheeks blanched, for, -brave though he was, he recoiled at the thought of dying the death of a -churl. Then recovering himself, he exclaimed— - -"Let not the King of England think to turn me from my purpose. Watch yon -gallows carefully; if our spy is thrown from the ladder, then up with -yon squire. I also will remain here to see to the ordering o' it." - -Meanwhile the stormers of the English army had advanced to within an -arrow's flight of the walls. Like a gigantic spring the attackers -clustered together in a vast coil, ready to unwind and thrust itself -against the battlements of Harfleur; yet, though the truce was at an -end, the reopening of the hostilities seemed suspended till the double -tragedy was enacted. - -Bravely Geoffrey braced himself to undergo the final ordeal. Come the -worst, he was determined to let his enemies see how a true English -squire would die, cheered by the desperate yet doubtless unavailing -efforts of his own countrymen to effect his rescue. - -Slowly the sun sank in the west; longer grew the shadow of the lofty -towers, till it was lost in the distance. Then as the blood-red orb -disappeared beneath the horizon the gallows on the plain was not without -its burden. - -The shout of execration that rose from the Frenchmen on the walls was -drowned by the sullen roar of rage and fury from the besiegers as the -men-at-arms seized the English squire and raised him on their shoulders. - -The fatal noose was already around his neck when the Lord of Gaucourt -spoke. - -"Cast the squire loose," ordered he. "By St. Denis, I am not a butcher. -The King of England spoke truly when he said that the spy had placed -himself beyond the pale, but this prisoner hath not merited such a -death. Take him to the quarters in the citadel. Ho, there! Bid our men -stand fast for the honour of France, for our enemies are upon us!" - -In the midst of a guard of men-at-arms, Geoffrey, well-nigh bewildered -by the sudden change of his fortunes, felt himself hurried from the -walls and through the narrow streets. Even as he went he heard the air -torn by the thunderous discharge of the bombards, while ever and anon a -huge stone shot, glancing from the battlements, would hurtle overhead -and bury itself in the midst of the crowded houses of the town. - -All that night the squire remained awake in his place of detention, -listening to the rumble of the ordnance. Yet though the bombardment was -continuous, there were no signs of an actual assault being delivered, -and at dawn the cannonade ceased. - -Three more days passed, yet beyond a desultory discharge of artillery -hostilities seemed to be suspended, then to the squire's inexpressible -joy he heard the steady tramp of feet and shouts of exultation uttered -by hundreds of lusty English voices. - -Ere he could realize that Harfleur had indeed fallen, the door of his -prison was thrown open, and Sir Thomas Carberry, attended by Oswald, -Ratcliffe, Gripwell, and several of the men-at-arms of Warblington, -flocked into the room. - -Unable to utter a sound, Geoffrey grasped the knight's hands, while his -overjoyed comrades almost overwhelmed him with anxious questions and -hearty congratulations. - -Thus a second time did Geoffrey Lysle taste the joys of freedom. - - - - - CHAPTER XXII - - THE MARCH OF THE FORLORN SEVEN THOUSAND - - -It will now be necessary to relate the final incidents of the siege of -Harfleur, after Geoffrey had been removed from the shadow of the -gallows. - -All that night a heavy cannonade was directed against the doomed town in -order to prepare the way for the grand assault. But ere the latter was -delivered the Lord of Gaucourt sent a herald to the King of England -offering to capitulate within three days unless the town should be -succoured before the expiration of that term. - -Incredibly inactive, the King of France made no effort to relieve the -fortress that had held out so bravely and desperately for more than -thirty days, and on Sunday, September 22, Gaucourt, accompanied by the -principal knights and burgesses of Harfleur, delivered up the keys of -the town. - -On the following day Henry and his forces entered Harfleur with all the -pomp and magnificence of a conqueror, but at the North Gate he removed -his casque and shoes, and with impressive humility walked barefooted to -the principal church of the town, where the _Te Deum_ and _Non Nobis_ -were sung with the greatest fervour by hundreds of battle-worn English -warriors. - -Having done his spiritual duty Henry's next care was to secure the -captured town against attacks from without, and to take steps to husband -his resources. Accordingly the captured knights and men-at-arms were -compelled to give up their arms and armour, and allowed to retain only -those garments sufficient to cover them. Those who were willing to give -their parole to surrender themselves at Calais at Martinmas were -dismissed. A few who declined to give such assurances were sent to -England with the booty. - -The English had, by sheer valour and perseverance, secured the chief -town and port in Normandy; but in so doing their losses by wounds and -sickness were so great that the primary object of the invasion—the -conquest of France—was for the time being out of the question. - -Henry had three courses open to him: he could either remain within the -walls of Harfleur till reinforcements arrived from England, or he could -re-embark and give up the fruits of victory; or he could adopt the -desperate step of marching along the coast to Calais, a distance of more -than one hundred and seventy miles. Something had to be done; so, with -the glorious record of his great grandfather, Edward III, to raise the -enthusiasm of his men, Henry decided upon the third and most dangerous -alternative. - -His preparations were soon complete, for the massing of a huge French -army hastened his actions. Five hundred and fifty men-at-arms and twelve -hundred archers were to be left at Harfleur to hold the town at all -costs; the sick and wounded, together with the artillery and heavy -transport, were sent back to Southampton, and with a bare seven thousand -men King Harry set out upon his desperate enterprise on the morning of -October 8. - -"By St. George, 'twill be a question of no little advancement or a -glorious death," exclaimed Sir Thomas Carberry to his squire as from his -position in the vanguard of the host he turned and saw the orderly lines -of men breasting the hill beyond the town of Harfleur. "If we gain our -end our deed will be sung as long as England remains a nation. Failing -that, _dulce et decorum est pro pâtria mori_—what sayest thou, -Geoffrey?" - -"Fair lord, I am in accord with thee, though to speak plainly I would -rather return to England victorious than lay my bones in the soil of -France. What thinkest thou of our chance, Sir Thomas?" - -"'Tis not a chance: our future lies in the hands of One above. Yet, -speaking as a man well versed in war, our position is very little -different from that of the worthy King Edward III before Crécy, and, -certes, not worse than before Poictiers. Mark yon line of hungry men -clad in rags and rusty armour: I'll warrant they'll fight as blithely -and as well as did their forefathers. Times and manners change, in -sooth, but the character of the English soldier will, I trow, ever -remain the same." - -Day after day the weary march was maintained, the troops sleeping in the -open at night, in constant expectation of a sudden onfall by the -overwhelming host that was known to be hovering in the vicinity. Yet -without any serious opposition the English Army reached the mouth of the -Somme, where Edward III had made a successful crossing on his march to -Calais. - -But the fortune that had favoured his great-grandsire was denied the -brave and headstrong King Henry, for at Blanche-Taque, the scene of the -passage of the Somme, the French were massed in such a strong position -that it would have been sheer madness to attempt the ford. - -"By my halidome, my lords," exclaimed the King, when he saw the enemy's -strength and unassailable position, "ere I left Harfleur I registered a -solemn vow not to retrace one step while I wear coat-armour. If I cannot -go on, here I must abide, but since I am unwilling to stand here and -hurl defiance at these Frenchmen, I must needs go on." - -To this deliberate vow Henry scrupulously adhered. On one occasion it is -recorded that he inadvertently rode past a house that had been selected -for his night's resting-place. Stubbornly he refused to return, and -spent the night with his troops in the open. - -It can be readily understood that a man who rigorously kept his oath -pertaining to small matters would be even more strict in the ordering of -greater things. He now gave orders for the little army to turn aside and -march inland, following the left bank of the swift-flowing Somme. - -This meant that the danger of his position was increased fourfold. So -long as he kept to the coast his left flank was secured from attack, but -directly the English Army marched away from the sea, it was liable to be -completely surrounded by the ever-growing French host. - -For eight long days the English army marched slowly up the valley of the -Somme, vainly endeavouring to find a bridge or a ford that had been left -slenderly guarded. To the fatigues of their arduous march were added the -difficulties of obtaining provisions in a devastated country, but -encouraged by the personal example of their Sovereign the troops -maintained their courage and self-confidence. - -"Canst perceive yon castle?" asked Gripwell of Geoffrey, pointing to the -summit of a square keep that showed itself above a distant hill. "Tis -the Castle of Maissons where the Count, Sir Raoul d'Aulx, holds thy -father captive." - -"I have heard much of Maissons, but never before have I perceived it," -replied Geoffrey, shading his eyes as he looked towards the grim pile. -"How sayest thou, Arnold? Perchance Sir Raoul and most of his men are in -the field. If I obtain my lord's permission to take a score of -men-at-arms, 'twould be an easy matter to ride over to Maissons and -demand its surrender. Without doubt the near presence of the English -army would frighten them into opening their gates." - -"Nay, 'tis not to be thought of, Squire Geoffrey," replied Gripwell. -"Hath not the King issued orders concerning stragglers and against -affairs requiring the absence of any soldiers from the army? Think no -more of it yet awhile, for I'll warrant that if we vanquish the host -that threatens us the gates of every castle in Normandy will be thrown -open to the King." - -Reluctantly the young squire had to abandon the chance of rescuing his -father, but ere long an event occurred that kept him fully occupied for -some time to come. - -"Geoffrey," exclaimed Sir Thomas Carberry, who had just left the King's -presence, "the time hath come when we must prove our courage and -devotion. Dost mark yon mill, at the head of the river? The red roof is -to be seen above the trees on thy left." - -"Yes, sir," replied the squire. "Methinks that foes are in force there, -since the smoke of many camp fires rises skywards." - -"Nay, 'tis the fires of the wood-cutters of Peronne. But to the point: -my company must seize yon mill at all costs, and hold the ford above but -hard by the mill till the main body of the army can cross. See to it -that the mounted men-at-arms only are to essay this task—of the archers -we have no need. Now, hasten, for every moment is precious." - -Led by Sir Thomas Carberry in person, with Geoffrey and Oswald and -Richard Ratclyffe riding close behind him, the eighty men-at-arms rode -steadily through the open valley towards the ford. Then, as the company -rounded an intervening spur of ground, the mill again appeared in sight. - -Scattered in and around the rambling stone building were several French -knights, crossbowmen and men-at-arms. Although placed there for the -express purpose of guarding the important passage, it was not until the -head of the English column showed itself that the defenders realized the -danger. Standing in his stirrups Sir Thomas shouted his battle-cry; then -with a roar the horsemen thundered towards the ford. - -Ere the horses could gain the water sufficient time had elapsed to -enable the crossbowmen to wind their cumbersome weapons, and with a dull -bass hum the heavy quarrels began to speed over and betwixt the -Englishmen, some finding a billet in the bodies of the charging horsemen -or their steeds. Now and again a horse would sink to earth, throwing its -rider headlong, while those following had much ado to prevent themselves -from being overthrown by the still plunging animal. Sometimes a thrown -rider would struggle to his feet and begin to stumble blindly after his -comrades, but more often the thrown warrior would lie still and -motionless, never again to hear the shouts of his victorious comrades in -arms. - -Now the head of the column was in the swift-flowing river. The water -soaked through Geoffrey's mailed shoes and greaves, but the squire -heeded it not: his whole attention was directed against a knot of -mail-clad Frenchmen who were urging their steeds into the stream to -contest the possession of the ford. - -With a crash the sharpened lance-points met, but owing to the retarding -influence of the water the shock was not so great as that of the -tilt-yard. Some of the less skilful riders were hurled from their -saddles to perish miserably in the river, but the majority, casting -aside their unwieldy lances, fell upon each other with axe, mace and -sword. - -Of what happened during the next few moments Geoffrey had but a dim -recollection. It was cut, thrust, and parry, steel ringing on steel, -horses champing and neighing, wounded men shrieking dismally till their -miserable cries were stifled by the silent yet swift-running current, -and above all the hoarse shouts of the English men-at-arms who were not -to be gainsaid in their determination to win the ford. - -At length the mêlée thinned, and the squire found himself opposed to a -knight clad in bronzed armour, and armed with a long two-handled sword. -Wedged firmly in his high-pommelled saddle the Frenchman had slung his -shield behind his back, and, with the reins dropped upon his horse's -mane, he was able to devote his whole strength to the wielding of his -mighty weapon. - -A sweeping cut delivered at Geoffrey's head the squire caught upon his -shield, with no other ill effect than to shear off its upper corner. - -Then with lightning rapidity the cut was repeated, this time full on the -youth's right side. The Englishman's sword barely checked the swinging -blow that all but numbed the lad's sword-arm, while his counter-cut fell -harmlessly upon the French knight's gorget. - -Realizing that the only way to avoid the seemingly tireless cuts was to -get within his adversary's guard Geoffrey dug his spurs into the flanks -of his charger. The powerful brute instantly responded, and the two -animals were plunging neck to neck as Geoffrey rained a hail of -ineffectual blows upon the Frenchman, who in turn endeavoured to shorten -his sword and recover his lost advantage. - -Heedlessly the two combatants were edging down stream, till with a neigh -of terror the Frenchman's horse lost its footing. Its hind feet had -slipped over a shelf in the bed of the river. Scraping desperately with -its fore hoofs it strove to regain a foothold. Only by his prompt action -was Geoffrey able to save himself and his steed from a similar fate. - -"Help me, I yield," shouted the knight, dropping his sword and holding -out his right hand. - -In reply, Geoffrey stretched out his gauntleted hand to grasp his -vanquished foe, but ere he could do so the struggling animal's feet -slipped from the ledge, and in an instant horse and knight were lost to -view in the depths of the mill-stream. - -By this time the ford was won. Those of the defenders who had escaped -slaughter had fled, save a few who, taking shelter in the mill, resisted -desperately till slain to the last man. - -The Constable of Portchester's company had lost heavily. Fifteen gallant -men-at-arms had ridden to their death, while a score more had been -sorely wounded. Ratclyffe was making light of a blow that, cracking his -steel bascinet, had grazed his forehead till he was well-nigh blinded -with blood. Neither Sir Thomas nor his squire Geoffrey had sustained -injury, though dents in their armour bore silent testimony to the heat -of the action. But the object of the engagement was achieved, for -without further molestation the whole of the little English army crossed -the Somme. - -"Ay, my lord, they bore themselves right manfully," replied Sir Thomas -Carberry, when the Earl of Exeter complimented him on the gallant -exploit of the company. "But here we are across the river, and I'll -warrant our difficulties are only begun. Yet mark these rascals of mine, -they reck not the odds, so long as there is the prospect of a fight." - -"Then they'll have their desire ere long, Sir Thomas," replied the -Earl—"a fight compared with which this gallant deed is but naught. The -fame of the English arms will ring through Christendom ere we reach -Calais." - -"Amen," replied the Constable. "For 'tis for this purpose that we are -here." - - - - - CHAPTER XXIII - - THE EVE OF AGINCOURT - - -The English army had crossed the Somme at a distance of more than sixty -miles from the ford of Blanche-Taque, where Edward III had made his bold -stroke eighty years previously. To regain the sea by descending the -right bank of the river would mean a march that was beyond the strength -of the weary soldiers; accordingly King Henry resolved to abandon his -original plan and march direct to Calais. - -It was not until the morning of October 24, that the invaders crossed -the River Ternoise after a slight skirmish at the ford of Blangy. On and -on they toiled, soaked by the October rain, half famished, and footsore -through hard marching; yet the indomitable spirit that pervaded the -dauntless band never for one moment showed signs of flagging. - -On crossing the Ternoise the order of march had been reversed. The -Hampshire companies, on whom the brunt of the vanguard actions had -fallen, were ordered to fall in with the main body, while the advance -guard was entrusted to the men of Yorkshire and Devon, under the command -of the Duke of York. - -[Illustration: - - "SIRE, WERE THERE ANY WHO DWELT IN FEAR OF THE ISSUE - OF THE BATTLE, WOULD THEY SLEEP SO QUIETLY?" -] - -Steadily Geoffrey and Oswald trudged through the stiff clay that sorely -impeded the progress of the soldiers. The squires had divested -themselves of a portion of their armour, that dangled from the -saddle-bow of their chargers. In common with many of the mounted men -they had temporarily given up their steeds to those of the archers who -would otherwise have fallen out by the wayside. - -Twelve miles of that tedious route had been accomplished since the -passage of the Ternoise, when a soldier, galloping madly on a -foam-flecked horse, came thundering along the road, a shower of mud -flying from the hoofs of his steed. - -"The enemy, sir," he shouted as he passed the leader of the Hampshire -companies. - -Already the vanguard was observed to be at a standstill, while the -supporting troops extending right and left were taking up their position -on the flanks. The spirit of battle was in the air. - -Massing in close order the five thousand men of the main body moved to -the support of their van. Cold, fatigue, hunger—all were forgotten. - -It was a stirring sight that met the gaze of Geoffrey and his comrades -as they gained the brow of a low hill overlooking the woods of -Maisoncelles. Before them lay a gently-sloping plain, flanked on either -side by dense masses of trees, while across the open ground could be -traced the narrow lane that passed through the village of Agincourt and -joined the broader road from Abbeville to Calais, just beyond the -cluster of thatched and mud-walled houses. - -But to the observers' eyes the lane was lost to view in the serried -ranks of the mighty host representing the chivalry and power of France. -Three bowshots off, at the very least, the enemy stood, barring the -advance of the slender English force. - -Swiftly, yet in an orderly manner, the archers and men-at-arms of the -invading army took up their positions. The men-at-arms, barely four -thousand in number, were placed in the centre, the bowmen being massed -on either flank; but by mutual consent, for the night was beginning to -draw on, there was no inclination to engage in battle. - -"The King's orders are that ye rest yourselves," announced Sir Thomas -Carberry, as he rode up to his company. "'Tis nearly certain that the -foe will not attack us this night, yet to guard against surprise let -each man sleep in his ranks, with his arms ready at his side. 'Tis a -sorry night, men, for rest, yet be assured I and my squires will share -the discomforts with you." - -"I heed not the rain, fair sir," exclaimed an archer boldly, "though I -be powerful hungry." - -Good-humoured laughter from his fellows greeted these words. Geoffrey -recognized the voice as that of one of the Warblington archers, who in -times of peace was a wild-fowler of the marches of Thorney. - -"Have no fear on that score, archer," replied the Constable. "Already -the sutlers are abroad, and many wains of provisions are on their way -from yonder village. I do perceive, also, that on our right flank the -men are lighting fires. Gripwell, do thou send ten men into the woods -and bring back faggots sufficient to last us the night." - -Quickly the men went on their errand, and ere long thick columns of -smoke arose from the sodden logs, till the heat gaining the mastery, the -dull red flames began to throw out a comforting glow. Then, with the -arrival of the victualling wains, drawn by peasants pressed into -service, the camp began to show signs of cheerfulness, in spite of the -almost continuous downfall of icy rain. Yet the utmost order and decorum -prevailed in the English lines—a striking contrast to the boisterous -laughter and merriment that was wafted on the winds from around the -watch fires of the French camp. - -At intervals officers passed slowly along the lines intent on seeking -out their friends, whom, perchance, they were to see and converse with -for the last time; priests and friars, too, threaded their way amongst -the soldiery, hearing confessions and giving spiritual consolation to -all who desired their ministrations. - -Thus the time passed till it was midnight. At intervals the rain ceased, -and the pale moonbeams glittered upon the damp grass and the waving -foliage of the neighbouring woods. Most of the English troops had fallen -asleep, slumbering fitfully under the canopy of heaven. Others conversed -in low tones, or offered up prayers for the safety of their comrades and -themselves, and for the successful issue of the coming struggle. Still -the French camp maintained its state of revelry, for food and wine were -in abundance, and, with every prospect of delivering a crushing defeat -upon their numerically weaker foes, the mercurial spirits of the -Frenchmen rose high. They had forgotten their defeats at Crécy and -Poictiers; time had erased the memory of the English longbow. - -"The night drags slowly on," remarked Oswald, drawing his saturated -cloak more closely around his shoulders. "Would that we had something to -do to bring some warmth to our bodies." - -"We'll not lack for warmth ere the sun sets again," replied Geoffrey. -"But what discord those Frenchmen are making. Could we but let loose a -troop of lances through the camp there would be no little advancement -occasioned by the deed. But who cometh?" - -At that moment a soldier walked swiftly along the front of the line of -recumbent men. The moonbeams glistened on his armour that a long cloak -failed entirely to conceal. - -"Halt! who comes?" demanded Geoffrey, barring the stranger's way with -drawn sword. - -"A friend! Why hast thou challenged me?" replied the man in a deep -voice. - -"'Tis not permitted to pass without the lines," replied the squire. "I -pray thee keep close to the fires, lest an over-zealous archer feather -thy back with an arrow." - -"Thanks for thy warning, fair sir; I will pay heed unto. But I pray -thee, who art thou, what is thy condition?" asked the man with a trace -of authority in his speech. - -"Since thou art a stranger 'tis thy place to give thy name first," -replied Geoffrey. - -"And if I refuse?" - -"Then 'tis my duty to bring thee before my master, Sir Thomas Carberry," -answered the squire, at the same time beckoning to two men-at-arms who -were standing close to one of the camp-fires. - -"Nay, use not force, fair sir," replied the cloaked man. "To thy master -I can give a good account of myself." - -"I trust for thine own weal that thou canst," said Geoffrey as he -preceded his prisoner, the two soldiers following to prevent a possible -treacherous attack on their young squire. - -Sir Thomas Carberry was at that moment conversing with Sir Hugh Talbot -of the Salisbury company, and on the approach of the party he turned. - -"Whom hast thou here?" demanded the Constable. - -"A man whom I found without our lines," replied Geoffrey. "According to -mine orders to detain all who might be thus found I have brought him -hither." - -"Thy squire, Sir John, is to be commended for his action," said the -stranger in an altered tone, as he removed the cloak from his head and -shoulders, disclosing the familiar features of Henry, King of England. - -"Sire!" gasped the astonished knight. "Thy pardon for my squire and for -me——" - -"Pardon for faithfully executing mine orders, good knight? Nay, rather -let us be quick to recognize a stern devotion to duty. But how sayest -thou, Sir John? Thou art grown grey in warfare. What thinkest thou of -our chances in the coming fight?" - -"A better chance the royal Edward never had at Crécy, sire, unless yon -host have the sense to enfold us by their superior numbers. Yet methinks -they will risk their advantage in a frontal attack, and neglect to make -use of the cover afforded by yon woods." - -"Trusted men I have already sent to make sure of the nature of the -ground on our right flank," said the King. "For a like purpose have I -come to thee. Hast thou a trusty level-headed man or two whom thou canst -send through the woods on our left? If so, I pray thee dispatch them -with haste, and let them bear me a full report within an hour. But, bear -in mind, none but those who have counted the cost and are willing to -undertake the hazard are to be sent. Thy zealous squire, there: he hath -lurked in trees before to-day, as we know full well—perchance he may be -eager to repeat his exploits. But that is his affair. Fare thee well, -Sir Thomas.... Stay—another question: What dost thou think of the -spirits of the men under thy command?" - -In answer the Constable pointed to the lines of slumbering men. - -"Sire, were there any who dwelt in fear of the issue of the battle, -would they sleep so quietly in the face of danger? Speaking for our -company, I can safely say that their hearts are full of courage and -devotion to thy person." - -"'Tis well, Sir Thomas. Thrice happy is a king whose people's hearts are -his throne. Again, farewell, and may Heaven look favourably upon us this -coming day." - -"Geoffrey, thou hast heard his Majesty's word?" asked Sir Thomas. -"Certes, thy service in the matter of the conspiracy at Southampton he -hath not forgotten. How sayest thou? Art willing to undertake this -enterprise? Bethink thee; 'tis a perilous service, and short will be thy -shrift if thou art discovered." - -"Fair sir, I have already counted the cost. Give me thy leave and thy -blessing, and I will go." - -"But not alone. Choose a burly comrade and get thee away. Remember that -within an hour the King requires my report." - -The squire made his way to where Gripwell was standing, with Oswald and -Ratclyffe. - -"Ho, Squire Lysle!" exclaimed the man-at-arms. "Who was yon fellow whom -thou hast carried to our master? Hast 'prisoned a hornet? I' faith, he -swaggered past us as if he were King Harry himself." - -"'Twas none other than the King," replied Geoffrey. - -"What! The King? A fine story to tell at home—if home we ever see—how -that Squire Lysle laid hands upon his liege lord." - -"Nay, let that pass," replied Geoffrey, "for I have other work in hand. -Art willing to bear me company as far as the French camp?" - -"Right willingly," replied the grey-headed man-at-arms when the squire -had explained the nature of his errand. - -"And I, too, will go with thee," exclaimed Oswald. - -"And I," added Ratclyffe. - -"Nay, four are too many for a secret errand such as this," objected -Geoffrey. "Now help me to unhelm, Oswald. My coat of mail must also be -left behind." - -Swiftly the rusted armour was removed, and, armed only with a poniard, -Geoffrey set out on his desperate errand, with Arnold Gripwell, -similarly armed, to bear him company. - -In a whisper they replied to the cautious challenge of the alert -sentinel, then crossing the bog-like ground in front of the lines, they -gained the sombre recesses of the wood. - -Here the darkness was more intense than in the open, but by degrees -their eyes became accustomed to the gloom, though at almost every step -they stumbled over the slippery moss-grown roots that encumbered the -ground in all directions. - -For a distance of nearly a bow-shot the two adventurers pursued their -way, till, plucking at his comrade's sleeve, Geoffrey came to a sudden -standstill. - -For full five minutes they listened, striving to detect above the -confused noise of the French camp the sound of some unseen foe. A sudden -rustling in the undergrowth caused the lad's heart to beat violently, -while his right hand clutched the hilt of his dagger. Then came a sharp -squeal of pain, and a hare, with a stoat at its throat, tore almost -across the squire's feet. - -Presently the twain came to a clearing, through which wandered a little -brook. Here the ground was almost knee-deep in stiff clay, so that both -men had to hold the tops of their shoes to prevent them being dragged -off their feet by the tenacious slime. The crossing of the glade was a -nerve-racking ordeal, since neither knew but that an invisible foe -lurked in the thickets beyond. - -Fortune favoured them, however, and unharmed they gained the friendly -shelter of the furthermost wood. - -Now they were abreast of the French outposts. Peering through the -bushes, Geoffrey could see the mail-clad sentinels either sitting -motionless on their horses or walking slowly to and fro to the -accompaniment of a clanking and groaning of the joints of the harness -and the squelching noise of the animals' hoofs in the mire. - -The nearmost horseman was humming a chanson of Picardy, quite oblivious -of the fact that two Englishmen were almost within a stone's throw of -him; yet, though the cordon extended completely across the open ground, -through some inexplicable error the French had utterly neglected to hold -the woods on either side of the valley. - -Resuming their cautious movements, Geoffrey and Gripwell skirted the -second line of outposts, where a row of fires threw its weird light upon -the crowd of soldiers, mainly engaged in drinking, singing, and -gambling, while the position of the two daring Englishmen was rendered -doubly hazardous by the constant procession of varlets and peasants who -were engaged in cutting wood to feed the watch-fires. - -Still the French camp seemed a long way off, though the silken tents of -the nobles were now discernible in the glare of the huge pile of burning -faggots. - -"We have gone far enough," whispered the man-at-arms. - -"Nay, 'tis my purpose to press on," remarked Geoffrey. "Stay here an -thou wilt." - -"That cannot be. Where thou goest I will follow," said Gripwell -doggedly. - -"Then let us gather a bundle of faggots apiece, and set out boldly -towards the camp. It is in my mind to see how these Frenchmen fare." - -Struck by the audacity of the squire's proposal, Gripwell could not but -assent, so, hastily collecting a heavy load of wood, the twain stumbled -upon a path where numbers of soldiers and peasants were passing to and -fro. - -Unsuspected the Englishmen joined in the throng, and, bending low under -their burdens, jogged steadily towards the vast city of tents. - -"Ho, there, comrade!" shouted a cross-bowman. "Bring hither that fuel; -our fire is all but out." - -"Nay," replied Gripwell in good French. "That cannot be. This wood is -for my master, the Lord of Rougemont." - -This encounter showed that there was no suspicion towards a stranger, -and, encouraged by the discovery, Geoffrey and his companion walked -boldly down the lines till they reached a tent that the squire knew by -reason of its size and magnificence belonged to no mean personage. Two -men-at-arms stood without the door, over which hung a shield emblazoned -with a golden oriflamme. - -From within came the sounds of tankards clashing upon oaken boards, the -rattle of dice, and mingled bursts of laughter, disappointment, and -anger. - -"Methought I was to hear a council of war," exclaimed Geoffrey in a low -voice, "but 'tis a roystering crew." - -"Perchance in their jollity we may hear some smattering of news," -replied Gripwell, and flinging down his burden with a gesture of utter -fatigue, he seated himself upon it, with his head resting on his arms. -Geoffrey hastened to follow his example. In the constant throng their -action seemed natural. The two guards barely condescended to notice -them, since they were some distance from the tent, which was that of no -less a personage than Charles d'Albert, Constable of France. - -"A curse on thy luck, my Lord of Marle," exclaimed an excited voice. "I -have not cast a main this night. I owe thee two English earls and four -knights already." - -"Nay, Falconberg, 'tis five knights by my reckoning. Without doubt these -rascally Islanders will be cheap enough ere to-morrow even, but be that -as it may, one cannot ignore the rules of the game." - -"I cannot understand the Duc de Bourbon," grumbled the first speaker. -"Though I am willing to admit that he has prior claim to the person of -the King of England, he will not risk his share of the spoil. Surely my -offer of twenty thousand crowns and the Duke of York will be sufficient -inducement?" - -"I am weary of casting the dice," replied Bourbon. "Ere dawn I shall be -too tired even to ride down a single English knight." - -"Peste! The battle will be over in a quarter of an hour. Our first -division is strong enough to sweep these English off the face of the -earth. My Lord d'Alençon, the second division, which thou hast command -of, must be mounted, since there will be no other work left than to ride -down and slay the light-footed archers. As for thy division, my Lord -Falconberg, there will be nothing left for it to do." - -"Unless it be to shout encouragement to thy men," replied Falconberg -with a laugh. "Alas! these poor Englishmen. But let's proceed. Who'll -throw with me for my last three knights?" - -"We have learnt what is worth a bushel of gold, Squire Geoffrey," -whispered Gripwell. "Let us away. As it is, the hour is wellnigh spent." - -Resuming their loads, the two comrades made for the nearest fire, and, -having cast the faggots upon the smouldering embers, retraced their -footsteps towards the shelter of the woods. On the way they fell in with -a party of soldiers in search of a load of wine that had gone astray -between the camp and the village of Agincourt, and, imitating their -staggering gait and drunken song, they contrived to get clear of the -line of tents without being challenged. Then, taking advantage of the -narrow path through the forest, the two comrades succeeded in slipping -away unnoticed by their maudlin companions. - -"Now let us hasten," whispered Gripwell. "Yet be cautious, for we know -not whether any enemy hath entered this part of the wood since we came -hither." - -Unmolested they passed the flank of the French advanced posts, then -gaining confidence in the fact that the English outposts were but a -bow-shot off, they increased their pace. - -The trunk of a tree larger than its fellows barred their path. Geoffrey -recognized the tree as having been the means of causing him to stumble -over one of its exposed roots on their outward journey. This time he -leapt lightly over the obstacle, to find himself thrown violently in -contact with a human being. - -The impact hurled both to the ground, while Gripwell, unaware of what -was amiss, narrowly escaped tripping over the two struggling forms. - -Noiselessly the squire and the unknown wrestled on the ground. Geoffrey -was unable to draw his poniard, nor was his antagonist able to use a -weapon; but the English lad, even in the midst of the desperate -struggle, could not help wondering why his foeman did not shout for -assistance. On his own part he knew that one cry would doubtless bring -the French outposts to the spot, and the night's work would be undone. - -Whoever the stranger was, he had no lack of strength and courage, for -not until Gripwell had contrived to distinguish the combatants in the -darkness and had wound his cloak tightly round the fellow's head was the -issue decided. - -"Stand by while I plunge my knife into his body," hissed the old -man-at-arms. - -"Not so," whispered Geoffrey in reply. "'Tis but a short distance to the -camp, and this rascal may be of service. Help me carry him thither." - -With this the stranger began to writhe and struggle again, mumbling -incoherently from the suffocating folds of Arnold's cloak. There was no -help for it; a sharp blow on the temples from the man-at-arms' powerful -fist reduced the captive to a state of semi-insensibility. - -Thereupon Gripwell bound the man's arms with his own belt, secured his -feet with the folds of his cloak, and effectually gagged him by means of -a fir-cone held in position by Geoffrey's scarf. This done, the squire -raised the helpless prisoner by the shoulders, and the man-at-arms took -hold of his feet, and with their heavy burden the two comrades resumed -their way till they were greeted by the welcome sounds of the English -outposts. - -"Whom hast thou there?" asked Sir Thomas Carberry, who had been -anxiously awaiting the return of his squire. - -"Some fellow who stood in our path, fair sir," replied Geoffrey -breathlessly. - -By this time the prisoner had recovered his senses, and by an unexpected -thrust of his feet sent Geoffrey staggering into the arms of the -Constable. At the same time he contrived, bound as he was, to wrench -himself out of Geoffrey's arms, and, falling on his feet, he swayed to -and fro in helpless rage, unable, by reason of the gag, to utter a -sound. - -But as the glare of the fires fell upon his features Geoffrey found, to -his discomfiture and consternation, that his prisoner was none other -than his fellow squire, Richard Ratclyffe! - - - - - CHAPTER XXIV - - THE BATTLE OF AGINCOURT - - -"A scurvy trick hast thou played on me," exclaimed Ratclyffe when the -amused soldiers had released him from his bonds. "By the Rood I'll think -twice ere I venture again into the forest to seek for thee." - -"Hadst thou but spoken thou wouldst not have been mishandled thus," -replied Geoffrey, who had by now expressed his sorrow for the mistake. - -"Spoken! Forsooth! Did I not try to speak the moment I heard Gripwell -discussing with thee on the subject of letting out my life's blood? But -what with being wellnigh smothered by his cloak, and——" - -"Nay, say no more, squire," interrupted Sir Thomas. "'Twas all a -mistake, and beyond a shrewd blow—of which we shall have plenty ere -long, I trow—there is little scath. Now, Geoffrey, the nature of thy -report?" - -Briefly the squire told his master of what had occurred, the nature of -the ground, the position of the French outposts, and, most important of -all, the conversation in the tent of d'Albert relating to the plan of -attack. - -"By St. Paul! Thou hast entered their camp?" exclaimed the knight. "This -is almost beyond belief. But as it is we now know that we can occupy the -woods on the Frenchmen's flanks without let or hindrance. I'll now to -the King, but, rest assured, thou wilt have full credit for thine -enterprise. Ay, and thy man-at-arms also," added Sir Thomas, as his -squire began to remind him that Arnold had shared the perils of the -desperate errand. - -Thoroughly tired out, Geoffrey laid himself down by one of the fires, -and, heedless of the steady rain, he was soon fast asleep. - -Meanwhile, Sir Thomas Carberry had hastened to make his report to the -King. Henry had taken little repose, for having completed his inspection -of the lines in the guise of an ordinary officer, he retired to his tent -to don all his armour save his gold-encircled bascinet. This done he had -mass celebrated in his quarters, followed by a general council, at which -all the commanders of divisions were ordered to attend. - -"Most excellent service," exclaimed the King when Sir Thomas had -delivered his report. "See to it, Uncle Exeter; send at least four -hundred lances to the wood on the enemy's left flank. Half that number -of archers are to take up their position on the opposite side of the -valley. Impress upon them the utmost importance of concealment till the -word is borne them." - -Silently the troops intended for the ambush moved towards the stations -allotted them, and ere the council was broken up, the Duke of Exeter -returned with the news that the manœuvre had been successfully executed. - -"Now, my lords, the day breaks," exclaimed Henry. "Let us to our -stations and do our duty as becomes Englishmen. To-day, fair lords, is -the Feast of the blessed saints Crispin and Crispian. From this day till -all times will our names be linked with them, if we acquit ourselves -nobly. Therefore let us be of good courage, remembering that our souls -and bodies are in God's holy keeping." - -With the dawn the rain ceased, and across the sodden valley the trumpets -of the little English army rang out loud and clear as the sun rose in a -cloudless sky. Eagerly the chilled and shivering men-at-arms and archers -flocked to take up their positions, glad that the dreary period of -inaction was over. - -In the centre, under the Duke of Kent, stood the dismounted men-at-arms, -resting stolidly on their spears and axes, while as an afterthought a -sprinkling of archers took their stand in front of the heavy troops. On -either flank were hundreds of bowmen under Lords Beaumont and -Willoughby. In addition to their deadly longbow and their swords and -axes, each archer bore an iron-shod stake. - -Barely twenty paces in the rear of the front rank were marshalled the -reserves, composed chiefly of spearmen, under the command of the Earl of -Exeter. - -The army being drawn up in line of battle, Henry, mounted on a white -palfrey, rode slowly between the ranks. He had now donned his surcoat -emblazoned with the lions of England and the lilies of France, while on -his head he wore a polished steel bascinet which was encircled by a very -rich crown of gold, rendering its wearer a conspicuous object in the -field. - -"Certes," exclaimed the veteran Lord Camoys to the Constable of -Portchester, as his gaze travelled from the seemingly countless -multitude of Frenchmen to the six thousand Englishmen standing -motionless in the ranks. "What would some of the good knights who have -remained in England give to be here?" - -"What sayest thou, my lord Camoys?" asked the King, who had overheard -the knight's remark. "Dost wish for more good Englishmen to be here? -Nay, I would not have a single man more. If God give us the victory we -know that we owe it to His goodness. If He does not, the fewer we are -the less will be the loss to England. But let us fight with our usual -courage, and God and the justice of our cause will protect us." - -Having completed his inspection the King took up his position at the -head of the second line, with the Duke of Gloucester, Mowbray, the Earl -Marshal, and the Earls of Oxford and Suffolk, while above him fluttered -the Royal Standard, leaving no doubt as to the identity of the King of -England. - -Meanwhile, the French had been mustering in dense masses across the -valley, till their three divisions, each ten files deep, seemed to -resemble a solid wall of steel, dominated by a forest of banners. At -length their preparations were complete, but there seemed no inclination -on their part to open the battle. - -Suddenly, to the surprise of the English, three French knights, armed -cap-à-pied, rode fearlessly across the intervening plain. Some of the -archers began to bend their bows, but were restrained by their officers. - -"They bear a message," shouted Lord Camoys to those nearest him. "Open -ranks and let them pass, but take heed that they see not the pointed -stakes." - -Haughtily the three Frenchmen rode through the gap in the front rank and -reined in before the Royal Standard, where Henry, now on foot, awaited -them. - -"Sire," exclaimed the foremost knight. "I am Jacques de Helly, Maréchal -of France." - -"That we do perceive," replied the King curtly, "both by thy cognizance -and by reason of the fact that thou wert, and still ought to be, our -prisoner in England." - -"'Tis on that matter that I am come," replied de Helly. "'Tis reported -that I have broken my parole. Let it be known to all men that 'tis -false. To all or any who would gainsay me, I hereby offer to meet them -in single combat, here betwixt the armies." - -"'Tis no time for single combats," replied Henry sternly. "Hence, lest I -lose patience with thee. Also go tell thy countrymen to prepare for -battle at once." - -"Sire," exclaimed de Helly, his swarthy features livid with anger, "I -shall receive no order from you; Charles is our liege lord; him we obey, -and for him we'll fight when the time comes." - -"Away, then," replied the King. "Take care that we are not before you," -and as the haughty Frenchmen turned and rode beyond the English front, -Henry shouted in a loud and ringing voice, "Advance banners in the name -of God and St. George!" - -Standing in his stirrups the grey-haired Sir Thomas Erpyingham threw his -warder in the air—the signal for the advance. Instantly the little -English host was electrified into activity, and with shouts of "St. -George for Merrie England," the foremost division began to close upon -the seemingly overwhelming masses of the enemy. - -Still the Frenchmen showed no signs of advancing. Something must be done -to goad them to move to meet the attack, otherwise the handful of -Englishmen would be thrown away upon the solid phalanx of French steel. - -From his position on the right of the men-at-arms of the Hampshire -division, Geoffrey saw the Frenchmen standing in close ranks, regarding -their on-coming foe with looks of disdain. Now, the foremost division -was on the edge of the intervening belt of bog-land. A few more steps -and the natural defence on which the king had placed so much hope would -be turned from an advantage into a hindrance, then—— - -"Halt," shouted the young Duke of Kent in a voice that was borne high -above the subdued hum of the ranks. "Archers! Loose wholly together!" - -There was very little of nervous haste on the part of the bowmen. Even -the comparatively raw recruits were as steady as the most exacting -leader could desire. Hardly had the words of command ceased when the air -was torn by the sharp swish of the speeding arrows, and at less than -half a bow-shot the French received the death-dealing blast. - -In the twinkling of an eye their foremost ranks were thrown into the -utmost disorder. 'Gainst the deadly cloth-yard shaft, plate armour, -leathern coat, and iron buckler alike were useless. Knights and -men-at-arms rolled on the ground, transfixed, not once but many times, -by the goose-wing-tipped arrows. - -But amongst the struggling press of Frenchmen brave men were to be found -in plenty. Disentangling themselves from the disorderly mass, the -mounted men with lance at rest spurred towards the archers. - -"Stand fast behind your stakes," shouted the company commander, -realizing that once the heavy cavalry came within striking distance of -the lightly armed archers the latter would be cut to pieces and -scattered like chaff. - -On came the French horse, knee to knee, plunging heavily in the thick -tenacious clay, while unceasingly the hail of arrows was maintained till -the line of stakes was faced by an almost insurmountable barrier of dead -and dying steeds and their riders. - -To add to the confusion the English archers in ambush delivered a raking -fire, till, losing men both in the flanks and rear of their division, -besides those who perished in the charge upon the palisades, the French -began to give back. - -"Forward—men-at-arms and archers!" shouted a ringing voice that all who -heard recognized as the King's. Conspicuous by his gold-emblazoned -helmet and the royal arms on his surcoat, Henry led the counter attack -in person. - -The deadly bows were dropped or slung across the archers' backs, and -with axe, sword, spear and mace the dismounted men-at-arms and bowmen -hurled themselves upon the swaying, demoralized mob of their enemies. - -For a while the battle resolved itself into a series of desperate -conflicts, all order being thrown to the winds. Often the combatants had -no room to ply their weapons, the two-handed swords of the French -men-at-arms being useless when opposed to the knives and daggers of the -English archers. So thick did the press become that the King's brother, -the Duke of York, was crushed to death betwixt two mailed Frenchmen. - -Into the thickest of the mêlée plunged the Constable of Portchester, -with Geoffrey, Oswald and Ratclyffe close at his heels as became their -duties; but ere long the heir of Warblington, separated from his -comrades, found himself confronted by a tall knight whose armour bore no -device. In an instant they closed, Geoffrey's antagonist endeavouring to -hurl the squire to the earth, while the young Englishman attempted to -deliver a poniard stroke between the joints of the knight's armour. - -As they fought an archer sprang upon the squire's foeman, and with a -mighty heave wrenched his bascinet from his gorget, disclosing the -features of the ex-monk Olandyne. The next instant the recreant had -fallen with the archer's knife buried in his throat. - -Suddenly a shout arose, "To me, Englishmen!" and Geoffrey perceived the -Duke of Gloucester hard pressed by four or five French knights. Unable -to make good his defence the Duke was already wounded, yet he stubbornly -continued the unequal combat. - -One of the foremost of his attackers was a broad-shouldered knight whose -surcoat had been torn away during the earlier stages of the conflict. -His shield, too, had been lost, but armed with a heavy battle-axe, he -pressed the Duke with demoniacal fury. - -In reply to the shout for aid Geoffrey made his way through the -struggling crowds towards the Duke, but ere he could disengage himself, -Gloucester was beaten to the earth by a mighty sweep of the Frenchman's -battle-axe. - -The next instant the King himself had stepped across his brother's -prostrate body, and with shield outstretched and ready blade he defended -the helpless Duke from the combined assault of the French knights. - -But help was at hand. Geoffrey and three others threw themselves upon -the King's assailants, Henry directing his attention to the unknown -knight of the axe. In this he had enough to do, for the Frenchman's -weapon descended with fearful force upon the King of England's helmet. -Luckily the blow was a glancing one, yet it clove the golden crown on -his bascinet, and brought Henry to his knees. - -But the unknown's triumph was short-lived. Regaining his feet the King -in turn sent his antagonist reeling to the earth, while, carried away by -the heat of the battle, his three subjects were about to slay the man -who had so nearly achieved his purpose. - -"Hold, I yield! I am Alençon," exclaimed the prostrate knight. But the -offer of surrender came too late. Ere the King could stretch forth his -hand to protect his enemy, the Duc d'Alençon had received his -death-blow. - -"Nay, fair sirs," exclaimed the King breathlessly, "I am unhurt; yet, an -I were, 'tis no time for condolences." - -Henry had spoken truly, for approaching him in a compact body were -eighteen knights, each of whom had sworn a solemn oath to kill or take -the King of England or perish in the attempt. The Royal Standard of -England had served them as a guide only too well. - -In an instant Geoffrey was swept to the earth by the desperate rush, one -of the knights who had gone to the King's assistance was slain, and -Henry with three of his followers was left to meet the determined -attack. - -Once again the King, defending himself with courage and coolness, was -beaten down upon his knees, but others of his supporters came to the -rescue, and the eighteen Frenchmen kept their vow—they died to a man. - -Slowly Geoffrey extricated himself from the mire and regained his feet. -Beyond being sorely bruised he was unhurt, and with the knowledge that -the King was safe he plunged again into the press. - -But already the tide of battle had turned. Unless a surprising rally -should take place on the part of the enemy the conflict was decided. The -first division of the foe had recoiled upon the second, and now both -were assailed by the victorious English, and the remains of both were -seeking safety in flight. As for the third line, the fate of their -comrades had struck them with panic. On the approach of the four hundred -English lances, who had hitherto remained in ambush with remarkable -self-restraint, they, too, fled, and the victory was complete. - -In an endeavour to find Sir Thomas Carberry, Geoffrey made his way -betwixt the piles of corpses to where a few valiant French knights still -held out. For a while the squire searched in vain, till he perceived -seven or eight surcoated archers, whom he recognized as being -Warblington men, standing in a semi-circle with brandished weapons. - -As Geoffrey drew near the object of their position became apparent. -Standing with his back against a tree was a Frenchman. He was clad in -complete mail, but in spite of this he had received more than one wound. -The plume had been shorn from his crest, his shield was splintered, his -armour cracked and dented, and his sword, broken close to the hilt, lay -at his feet. Battle-axe in hand he stood at bay, disdaining to receive -quarter at the hands of base archers, while his antagonists hesitated to -come within reach of the menacing weapon. - -"Send a shaft through him," suggested one. - -About to act upon this advice, an archer bent his bow. - -"Hold!" exclaimed Geoffrey, grasping the man by the shoulder. Even as he -did so the arrow sped, but wide of the mark. Angrily the archer turned -about. - -"Who art thou to stand betwixt an honest Englishman and a rascally -Frenchman?" he demanded, for he failed to recognize his young leader, -whose armour was covered from helm to solleret in mud and gore. - -"Dost not know me, Hubert?" - -"By Our Lady, 'tis Master Geoffrey. Thy pardon, young sir. But this is -our affair, therefore, come not to prevent us working our will on this -thick-headed Frenchman." - -"Have ye not demanded his surrender?" - -"Ay," replied the men in a chorus. "And he refuses." - -"Sir Knight," exclaimed the squire earnestly. "Wilt yield?" - -"Art thou a gentleman of quality, sir?" replied the Frenchman. "If so——" - -"Nay, since we are to be done out of his ransom let him die," -interrupted the archers sturdily. - -"Fret not yourselves," exclaimed Geoffrey. "Were he dead not a groat -would ye receive. On the other hand, if he surrender the ransom I'll -bestow upon you." - -"Then we are content," replied the soldiers, and they moved away. - -"Wilt yield, sir Knight?" repeated the squire. "I am a gentleman of -coat-armour, and will give thee every consideration befitting a gallant -and debonair gentleman of France." - -"Fair sir, I yield," but as the vanquished knight tendered the hilt of -his axe he toppled and fell heavily to the ground. - -Drawing his poniard Geoffrey knelt beside the unconscious man and deftly -severed the laces of his bascinet. Upon removing the heavy headpiece he -found to his surprise that his captive was none other than Sir Raoul -d'Aulx, Seigneur de Maissons and the knight who held Sir Oliver Lysle in -courteous captivity. - -In vain Geoffrey searched for fresh water. In the furrows and ditches -there was water in plenty, but discoloured by the blood of friend and -foe. But to the squire's intense relief the colour began to return to -the face of Sir Raoul, and at length he opened his eyes. - -"Ho, Geoffrey, I have sought thee high and low: methought thou hadst -bitten the dust," exclaimed a well-known voice as Oswald Steyning -approached, his unhelmed head swathed in a blood-stained scarf. - -"I have indeed bitten the dust, Oswald," replied Geoffrey with a smile, -"yet, thanks be to God, I have received no hurt. But thou bearest some -token of the fray?" - -"A mere cut," replied Sir Oliver's squire lightly. - -"And Sir Thomas and the rest of the company?" - -"Beyond a few slight but honourable wounds Sir Thomas is unscathed, but -alas! Ratclyffe is no more." - -"Tis sad news. And Gripwell——?" - -"As blithe as a maid on May Day. Certes, he hath good cause, for but a -short while ago I saw him with mine own eyes taking two French knights -to the camp. If he see England again never another day's work will he -need to do, for his prisoners are worth four thousand crowns apiece." - -"I pray thee lend me thine aid with this one," said Geoffrey, pointing -to his captive. "'Tis none other than Sir Raoul d'Aulx." - -"Therein thou art fortunate," replied Oswald. "Let us quit this field, -for my stomach turns at the sight of it." - -With a squire supporting him on either side Sir Raoul was placed on his -feet and assisted towards the rear, where the baggage and horses had -been placed under guard, and where the captives were being taken for -safety; but, ere Geoffrey and his charge reached the fringe of the -corpse-encumbered field, a man-at-arms rode past them in hot haste. - -"Look to yourselves," he shouted. "We are attacked in the rear. The camp -is taken!" - - - - - CHAPTER XXV - - THE MASSACRE - - -The alarming news that an attack was being made on the rear quickly -spread, and from all parts of the field knights, men-at-arms and archers -came running towards the Royal Standard as fast as their wearied bodies -and cumbersome armour would permit. - -Yet, even in the face of this new danger the mercenary instinct of the -common soldiers was paramount. They had fought and won; rich and noble -prisoners, worth princely ransoms, were theirs, and even the threatened -attack failed to make the archers and men-at-arms abandon their -hard-earned prizes. Thus the King found himself surrounded by a medley -of Englishmen, intermingled with a crowd of French knights and gentlemen -who in the confusion of the impending attack would undoubtedly be a -source of danger to their captors. - -Henry was quick to act. As a general and a soldier he resolved upon -stern measures. - -"My Lord Camoys," he exclaimed, "take a thousand lances and at all costs -hold the enemy in check until the men-at-arms and archers can be formed -up. Pass the word also that every man is to put his prisoner to death." - -Unhesitatingly Lord Camoys rode to execute his terrible orders, but to -the King's anger and surprise, sullen murmurs of protest and defiance -rose on all sides. Though realizing the gravity of the situation, the -English—knights and common soldiers alike—were loth to take such extreme -measures. In some cases feelings of humanity prompted them to resist -their liege-lord's orders, but, generally speaking, it was the -reluctance to put a high-born prisoner to death that incited them to -refusal. According to the practice of the times the indiscriminate -slaughter of the common soldiers—men who could not afford to pay -ransom—was regarded as the custom of war, but the murder of every -prisoner who was willing to pay a large sum to his captor was in every -sense abhorrent. - -"By the Blessed Trinity," thundered the King, "what is this I see? Open -rebellion? Sirs, ye will pay dearly for this anon." - -And turning to one Thomas Almer, squire to Sir John Cornwall, afterwards -Baron Fanhope, he ordered him to take three hundred archers and execute -the helpless prisoners. - -"Nay, I cannot abide it," exclaimed Geoffrey resolutely, as the shrieks -of the unfortunate Frenchmen began to ring in his ears. "E'en if my own -life has to pay forfeit this knight must be protected." - -Bidding Oswald support the tottering form of Sir Raoul, Geoffrey made -his way to where lay the body of a slain English man-at-arms. Quickly he -stripped the corpse of its white surcoat with the distinguishing Cross -of St. George, and returning, began to place it over the body of his -captive. - -Feebly Sir Raoul tried to resist. This donning of the hated cognisance -was repugnant to his sense of honour, but his strength was unequal to -his resolution, and with a groan he swooned away. - -"We are indeed in sore straits," exclaimed Geoffrey as he carried out -his plan of disguising the Frenchman's appearance. "If we stay here -perchance they will see through the trick; if we go on we shall fall -into the hands of our enemies. Yet, by St. George, I'll see Sir Raoul to -safety or perish." - -By dint of great exertions the two squires dragged the mail-clad body of -the helpless knight to the shelter of a thorn-bush. Here they waited, -reluctantly compelled to witness the horrible scene as the archers went -about their murderous business. - -Presently three of the executioners, with reeking weapons in their hands -and their white surcoats splashed with blood, approached. - -"Whom hast thou here, sir squire?" demanded one, pointing with his blade -at the unconscious Sir Raoul. "I' faith; I'll swear yon red cross covers -no English carcase." - -"'Tis a wounded knight," replied Geoffrey. "I thank thee for thy offer -of assistance, but must needs decline it." - -"Hark at him! Decline, forsooth? Nay, mine assistance is to help the -rogue to Paradise, so stand aside, squire, in the King's name, for no -man dare tell me that his harness was fashioned in England." - -"Nay, 'tis no affair of thine, archer; yet if a gold piece or two -will——" - -"Offerest thou me gold?" replied the soldier with a gruff laugh. "I'll -wager I have enough gold sewn up in my doublet to buy thee thrice over." - -"Then take care lest I slit thy doublet and thy hide as well," replied -Geoffrey, standing on his guard. "'Tis ill that Englishmen should shed -each other's blood, yet I have sworn to protect this man, and before -Heaven I'll not go back from my word." - -"Fall on, comrades," shouted the archer. "We'll see whether this young -cockerel can scratch as well as crow." - -"Draw, Oswald; I _command_ thee!" exclaimed Geoffrey, and wondering at -his companion's tone, Oswald, sword in hand, took his place at his side. - -"We are but wasting time," expostulated one of the archers. "The squire -is right: why should we fight Englishmen? Are we not exceeding our -orders?" - -"What! Art afraid of two lads?" replied his fellow. "Come on, I say, and -let's settle this business." - -"Do it thyself. For my part I'll pass by. The King can be told of this -opposition anon." - -"Go, chicken-heart! What will thy friends and kinsfolk at Ely say when -they hear that thou hast shown the white feather to two beardless -squires? Now, look to thyself, squire." - -As the archer with two of his comrades was on the point of closing, a -cry went up "In the King's name, the slaughter of the prisoners must -cease!" The order was repeated in all parts of the field, and in a very -short space of time the work of massacre had ceased, the archers being, -for the most part, glad to cease their unprofitable and hateful task. - -"'Tis well for thee, squire," growled Geoffrey's antagonist, smartly -thrusting his sword back into its scabbard and turning on his heel. -"But, mark ye, the King shall hear of this." - -The report of the attack upon the rear guard had proved to be greatly -exaggerated. Finding that the camp had been left slenderly guarded a -seigneur living close to the village of Agincourt, Isambard by name, had -gathered together a band of five hundred peasants, and falling upon the -baggage guard had put them to flight. This done, the marauders set to -work to pillage the baggage, till they were dispersed by the English -lances. - -Yet Isambard had not been unsuccessful, for part of his spoil consisted -of the King's crown that had been made in anticipation of his coronation -in Paris, and also a diamond-hilted sword belonging to the royal -treasures. - -But to counterbalance this gain 'tis said that no less than fourteen -hundred defenceless and unarmed knights and squires of France had been -slaughtered in cold blood. No wonder, therefore, was it that when -Isambard presented his trophies to the Duc de Burgundy that irate -prince, reproaching the seigneur as being the cause of the massacre, -ordered him to be cast into prison. - -"I fear we have not seen the end of this affair," remarked Oswald, as -the two squires stood much disquieted by the side of their prisoner, and -the gravity of their offence began to loom larger. "If this comes to the -King's ears we are likely to be put to death." - -"I, perchance, but not thou, Oswald," replied Geoffrey. - -"How so? Did I not draw with thee?" - -"Didst thou not hear me _order_ thee to draw? Since thou art my father's -squire and I am his representative in the field, thou art under my -orders, though heretofore I have not exercised any authority over thee. -Therefore, should it come to pass that the matter is taken up, thou -canst—nay must—plead that 'twas by my command that thou didst resist the -King's orders." - -"Thou meanest me well, Geoffrey; but methinks 'twill not serve," replied -Oswald as the generous nature of his friend's act became apparent to -him. "However, 'tis of no use waiting for trouble; let us find Sir -Thomas Carberry and confide in him." - -Acting on this sensible advice the two squires assisted Sir Raoul, who -had again recovered consciousness, to his feet, and having left him in a -secure place in charge of two of the Warblington archers, who had -strayed across their path, they set out to find the Constable of -Portchester. - -The field of battle was literally smothered with corpses of men and -horses; shattered weapons lay everywhere, while in front of the -still-standing row of stakes the barrier of slaughtered Frenchmen was -piled breast-high. Amid these horrible surroundings archers were -carelessly sauntering, withdrawing arrows that had sunk deep in the -clayey soil to replenish their quivers, or stopping to plunder the body -of some wealthy knight. Here and there walked small knots of soldiers -searching for the corpse of their master, or engaged in succouring their -wounded comrades, whose groans and cries of pain rose on all sides; but -most of the English knights and squires, as well as a vast concourse of -men-at-arms, had gathered round the Royal Standard that floated proudly -over the fatal field. - -"Ah, there is Sir Thomas," exclaimed Oswald, pointing to the star and -crescent banner that showed bravely amidst a waving forest of silken -guidons and pennons. - -"Heaven be praised," exclaimed the Constable, "that I see thee safe and -sound, Geoffrey. Methought I had lost both my squires. And Oswald, too!" - -"Fair lord, I have as yet been spared, though Richard Ratclyffe hath -fallen." - -"Ay, and right bravely he fought and died; Heaven rest his soul," added -the knight gravely. "But what hath gone amiss? I see trouble in thine -eyes." - -"Sir, thou art like to lose another squire," replied Geoffrey. - -"How so? How so?" demanded the Constable anxiously. Then with a smile he -added, "Perchance the King hath thought fit to give thee advancement?" - -"Advancement of a kind, fair sir," replied Geoffrey gloomily, and in a -few words he related the events concerning Sir Raoul's capture and -escape from massacre. - -"By St. George! What hast thou done?" exclaimed Sir Thomas, aghast at -his squire's temerity. "Thou hast flouted the King's authority." - -"In this matter I had no choice," replied Geoffrey. "Deeply I regret my -error, but I am under a vow to save this French knight." - -"'Twill require all my efforts to save thee from the hangman's rope, -young sir. But, certes, I'll do my utmost. An I can but get the King's -ear when he is in a good mood, so much the better. Above all I must have -my say ere the squire in charge of the archers can lay his complaint. -Yet think not to get off lightly, Geoffrey. Thou hast erred and must -needs pay the penalty." - -"That I know, fair sir." - -"Then bear thyself like a true soldier. But here comes the French -herald. List to what he hath to say, for 'tis of much import." - -Even in his distress Geoffrey craned his neck to see the meeting twixt -the victorious king and the representative of the conquered foe. - -The French knight was magnificently harnessed in a suit of white armour, -over which was a tabard emblazoned with the royal arms of France. He was -unarmed and unhelmed, for he bore his casque in his right hand. -Alighting from his palfrey, he threw the reins to an attendant, and -accompanied by two pages, advanced to where Henry stood, clad in his -soiled and dented armour, surrounded by his lords and chief officers. - -"I am Denis Mountjoye, King-at-Arms, and a loyal servant to my master -King Charles, on whose account am I here." - -"Greetings, herald," exclaimed the King courteously. "We would fain know -thy errand." - -"I crave permission to bury our dead, sire." - -"First tell us, herald: to whom belongs this victory—to us or to the -King of France?" - -"To you, sire." - -"And yon castle—what name does it bear?" - -"The Castle of Agincourt, sire." - -"Then let this battle be called the battle of Agincourt," announced the -King in a loud voice. "Herald, thy request is granted. Five hundred -peasants can see to the burial of thy master's dead; Sir John Crofton -will give thee further directions." - -As soon as Mountjoye had taken his departure the King removed his -helmet, which bore eloquent testimony to its wearer's prowess, and in -obedience to an order, knight, squire and common soldier followed his -example. Then, led by Henry in person, the psalm _Non nobis, Domine_, -was chanted by the English army in order to acknowledge, in the midst of -triumph, the only Giver of victory. - -The French losses were enormous. Ten thousand fell on the field of -battle, and of these only fifteen hundred were common soldiers. The -Constable of France, the Counts of Nevers and Marle, the Dukes of -Brabant, Alençon and Barre, and the Archbishop of Sens were amongst -those who laid down their life for France; while the Dukes of Bourbon -and Orleans were amongst the prisoners. - -The losses on the victorious side were proportionately small. The Duke -of York, the Earl of Suffolk, four knights, seven squires, and about -fifteen hundred men-at-arms and archers died in battle, or, roughly, one -in every four men engaged. Had the remnant of the French army rallied -and made another attack in the open, the shattered English force might -never have reached Calais, but so disheartened were the defeated troops -that any attempt at a renewal of the fray was impossible. - -Deeming himself secure from further molestation Henry withdrew his -forces to the camp at Maisoncelles, a short distance from the scene of -action, to allow his wearied men a good night's rest ere resuming their -coastward march. - -The shades of evening were falling upon the ghastly field of Agincourt -as the Constable of Portchester returned from audience with the King. He -had gone alone, thinking it wiser to leave the two culprits in their -quarters during the fateful interview with his royal master. - -During his absence Geoffrey and Oswald had not been unmindful of their -lord's comfort. Tents there were now in abundance, for the fugitive host -had left the whole of the camp equipment standing. - -"What think ye of our condition, Arnold?" asked Geoffrey of the old -man-at-arms, pausing in the midst of arranging Sir Thomas's couch. - -"Faith! many a man has been hanged for less," replied Gripwell, bluntly -outspoken in his sorrow. "E'en though the order was unnecessary, as it -seems, yet 'twas thy place to obey it. Yet likely thy youth and thy -previous good service being taken into consideration, thou mayest save -thy neck. But here comes our master. Methinks I read good tidings on his -face." - -Dutifully the two squires hastened to relieve Sir Thomas of his armour, -placing wine and food before him as he eased his wearied limbs upon the -couch. Though both lads were consumed with anxiety they preserved a -strict silence, awaiting the news of the knight's mediation. - -"By Our Lady," exclaimed the Constable, "'tis strange that after a hard -day in the field I should have to spend a harder time in exercising my -sorry tongue on behalf of two wrong-headed young squires. Yet fret not -thyself, Geoffrey; nor thee, Oswald. In short, ye are pardoned for your -transgression, though at a price." - -"Fair lord, I thank thee," Geoffrey exclaimed. - -"Nay, wait and hear me out. Certes, when I told the King his brow was as -black as a thundercloud, yet, on recalling thy services to him both at -Southampton and on the field when he was beset by d'Alençon, he mused -awhile. - -"'Then the chief culprit was the squire who went into the enemy's camp, -and who later helped most valiantly to beat d'Alençon to the earth? And -he would spoil himself on account of a French knight? Well, Sir Thomas, -we'll let this pass. It was in our mind to bestow upon him the gilded -spurs of knighthood, but now 'tis not to be thought of. As for his -companion in trouble thou sayest he acted under compulsion? Let that -also pass.' - -"Then as I was about to withdraw who should appear but Sir John -Cornwall. 'Sire, I have a plaint to lay before thee. My squire Almer -hath reported that two squires have obstructed certain of my archers in -the execution of thy orders.' - -"'Thou art too late, Sir John,' replied the King. 'Sir Thomas, here, -hath already lodged a case 'gainst them. Yet thanks for thy zeal in our -cause.' - -"Once more I was about to withdraw when the King called me back. 'Who is -this French knight, and what hath he done that thy squire should so -stoutly befriend him?' - -"'Sire,' I replied, 'he is Sir Raoul d'Aulx, seigneur of the Chateau de -Maissons, and he holds this squire's father, Sir Oliver Lysle, in -captivity.' - -"''Tis indeed strange. We would have thought that 'twould be an eye for -an eye, a tooth for a tooth. But concerning this Castle of Maissons—doth -it not lie near this place?' - -"'But a short distance from the ford at Peronne.' - -"'Then see to it, Sir Thomas. Let a troop of lances on the morrow be -sent to bring Sir Oliver hither, for we have heard much concerning the -Lord of Warblington, and have need of his services.' With that I thanked -the King and withdrew." - -"Fair lord, then we are much beholden to thee." - -"Nay, 'twould ill become me if I failed to do my utmost for my squires. -Now to rest, Geoffrey, for thou must be up betimes, since it is my -desire that thou shouldst ride with the men-at-arms to Maissons." - -For a space Geoffrey could not utter a word, then with an effort he -asked— - -"Did I hear aright, fair sir? The King—did he say that the gilded spurs -of knighthood were not to be thought of in my case?" - -"Aye, that he did," replied the Constable with a twinkle in his deep-set -eyes. "Aye, that he did; but beshrew me, I have forgotten to add his own -words 'for a while at least.' So bear up, young heart, and I'll warrant -that thou'lt be Sir Geoffrey ere the King sets foot in Paris." - - - - - CHAPTER XXVI - - AT THE CASTLE OF SIR RAOUL D'AULX - - -The morning after Agincourt dawned bright and clear, with a keenness in -the wind that betokened the approach of winter. - -Ere the camp was fully astir, for the war-worn soldiers were thoroughly -enjoying their hard-earned rest, forty men-at-arms of Sir John -Carberry's command formed up on an open stretch of ground in front of -the Hampshire Company's lines. - -The horses, thanks to a complete day's idleness in the rich pasture -ground, were fresh and well-fed, presenting a vast contrast to their -gaunt and stern riders, many of whom bore traces of the ordeal they had -undergone culminating in the desperate advance upon the disordered -French lines. Yet they were one and all filled with enthusiasm, for all -of them knew Sir Oliver as a gallant knight, while every available man -of the Warblington contingent had volunteered for the expedition that -was to set free their beloved master. - -Arnold Gripwell had barely completed his careful inspection of the -equipment of the troop, both horse and rider, when the Constable of -Portchester, accompanied by Geoffrey and Oswald, emerged from his tent -to bid his men Godspeed. - -"Thou knowest the way?" he asked as the squires mounted their chargers. -"'Tis plain enough, since 'tis worn by the feet of seven thousand of our -men. But take heed lest ye fall in with any large bodies of roving -Frenchmen, e'en though they have been soundly beaten. All being well ye -should be back ere sunrise to-morrow; but if by noon ye have not put in -an appearance I'll lead a double company to your aid." - -"'Tis well, fair lord," replied Geoffrey. "I will do my utmost to return -at dawn." - -Then, without so much as a cheer or a trumpet note the little band set -out, and passing through the lines of the sleeping camp, gained the open -country beyond. - -Without molestation, for the country appeared deserted, the men-at-arms -recrossed the Ternoise and the Somme, and an hour before noon came in -sight of the towers of Maissons. - -Here Geoffrey, on Gripwell's advice, called a halt, to rest and refresh -the horses, and to give the men a short respite ere advancing upon the -castle. - -The squire had already made cautious inquiries of his captive, Sir -Raoul, concerning the possible garrison of Maissons; but, unwilling to -inform the knight that it was proposed to summon the castle to -surrender, Geoffrey had been unable to gather any definite information -as to its state of defence. - -"They are ready to give us a right warm welcome!" exclaimed Oswald, as -in nearing the castle the drawbridge was observed to be drawn up, while -the sun glistened upon steel caps and spearheads over the battlements. - -"Certes, they are by no means few," observed Gripwell, shading his eyes. -"It would seem that the followers of this Sir Raoul have not stuck to -the field with their master. There must be at least three score of -them—and behind stout walls too. By St. George, we'll have a tough task -here, squire Geoffrey." - -"That is to be seen," replied Geoffrey. "Has any man a white scarf with -him? If so let him bind it to his spear." - -Two or three of the required articles were at once forthcoming, and -using one as a flag of truce, Geoffrey rode boldly up to the edge of the -moat, a man-at-arms riding close behind him with the emblem of parley. - -"I would have speech with the representative of Sir Raoul d'Aulx, -Seigneur de Maissons," exclaimed Geoffrey. - -"Thy message, sir," replied a woman's voice, and to the squire's -astonishment and confusion there appeared the figure of the Lady Aimée, -daughter of the seigneur and the haughty châtelaine whom Geoffrey had -rescued on his journey up the Seine two years previously. She had donned -a light steel corselet and cap that failed to conceal her dark brown -tresses, and leaning upon a shield emblazoned with the d'Aulx arms, she -stood proudly and defiantly upon the battlements of her ancestral home. - -Even though Geoffrey had raised the visor of his helmet he felt certain -that the damosel failed to recognize him. Nor was that to be wondered -at, since the squire had altered and matured not a little during those -two years of strenuous life and activity, while in complete mail he -looked a very different person from the lad who in ordinary travelling -attire had dared to rush in upon a levelled crossbow to aid the haughty -Lady d'Aulx. - -"In the name of the most puissant sovereign Henry, King of England and -France, I demand surrender of the castle known as Maissons, now in the -possession of the representatives of Sir Raoul d'Aulx." - -"'Tis easy to demand, sir," replied the girl. "Yet not easy to acquire. -How dost thou think that thou canst take this castle with more than half -a hundred defenders behind its walls. Have a care, sir, lest the forces -of King Charles, the only King of France, do not sweep thee and thine -from off the face of the earth." - -"I fear them not," replied Geoffrey. "Thou knowest only too well that -only yesterday the French fled before our arms, leaving vast numbers of -gallant knights upon the field and in our hands." - -In spite of her coolness Aimée d'Aulx staggered beneath the shock of the -news, but recovering herself, she replied, "A truce to thy words, sir. -An thou wilt take the castle, advance, for 'tis a warm reception that -awaits thee and thine." - -With that the girl disappeared from view, leaving Geoffrey staring up at -the battlement where she had stood. - -"Fair sir," quoth the man-at-arms who bore the white flag. "Hast thou -taken notice of those nine steel caps showing above the wall?" - -"Nay," replied the squire shortly, for, truth to tell, during the -interview he had eyes only for the fair Aimée d'Aulx. - -"They have not moved a hair's breadth these five minutes," continued the -man. "Since 'tis impossible for a Frenchman to remain quiet, for -curiosity must have otherwise consumed them, I am of opinion that those -head-pieces are set up only to trick us." - -"By the rood, Hubert, methinks thou shouldst be right in this matter," -exclaimed the squire excitedly. - -"And, moreover," went on the soldier imperturbably, "didst thou not mark -how yon damsel was taken aback when thou told'st her of the rout of -yesterday?" - -"Now thou speakest of it I call it to mind," admitted Geoffrey. "What of -it?" - -"This, fair sir: 'tis certain that none of this knight's followers have -gained the shelter of the castle, otherwise the news would have been no -news. I'll warrant, could we but cross the moat, that ten stout -men-at-arms could carry the castle by escalade." - -"Thine advice is good, Hubert," said Geoffrey, as the twain turned and -rode back to their comrades. - -After a short council had been held, ten of the men-at-arms divested -themselves of their armour, and armed only with their axes and daggers, -ran boldly towards the moat. - -Here they were assailed by a shower of ill-directed stones, while from a -few of the oyelets came an irregular discharge of arrows, shot so feebly -that for the most part they failed to pass within a spear's length of -the object of their intended mark. - -A roar of derisive laughter burst from the lips of the seasoned -veterans, as without a moment's hesitation they plunged into the waters -of the moat. Unscathed, though the stones churned up the water all -around them, the men swam to the opposite side, where, taking advantage -of a narrow terraced ridge of rock at the base of the castle walls, they -gained the shelter of the raised drawbridge. - -Soon a coil of rope, weighted by an axe, was thrown deftly over one of -the chains that supported the drawbridge full thirty feet above the -ground. - -"Up with thee, John o' Bosham," exclaimed the man who had been appointed -the leader of the enterprise. "Thou wert a shipman ere thou wert -man-at-arms. And thou, too, Peter of Gosport. Up with thee, I say." - -With their axes thrust into their belts the two soldiers swarmed up the -swaying rope, and agilely balancing themselves on the chain, they looked -about for some means to sever the stout iron links. Being without files -they soon realized that the task was beyond them. - -"Try the woodwork, John!" shouted one of the men from below. "Yet take -good heed when thou hast done thy work." - -Blithely the twain set to with their axes, and amid a shower of -splinters the chain-plate secured to the frame of the drawbridge was cut -out, falling with a loud clang against the wall. - -With that the two men-at-arms made their way astraddle of their lofty -swaying perch, and having passed the rope through one of the links of -the still-holding chain and secured themselves to it by their belts, -they again fell to work. "Stand clear below," exclaimed Peter, as the -woodwork creaked ominously. - -The next moment the chain-plate was wrenched from its hold, and with a -crash the heavy drawbridge fell, rebounding more than once ere it came -to rest. Then amid the cheers of their comrades the two daring and by -this time well-nigh exhausted men slid down the rope to the ground. - -Meanwhile Geoffrey and the main body had not been idle. At great pains -they had felled a young fir tree, and having stripped it of its -branches, bore it to the edge of the moat. - -As the drawbridge fell, two score willing hands raised the heavy -battering-ram, and recking not the shower of stones that rattled -harmlessly on their headpieces, the men-at-arms attacked the iron-bound -oaken door. - -At the third blow the massive timber was burst asunder, and with shouts -of triumph the men-at-arms swarmed into the castle, to find it deserted -save by half-a-dozen trembling serving women incongruously wearing steel -headpieces, two decrepit men-servants, and the Lady Aimée d'Aulx! - -"Thou hast conquered, sir," exclaimed the girl haughtily. "Accept my -congratulations on thy feat of arms—this victory over a handful of -helpless women-folk." - -"Nay, fair lady," replied Geoffrey, advancing with raised visor. "We do -not make war upon women. Rest assured, therefore, that neither thou nor -thine will suffer harm." - -"Then why art thou here?" - -"To carry out the orders of my royal master. Further——" - -"The saints preserve me!" exclaimed the damsel. "Of a surety I have seen -thee before? Ay, 'tis the youth that befriended us at the Dos d'Ane." - -"Shrewdly guessed, fair lady. I am in truth Geoffrey Lysle, squire to -Sir Thomas Carberry, and son of Sir Oliver Lysle, whom thy father holds -captive in this castle, and whom it is my desire to set at liberty." - -"Tell me, young sir," asked the girl eagerly. "Thou didst say that our -arms have suffered a reverse? Canst say aught concerning my father, Sir -Raoul?" - -"He is safe, though hurt; a prisoner. More, he is my prisoner." - -"Then thou art willing to set him at liberty in exchange for thy sire?" - -"My father I hope to regain by virtue of the success of our arms in the -taking of this castle of Maissons. As for Sir Raoul, 'tis my purpose to -receive two thousand crowns for his ransom." - -"Like the rest of these Englishmen, thou wouldst place money before -honour?" said the girl scornfully. "No doubt it was for that purpose -alone that his life was spared?" - -Geoffrey coloured at the unjust taunt. He shrank from telling how he had -rescued Sir Raoul at the risk of his own life and honour, and that he -had demanded the ransom solely on account of the archers, whose offers -of quarter the knight had resolutely refused. - -"'Tis the usage of war on both sides, fair lady," he replied with a -dignity equal to her own. "But of that anon. Oswald, do thou conduct the -Lady Aimée to her apartments, and see that none of the men-at-arms -venture upon her privacy." - -Then turning to an old servitor, who, by reason of a bunch of keys -hanging from his girdle, was evidently custodian of the keep— - -"Hasten thee, rascal, take me to the Lord of Warblington's quarters—or -prison, whichever it be." - -Obediently the man complied, and soon Geoffrey was grasping his father -by the hand. His long quest had ended at last. - -Sir Oliver's quarters were plainly yet comfortably furnished, and were -situated in a part of the domestic buildings of the castle. Under his -promise not to break faith with his captor unless ransomed or rescued, -he had been allowed almost complete freedom, being at liberty to hunt in -an adjoining forest, or to wander in or about the castle. Punctilious -towards his captor and strictly true to his parole, the Lord of -Warblington had endured his detention with fortitude, though his -thoughts were ever speeding towards his wife and home across the English -Channel. - -For the space of nearly two hours father and son remained in eager and -joyous converse, while the soldiers were feasting in the courtyard of -the castle, till the necessity of rejoining the English camp became -apparent. - -"Art ready, Oswald?" asked Geoffrey, after Sir Oliver had warmly greeted -his faithful squire. - -"All is ready," replied Oswald, "but I bear a message from the Lady -Aimée. She would see thee in the great hall." - -With mingled sensations of hope and fear Geoffrey made his way to the -girl's presence. Seated on an oak chair, with two tiring maids in -attendance, the Lady Aimée d'Aulx awaited the coming of her captor. She -had discarded her steel corselet, and had taken particular care that her -tresses should be rearranged, while in place of her riding-habit she had -assumed a dark blue kirtle with hanging sleeves slashed with -murrey-coloured silk, and on her head a high sugar-loafed cap after the -fashion of the times. - -"Thy pleasure, fair lady?" exclaimed Geoffrey, louting low before her. - -"Squire Geoffrey, I must needs make amends for my ill-natured tongue. -Thy friend Oswald hath told me concerning thy generous and courteous -treatment of my father. I crave thy forgiveness." - -Geoffrey vehemently protested that no forgiveness was necessary, since -nothing untoward could fall from the lips of the daughter of Sir Raoul -d'Aulx. Then time passed rapidly and unheeded, for the two were engaged -in animated conversation, regardless of the presence of the tiring maids -who had discreetly withdrawn to one of the alcoves. - -At length the squire prepared to take his departure, for his ears had -caught the warning long-drawn blast of a trumpet in the courtyard. - -"And hast thou truly forgotten what I said concerning my father's -ransom?" asked the girl. - -"Ay, truly." - -"And dost thou not require that _I_ should be held to ransom, squire -Geoffrey?" - -For answer Geoffrey's steel-grey eyes looked steadfastly into the dark -glistening orbs of the Norman maiden. Then courteously and reverently he -raised her hand to his lips. - -When Geoffrey Lysle rode away from the Castle of Maissons he took with -him the heart of the Lady Aimée d'Aulx. - - * * * * * - -True to his promise Geoffrey and his men-at-arms regained at dawn the -English camp, where Sir Oliver received a rousing welcome, not only from -his own retainers, but from the many knights who regarded him with the -warmest feelings of esteem. - -Though the men-at-arms who had carried out the raid on Maissons had had -little rest, there was scant time for leisure. The army had to resume -its march to Calais, where, accompanied by a vast host of prisoners, -Henry arrived without let or hindrance. - -Here, safe within the walls of that fortress, a council was held at -which it was recognized that the only thing to be done at present was to -return to England. A rest of several days was allowed to the hard-worked -troops, during which time most of the prisoners, save those of higher -rank, were permitted to depart upon payment of their ransoms and the -promise to take no active part against the invaders. - -Amongst the released captives was Sir Raoul d'Aulx. The two thousand -crowns received by Geoffrey were handed over to the men to whom the -ransom had already been promised. The French knight took farewell of Sir -Oliver and his son with the utmost good humour, for the bonds of old -comradeship betwixt the Lord of Warblington and the Seigneur of Maissons -were too strong to be severed by the quarrels of two nations. - -At length, in the middle of November, the King with his victorious -forces recrossed the Channel. At Dover the enthusiasm was intense, the -townsfolk rushing knee-deep into the icy cold water to bear their -national idol ashore, while the streets were hung with bright colours in -honour of the brave. - -Thence, after a few days' rest in the castle, Henry resumed his -triumphal progress to London, attended by his nobles, knights, and -soldiers, and accompanied by his prisoners. - -But Sir Oliver Lysle did not bear his sovereign company. Since he had -not taken an active part in the campaign he was loth to share in the -welcome extended to the veterans of that perilous march from Harfleur to -Calais. So, obtaining permission to withdraw, he returned to Warblington -Castle, whither Geoffrey and Oswald hastened after the festivities in -London were concluded. - - - - - CHAPTER XXVII - - THE SIEGE OF ROUEN - - -Although Henry V had left the shores of France without having concluded -a treaty with his defeated foes, hostilities were practically suspended -for a space of nearly two years. But in 1416 the King entered into an -alliance with the Duke of Burgundy, who, since the fatal field of -Agincourt, had become paramount in France. - -With this powerful ally Henry's chances of securing the French crown -were greatly increased, and in the month of July, 1417, he again -prepared to invade Normandy. - -After two years of ease following the strenuous life in the field, -Geoffrey longed for the opportunity of buckling on his armour and again -seeking his fortune in the land of the Fleur de Lys, and great was his -delight when orders were received for the army to assemble at -Southampton. - -As in the glorious expedition of 1415 Geoffrey went in attendance upon -Sir Thomas Carberry, but with this difference: he was now the senior -squire, a lad of fifteen, Walter Talbot by name, having recently been -taken into the Constable of Portchester's service as junior squire. - -This time the star and mullet of the Lysles was also in evidence, but -without the waving black line, for Sir Oliver Lysle was now present in -person to lead the men of Warblington. With him went Oswald Steyning, -and though in separate companies the two comrades had ample -opportunities of enjoying each other's companionship. - -Arnold Gripwell, also, had joined the army assembled at Southampton. -Sinewy as of yore the gaunt old man-at-arms looked no older than he did -on the day when he watched in vain for his master's return in the _Grâce -à Dieu_, though in truth his strength was slowly failing. - -On the 1st day of August, 1417, the English army landed on the shores of -Normandy, and the march of the invaders became a veritable pageant of -martial triumph. The royal castle of Touques fell after a short siege, -and disheartened by the success of their foes and torn by internal -dissensions, the French seemed to have given up all hope of holding the -Duchy of Normandy. Damvilliers, Harcourt, Eu, Evreux, opened their gates -without resistance, and after a stubborn yet ineffectual defence Caen -was taken by escalade on the last day of August. - -Shortly after this success the Duke of Brittany deserted the cause of -Charles of Valois, and swearing fealty to Henry, joined his forces to -those of the invader, with the result that the town and castle of -Falaise—so closely associated with William the Conqueror—surrendered on -the second day of January, 1417. This was the last of Henry's successes -in that year.[1] - ------ - -Footnote 1: - - It must be borne in mind that at this period the New year was reckoned - from the 1st of March, and not from the 1st of January. This - peculiarity has given rise to many apparently conflicting dates in - mediæval history. - ------ - -Spring was well advanced ere the King left his quarters at Bayeux and -marched up the left bank of the Seine. Once again he had set himself a -formidable task—this time the taking of Rouen, the capital of Normandy. - -The city was of immense strength, occupying a splendid natural position -on the north or right bank of the Seine. Lofty walls, powerfully mounted -with bombards and mangonels, completely encircled the town, the -battlements being pierced by six gates on the landward side, in addition -to the two water-gates that abutted on the spacious quays, where ships -of considerable burthen could moor after ascending the river from the -sea. - -Its garrison consisted of twenty-five thousand men trained to the use of -arms, while the numbers of the ordinary inhabitants were largely -increased by the influx of crowds of terrified country-folk who had -sought a doubtful security behind the walls of the town. - -The presence of the host of non-combatants was a source of weakness to -the besieged, since they had to be fed and could do little service in -return, while the time of year was too early for the rich harvest to be -gathered and stored within the town. - -Having seized and garrisoned the Pont de l'Arche, to three leagues above -Rouen, the King was able to cut off all communications betwixt the city -and Paris. He thereupon proceeded to erect six strong forts, one -opposite each of the land-gates, connecting them by a "curtain" or line -of trenches strengthened with earthworks and palisades. - -The river, too, was obstructed both above and below the town, by spiked -booms and sunken barges, while in addition to a fleet of English vessels -that had ascended the Seine and kept guard below the city, a number of -large galleys were, by dint of much manual labour, dragged overland for -a distance of nearly a league, and launched once more above the town. - -Having completed his circumvallation of Rouen the King, unwilling to -risk a general assault, ordered a strict blockade to be maintained, and -in a very short time the besiegers settled down to their task, their -works assuming the appearance of a town enveloping a town. The strictest -discipline was maintained: even the wild Welsh levies and the still more -untrained Irish irregular cavalry were kept under perfect control, the -punishment of death being inflicted upon all found guilty of plundering, -and even on those who straggled beyond the lines. - -On the other hand, every day found the position of the besieged becoming -more and more desperate; and it was not long ere famine began to stalk -through the congested streets of Rouen. - -Thereupon the governor of the town resolved upon a desperate and -pitiless expedient. Gathering together nearly fifteen thousand of the -non-belligerents, he ordered them to leave the city. - -As the last of the multitude issued from beneath the battlements the -gates were shut. Thinking that they would be granted safe conduct -through the English lines the miserable wretches advanced, forgetting -their plight in their expectations of being able to find food in the -open country beyond the entrenchments that encircled the town. - -But to their consternation Henry refused to allow any of the refugees to -pass. Probably he thought that by so doing the Governor of Rouen would -be compelled to re-admit them, and thus hasten the fall of the city -through famine. On the other hand the Governor was of opinion that Henry -would relent and allow the non-combatants to pass. - -Neither King nor Governor would give way, and in consequence the fifteen -thousand helpless wretches were cooped up betwixt two fires, subsisting -on roots, and on the very scanty supplies with which the English -soldiers, at great risk, secretly supplied them, in spite of the King's -orders. - -Some succeeded in stealing through the invaders' lines. Hundreds fell by -the hands of their own countrymen in attempting to force their way back -into the town, while, save for a very few, the rest perished miserably -of hunger. - -Henry's action can only be described as barbarous. Coupled with the -massacre of prisoners at Agincourt it forms a blot upon his reputation, -and in this case there was no such imperative necessity—those -non-combatants could have done him no harm. - -Fortunately the Hampshire Companies were posted on the riverside, and in -consequence Geoffrey and his companions were spared the horrors of the -scenes that followed, though they heard with feelings of shame, and -compassion of the barbarity practised upon the luckless folk. - -Slowly the siege wore on. No attempt was made to sally from the city, -nor was there any on the part of the Dauphin to relieve the capital of -Normandy, and thus the blockade, though rigidly enforced, became so -tedious and irksome to the besiegers that they longed for something to -occur that might rouse them into activity. - -One day in September, Sir Oliver Lysle and Sir Thomas Carberry had -ridden to another part of the English lines to confer with Sir Brocas -Scorton concerning the providing of a fresh supply of hurdles for the -entrenchments. - -On this occasion neither knight saw fit to take his squire with him, and -in consequence Geoffrey, Oswald, and young Walter Talbot, together with -five or six other squires were holding a feast in one of the rooms of -Sir Oliver's quarters; it being the anniversary of Oswald's birthday. - -In the midst of the festivities a mounted messenger pulled up at the -door, and knocking with the hilt of his dagger, demanded to be shown -into Sir Oliver's presence. - -"He is not here," replied Oswald. "He hath gone to the lodging of Sir -Brocas Scorton." - -"Then bear this letter to Sir Oliver, young sir. Methinks thy revelries -are apt to be rudely disturbed," replied the horseman, whom Geoffrey -recognized as one of the King's own heralds. "But I must away, since I -have three cartels to deliver within an hour." - -Evidently the missive was one of the greatest importance; and consumed -with impatience Geoffrey and Oswald made ready to ride across to the -lodgings of the brave old Yorkshire knight, Sir Brocas Scorton. - -"By St. Wilfred of Ripon, thou art most fortunate," exclaimed Sir -Brocas, as Sir Oliver read the King's order and passed it to the other -two knights. - - "To our trusty and well-beloved Oliver Lysle, knight, Lord of - the Castle of Warblington, in the county of Southampton, and at - present serving with our forces before Rouen. Greeting. - - "Whereas it hath come to our knowledge that our rebellious - subject Denis, Lord of Malevereux, hath caused us much trouble - by his ill-conduct; it is our pleasure that thou shouldst - proceed to the before-mentioned Castle of Malevereux with such - forces as thou mayst deem necessary and carry it by assault and - hang the said Sir Denis upon the battlements of his castle. - - "(Signed) Henricus Quintus, Rex. - "Ang: et Franc." - -"I' faith, 'tis plain enough," remarked Sir Thomas Carberry. "Oliver, my -right trusty friend and companion-in-arms, I pray thee that I may have a -share in this business, though, be it understood, I do not aspire to any -honour that might detract from thine advancement." - -"I accept the offer of thy services, Thomas," replied Sir Oliver. -"Betwixt us we can muster eighty lances and four score and ten archers. -If we are not able to bring this recreant to boot may I never see -Warblington again. But there is no time to be lost; the King's orders -must be obeyed with promptitude, so, Sir Brocas, this matter concerning -the hurdles must needs stand over a while." - -"May ye both be here to attend to it this day week," answered the -Yorkshire knight. "So fare ye well." - -Ere sunset the two Hampshire knights with their squires and followers, -nearly two hundred strong, were well on their way towards the gloomy -Castle of Malevereux. - - - - - CHAPTER XXVIII - - THE FATE OF MALEVEREUX - - -Judging by the grimly exultant expressions on the faces of the men, the -expedition was a popular one. The Warblington men were well aware of the -hardships their master and his son had undergone at the hands of the -villainous Sir Denis, while the Portchester troops had occasion to -remember that their Constable's squire had been treacherously detained -by the Lord of Malevereux. - -There was also the inducement held out by the presence of vast -quantities of booty to be had on the taking of the fortress; while, -above all, knight, squire, and common soldier realized that they were -carrying out a direct command of the King. - -Owing to the fact that the archers were afoot the progress of the column -was necessarily slow, and when Sir Oliver called a halt for the night -only four leagues separated them from their late quarters before Rouen. - -The men slept in the open, wrapped in heavy cloaks. The horses, securely -tethered, were placed in the centre of the camp, while sentinels were -posted on all sides. - -[Illustration: "WITH SPEAR THRUST AND SWEEP OF AXE THEY FELL UPON THE -STORMERS."] - -Shortly after midnight the alarm was raised that the camp was attacked, -and with shouts of "Stand to your arms!" the men-at-arms and archers, -hastily awakened, formed up for the purpose of repelling the threatened -onslaught. - -Standing at his post behind his sire and the Constable, Geoffrey could -make out the sharp thud of the hoofs of numerous horses, while a babel -of discordant sounds, shouted in a foreign tongue, resounded on all -sides of the camp. - -"Archers, make ready; let no man loose till I give the word," shouted -Sir Oliver, as, waiting sword in hand, he strove to detect something in -the voices of his unseen antagonists that might tell him who they were! - -In spite of their rude awakening the soldiers preserved a coolness only -to be gained by constant training in the field. Mechanically the -dismounted men-at-arms fell into line, and dropping on one knee, drove -the butts of their long spears into the earth, while in the intervening -gaps the archers, with arrow on string, awaited the order to let fly -their deadly shafts. - -Thrice the unseen cavalry galloped completely round the bristling circle -of steel, though at a respectful distance, as if attempting to find a -weak spot at which to deliver an attack. - -"Let them keep to it," remarked Sir Oliver, with a laugh. "Methinks -their horses will be blown ere they come within bow-shot." - -"Pile on more wood, then," ordered Sir Thomas Carberry. "Make a rousing -blaze, for 'tis in our favour, since our backs are to the light. Then -perchance we may have a glimpse of our doughty foes." - -"They shout in no French tongue, fair sir," exclaimed Geoffrey. - -"Then, perchance, they are the German troops whom, report saith, the -Dauphin hath hired." - -"A truce to conjectures," said Sir Oliver. "Sound a tucket—one of our -camp calls—and see what that will bring forth." - -Hardly had the last notes of the trumpet died away ere the discord -ceased, save for the clattering of a single horseman, who rode straight -for the hedge of steel, guided by the fiercely-blazing camp-fire. - -"Stand! Thy name, condition and errand," shouted Sir Oliver. - -A rich rolling voice replied, "I am Sir Brian of Ennisbarry, in the -county of Wexford. If ye be enemies of the King of England look to -yourselves. Further, should any knight among you wish to ease his soul -or seek some small advancement, I am here to help him in the furthering -o'it." - -"Certes, 'tis the Irish kernes," observed Sir Oliver in an undertone; -then raising his voice he replied— - -"Greetings, Sir Brian: two most unworthy knights of Southampton give -thee welcome. I pray thee first quiet thy followers, then if it please -thee join us around the camp-fire." - -Amid a babel of voices the Irish horsemen formed a bivouac within a -bow-shot of their English companions-in-arms, and when they had settled -for the night, for they were about to encamp just before they stumbled -across the outposts, Sir Brian, attended by two squires, rode up to the -two Hampshire knights. - -"Once again welcome, Sir Brian," exclaimed Sir Oliver. "Though I am -afeared we have but sorry fare to offer thee." - -"Sure, 'tis better than I've had these last two days," replied the -Irishman, quaffing a horn of wine that Oswald had produced from the -baggage on his master's sumpter horse. - -Sir Brian was a short, slender man of about fifty years of age. He was -clean-shaven, thus revealing a long upper lip and a strongly-formed -cloven chin. His bluish-grey eyes were close set, and brimming with -good-humour. His hair fell in long lank masses from beneath a -cone-shaped steel cap. His body was unprotected by defensive armour save -by a breast-plate that terminated at his waist, and was without gorget. -From his belt dangled a long, cross-hilted sword in a scabbard of black -leather, ornamented with Runic characters, while across his back was -slung a targe of wood covered with undressed leather. - -As for his two squires, they were unable to speak a word of English, and -since Geoffrey and Oswald were ignorant of Irish their attempts to -entertain their visitors were limited to dumb show. - -It was a strange story that Sir Brian related a part of. His light -cavalry had been surprised earlier in the day by the soldiers of Sir -Denis, and after a fierce engagement the former were compelled to -retreat, leaving four of their number in the hands of the Lord of -Malevereux, by whose orders they were hanged on the battlements of the -castle. - -When the Irish knight heard that Sir Oliver was about to assault the -stronghold of Sir Denis, his excitement knew no bounds. He would, he -declared, join his men with those of the Hampshire knights. There would -be booty enough and to spare for all, but he chiefly desired vengeance -upon the Lord of Malevereux for the execution of his four men. - -"As thou wilt, Sir Brian," quoth Sir Oliver. "The more the merrier; but, -since we start at daybreak, thou hadst best seek repose." - -When the march was resumed a strange sight met Geoffrey's eyes. He had -often heard of the King's Irish kernes, but since they were employed -almost exclusively in scouring the country around Rouen, he had never -before had the opportunity of seeing them. - -They were for the most part only partially clad. Many were barefooted, -others boasted of one stocking and one shoe only. They rode barebacked -upon wiry mountain horses, so small that the riders' feet came within a -few inches of the ground. - -All except their leader were quite without armour, their offensive -weapons consisting of stout spears and long double-edged knives, while a -few carried round targes provided with a steel spike in the place of a -boss. Though they were ill-disciplined they were excellent scouts, while -in a hand-to-hand conflict they made up for their lack of mail by a wild -impetuosity that struck terror into the hearts of the well-accoutred -French men-at-arms. - -It was late in the afternoon when the expeditionary force came in sight -of the Castle of Malevereux. The appearance of the gloomy pile, rendered -even more forbidding by the presence of four gibbets and their ghastly -burdens standing clearly against the sky, aroused many burning thoughts -in Geoffrey's mind. - -As it was too late that day to open the assault Sir Oliver ordered his -men to rest themselves, and having constructed hasty entrenchments the -Englishmen and their Hibernian allies lay around the castle, so that -none might leave or enter. - -The night passed without interruption, and shortly after daybreak -preparations were made to deliver an assault upon the frowning walls. -From the neighbouring woods the besiegers obtained timber, out of which -rough ladders were constructed, while the Irish levies, who had tethered -their horses at a safe distance from the castle, were kept busily -employed in gathering and carrying bundles of straw and faggots to fill -the moat. - -Clad in complete mail, Sir Oliver, accompanied by his squire and a -mounted man-at-arms, rode towards the gateway, while a strong body of -archers occupied a position half a bow-shot in the rear. - -To all outward appearances the castle seemed deserted, save by the -dangling corpses of the unfortunate Irish prisoners, but on Sir Oliver -ordering a rousing blast to be sounded, a burly figure, whom Geoffrey -recognized from a distance as Sir Denis, appeared on the battlements, -wearing a white scarf. - -"In the name of the most puissant sovereign Henry King of England and -France, I, Oliver, knight of Warblington, summon thee, Denis de -Valadour, Lord of Malevereux, to give up the said castle immediately and -unconditionally," shouted the English knight. - -For an answer, Sir Denis raised his right arm, and pointed derisively at -the swaying bodies that hung from the gibbets. This action was the -signal for a sudden discharge of cross-bow bolts from the oyelets, while -a huge stone hurled by a mangonel cunningly concealed behind a -projecting spur of masonry, flew but a few inches above Sir Oliver's -head. As for the bolts, one glanced from Oswald's shield, another struck -the horse of the man-at-arms to the earth, but the rest either fell -short or wide. - -Standing in his stirrups the Lord of Warblington shook his fist at the -treacherous and recreant Norman, while a flight of arrows, well and -truly sped, rattled against the corslet and visor of Sir Denis. Whether -any of the missiles took effect or not the Englishmen were unable to -see, but the knight quickly disappeared behind the parapet. - -Scorning to turn his face from the foe, Sir Oliver, regardless of the -bolts that still came from the castle, slowly backed his horse till out -of range. - -"This will be a right joyous encounter, Thomas," he exclaimed to his -companion knight, at the same time dismounting and handing his steed -over to the care of an archer. "Is all prepared?" - -"Ay," replied Carberry. "The men are like hounds in leash. Look also, I -pray thee, at those Irish." - -"Sir Brian hath a strange following, yet, methinks they are not lacking -in courage e'en though they may err through rashness. But bid the -archers shoot." - -Under a fire so straight and true that none of the enemy dared show -himself, the Irish kernes ran up to the dry moat and threw down their -burdens, till a swaying yet passable causeway took the place of the -raised drawbridge. - -"Men-at-arms! In the name of St. George and for Merrie England—forward!" -shouted Sir Oliver, and with one accord squires and common soldiers ran -steadily towards the walls, keeping decorously behind the two mail-clad -knights, whose armour greatly retarded their speed. - -Mingled with the men-at-arms were several archers, whose special duty it -was to carry the scaling ladders up to the walls, while in the rear -their comrades maintained their steady fire. - -The mass of panting, shouting, and excited men gained the edge of the -moat, and, with swords and axes brandished above their heads, prepared -to follow Sir Oliver and Sir John across the temporary bridge, when a -cross-bowman more daring than his fellows showed himself for an instant -above the battlements and shot his bolt. - -The next instant he toppled over the parapet, pierced by half-a-score of -arrows; but the mischief was already done, for the quarrel transfixed -Sir Oliver's leg just above the left genouillère, or metal knee-cap. - -With a crash the knight fell to the ground, but as two men-at-arms -rushed to his assistance he waved them off. - -"To the walls," he exclaimed. "Ye can do much service there. As for me, -I will tarry here till we gain the castle." - -In spite of this momentary check the stormers pressed forward, and -scaling ladders were reared, and, led by Sir Thomas Carberry, the -men-at-arms clambered impetuously up the swaying and creaking timber. - -Hitherto the English archers had kept the garrison well in check, but -now, fearful of harming friend as well as foe, they desisted. In a -moment the battlements were thronged by the desperate defenders, -foremost of whom was Sir Denis. - -With spear thrust and sweep of axe they fell upon the stormers ere the -latter could gain a footing on the walls. Many an Englishman and Norman, -clasped in a deadly embrace, were tumbled from the battlements; to the -hoarse shouts of the combatants were added the shrieks of the maimed and -wounded, while the steady stream of ascending men continued without any -appreciable sign of a lodgement being obtained upon the -fiercely-defended wall. - -Geoffrey, sword in hand, found himself half-way up the creaking ladder, -when a loud shout of warning rose high above the din. The enemy had -loosened a huge mass of masonry, and toppling it over, swept the ladders -of their human burden. - -From the mingled crush of dead and wounded the survivors contrived to -extricate themselves, and, hopelessly repulsed, began to give back, with -cries of rage and alarm. - -Shaken and bruised from head to foot, but otherwise unhurt, Geoffrey -found himself lying on the brushwood that had broken his fall. With an -effort he regained his feet, stung with the bitterness of defeat. - -"Stand!" he shouted to the wavering men-at-arms. "Stand! E'en though we -have not yet won the day we cannot leave our comrades here." - -Encouraged by his words, and by the fact that the English archers were -again able to deliver a death-dealing flight of arrows, the discomfited -men-at-arms stood their ground, and began to remove the bodies of their -unfortunate comrades from the floor of the moat, and with some semblance -of order they retired to the rear of the bowmen. - -The losses in the repulse had been great. In addition to Sir Oliver, the -Constable of Portchester had been stunned through being hurled from the -ladder, while eleven dead and fifteen badly wounded men-at-arms -testified to the stubbornness of the defence. - -"Geoffrey, my son," exclaimed Sir Oliver, as Gripwell and another -man-at-arms were preparing to withdraw the quarrel from his leg, "on -thee has fallen the command. Thou must needs turn this check into -victory, and that soon, otherwise 'tis better to perish to a man than to -return to our King beaten and dishonoured." - -Then overcome by the anguish of his wound the knight swooned. - -The squire realized the responsibility that had been forced upon him. -Undoubtedly he must act, and that quickly; yet he was adverse to making -another attempt without adopting some other and better plan of attack. - -Hastily conferring with Oswald, Gripwell, and Sir Brian, he expounded -his proposals for the renewed assault. The Irish, who had hitherto been -held in reserve, were to set fire to the heap of faggots and straw that -lay in the moat before the gateway. Should the latter be sufficiently -charred to enable it to be splintered with axes, the kernes were to dash -through the smouldering embers and force an entrance; while the -men-at-arms, led by Geoffrey, were to assail the postern through which -the two squires had effected their escape on the occasion of their -captivity. - -The main entrance and this portion being on opposite sides of the castle -gave the attackers an advantage, inasmuch as the besieged would be -compelled to divide their numbers instead of concentrating the whole of -their forces in one spot. - -"Bravely thought of, young sir," exclaimed Sir Brian. "Give my fellows -but a footing in the gateway, and they'll serve yon villains as did the -blessed St. Patrick the serpents in ould Ireland." - -"Saving thy presence, sir," quoth the master bowman. "Our stock of -arrows is but scanty. Already many of the archers have empty quivers." - -"Then I pray thee bid them husband their shafts," replied Geoffrey. -"Without a covering flight the escalade will assuredly be a doubly-hard -task. Art ready, Sir Brian?" - -Supported by a steady discharge of arrows a body of the Irish levies, -bearing flaming torches, rushed to the edge of the moat, and in a few -moments a crackling column of flame ascended. - -While the fire was in progress, Geoffrey, profiting by the confusion, -led his men-at-arms to the opposite side of the castle, where, lying in -ambush in the depression formed by a brook, they waited the signal for -the combined assault. - -As soon as the fire had burned itself out, Sir Brian placed himself at -the head of his men, and with a wild shout the Irish rushed at the -charred door. Though numbers fell as they crossed the moat the advance -was irresistible. With a ponderous crash the timbered door was -shattered, and the ill-armed swarm of Irishmen flung themselves upon -their better accoutred yet demoralized foes. - -Meanwhile the English men-at-arms had crossed the pike-studded moat, -and, ere the defenders were aware of the assault, fifty mail-clad -warriors had forced the wicket gate at the end of the disused -postern-gallery. - -With shouts of triumph the assailants threaded their way through the -narrow tortuous passages and emerged at the inner bailey. Here they -found themselves in the rear of the survivors of the garrison, who were -being hard pressed by the Irish kernes. - -Caught betwixt two bodies of their attackers the Normans fought with the -fury of despair, scorning to ask the quarter that they knew would be -denied them. - -Sir Denis was almost the last to fall. In spite of his cruel and -treacherous character he was no coward in the fight, and wielding his -axe with ferocious skill and strength, he kept at bay the circle of -steel that surrounded him. - -At length, mindful of Geoffrey's shouts to take him alive, three of the -men-at-arms using a stout plank as a means of offence, brought him to -his knees. Even then the knight continued to lay about him, till he was -finally over-borne by a rush of the infuriated Irish, who were with the -utmost difficulty prevented from plunging their knives into his body. - -"I pray thee make an end and that quickly," exclaimed Sir Denis -dauntlessly, when, at the end of the combat, he was brought before -Geoffrey. - -"That I must do," replied the squire. "Yet e'en though thou hast dealt -foully with me and mine, 'tis not by my will that thou must die. By the -orders of my sovereign lord—and thine, though thou art a rebel—thou must -be hanged on thine own battlements." - -"Hanged!" exclaimed Sir Denis, his face turning an ashen grey. "Hanged! -'Tis impossible. A knight to die a villein's death?" - -"Such are mine orders," replied Geoffrey curtly. "If there is aught on -thy mind thou mayest have an hour's respite." - -The sun was sinking low in the west as the doomed prisoner, accompanied -by a strong guard of men-at arms and archers, was led to the -battlements, where Sir Brian, Geoffrey, Oswald and Walter Talbot were -present to execute the King's commands. Already some of the Irish troops -had removed the bodies of their comrades from the gallows, and the rope -of one was in readiness to receive its victim. - -With a firm step Sir Denis walked to the place assigned for him, his -arms bound behind his back, and his neck bared for the fatal noose. - -"Young sir," said he, "cannot this be put aside? I do not beg for life, -yet of thy charity, give me the axe rather than the cord." - -"Nay," replied Geoffrey shortly, for he could not trust himself to say -more. Then turning to the archers he signed to them to proceed with -their work. - -As one of the men bent to secure the knight's ankles, Sir Denis leapt -backwards, sprang on to the parapet, and with a hoarse roar of defiance, -dropped to his death upon the rocks fifty feet below. - - - - - CHAPTER XXIX - - THE GOLDEN SPURS - - -That night the victorious troops spent in possession of the captured -castle. Sir Oliver and Sir Thomas Carberry were brought within the -fortress, and every possible care was bestowed upon the disabled -leaders. - -Sir Oliver's wound, though not dangerous, would prevent his taking the -field for many weeks to come, while the Constable of Portchester's -condition gave cause for great anxiety. It was, therefore, decided to -remove the two knights and the two score and nine wounded soldiers to -the Castle of Taillemartel, that had long since been occupied by the -English invaders. - -Accordingly this was done, and the helpless men were sent thither in -wains under a suitable guard; the Castle of Malevereux was thoroughly -plundered, and afterwards given to the flames; and the Irish kernes, -each man with a goodly bundle of loot thrown across his wiry steed, rode -off to find fresh openings for their activity. - -Mustering his scanty force, Geoffrey gave the word to march, and with -eight wagons, piled high with booty, the column set off towards the -King's camp before Rouen, leaving a tall pillar of smoke in their rear -as a token that their mission was accomplished, and that the accursed -pile of Malevereux would no more be a terror to the countryside. - -Without interruption the two companies arrived at Pont de l'Arche, where -Geoffrey handed over the spoil to the custody of the keeper of warlike -stores. This done, the march was resumed towards their quarters on the -left bank of the Seine. - -At a bend in the road Geoffrey perceived a large body of horsemen riding -towards him. Knowing not whether they were friend or foe, since -straggling parties of Frenchmen frequently assailed the English -outposts, the squire ordered his men-at-arms to dismount and the archers -to make ready. - -"Canst discern their banners?" he asked of Oswald, who was riding at his -left. - -"Nay, the sun is behind them," replied Sir Oliver's squire. "Yet, for -their numbers there is no lack of standards and banners." - -As he spoke a horseman was observed to leave his party and ride rapidly -in the direction of the Hampshire men. - -"Hold!" he shouted, when he came within hailing distance. "Who and what -are ye?" - -"We are of the companies of Sir Oliver Lysle and of Sir Thomas -Carberry," replied Oswald, "and are for the camp before Rouen, having -completed some small enterprise at the Castle of Malevereux." - -"Then why are not the banners of these two gentle knights displayed?" -returned the horseman. "But delay thine explanations: yonder is none -other than King Henry. To him thou must needs give account of thyself." - -With fast-beating heart and rising colour, Geoffrey ordered his men to -redress their ranks, and with Oswald at his side, and Gripwell, bearing -the furled banner of Malevereux, close behind him, the young leader rode -to meet his royal master. - -The King had that morning made a circuit of the entrenchments, and -accompanied by the Dukes of Exeter, Gloucester, and Clarence, and a -galaxy of gaily attired nobles and clerics—amongst the latter being the -warlike Cardinal Beaufort—was on the point of returning to his quarters -when the sight of a column of armed men marching from the direction of -Malevereux arrested his attention. - -"By my halidom!" exclaimed the King. "We would know why yon body of -soldiers should approach our lines without displaying the banner of the -knight in command. 'Tis contrary to our express orders. Therefore, Sir -Gilbert, ride over and ask their leader why our commands are -disregarded. Bid them also approach, so that we may see what manner of -men they are." - -"From Malevereux!" exclaimed Henry on the return of his messenger. "Then -Sir Oliver hath failed to carry out our commands? Dare he return with -defeat written broad upon his features?" - -Impatiently the King awaited the approach of the leader of the -expedition, the absence of the knight's banner having misled him as to -the issue of the enterprise. - -"Where is Sir Oliver Lysle?" he demanded. - -"Sire, he hath been wounded and hath been left at the Castle of -Taillemartel, as also hath Sir Thomas Carberry," replied Geoffrey. - -"And the rebel Sir Denis of Malevereux: hath he been hanged on the -battlements of his own castle, according to our commands?" - -"Nay, Sire——" - -"Then thou hast ventured to return hither branded with the unpardonable -disgrace of defeat?" - -"Sire," replied Geoffrey, pointing to the captured standard that Arnold -Gripwell had unfurled, "Sir Denis is dead, slain by his own act, ere we -could work thy will upon him. We were, by the grace of God, able to -carry the castle after one repulse." And in a few words the squire gave -a plain account of what had occurred during the expedition, modestly -omitting the gallant part he had played in the final assault. - -"Thy name, squire?" demanded the King, and Geoffrey gave it. - -"By our Lady! Thou art the same that served us right well at -Southampton, and again on the eve of our victory at Agincourt, though at -the end of that thou didst wellnigh place thy neck in a halter. By the -soul of my father we have a good memory for such matters. Now, return to -thy company, young sir. Sir Gilbert, bring before us the two squires -whom we perceive stand at the head of the column." - -The King listened attentively to Oswald's version of the capture of -Malevereux, the squire mentioning several details that Geoffrey had -purposely omitted, while young Talbot stoutly praised Geoffrey's bravery -in rallying the discomfited stormers at the termination of the first -onslaught. - -"Then 'tis to Squire Lysle that the credit of the successful assault is -due?" remarked Henry. "Are we to understand that both Sir Oliver and the -Constable of Portchester were sore hurt before the second attempt was -made? And is this the reason why their banners are not displayed?" - -"Such is the case, Sire," replied Oswald. - -Once again Geoffrey was called before his sovereign, while the -men-at-arms and archers were formed up in a double line twenty paces -from where the King and his retinue were standing. - -"Geoffrey Lysle, squire to that right worthy knight, Sir Thomas -Carberry," began the King, "it hath been our pleasure to receive from -the hand of thy master no slight account of thy deeds and thy devotion -to duty in times past. Moreover, under divers circumstances, we -ourselves have witnessed thy courage on the field of battle. - -"Concerning this latter we are judging by the outward appearance, which, -as we know to our cost, is apt to be deceptive. E'en the sweetest flower -may harbour a vile worm gnawing at its stalk unperceived; a brave coat -of mail may conceal a craven heart, a closed visor a face graven with -treachery. Yet, on the other hand, Sir Thomas hath had ample -opportunities to study thee at the festive board, in the camp, and in -the hour of peril. Courage alone counteth for little; yet, when -consorting with loyalty, truthfulness, and humanity, 'tis a fitting -quality for a knight. - -"Thou hast found thyself in petty disgrace ere now, young squire, yet -for this we must make due allowance withal. By our Lady, we can call to -mind divers misdeeds committed in our youth, the which our enemies have -thought fit to make much of. Hence we can lightly pass over thy -transgressions and reward thy good and gallant deeds in the past." Then -turning to Sir Gilbert the King asked for his sword. - -"Kneel, young sir." - -With bowed head and overflowing heart Geoffrey sank on his knee. The -long-hoped-for guerdon was his. - -"Arise, Sir Geoffrey Lysle!" exclaimed the King in a ringing voice, -bringing the blade lightly down upon the young warrior's shoulder. - -Amid loud shouts of delight and redoubled cries of "Long live the King!" -Geoffrey arose, and, with more words of good cheer and advice, Henry -re-mounted his charger, and accompanied by his suite resumed his way to -the camp. - - * * * * * - -With the passing of Geoffrey Lysle the Squire our story draws to a -close. - -It remains to be said that the newly-made knight bore himself right -valiantly throughout the long-drawn siege of Rouen and the stern -conflict before Pontoise, adding to his laurels in a manner worthy of a -man whom the King had delighted to honour. - -After the Perpetual Treaty of Troyes, Geoffrey followed the example of -his royal master, and took unto himself a wife from the Land of the -Fleurs de Lys, the fair bride being Aimée, daughter of the chivalrous -Raoul d'Aulx. - -Oft-times did Sir Geoffrey Lysle cross the Channel under the banner of -England, and, in the dark pages of history relating to the undoing of -all that King Henry V had achieved, his deeds, together with those of -numerous warriors, both of high and low degree, serve to show that in -the hour of defeat the spirit of the English nation can still remain -undaunted. - -Oswald Steyning, too, won his spurs, by a signal act of devoted -gallantry at Verneuil. Throughout the long-drawn contest for the -possession of the realm of France the two knights maintained the bond of -friendship cemented in their early days, and on their retirement from -service in the field no joust or spear-running held in the counties of -Hampshire and Sussex was considered a success unless honoured by the -presence of the veteran knights, Sir Geoffrey Lysle and Sir Oswald -Steyning. - -The valiant old man-at-arms, Arnold Gripwell, settled down to a quiet -life upon his freehold farm purchased by the hard-earned spoils of the -field of battle. But his martial instincts oft reasserted themselves, -especially when, surrounded by an eager crowd of boys—the future -guardians of the sea-girt realm of England—he would relate the story of -how the young Squire of Warblington won his spurs in the glorious days -of Agincourt. - -[Illustration] - - THE END - - _Printed by_ BUTLER & TANNER, _Frome and London_. - - - - -Some attractive Volumes from the Catalogue of - -THE PILGRIM PRESS. - -_SPLENDID SELECTION OF BOOKS FOR BOYS._ - -ROBERT LEIGHTON'S ROMANCES. - -WITH NELSON IN COMMAND. - -A Tale of Nelson and the Baltic. With Illustrations. Imperial 16mo, -cloth boards, olivine edges, 3s. 6d. - -_Third Edition._ - -_Morning Post._—"The reader obtains a good idea of Nelson's character, -while the condition of the eastern counties of England at a time when -smuggling was rife and the pressgang won men for the Navy is described -with accuracy. The story itself goes with a swing and dash which make it -excellent reading, and if the young hero's promotion to the quarter-deck -is rapid, he certainly won it manfully." - -_Nautical Magazine._—"While the historic narrative of the Battle of the -Baltic is carefully adhered to throughout, the story lends an element of -excitement and charm which makes us forget we are reading history. The -book is a splendid one for boys." - -THE GREEN PAINTED SHIP. - -A Romance of the Sea. With Illustrations by J. W. CHARLTON. Imperial -16mo, cloth boards, olivine edges, 3s. 6d. - -_Second Edition._ - -_Daily Telegraph._—"A mutiny, an abandoned ship, the discovery of a -pirate's hoard of treasure, and many exciting episodes, go to make up a -story after the British boy's own heart, and one that fully maintains -its author's reputation as a writer of stirring and exciting tales." - -HURRAH FOR THE SPANISH MAIN. - -A Tale of the Days of Drake. Illustrated by J. AYTON SYMINGTON. Imp. -16mo, cloth boards, olivine edges, 3s. 6d. - -_Guardian._—"Boys should, and will, be grateful for an excellent story -of peril and adventure." - -_Methodist Recorder._—"We can hardly imagine the boy to whom its -stirring pages will not appeal." - -THE OTHER FELLOW: THE MYSTERY AT BARRACOMBE MANOR. - -Illustrated by SAVILLE LUMLEY. 6s. - -_Standard._—"There is plenty of sensation, but it is of a healthy kind, -and the detective interest is very skilfully managed. We should not be -surprised if the book were to be one of the favourites of the season." - -THE HAUNTED SHIP. - -A Romance of the Devon Smugglers. With Six full-page Illustrations by H. -L. SHINDLER. Imperial 16mo, cloth, olivine edges, 3s. 6d. - -_Second Edition._ - -_St. James's Gazette._—"Everything that a boy's book ought to be, and -seldom is." - -_Expository Times._—"From beginning to end it is exciting, and the -hair's-breadth escapes of its hero will delight all its readers." - -IN THE LAND OF JU-JU. - -A Tale of Boys' Adventures in Benin. With Six full-page Illustrations by -CECIL SCRUBY. Large imperial 16mo, cloth boards, olivine edges, 3s. 6d. - -_Second Edition._ - -"A delightful story, which has, too, a geographical and historical -value."—_Daily Telegraph._ - -FIGHTING FEARFUL ODDS; or, THE TEMPTATION OF JACK RODNEY. - -With Six full-page Illustrations by J. AYTON SYMINGTON. Imperial 16mo, -cloth boards, 3s. 6d. - -"A clever story, interesting throughout, and wholesome in -tone."—_Record._ - -"Such a story as this is all too rare."—_Spectator._ - -"There is not a dull page in the book."—_Newcastle Chronicle._ - -UNDER THE FOEMAN'S FLAG. - -A Tale of the Spanish Armada. Illustrated by PAUL HARDY. Imperial 16mo, -cloth boards, 3s. 6d. - -_Second Edition._ - -"A rattling story, quite one of the best of the year."—_Daily -Chronicle._ - -"The story is told with great spirit, and is full of excitement and -interest."—_Standard._ - -IN THE GRIP OF THE CORSAIR. - -An Historical Romance of the Mediterranean. With Illustrations by -MAYNARD BROWN. Imperial 16mo, cloth boards, 3s. 6d. - -_Third Edition._ - -"It is a stirring story, and well told."—_Speaker._ - - * * * * * - - By OTHER AUTHORS. - -A GENTLEMAN ADVENTURER. - -A Story of Panama, 1698. By JOHN BLOUNDELLE-BURTON, Author of "The -Hispaniola Plate," etc. With Illustrations by MAYNARD BROWN. Imperial -16mo, cloth boards, 2s. 6d.; paper covers, 6d. - -_Third Edition._ - -"Few will lay down the story without feeling that they have for a time -been completely carried away into a stirring world and into contact with -vigorous passions."—_Times._ - -IN A DEEP-WATER SHIP. - -A Personal Narrative of a Year's Voyage as Apprentice in a British -Clipper Ship. By ERNEST RICHARDS. Profusely Illustrated. Imperial 16mo, -cloth, gilt top, 3s. 6d. - -16 PILGRIM STREET, LONDON, E.C. - - - - - Transcriber's Note - -The original spelling and punctuation have been retained. Except were -noted. - -Variations in hyphenation and compound words have been preserved. - -Italicized words and phrases in the text version are presented by -surrounding the text with underscores. - -The illustration caption for the frontispiece does not fully contain -the text listed in the List of Illustrations for the frontispiece. 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Westerman - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: Under King Henry's Banners - A story of the days of Agincourt - -Author: Percy F. Westerman - -Illustrator: John Campbell - -Release Date: August 16, 2017 [EBook #55364] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK UNDER KING HENRY'S BANNERS *** - - - - -Produced by readbueno and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images generously made available by The -Internet Archive/American Libraries.) - - - - - - -</pre> - - -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<img src='images/cover.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' /> -</div> - -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<a id='Page_i'></a><img src='images/i_001.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' /> -<div class='ic002'> -<p>"HE DEALT A CRASHING BLOW AT THE RECREANT KNIGHT."<br /><br /><i>Frontispiece.</i></p> -</div> -</div> -<div> - <a id='Page_ii'></a> - <h1 class='c000'>UNDER KING HENRY'S<br />BANNERS</h1> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c1'> -<div class='nf-center c001'> - <div>A STORY OF THE DAYS OF AGINCOURT</div> - <div class='c002'>By</div> - <div>PERCY F. WESTERMAN</div> - <div class='c001'>Author of</div> - <div>"The Winning of the Golden Spurs,"</div> - <div>etc.</div> - <div class='c001'>WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY JOHN CAMPBELL</div> - <div class='c002'>LONDON</div> - <div>THE PILGRIM PRESS</div> - <div>16, PILGRIM STREET, E.C.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><a id='Page_iv'></a><i>Fair stood the wind for France</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>When we our sails advance,</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>Nor now to prove our chance</i></div> - <div class='line in2'><i>Longer will tarry;</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>But putting to the main</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>At Kaux, the mouth of Seine,</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>With all his martial train,</i></div> - <div class='line in2'><i>Landed King Harry.</i></div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><i>And taking many a fort</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>Furnish'd in warlike sort</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>March'd towards Agincourt</i></div> - <div class='line in2'><i>In happy hour;</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>Skirmishing day by day</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>With those that stop'd his way,</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>Where the French Gen'ral lay</i></div> - <div class='line in2'><i>With all his power.</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<hr class='c004' /> -<div class='lg-container-b'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><i>Upon Saint Crispin's day</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>Fought was this noble fray,</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>Which fame did not delay</i></div> - <div class='line in2'><i>To England to carry;</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>O when shall Englishmen</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>With such acts fill a pen,</i></div> - <div class='line'><i>Or England breed again</i></div> - <div class='line in2'><i>Such a King Harry?</i></div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c005'><span class='sc'>Michael Drayton</span> (1563-1631.)</div> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_vi'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CONTENTS</h2> -</div> -<table class='table0' summary=''> -<colgroup> -<col width='13%' /> -<col width='73%' /> -<col width='13%' /> -</colgroup> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>CHAP.</td> - <td class='c007'> </td> - <td class='c008'>PAGE</td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>I</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>How News came to Warblington Castle</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_1'>1</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>II</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Return of the "Grâce à Dieu"</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_12'>12</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>III</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>How a Friar and a Lollard met on the Highway</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_20'>20</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>IV</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>How Geoffrey Lysle crossed the Channel</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_30'>30</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>V</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>How the Merchants tried Conclusions with la Barre</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_41'>41</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>VI</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Affray by the River</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_51'>51</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>VII</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>How Geoffrey came to Taillemartel</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_61'>61</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>VIII</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Of the Ambush laid by the Men of Taillemartel</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_71'>71</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>IX</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Concerning Geoffrey's Desperate Resolve</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_85'>85</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>X</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Eve of St. Silvester</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_91'>91</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XI</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>How Sir Oliver gained his Freedom</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_101'>101</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XII</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>In which Geoffrey is laid by the Heels</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_106'>106</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XIII</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Postern faced with Points of Steel</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_116'>116</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XIV</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>How Arnold Gripwell was Freed from his Bonds</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_130'>130</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XV</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>How the Three Comrades seized the Fishing Boat</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_143'>143</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'><a id='Page_vii'></a>XVI</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Wreck of "L'Etoile"</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_153'>153</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XVII</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Of the Company at the "Sign of the Buckle"</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_161'>161</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XVIII</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Squire Geoffrey</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_168'>168</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XIX</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Treason</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_176'>176</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XX</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Traitors' Doom</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_189'>189</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XXI</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>How Geoffrey fared at the Siege of Harfleur</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_198'>198</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XXII</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The March of the Forlorn Seven Thousand</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_214'>214</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XXIII</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Eve of Agincourt</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_224'>224</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XXIV</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Battle of Agincourt</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_240'>240</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XXV</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Massacre</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_254'>254</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XXVI</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>At the Castle of Sir Raoul d'Aulx</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_267'>267</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XXVII</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Siege of Rouen</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_280'>280</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XXVIII</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Fate of Malevereux</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_288'>288</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>XXIX</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Golden Spurs</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_303'>303</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_viii'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS</h2> -</div> -<table class='table0' summary=''> -<colgroup> -<col width='69%' /> -<col width='30%' /> -</colgroup> - <tr> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Mace in hand, he dealt a crushing blow at the recreant Knight</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_i'><i>Frontispiece in Colours</i></a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>It did not take long for the Englishmen to grasp the situation</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_48'>48</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>"Throw me yon rope!" he shouted</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_144'>144</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>"<span class='sc'>Sire, were there any who dwelt in fear of the issue of the battle, would they sleep so quietly?</span>"</td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_224'>224</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>With spear thrust and sweep of axe they fell upon the stormers</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_288'>288</a></td> - </tr> -</table> -<div class='pbb'> - <hr class='pb c001' /> -</div> -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<a id='Page_ix'></a><img src='images/i_009.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' /> -</div> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_1'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>UNDER KING HENRY'S<br />BANNERS</h2> -</div> -<div class='chapter'> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER I<br /> <br />HOW NEWS CAME TO WARBLINGTON CASTLE</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>It was shortly after dawn, on the morning -of March 21, 1413, that a grizzled man-at-arms -climbed the spiral staircase in the -south-west angle of the keep of Warblington -Castle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>He was dressed in a leathern suit, much -soiled and frayed by the frequent wearing of -armour, while on his head was a close-fitting -cap, quilted and padded to ease the weight of -a steel headpiece. He was unarmed, save for -a long knife that was counterbalanced by a -horn slung from a shoulder-strap of undressed -hide.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Under his left arm he bore a flag, its folds -gathered closely to his side, as if he feared to -injure the cherished fabric by contact with the -rough stone walls of the staircase; for the flag -he had charge of was the banner of the renowned -knight, Sir Oliver Lysle, of the Castle of Warblington, -<a id='Page_2'></a>in the county of Southampton, and -of the Château of Taillemartel, in the Duchy -of Normandy.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At the one hundred and eleventh step the -man-at-arms paused, and, raising his arm, thrust -with all his might against an oaken trap-door, -sheeted on the outside with lead. With a dull -thud the door was flung backwards, and the -old soldier gained the summit of the turret, -which stood ten feet above the rest of the battlemented -keep.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sheltering from the strong north-westerly -breeze that whistled over the machicolated -battlements, the man-at-arms gazed steadily—not -in a landward direction, where an almost -uninterrupted view extends as far as the rolling -South Downs, neither to the east, where the -tall, needle-like shaft of Chichester Cathedral -spire was gradually rearing itself heavenwards, -nor to the west, where the sea and land blended -in the dreary mud banks of Langstone Harbour—but -southwards, where, partially hidden in -wreaths of fleecy vapour, the almost landlocked -waters of Chichester Harbour met the -open expanse of the English Channel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The sound of footsteps on the stone stairs -caused the watcher to turn his attention to the -newcomer.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Good morning, fair sir," he exclaimed, as -a lad of about fourteen years of age climbed -actively through the trap-door.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And to thee, Arnold Gripwell. But how -goes it? Dost see aught of the ship?"</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_3'></a>"Nay, Master Geoffrey; this wind, which -is most unseasonable for the time o' year, hath -stirred up much mist, so that the sea cannot -be clearly discerned."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis passing strange. Sir Oliver, my father, -hath sent word that, God willing, he would -cross the seas from Harfleur on the eve of the -Feast of St. Perpetua. Already fourteen days -are spent, and yet he cometh not."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The reason is not far to seek," replied Gripwell, -pointing towards the distant Portsdown -Hills. "So long as this wind holdeth the ship -is bound to tarry."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"But how long, think you, will it blow thus? -Thou art a man skilled in such matters."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, I cannot forecast, fair sir. For now, -when the husbandman looketh for the east wind -to break the ground, this most unwholesome -air doth hold. Mark my words, Master Geoffrey, -when it turneth we shall have another winter. -But the sun is rising. I must display my lord's -banner."</p> - -<p class='c010'>So saying, he bent the flag to the halyards, -and soon the emblem of the Lysles was fluttering -bravely in the breeze—azure, a turbot -argent, surmounted by an estoile of the last—in -other words, a silver turbot, with a silver star -above, both on a field of blue.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey knew well the meaning of this device. -The first denoted that the Lord of Warblington -was one of the coastwise guardians of the -Channel; the star was in recognition of a -former Lysle's service under Edward I, on the -occasion of a desperate night attack upon the -Scots.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_4'></a>Always ready on the first summons, the -Lysles placed duty to their king as the highest -of their earthly devoirs, and it was their -proud boast that no important expedition had -crossed the Channel without the head of the -Manor of Warblington in its ranks.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Like many an English knight of that period, -Sir Oliver Lysle had interests in France. Through -his mother he inherited the seigneurie of Taillemartel -in Normandy.</p> - -<p class='c010'>France was in a deplorable condition. The -country was torn by a fierce strife betwixt the -Orleanists—or Armagnacs, as they were oft-times -termed—and the Burgundians. Every -baron and knight did as he might, trade was -paralyzed, the poor were oppressed, and from -Picardy to Provence, and from Brittany to -Dauphiné, chaos prevailed.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In his own interest Sir Oliver had frequently -to cross to France, for his turbulent neighbours, -coveting the fair fields surrounding the feudal -castle of Taillemartel, did not hesitate to -encroach upon his lands. Thus, much to the -English knight's regret, he found himself embroiled -in the affairs of a foreign country.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"There is a boat coming up the rithe," exclaimed -Geoffrey, pointing to a small, indistinct -object slowly moving against the strong tide -that ebbed through the many channels by -which Chichester Harbour is intersected.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Methinks thou'rt right," replied the man-at-arms, -shading his eyes with his hand, for the -sun had broken through the mist and its rays -were dazzling on the water. "Yea, 'tis a craft -<a id='Page_5'></a>of sorts. Would my sight were as good as in -the time of the affray of Otterburn."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis but a fisherman," replied the lad, after -some minutes had elapsed. "Yet he roweth -as if he bore tidings."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay; I wot when first I saw him that 'twas -not thy father's cog," replied Gripwell, unwilling -to admit the inferiority of his sense of vision, -although he had recently confessed it. "But, -certes, he is not one of the men of Warblington, -and since he cometh herewards methinks his -errand is no idle one," he added.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then let us hasten to the wharf and learn -his tidings," said Geoffrey, as he turned towards -the stairway.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With the rising of the sun the portcullis had -been drawn up and the drawbridge lowered. -So, passing the vigilant sentinel who kept watch -and ward at the gate of the outer bailey, the lad -and his companion made their way across the -mead, past the church that, by a strange -strategical blunder, stood betwixt the castle -and the sea, and at length reached the little stone -quay which, at all but the lowest tides, permitted -the approach of the largest vessels of that -period.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis Wat, of Sinah," exclaimed Geoffrey, -as the rower turned his head to make sure of -his sinuous course 'twixt the mud banks that -were already showing above the ebbing -waters.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How now, Wat?" quoth the man-at-arms, -as the boat rubbed sides with the landing-place, -and the fisherman, well-nigh breathless with -<a id='Page_6'></a>his exertions, tossed his oars into the little craft -and scrambled up a rough wooden ladder.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sir Oliver!" he gasped.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And what of him? Stand not babbling -like a child. Out with it, gossip."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The <i>Grâce à Dieu</i> lies off the Poles yonder," -continued Wat, pointing towards the invisible -sandbanks that encumbered the mouth of the -harbour. "She hath come in betimes this -morning, and even now is anchored beyond the -bar."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey gave a cry of delight at the glad -news; but Gripwell was far from satisfied.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And why has not the cog stood in? And -how goeth it with Sir Oliver?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The ebb maketh strongly," replied the -fisherman. "'Twas only with much ado that I -gained the harbour, my craft being but light. -As thou knowest, gossip, there be none to touch -her, not even at Bosham or Emsworth. And -then concerning Sir Oliver. I saw him not, -neither was I able to draw nigh to the <i>Grâce</i>. -It served my purpose but to come hither and -claim the guerdon that my lady hath promised -to him who brought the news of Sir Oliver's -return."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then get thee to the castle, Wat. As for -thy craft, it must needs take ground, since the -rithe dries within an hour. But that will pass, -I'll warrant, for thy welcome will not be a hasty -one."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Already Geoffrey had sped to bear the news -to his mother, the Lady Bertha, while the fisherman -and the man-at-arms followed, Wat inwardly -<a id='Page_7'></a>chafing at the measured stride of the -old warrior.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sir Oliver's wife was a tall, dignified matron -of forty years; stern, almost masculine in manner, -yet devoted to her husband and son. -During Sir Oliver's frequent absences the care -and maintenance of the castle were entirely -in her hands, and, from the merest detail concerning -the domestic ordering of the numerous -household to the weighty questions appertaining -to its defence, the Lady Bertha ruled with firmness -and discretion.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Nor was she backward in maintaining her -authority. Once, and once only, did the youthful -Geoffrey take upon himself to give certain -orders to the warriors of the outer bailey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Geoffrey, my son," quoth his mother, -"when thou dost attain the age of sixteen it is -thy father's purpose to entrust thee with the -care of this castle during his sojournings overseas. -When that time cometh I shall willingly -give place to thee in the matter, but so long as -my lord thinketh fit to make me châtelaine -of Warblington I, and I only, must have the -ordering o' it."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The Lady Bertha was not slow to act on -hearing the good tidings that were now brought -to her. In a few minutes the castle was in a -state of bustle. The nineteen men-at-arms -donned their plates and headpieces, and stood -to their arms, ready to prove to the Lord of -Warblington that they kept good watch and -ward; the two score archers, putting on their -quilted coats and iron caps, in addition to their -<a id='Page_8'></a>everyday dress, rushed hither and thither, -gathering evergreens, heaping piles of faggots -in the centre of the courtyard, and bedecking -the gateway with the arms and pennons of -bygone days. Old Giles, the cellarer, hied him -to his subterranean retreat, there to broach -casks of the best vintages that Gascony and -Burgundy could produce, while the kitchen -staff were busy with two whole oxen.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then from the adjacent church tower the -bells rang out a merry peal. Almost at the -first note the toilers in the fields dropped their -hoes and unyoked the horses from the ploughs. -They knew the meaning of the peal; to them -it meant, as it did on each and every occasion -that Sir Oliver returned in safety from the -troublous Duchy of Normandy, that the day -was to be given up to feasting and merrymaking.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the thatch-roofed houses of the little hamlet -housewives left their hearths, tarrying only -to thrust a bough from their upper windows as a -sign of welcome, and trooped towards the castle -to share with their husbands the joys of their -feudal lord's homecoming.</p> - -<p class='c010'>And now from the summit of the keep a -keen-eyed sentinel espied the bluff, black bows -of the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i>, as, labouring slowly under -oars, she crept up the tedious Emsworth channel -with the young flood-tide.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The gunners, with port fires lighted and linstocks -ready to hand, were clustering round their -cumbersome, iron-hooped bombards, gazing the -while towards the steadily-approaching vessel. -<a id='Page_9'></a>The minstrels, with harp, pipe, and lute, foregathered -on the green within the outer bailey, -while the Lady Bertha—who, in order to show -that she held the castle, refrained from leaving -the shelter of the battlements—awaited her -husband at the barbican.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Everything was ready for Sir Oliver Lysle's -welcome home.</p> - -<p class='c010'>So intent upon the approach of the expected -vessel were the crowds that thronged the castle -that none perceived a horseman riding from the -direction of the city of Chichester. In hot -haste, he spared not spur, and, scorning to keep -to the road that led from the highway to the -castle, he urged his steed across the newly-ploughed -fields, while a bowshot in the rear a -group of mounted men-at-arms followed at a -more leisurely pace.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Skirting the moat, he gained the barbican, -then, drawing in his horse, he looked, with an -expression of mingled anger and surprise, upon -the preparations of welcome.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The newcomer was attired in a blue doublet, -amber cloak with fur trimmings, slashed trunks, -and long pointed buskins of undressed leather, -while from elbow to wrist his arms were swathed -in black cloth. That he had ridden far and fast -was evident by the exhausted state of his -steed and the numerous splashes of mud and -chalk that clung tenaciously to man and beast. -By his left side he wore a long, straight sword, -with a plain cross-hilt and a black leather scabbard, -while from the right side of his belt hung a -short dagger and a large leather wallet.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_10'></a>Geoffrey recognized the newcomer as the -seneschal of the Castle of Arundel. Nor was he -long in ignorance of the rider's errand, for, in -a loud voice, the officer exclaimed—</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To the Châtelaine of Warblington greeting; -but methinks 'tis neither time nor place for -expressions of gladness."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How so, Sir Scudamour?" asked the Lady -Bertha haughtily, for she took the seneschal's -mien with disfavour.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By this, fair dame," and, pointing to one of -the men-at-arms who had meanwhile arrived at -the barbican, he called attention to a shield-like -object the soldier was bearing. It was a hatchment, -or escutcheon of a deceased noble, and -the arms were those of King Henry IV—three -lions passant quartered with fleurs-de-lys.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Drawing a soiled parchment from his pouch -the seneschal presented it to the Lady Bertha -with a courteous bow, then, giving a meaning -look of displeasure at the preparations for Sir -Oliver's return, he wheeled his horse and galloped -away.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Slowly the châtelaine broke the seals and -drew out the missive. Silence had fallen upon -the crowd. Instinctively soldier and peasant -knew that King Henry was no more.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The men-at-arms and archers doffed their -steel caps, the peasants, bareheaded and with -mouths agape, crowded silently around the -stately figure of the Lady Bertha, as in a loud -voice she began to read the momentous news—</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To all to whom these present letters shall -come: Whereas God hath been pleased to call -<a id='Page_11'></a>unto Himself the soul of Henry, King of England, -France——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"An empty title," muttered a voice. Geoffrey -turned; it was Gripwell who had uttered -these words. Fortunately for him the châtelaine -heard him not, and went on reading.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"——Lord of Ireland, and Suzerain of the -Kingdom of Scotland, it is hereby ordained that -on the day following his most lamented decease -his worthy son, Henry, Prince of Wales, Earl of -Cornwall and Carnarvon, and Governor of -Calais, be proclaimed King of England, France, -Lord of Ireland, and Suzerain of Scotland. -Oyez, oyez, oyez. God save King Henry the -Fifth!"</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_12'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER II<br /> <br />THE RETURN OF THE <i>GRÂCE À DIEU</i></h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>For the nonce all thoughts of the expected -arrival of Sir Oliver Lysle were forgotten, -save by the Lady Bertha and her son.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The pennons and garlands were already being -removed, the minstrels trooped silently back to -the great hall, and the banner of the Lysles was -lowered to half-mast.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Yet, although all outward signs of merrymaking -had disappeared, the feast provided for -the tenantry was to be partaken of on the -arrival of the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i>.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Soldiers and peasants gathered in small -knots, eagerly discussing the events that were -likely to ensue consequent upon the late monarch's -decease.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"But Prince Henry was ever a young gallivant," -observed Arnold Gripwell. "I' faith, -'tis no great advancement to have seen the -inside of a gaol."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Have a care, gossip, or thine ears will -suffer for it," remonstrated a bearded master-archer. -"Boys will be boys, they say. Perchance -our King has put off all his ill-deeds."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"They do say that he hath made absolute -confession," said another. "I have it on authority -of a member of Sir Thomas Erpingham's -<a id='Page_13'></a>household that the Prince hath repaired to the -chapel of a recluse, and, laying bare to him -the misdeeds of his whole life, hath put off the -mantle of vice, and hath returned decently -adorned with the cloak of virtue."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"So be it," replied Gripwell stoutly. "The -late King, though his title to the throne were -but a hollow one, was ever a soldier and a man. -Give me a man whom I can serve and follow to -the wars, say I."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then perchance thy wish will be gratified, -Arnold," remarked Sampson, the master-bowman. -"Prince Henry bore himself like -a man at Homildon fight, as thou knowest. -Who knows but that ere long we shall follow -him to France to win back his own?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Pray Heaven it be so," returned the master-at-arms -heartily. "For my part, I'd as lief -cross the narrow seas as a common soldier. -Well I remember my grandsire's tales of how -the manhood of England crossed thither in the -time of the great Edward. Every mean archer, -who went as poor as a church mouse and did -not lay his bones on French soil, returned laden -with rich booty. Did not my grandsire purchase -the copyhold of the farm at Nutbourne -out of his ransom of a French knight?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"But what think you, Master Sampson?" -asked an archer eagerly. "Dost think that the -new King will make war?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"He hath by far a better opportunity than -Henry of Lancaster, the saints rest his soul," -replied the bowman. "That base rebel, Glendower, -hath been driven from the Welsh marches, -<a id='Page_14'></a>and lies in hiding in the wilds of that leek-ridden -country. The Scots, too, are kept well in hand, -so that peace on the borders is to be depended -upon. The King hath but to raise his hand, and -from the length and breadth of the realm the -yeomen of England will flock to his banner."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sir Oliver's retainers were not far from the -mark. Like the household of many another -knight, his men-at-arms and archers were -tolerably well versed in the affairs affecting -the kingdom's welfare. To them war was both -a trade and the means of following an honourable -profession.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i> had gained the -mouth of the little rithe leading up to the quay, -and was preparing to anchor.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Again the excitement rose, but in the midst -of the hum of suppressed anticipation an archer -called attention to a significant fact: Sir Oliver's -shield was not displayed from the ship's quarter.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Heaven forfend that he be dead," exclaimed -Gripwell. "See, the Lady Bertha hath noticed -the omission."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Unable to conceal her agitation, the châtelaine, -quitting the post of honour, had crossed the -drawbridge, and, accompanied by Geoffrey, -was hastening towards the wharf, a crowd of -archers and men-at-arms following at a respectful -distance.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Already the small craft that belonged to the -manor had put off to the newly-arrived ship, -which, for want of water, could not approach -within a bowshot of the shore.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Where is thy master, Sir Oliver, Simeon?" -<a id='Page_15'></a>asked the Lady Bertha, trying the while to -maintain her composure, as a burly, bow-legged -man stepped out of the boat and scrambled up -the steps of the wharf.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Simeon Cross was the master-shipman of the -<i>Grâce à Dieu</i>. For more than two-score years -had he earned his bread on the waters, being more -used to the heaving planks of a ship than to hard -ground.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Awkwardly he shuffled with his feet, scarce -daring to raise his eyes to meet the stern, expectant -look of the Châtelaine of Warblington.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Answer me, rascal. Where is Sir Oliver?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Lady, I have ever been unshipshape with -my tongue; were I to talk much my words -would trip like a scowed anchor. Ere long black -would be white, and white black, and——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Cease thy babbling, Simeon, and answer -yea or nay. Is Sir Oliver alive and well?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Lady, yea and nay. Yea, since he is still -in the flesh, and nay, by reason of——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The saints be praised!" ejaculated the fair -questioner, reassured by the old seaman's reply. -"But stand aside, I pray you, for I perceive -that Oswald Steyning draws near. Tell me, -Oswald, how comes it that thou hast deserted -thy master? Is it meet that a squire should -return without his lord?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sweet lady, I had no choice in the matter," -replied the squire, a fair-haired youth of about -sixteen years of age. "By the express command -of Sir Oliver and of the Lord of Malevereux -I stand here this day. Sir Oliver is alive -and, I wot, in health, but, alas! a prisoner."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_16'></a>"A prisoner?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, fair lady, of the Lord of Malevereux, -otherwise known as the Tyrant of Valadour, -who sends this letter by my hand."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Drawing from his pouch a sealed packet, the -squire knelt and presented it to the châtelaine.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"From Yves, Baron of Malevereux, Lord of -the High, the Middle, and the Low, to the Lady -Bertha, Châtelaine of the Castle of Warblington, -greeting:—</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Whereas, by the grace of the blessed Saint -Hilary, Sir Oliver Lysle, thy husband, hath fallen -into my hands, be it known that this is my will -and pleasure: Him will I have and hold until a -ransom of ten thousand crowns be paid for the -release of the said Sir Oliver. It is my request -that this sum be paid on or before the eve of the -Feast of the blessed Saint Silvester, failing which -Sir Oliver must suffer death."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Twice the châtelaine read the missive, then, -turning to the squire, she asked—</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Knowest aught of this letter?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, fair lady, though I wot 'tis of cold -comfort."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How came Sir Oliver to be taken?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By stealth, madame. They of Malevereux -seized him as he lay abed in a hostel on the road -'twixt Rouen and Taillemartel. Me they also -took, but the Tyrant set me free in order that I -might bear tidings to Warblington."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And did Sir Oliver charge thee by word -of mouth?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yea, 'twas thus:—'Present my humblest -respects to my dear lady, thy mistress, and say -<a id='Page_17'></a>that not a groat is to be paid as ransom for me.' -No more, no less."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That I will bear in mind," replied the châtelaine -resolutely. "Meanwhile I must devise -some answer to this Tyrant of Malevereux. -Hast promise of safe conduct?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The word of the Lord of Malevereux is but -a poor bond, sweet lady. Yet, since I have his -promise, I will right willingly take the risk."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis well. Now to return to the castle. -Arnold, see to the ordering of the men-at-arms, -the archers, and the tenants. Let them have -their feast, e'en though it be a sad one. Simeon, -see to it that the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i> is warped up to the -quay at high tide, and take steps to set a goodly -store of provisions on board, since to France -thou must sail once more. Now, Oswald, bear -me company, for there is much on which I must -question thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>All this time Geoffrey had been a silent yet -eager listener. Already he had grasped the -main points of the situation, and, quick to act, -he had made up his mind that the time had come -for the son of Sir Oliver Lysle to prove himself -worthy of the ancient and honourable name.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Tell me all thou knowest concerning this -Tyrant of Malevereux, Oswald," began Lady -Bertha, as the châtelaine and the two lads gained -the comparative seclusion of the hall.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"He is the most puissant rogue in all Normandy, -ay, in the whole of France," replied -the squire. "Though I perceive he has written -in a courteous style, worthy of a knight of -Christendom, he is but a base robber and -<a id='Page_18'></a>oppressor of the poor, and a treacherous enemy -to all true gentlemen of coat armour. He hath -declared that he fears neither God, man, nor -devil, yet withal he is of a craven disposition, -and full of superstitious fears."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"It is said that on one day of the year he -throws open his Castle of Malevereux to all who -would fain partake of his hospitality?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That is so, sweet lady. On the Feast of -Saint Silvester—in commemoration of a deliverance -from a great peril—the Lord of Malevereux -doth hold a joust to which all men may come, -saving that they leave their arms at the gate. -Beyond that 'tis said that no man, other than -the Tyrant's retainers, hath set foot within the -castle save as a captive."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The Feast of Saint Silvester!" exclaimed the -Lady Bertha. "On that day this base knight -would fain receive ransom for Sir Oliver."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Might I not be permitted to go to France?" -asked Geoffrey, speaking for the first time during -the conversation. "I would desire to have -some small chance of advancement 'gainst this -villainous baron."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou'rt but a lad, Geoffrey," replied his -mother. "I commend thy courage and determination; -they do thee honour, but the task -is beyond thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I am almost of the same age as that most -puissant knight, Edward the Black Prince, when -he fought at Crécy, and as old as our new King -when he crossed swords with Lord Percy at -Otterburn," asserted Sir Oliver's son. "Oswald -hath followed my father Francewards these -<a id='Page_19'></a>two years. Therefore, saving your presence, -I ought to be up and doing."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis a matter that demands careful consideration, -Geoffrey, though I do perceive that thou -art not like a girl that hath to stay at home. -Even as a young hawk hath to leave the nest, -a knight's son must, sooner or later, quit the -shelter of his parents' roof. But of that more -anon. It is in my mind that the good knight, -Sir Thomas Carberry, who holds the Castle of -Portchester should hear of the mishap that hath -befallen my lord."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Wouldst that I ride thither?" asked Geoffrey -eagerly, for the doughty knight was ever a -favourite of the lad.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That is my desire, Geoffrey. The day is -but young, and thou canst return ere sundown. -Oswald shall bear thee company."</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_20'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER III<br /> <br />HOW A FRIAR AND A LOLLARD MET ON THE<br />HIGHWAY</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>In a few moments the lads had donned their -cloaks, girded on their swords—since none -of quality ever ventured upon the highway save -with a weapon ready to hand—and given orders -for their horses to be saddled and brought to the -gate.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Have I to bear a letter?" asked Geoffrey, -as he came to announce his departure.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, my son; word of mouth will suffice. -Now, get thee gone, and the saints preserve -thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Swinging easily into the saddle, the lads -applied spur; and at a steady trot they crossed -the drawbridge and gained the open country.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was but a distance of some seven miles -'twixt the Castles of Warblington and Portchester, -while, being part of the great southern -highway between the populous borough of -Southampton and the coast towns of Sussex, -there was generally a small number of travellers -to be met.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For a while the two lads chatted eagerly, -Geoffrey questioning his companion concerning -his adventures beyond the seas, and of the events -that led up to Sir Oliver's captivity. And as -<a id='Page_21'></a>they talked Geoffrey's resolution was rapidly -becoming stronger. Gaining confidence from -Oswald's unassuming self-reliance, he realized -that with a good heart youth is capable of -overcoming many obstacles.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length, hard by the hamlet of Bedhampton, -the road began to ascend a spur of chalk down. -From the summit a splendid view greeted the -lads. As far as the eye could see was a flat -plain, intersected by two large harbours, while -away on the left, beyond a silver streak of sea, -rose the rolling down of the Isle of Wight. -Ahead, at a distance of over four miles, a massive -square tower proudly reared itself hard by -the head of the furthermost harbour. It was -the Castle of Portchester.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Barely had the two riders gained the foot of -the ridge when they suddenly came upon a -grey-cloaked figure bending over a heap of -rubbish by the wayside. Evidently it had been -thrown there from a neighbouring smithy, for -scraps of old iron horseshoes predominated.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis a friar," exclaimed Oswald, as the man, -hearing the sound of horses' hoofs, drew himself -up and began to amble along the chalky road.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Doffing reverentially as they passed, the two -lads cast a furtive glance at the cloaked and -hooded friar, as he fumbled beneath his garments -as if to conceal something. The man's face -was far from pleasant. Shifty eyes, sharp -pointed nose, loose lip, and flabby jowl gave him -a crafty, foxlike appearance, yet to the two -unworldly lads a friar could be nought else but a -holy member of the Church.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_22'></a>Ere they had ridden another quarter of a -mile something prompted the lads to look -over their shoulders, and to their surprise -they perceived that the friar had returned to -the rubbish heap.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis a strange occupation for a holy man," -observed Oswald. "To what purpose doth he -tarry at yonder spot?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, I know not," replied Geoffrey. "Perchance -he finds it a fitting place for meditation."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With this the subject was dismissed, and the -two riders urged their steeds to a brisker pace.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length they arrived at the castle of Sir -Thomas Carberry, where, on being announced, -they were ushered into the knight's presence.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yves of Malevereux, dost say?" exclaimed -Sir Thomas. "Alack-a-day that Sir Oliver -should fall into the toils of such a caitiff. I -know the Tyrant well, having had a slight bickering -with him, not once nor twice."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Is there indeed no means of securing my -father's release save by ransom? The payment -of ransom he hath forbidden," said Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Perchance, should war ensue and an English -army again set foot on French soil, the King -might see fit to send a troop of lances and a body -of archers to rid the world of the pest. Would -that I could adventure myself on Sir Oliver's -behalf, yet I fear that affairs of the realm will -prevent my so doing. Nevertheless, I'll do my -devoirs to the Lady Bertha. Convey her my -most humble regards, and say that I will ride -over to Warblington to-morrow morn."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I have asked my mother to give me leave -<a id='Page_23'></a>to journey to France," said Geoffrey. "Couldst -thou not throw in thy weighty word for me, Sir -Thomas?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Certes! How canst thou hope to overcome -the Lord of Malevereux, Geoffrey? Nevertheless, -'tis right and meet that the son of Sir -Oliver should see to his affairs at Taillemartel. -There thou couldst be of service. Say no more -now, but on the morrow I'll broach the matter."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sir, I crave your pardon and your opinion," -said Oswald. "Dost think that the King will -advance his claim to the French throne?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Without a doubt."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I am right glad to hear of it," replied Oswald. -"There is much advancement to be made in such -matters."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Not without losses, hunger, and discomforts," -added the knight, smiling at the youth's ardent -words. "Young men are apt to look upon only -the bright side of war. Such views I myself have -held, but as time runs on we elders know more -of the dark side of the picture. Nevertheless, at -the first call to arms I, amongst many, will not -be found wanting."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What think ye of our new King?" asked -Geoffrey, more bluntly than he intended.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The knight shook his head.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis not meet that a soldier should offer -an opinion of his liege lord," he replied. -"Henry V is my King, and to me that is sufficient -reasoning for unswerving loyalty. A true -Englishman's duty is to serve loyally, be he -knight or commoner; therefore, I counsel you, -reject all reports to the belittlement of King -<a id='Page_24'></a>Harry, strive to live upright and true to those -set in authority, and all will go well."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With this advice Sir Thomas dismissed his -visitors, renewing his assurance that on the -morrow he would journey to see the Châtelaine -of Warblington in person.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Since Sir Thomas hath promised to speak -in my favour my hopes are raised," remarked -Geoffrey. "Who knows but that ere the Feast -of St. Mark I may be upon French soil."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Since the Lady Bertha hath charged me to -convey her reply to Malevereux we may bear one -another company," replied Oswald. "But what -have we here?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>The travellers had now reached the outskirts -of the little hamlet of Cosham. Outside -a mud-and-wattle cottage a large crowd, comprising -nearly all the inhabitants and a sprinkling -of strangers, had collected. That something -was amiss was apparent by the low murmur that -reached the lads' ears as they approached.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"If 'tis some slight affray 'tis our duty to -aid the weaker side," said Oswald, his right hand -flying to his sword-hilt. "See to it that thou -dost strike yarely should occasion arise."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Urging their horses through the fringe of the -crowd, the two youthful champions of oppressed -right came upon a scene they had not bargained -for.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Standing in the doorway was a woman, middle-aged -and comely, whose face was a study of -mingled perplexity, indignation, and fright.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the middle of a semicircle formed by the -crowd towered a powerfully made man of commanding -<a id='Page_25'></a>and noble aspect, dressed in plain yet -rich garments of sober russet cloth tipped with -fur. Save for a short dagger he was unarmed, -a vellum-bound book hanging by a steel chain -occupying the place of a sword.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Held at arm's length by the stranger's muscular -arm was the friar whom the lads had seen -at Bedhampton that same morning. The -man's hang-dog face was convulsed with fury, -though it was evident that he was in terror -of the stranger, whose anger was as apparent -as that of his captive.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ignoring the hurried undertone remonstrances -of a merchant, the stranger addressed the throng -in a loud voice.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"My good people," he exclaimed, "how much -longer will ye suffer yourselves to be deluded by -such cloaked and cowled rascals as this? By -what authority doth the friar claim the right to -sell pardons and absolutions for every sin that -besets us? Not by that of One above, I'll -warrant. And how can a parcel of so-called -relics possess the power of imparting nameless -virtues to the dupe who hath purchased them? -Hold up the trickster's wares," he continued, -addressing a sheepish-looking countryman. -"Nay, do not hesitate; if so be a murrain falls -upon the unbeliever, on my head be it."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thus encouraged the peasant stooped and -picked up something from the ground.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hold them up," commanded the stranger -authoritatively. "Raise them high above thy -head that all may see."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The man obeyed, and, to Geoffrey's astonishment, -<a id='Page_26'></a>displayed a piece of a horseshoe and a bent -and rusted nail.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now, dame," continued the stranger, speaking -in a kindlier tone. "Tell me how named -your friar this fragment of horseshoe?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis a piece of the shoe of the ass that bore -the Blessed Virgin into Egypt," quavered the -woman.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, say not ''tis', but ''twas' told me," -corrected the stranger. "Now, once again, -whence comes this twisted clout?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A nail from the tree on which was crucified -the blessed St. Edmund," replied the dame.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That savours less of the lie," quoth her interrogator, -"seeing that 'tis said that at the -town of Bury the tree still stands. Answer -me, did your friar also say 'twas the very nail -that pierced the martyred King's limbs?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, an' it please thee," replied the woman.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then there I have him," exclaimed the -stranger. "How can a nail of this length pierce -a man's palm and hold him to a tree? See -for yourselves, my masters, that 'tis beyond -reason. Tell me, dame, what price did'st thou -pay for these baubles?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A silver groat."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then lest it be said that I despoiled the -Church, I will reimburse thee. Now, friends, -one more question; since when hath it been the -custom to shoe an ass with a horseshoe?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>A roar of laughter from the crowd greeted -this hit. Then with a rapid motion of his arm -the stranger flung the fragments of iron far across -an adjoining field.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_27'></a>"Hence," he thundered, relaxing his grasp -on the terrified friar, and with a tremendous -buffet on the ear he sent the wretched man -reeling through a lane betwixt the amazed -spectators.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Have a care, my Lord Cobham," whispered -the merchant, plucking at the knight's sleeve. -"Affront not the Church. Already 'tis said -that my Lord Archbishop hath applied to proceed -against thee. Do not, I pray thee, give -thine enemies more cause for offence."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I have no quarrel with the Church, but with -the Church's flagrant offences, Master Pearce. -As for my lord the Archbishop, let him do his -worst. The King, a grandson of John of Gaunt, -will see to it that justice to the Lollards be done. -Moreover, I have the honour of being a friend -of Harry Monmouth. Shall he, as King, think -fit to abandon me to mine enemies, then God's -will be done. I am not the first to suffer for -truth's sake.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And now, friends," he continued, addressing -the crowd once more, "I trust that this slight -bickering hath been to your souls' advantage. -Try to use the wits that have been given you -for your advancement; be not led by the nose -by such as ye have just seen. Here is the lamp -that guideth your way, though I must fain admit -'tis at present but a feeble glimmer." And he -touched the Book that was hanging from his belt.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Soon," he continued, "the day will come -when all men shall hear the Word in the vulgar -tongue, and to that set purpose hath Wycliffe -laboured and his followers are toiling still."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_28'></a>Thereupon the Lollard proceeded to read a -chapter from the English translation of the Bible, -and for the first time his listeners heard it read -in a simple and familiar language.</p> - -<p class='c010'>This done, my Lord Cobham went on his way, -gravely returning the lads' salutation as they, -too, proceeded on their journey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"This meeting hath opened my eyes," observed -Oswald. "E'en though I saw yon friar -in the rubbish heap I little thought his purpose -was to trick his listeners."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yet though I felt admiration for the knight, -I cannot believe that his doctrine is wholly -right," replied Geoffrey. "Methinks it savours -of rebellion."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Mark well, he said not a word against the -Church."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That I noticed. Yet it is to be hoped that -the friar is but one of a few black sheep. Father -Hilarius is not of that style."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, a more broad-minded, upright priest -I do not wish to meet," replied Oswald. "But -concerning the Lord Cobham, is he not the same -as Sir John Oldcastle? He is a sturdy Lollard -and a friend of the King to boot."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Methinks thou'rt right," assented Geoffrey. -"'Tis the same Oldcastle of whom my father -hath ofttimes spoken. Now reason with thyself -a space; this knight seemeth to be a right godly -man. Therefore it follows, since he is an admitted -friend of the King's, that he would not have -mentioned the matter were the King, while -Prince of Wales, the rascal—save the term—that -men would make him out to be.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_29'></a>"We know," went on Geoffrey, "that Judge -Gascoigne committed the Prince to prison. -That was for an offence done in the heat of -anger. Lord Cobham was angry even now, -when he buffeted the friar, but I wot he is not a -man to consort with drunkards and dissolute -persons. Mark well, also, that Sir Thomas Carberry -had not a word to say against the King: -therefore I shall believe that all their stories -concerning him are baseless.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"But come," he added, "we must hasten, -for already the sun is low in the sky."</p> - -<p class='c010'>In silence the lads proceeded on their journey. -Both were thoughtful, for the events of the day -had added another perplexity to their small store -of worldly difficulties. Thus pondering, they -returned to the Castle of Warblington, where -the châtelaine was eagerly awaiting to hear the -result of their fateful errand.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_30'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER IV<br /> <br />HOW GEOFFREY LYSLE CROSSED THE CHANNEL</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>Sir Thomas Carberry was as good as -his word. He rode over to Warblington betimes -on the following morning, where he was -welcomed by the châtelaine and her assembled -household.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Being a man of action, the knight lost no time -in dealing with the matter that had brought him -thither.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I can well understand Sir Oliver's wishes -in this matter," he remarked. "Since he will -not have a ransom paid on his behalf, and on the -other hand the Tyrant of Malevereux doth -threaten him with death should the gold not be -forthcoming, it is certain that we are in a strait. -Thou sayest that the garrison of Taillemartel -is not strong enough to assail the baron's stronghold? -Then some other plan must be considered. -Methinks the great thing is to gain -time with this recreant Lord of Malevereux. To -that end it would be well to reply guardedly to -his letter."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"But not to promise payment of the -ransom?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Not in plain words. Write that ere the -Feast of Saint Silvester the demands of the Lord -<a id='Page_31'></a>of Malevereux will be met. That need be all; -thy husband's squire can deliver the message, -since he hath been promised safe conduct."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"But will the Tyrant keep to his word concerning -the good treatment of Oswald?" demurred -the Lady Bertha. "It is hardly meet -that the lad should be placed in the power of -this recreant knight."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"For my part I care but little, fair lady," said -Sir Oliver's squire. "Since my place is with -my lord—and 'twas not my doing that I was -compelled to leave him at Malevereux—I'll bear -the letter to Sir Yves in person. Should he think -fit to keep his word, well and good; otherwise -I must rest content that I am to be kept in -durance with Sir Oliver."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Well spoken, squire," exclaimed Sir Thomas -Carberry. "See to it that thy actions are as -brave as thy speech. Now, there is yet another -point. Who holds the Castle of Taillemartel in -Sir Oliver's absence?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>The châtelaine did not reply. Instinctively -she realized the motive of the question.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hath my son said aught to thee concerning -his wish to go Franceward?" she asked.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fair lady, he hath," replied the knight. -"Moreover, 'tis right and meet that he, as Sir -Oliver's son, should hold Taillemartel in his -father's absence. Thrust aside thy feelings as a -mother, Lady Bertha, and make a sacrifice to -duty. The lad, from what I know of him—and -that is not a little—hath courage, wisdom, and -discretion beyond his years. Let him have -<a id='Page_32'></a>the ordering of Taillemartel, and I'll warrant -he'll prove a right worthy limb of the old Lysle -stock."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And what can be done towards the actual -setting free of my husband?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Concerning myself, this affair could not -have happened at a more inopportune time. -Until I learn King Harry's wishes I am tied to -my Castle of Portchester; otherwise would I -right gladly take a troop of lances, add them to -the garrison of Taillemartel, and together they -would have the Castle of Malevereux about its -owner's ears in less than a week. Did Sir Oliver -ever mention the name of Sir Raoul d'Aulx, -seigneur of Maissons?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I cannot call the name to mind."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"This Sir Raoul is a Burgundian knight, a -right worthy gentleman of good repute. Sir -Oliver and I fought side by side with him 'gainst -the Paynims of Barbary, under the late King, -when he was but Henry of Lancaster. Now it -is in my mind to write to the Seigneur of Maissons -that he should beleaguer the Castle of -Malevereux; knowing that he hath just cause -'gainst Sir Yves, and that he hath great -regard for Sir Oliver, this request may find -favour in Sir Raoul's eyes. To that end I'll -send my squire, Richard Ratclyffe, with thy son -and Sir Oliver's squire, Oswald Steyning. When -will Geoffrey be ready for the journey?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The <i>Grâce à Dieu</i> lies in the harbour fit -to take the sea within an hour," replied the -châtelaine with a sigh, for, although she was -resigned to Sir Thomas Carberry's plan, the -<a id='Page_33'></a>thought of parting with her son seemed well-nigh -unbearable.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then the sooner the better, since the wind -holds fair. I'll send my squire to thee this -night. Now, bear up, fair lady, for by the -blessing of the saints, Sir Oliver will sit at -his ease in Warblington Castle ere the feast of -St. Silvester."</p> - -<p class='c010'>So saying Sir Thomas took his leave, while -the châtelaine busied herself with preparations -for her son's journey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>That night Geoffrey kept vigil in the little -church of St. Thomas à Becket, vowing to be -courageous and honourable in warfare, courteous -to women, and just towards those under -his authority, as befitting the son of a true -knight who himself aspired to the gilded spurs. -But when he prayed that he might take vengeance -upon the Lord of Malevereux, Father -Hilarius gently reproved him.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Vengeance, my son, hath no place within -the mind of a gentleman of quality; leave -that in the hands of One above, who, if He -think fit, will grind the oppressor between -the upper and nether millstones of His wrath. -In thy dealings with thy fellow-men see to it -that justice is ever tempered with mercy."</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length the eventful day dawned. At -the head of the rithe lay the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i>, her -huge square sail, emblazoned with the arms -of the Lysles, being loosely furled ready to be -sheeted home at the shipmaster's call.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey and the two squires, Oswald Steyning -and Richard Ratclyffe, attended by the -<a id='Page_34'></a>stout old man-at-arms, Arnold Gripwell, and -three trusty archers, boarded the skiff that -was to take them off to the larger vessel. The -hour of parting had come and gone, and with -heavy heart Sir Oliver's son saw the crowd -of tenantry on the shore grow less and less -distinct.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But the moment the lads set foot upon the -deck of the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i> the bustle and excitement -of setting sail dispelled for the time their -feeling of sadness.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Old Simeon Cross, the master-shipman, was -standing by the long tiller, shouting orders at -the seamen to the accompaniment of a string -of expletives uttered in half a dozen different -tongues.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yarely, now, yarely with the cable! Dick, -do you attend to the vang; Tom, thou rapscallion, -haul handsomely on yonder brace. -Avast heaving there! Now she feels it!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Before the steady north-westerly breeze the -<i>Grâce à Dieu</i> bore rapidly down the Emsworth -Channel; the low-lying islands of Thorney -and Hayling were quickly passed, and, after -a buffeting on the wind-swept bar, the staunch -vessel was curtseying to the long, heavy swell -of the English Channel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere noon the Sussex Downs were but a low, -indistinct line of blue against the northern -sky, while the rounded hills of the Isle of Wight -were fading away on the starboard quarter.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then, having given the helmsman the -course by means of the lodestone that did duty -for a compass, Simeon went below to rest, -<a id='Page_35'></a>since he must needs be on deck throughout the -coming night.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The English shore is well-nigh lost to -view," remarked Oswald. "Ere morning we -ought to see the coast of France, an this wind -hold."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Aye, an we are not molested by any of the -sea rovers that infest the Channel," added -Gripwell. "Now, young sirs, I'll wager that -old Simeon will descry the French coast ere -either of your young eyes can do so."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I have heard it said that a shipmaster's -vision is better by far than a landsman's," -replied Richard Ratclyffe. "Yet I call to -mind a device that my master, Sir Thomas, -purchased from a monk of Limoges. It was -but a tube of wood filled with sundry pieces -of glass, yet one could distinguish a man's -features a league away."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By St. George, Master Ratclyffe," exclaimed -Gripwell, "thou art trying to befool us, saving -thy presence. See a man's face a league off, -forsooth! Certes, next thou'lt say that it is -possible for a person in England to clap a trumpet -to his mouth and speak to another in France. -Go to, Master Ratclyffe, Arnold Gripwell is not -to be caught by such reports."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yet such is the truth, Gripwell," replied -the squire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"When I see it I'll believe it," retorted the -man-at-arms sturdily.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere nightfall the wind dropped, and the <i>Grâce -à Dieu</i> floundered sluggishly in the long rolling -swell. Under the influence of this unaccustomed -<a id='Page_36'></a>motion Richard Ratclyffe was the first -to succumb to the woeful malady of sea-sickness. -Geoffrey was soon in like case. The others, -having crossed the sea beforetimes, were more -hardened to its usages.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Go below and lie down awhile," counselled -Arnold Gripwell. "Ere ye wake the evil will -have left you."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I would there were some other way of -crossing to France," said Geoffrey miserably.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis part of the game, and must be borne -with a good heart," replied Gripwell. "This -is the only way, and ever will be the only way, -as far as I can see, unless men devise a means -of flying thither through the air. How think ye, -Master Ratclyffe," he added slyly, but the squire -was beyond the sting of banter.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Lulled by the motion of the vessel, Geoffrey -sank into a deep yet troubled slumber, nor did -he awake till he was aroused by the man-at-arms -shaking him by the shoulder.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Up with ye, Master Geoffrey," he exclaimed. -"There's foul work without, and if so -be we can play our part every man jack will be -wanted."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What's amiss?" asked the lad, sitting up. -All feelings of sea-sickness had left him; excitement -had conquered the landsman's arch-enemy.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"On deck, and thou'lt see," replied Gripwell -curtly as he hastened to rouse the other -lads.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was a strange sight that greeted Geoffrey -Lysle as he gained the deck. Day had just -<a id='Page_37'></a>broken, and the pale grey light revealed the -presence of two ships lying a mile or so to -leeward of the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i>.</p> - -<p class='c010'>One, a tall wall-sided ship, was striving to -keep at bay a long, low-lying galley, from which -showers of arrows, quarrels, stones, and spears -were being hurled by the crowd of men who -thronged her low fo'c'sle and towering poop.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What are we to do, good Master Gripwell?" -asked Simeon, the shipmaster, anxiously. -"Yonder lies the ship <i>Brothers of Lymington</i>. -I know her well. She is a stout merchantman, -but slow; though, by St. Peter, the <i>Grâce à -Dieu</i> could scarce gain a bow-shot length on -her in an hour. The galley, if mine eyes do not -deceive me, belongs to the Republic of Genoa, -and scant mercy shall we receive at her hands. -What are we to do?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Do?" exclaimed Gripwell in high disdain. -"Why, Simeon, trick her. If we flee we are -lost, since she can sail two yards to our one. -Art willing to leave this matter in my hands?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, good Arnold," replied the shipmaster -nervously.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then, do you steer straight for yonder -ships. Ho there, Wat! Bring forth every -spear and every steel cap that is in the ship. -Thomas of Gosport, do you wind your horn -and blow a rousing blast. The rest of you, -shipmen and archers all, don steel caps and stand -fast in the waist till I give ye word."</p> - -<p class='c010'>So saying, Gripwell left the deck and went -below. Meanwhile Geoffrey and his two comrades -were struggling into their plates and steel -<a id='Page_38'></a>casques, knowing that there was hot work -afoot, yet wondering what the man-at-arms -was about.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Presently Gripwell re-appeared, bearing six -large shields of painted canvas, emblazoned -with the arms of the principal knights of Hampshire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now ye be each two knights," he shouted -light-heartedly. "Sixteen years ago come -Martinmas these devices hung in the great hall -of Warblington when Sir Oliver was wed. Ever -since that day have I kept them. Whenever I -journey by water they go with me. Now, Sir -Geoffrey, take thy place on the poop with -Sir Oswald; Sir Richard, the waist is under -thy charge. I am for the fo'c'sle."</p> - -<p class='c010'>So saying the man-at-arms proceeded to hang -the shields over the ship's sides, according to -the custom when knights adventured themselves -on the high seas. Every man had donned a -steel cap, and was grasping two and sometimes -three lances, so that the rays of the rising sun -glittered upon a small forest of steel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Turn her aside, I pray thee, Simeon, and let -yonder rogues see our knights' shields," ordered -Gripwell, and obediently the master-shipman -thrust the helm hard over so that the <i>Grâce à -Dieu</i> exposed the whole of her broadside to the -two antagonists.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now, wind thy horn once more, Thomas," -he continued as the ship resumed her course -straight for the Genoese galley. "Heaven help -us if they see through the trick," he added in an -undertone.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_39'></a>The Lymington ship, taking heart at the -prospect of a rescue, redoubled her fire of -arrows and stones, but withal the galley stuck -doggedly to her prey. Nearer and nearer came -the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i>, the lead-coloured water hissing -from her bluff bows as her huge sail caught the -rising breeze.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We must fight them," quoth Oswald, -"unless they give way. If we are to die 'tis -better to fall in the heat of the fight than to -have our throats cut in cold blood, for yon -rascals give quarter to none—not even a gentleman -of coat-armour."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Give the Lymington men a rousing cheer, -lads," shouted Gripwell. "Then stand to your -arms and fight as you have never done before. -Now, together!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>From five-and-twenty lusty throats a hoarse -shout ascended in a roar of defiance.</p> - -<p class='c010'>This was too much for the Genoese. Thinking -they had a shipload of valiant knights and their -followers to reckon with, they sheered off, the -huge sail was run up, and fifty oars splashed -in the water. Once on the move the galley -did not stop till it was a mere dot on the skyline.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A wax candle as thick as my arm shall burn -on the altar of the Church of St. Thomas à -Becket at Warblington for this great deliverance," -exclaimed the master-shipman fervently. -"I' faith, methought I had lost both -ship and life when the rogues held on."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Bear up, that we may have speech with -the <i>Brothers of Lymington</i>," said Gripwell. -"Seeing that she sails but a trifle slower than -<a id='Page_40'></a>the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i> it would be fitting that both -sailed in company."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i> drew up close alongside -the succoured merchant ship the bellowing -voice of the shipmaster of the <i>Brothers</i> was -heard thanking these gentle and courteous -knights for their timely aid.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And though I be little skilled in reading -the devices of gentlemen of coat-armour," -added a voice, "I do perceive that the shield -of my Lord Bishop of Winchester is displayed. -Bear my humble respects to his Grace, and say -that out of gratitude, I, Paul Roche, of the honourable -company of Goldsmiths of the free -borough of Southampton, do hereby promise -a bar of virgin gold to the service of the Dean -and Chapter of the See of Winchester."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Better by far give the gold to me, Master -Roche," replied Gripwell with a hearty laugh, -and to the astonishment of the passengers and -crew of the <i>Brothers</i> the story of the ruse was -unfolded.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The proposal that the two ships should complete -the voyage in company was quickly accepted, -and keeping a bow-shot apart the <i>Grâce -à Dieu</i> and the <i>Brothers</i> headed for the French -coast.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Six hours later both vessels passed between -the twin towers that guarded the entrance to -the port of Harfleur, the principal harbour of -Normandy, and Geoffrey had set foot upon -French soil.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_41'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER V<br /> <br />HOW THE MERCHANTS TRIED CONCLUSIONS WITH<br />LA BARRE</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>The three lads had little time to spend at -Harfleur. That walled town, had Geoffrey -but known, was to play an important part -in his career, but being ignorant of the future -he merely gazed at the Norman stronghold -with the curiosity common to those who find -themselves in foreign parts for the first time.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The <i>Grâce à Dieu</i> and the <i>Brothers</i> were -moored side by side in the inner harbour, -and advantage was taken of their proximity by -Master Roche and his fellow merchants to pay a -visit to the ship that had saved them from -beggary, slavery, or death.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To Rouen is it, my masters?" exclaimed -Roche. "Since that is also my intention, -why not travel in company? It so happens -that we have hired a large boat to ascend the -river; an it please you, ye are right welcome to -a passage."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Twould be well to accept the offer," replied -Arnold Gripwell, turning to Geoffrey. "'Tis -said that the roads in these parts are none too -safe for travellers, howbeit they be armed. -'Twill also save the heavy disbursement that -we must otherwise make for the hire of suitable -steeds."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_42'></a>"Alack-a-day!" groaned Richard Ratclyffe. -"Methought I had finished with the water for -some time to come."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Little needst thou consider that, Dick," -replied Geoffrey. "The river is not to be -compared with the sea. Here we shall not be -troubled by rough waves."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Be not so sure about it," remarked Gripwell, -with a roguish twinkle in his eye.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How so?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou'lt know ere long," replied the man-at-arms -shortly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Next morning at high-water the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i> -warped out into the river on her return voyage, -while the <i>Brothers</i>, compelled to wait for cargo -until the return of the English merchants from -Rouen, was left in the charge of her shipmaster -and crew.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Just before low tide a "bac" or ferry-boat -manned by a crew of Normans came alongside -the <i>Brothers</i>. This was the craft in which -Geoffrey and his comrades were to make their -sixty-mile voyage to the capital of Normandy.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The boat was about thirty feet in length, -broad of beam, and shallow draught. With the -exception of a small deck for'ard and a slightly -longer one aft, under which a low-roofed cabin -provided cramped quarters at night or in wet -weather, the boat was open. Broad thwarts or -benches for the rowers occupied the space amidships, -for oars were used except on rare occasions -when the wind was astern, and a square sail -could be set with advantage.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At the second hour of the flood the bac left -<a id='Page_43'></a>Harfleur, and under the steady, powerful strokes -of the rowers, made good progress.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey could not help noticing the apparently -erratic manner in which the bearded -helmsman steered, frequently turning the boat -in diverse way, although the general direction -was up stream.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis well he doth so," said Gripwell in -answer to the lad's question. "Were it not for -his skill we should be hard aground on one of -the many sandbanks that lie hereabout."</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length the voyagers saw that the river -was rapidly diminishing in width, while on either -hand low-lying banks were clothed in verdure, -for the hand of the spoiler had as yet left this -part of Normandy untouched.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Still maintaining their even, tireless strokes, -the rowers stuck to their task, till the villages of -Tancarville and Quillibœuf came in sight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We can go no further with the tide," exclaimed -the Norman helmsman. "See, the -river is even now overcoming the flood."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"As thou wilt, Gaston," replied Master -Roche; "but, I pray thee, put us within easy -reach of a hostel, since my throat is as dry as a -limekiln."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The <i>du Guesclin Arms</i> lieth but a bow-shot -from the quay at Quillibœuf," replied the -Norman. "There the cider is of the best, -and I wot Malmsey and sack are to be had, -to say nought of the wines of France."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then, I'll find my way to the <i>du Guesclin -Arms</i>" quoth Master Roche, filled with pleasurable -expectation. "Though I be a true -<a id='Page_44'></a>Englishman, and must needs hate the name -of yonder hostel, I'll not quarrel with its contents. -How say you, comrades; will you -bear me company?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Two of the merchants signified their acceptance -of his wishes, but the three lads chose to -remain on the quay, watching the endless procession -of strange craft as they dropped down -stream.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Gaston skilfully brought the bac alongside -the little quay, and, having secured her by two -long and stout ropes, led the way to the inn, -Arnold Gripwell, Roche, his fellow merchants, -and the wearied rowers accompanying him.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Left to themselves, the three lads sat down -in the stern of the boat, discussing the unwonted -sights as the ebb gathered strength. Now a -cog, clumsily yet strongly built, drifted down, -with only an occasional dip of a heavy oar to -keep her on her course; then a galley, resplendent -with paint and gilt, bearing a member -of the household of King Charles the Sixth of -France. Then a barge, laden with a towering -cargo of hay, jostled with a frail cock-boat -crowded with Norman peasants.</p> - -<p class='c010'>All the while the turbid river swirled and -eddied, for the heavy rains had swollen the -Seine till it had burst its banks above Rouen -and had flooded miles of fair country 'twixt that -town and the city of Paris.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Presently Gripwell returned, accompanied by -the Norman helmsman and his crew. The latter -sat listlessly on their thwarts, while the man-at-arms -beguiled the lads during the hours of -<a id='Page_45'></a>waiting with stories of the past when the English -armies overran the greater part of France.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Suddenly Gaston started to his feet; a low -distant roar, like the rumble of summer thunder, -caught his well-trained ear.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"<i>Vite, vite, mes enfants!</i>" he shouted. "<i>La -barre!</i>"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Instantly the hitherto inactive rowers were -transformed into alert and energetic seamen. -The holding-ropes were cast off, the oars fell -betwixt the thole-pins and the boat, driving -her out towards the middle of the Seine. Yet, -notwithstanding the men's efforts, the craft -made no headway against the stream.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Why thus?" asked Oswald. "The tide -is still against us, and, moreover, our friends -still tarry at the inn."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Dost not hear the distant roar?" asked -Gripwell. "'Tis what men in these parts call -the Mascaret or La Barre, though to English ears -'bore' sounds more familiar."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile all the other boats that were -moored to the bank began to put off into midstream, -their occupants joining in the warning -cry.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey looked down stream, and a strange -and awe-inspiring sight met his gaze. Stretching -from bank to bank came an enormous wave, -eight or more feet in height. Its line was bent -into the form of a crescent, the two shoreward -extremities being in advance of the centre, and -breaking furiously along the shore, to the -accompaniment of an ever-increasing roar.</p> - -<p class='c010'>While the Englishmen were looking with -<a id='Page_46'></a>considerable apprehension at the progress of -the bore, fully expecting that their craft would -be engulfed in the wall of water, a shout from -the bank caused them to glance shore wards.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Master Roche and his three boon companions -had left the inn and were standing on the quay, -unable to understand the cause of their fellow -travellers' desertion.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Come back, robbers, come back," shouted -the Southampton man. The approaching -danger was disregarded or unnoticed in his -excitement.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then, espying a small boat hauled up the bank -out of harm's way, the angry merchants lustily -dragged it to the water's edge.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"<i>Arrêtez, messieurs, pour l'amour de Notre -Dame</i>," shouted the Norman helmsman, waving -his free arm frantically by way of warning.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But the thick-headed Englishmen were not -to be thwarted in their desire to regain the bac. -The light craft was launched, and the four -merchants awkwardly jumped into it. Fortunately, -there were oars in the boat, and in a -measure they were able to keep control over -the frail cockleshell. More than that they could -not do, and like a straw the boat was whisked -down stream.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The bore was within two hundred yards ere -the merchants realized their danger. Terror -seized them, and in a mad endeavour to escape -they did the worst possible thing—they rowed -desperately for the shore.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Nothing could be done to save the inexperienced -merchants from the impending disaster. -<a id='Page_47'></a>All the nerve and skill at the Norman's command -was required to attend to the safety of the -bac.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A hurried order, and the boat was turned -bows on to the approaching wave, while the -rowers bent and strained at their oars to give the -craft sufficient way to mount the watery wall.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hold fast!" cautioned Gripwell to the -lads.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The next instant the boat's bows were lifted -high in the air till the craft seemed to stand on -end. With a sickening shudder the bac remained -for a few seconds poised upon a quivering, -unstable pivot; then the long craft slid -down the other side of the mountainous wave -into comparatively calm water.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Anxiously Geoffrey and his comrades looked -for their fellow-travellers. The little skiff, -caught broadside on by the billow, had been -rolled over and over, and was floating keel uppermost -in the still ruffled water. Three of its -late occupants were clinging to this slender -support, while midway between the upturned -boat and the shore the head of the unfortunate -Master Roche was seen bobbing up and down.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The merchant was a good swimmer, and -breasted the stream right manfully, but it -was a question whether he would reach the -bank ere the arrival of the second wave, which -usually follows the first at a distance of about -two hundred yards.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Quickly Gaston took in the state of affairs. -The men clinging to the water-logged boat must -first be rescued, and that quickly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ordering his men to pull easily he steered -towards the hapless merchants. Two were -quickly hauled in, but the work of rescuing -the third, a heavily-built man, proved a harder -task.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Leaning far over the side, the Norman steersman -essayed to assist, but being jolted by -one of his excitable fellow-countrymen, he -overbalanced and fell headlong into the river.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Waterman born and bred though he was, -Gaston could not swim a stroke. Raising -his hands despairingly above his head and -uttering a yell of terror, he sank, whereupon, -without a moment's hesitation, Geoffrey unbuckled -his sword-belt and took a flying leap -after him.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But the lad had not counted the cost of his -brave act. The terrified Norman gripped him -round the neck in a vice-like grasp, while during -the one brief moment that the English lad's -head rose above the water he saw the second wave -bearing down upon them.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With irresistible fury the billow overwhelmed -both the drowning man and his would-be rescuer. -To Geoffrey it seemed as if he was buried -fathoms deep in the icy-cold water, while his -ears were well-nigh bursting under the pressure -of the wave and the bulldog grip of the half-suffocated -Norman.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_48'></a>Just as the lad's breath and strength were -failing his head appeared above water; at the -same time the grasp at his throat relaxed, -and he was able to take in a full, deep draught -of life-giving air. With a sudden jerk he freed -himself of the Norman's grip, and ere the man -sank Geoffrey had him by the hair.</p> - -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<img src='images/i_058.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' /> -<div class='ic002'> -<p>"IT DID NOT TAKE LONG FOR THE ENGLISHMEN TO GRASP THE SITUATION."</p> -</div> -</div> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_49'></a>But the coldness of the water and the effect -of his almost superhuman efforts were beginning -to tell. His strokes became feebler, his chin sank -lower in the water, yet his hold on the Norman -was not relaxed. Then, just as his strength -failed, he was dimly conscious of a babel of -English and Norman voices close above him; -eager hands grasped him by the shoulder, -and as he and Gaston were dragged into safety -he fell senseless upon the bottom of the -boat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>When Geoffrey came to himself the dreaded -bore and its attendant dangers were past. -The boat was progressing rapidly with the -now favouring flood-tide. Master Roche and -his companions, arrayed in a medley of borrowed -garments, were sheltering from the strong wind -in the little cabin, while Gaston, who had -quickly recovered from the effect of his immersion, -was at his customary post at the helm.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Oswald, Richard Ratclyffe, Gripwell, and -the English archers were gathered round the -limp body of their brave comrade, and great -was their joy when he revived.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou must needs lie quiet, Master Geoffrey," -exclaimed the old man-at-arms, as the lad -attempted to raise himself on one elbow. "We -need fear no more from the bore, for we are nigh -to Villequier, where we can find shelter and -refreshment at <i>La Dame Dorée</i>. Certes! What -a story for the folks at Warblington."</p> - -<p class='c010'>That night, after the bac had been safely -<a id='Page_50'></a>moored, Gaston came up to the inn where -Geoffrey was.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Young sir," he exclaimed simply, "I thank -thee for thy deed this day. Though I fear 'tis -of little use to say it, bear in mind that if I, -Gaston le Noir, can be of service to thee at any -time, my dwelling is at La Broie, hard by the -town of Harfleur."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Twas but a small matter," replied Geoffrey. -"Yet should it come to pass that I have need of -thee, Gaston, I'll remember La Broie, hard by -the town of Harfleur."</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_51'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER VI<br /> <br />THE AFFRAY BY THE RIVER</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>Next morning a dense fog hung over the -valley of the Seine, so that it was impossible -to see across to the opposite bank. -Nevertheless, the Englishmen were anxious -to resume the journey, and, being assured by -Gaston that he could steer the boat, even were -the fog twice as thick, they embarked once -more.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Presently the sun became visible through the -white wreathing vapour—a pale, watery-looking -disc. Then a cold westerly breeze, insufficient -to disperse the mist, sprang up, so that the -Norman, eager to save the muscles of his men, -ordered the sail to be set.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Above Villequier the windings of the river -were not sufficient to necessitate windward -work, so by merely trimming the sail as the -course was altered the boat could pursue her -onward way.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Hardly a word was spoken. The fog seemed -to affect the spirits both of the mercurial Frenchmen -and the more reticent Englishmen, and in -silence, save for an occasional order from the -steersman as the sheets required attention, -the party made rapid progress with wind and -tide.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_52'></a>"Yonder lies the Dos d'Ane," remarked -Gaston, pointing to a distant hill. "Close -under its shadow boats can shelter from la -barre."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I trow, master, we have had enough of -this terrible bore," observed Roche. "Certes! -Even now I have the taste of Seine water in -my throat, in spite of a good stoup of sack."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Not one good stoup only, gossip," corrected -one of his companions.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"As thou wilt, Thomas; but I pray three, ere -thou wouldst——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Master Roche's words were interrupted by a -low "hist" from the steersman.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis but the cry of a bittern," remarked -Ratclyffe.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"<i>Ma foi!</i> If thou canst liken yonder sound -to a bird's call thou hast no right to wear -sword," retorted Gripwell, excitement outweighing -his deference. "E'en though the wind -bloweth away from us, I can make out the clash -of arms and the shouts of the combatants. -Now, am I not right?" he continued, as a lull -in the breeze enabled the Englishmen to hear -the subdued clatter of a distant encounter.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Steer towards the bank, Gaston," exclaimed -Geoffrey. "Perchance we can be of -some slight service to those in the right."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Certes! I care not which be in the right -or wrong," added Gripwell, for the old war-dog -had scented the battle from afar. "Give -me room for sword-play on the weaker side, -and that will suffice. How say you, Master -Roche?"</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_53'></a>"I and my fellow merchants are men of -peace," replied Roche sturdily. "But if we can -be of service we'll follow thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>So saying, the Southampton man dived into -the cabin, reappearing with a sheaf of swords, -which he distributed amongst his companions.</p> - -<p class='c010'>By this time the boat was nearing the bank, -and above the clash of arms and the oaths -and exclamations of pain and anger rose the -shrill shriek of a woman.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fall on, comrades!" shouted Gripwell, as -the bows of the craft slid gently against the rush-lined -bank, and with an agility that was surprising -for his years the man-at-arms leapt ashore -brandishing a long two-handed sword.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey, Oswald, and Ratclyffe hastened -after him, the four merchants and the three -archers vieing with each other in their haste to -follow him to the scene of the encounter.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The fog had cleared sufficiently for Geoffrey -and his comrades to discern a confused throng -of combatants at a little distance from the bank, -where a road ran parallel with the river.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It did not take long for the Englishmen to -grasp the situation. Standing shoulder to -shoulder, with brandished spear and sword, -were six or seven men. Sheltering behind them -was a woman, but whether young or old the newcomers -could not tell, since she was in a huddled -posture, with her head covered by her coif.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Surrounding the little band swarmed a score -or more of repulsive-looking ruffians, armed -similarly to their opponents. Men had fallen -on both sides, while two horses, one dead, the -<a id='Page_54'></a>other hamstrung, added to the carnage. At a -distance of twenty paces along the road two of -the villainous rogues were holding an elderly -woman, and it was she who was giving vent -to the piercing cries that the Englishmen had -heard as they sped towards the shore.</p> - -<p class='c010'>There was no mistaking the situation. The -ladies and their armed attendants had been assailed -by a stronger and more numerous band—either -the servants of some turbulent and rascally -baron or a party of men acting for their -own profit, for armed robbers swarmed on -French soil during the troublous feud betwixt -the Orleanist and Burgundian factions.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Even the timely arrival of the Englishmen -did not have the effect of causing the assailants -to beat a hasty retreat. Instead they held -their ground, striving by a supreme effort to -beat down the slender ring of steel that surrounded -the crouching figure in the centre.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In an instant Arnold Gripwell had launched -himself into the thickest of the press. The long -two-handed sword flashed, sweeping and thrusting -with the skill and force of long usage.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Nor were the three lads backward in their -efforts. The young heir of Warblington, carried -away by the heat of the fight—even though -'twas the first time he had crossed steel in action—found -himself confronted by a tall, lithe rascal -clad in a padded leather coat and flowing gabardine, -and armed with a short, heavy sword.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Avoiding a powerful downward cut, Geoffrey -sprang lightly aside, his antagonist's blade -missing his left shoulder by a hair's breadth. -<a id='Page_55'></a>With a swift lunge the lad wounded his foe -in the neck, but was almost immediately repaid -by a cut that, falling short, gashed his -face.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere the man could recover himself Geoffrey's -blade sped home, and at the same time Oswald -succeeded in cutting down his opponent.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Of what happened during the next few minutes -Sir Oliver's son had but a confused knowledge; -but the rogues had suffered severely, and already -most of them who were uninjured were -seeking safety in flight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Of the two men who guarded the elder -woman, one had taken to his heels, but the -other, pushing his captive in front of him, -stood, crossbow to shoulder, seeking to cover his -comrade's flight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Stung to fury by his wound, Geoffrey -cast all discretion to the winds. Calling Oswald -to follow him, he dashed towards the cross-bowman, -heedless of the menacing weapon that -was aimed full at his body, though he was protected -neither by shield nor breastplate.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The woman saw the danger to which her -would-be rescuer was exposed, and, adroitly -slipping to the ground, she drew a small dagger -and plunged it to the hilt into her captor's -side. With a yell of pain the man dropped -his cross-bow, pressed his hand to his wound, -and turned to flee. But Geoffrey's blade swung -through the air, and with a shriek the robber fell -dead.</p> - -<p class='c010'>That terminated the fight. Nine of the -robbers and four of their opponents had been -<a id='Page_56'></a>slain, while four on each side had been grievously -wounded, including one of the English archers, -who was already dying.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile Oswald had assisted the elder lady -to rise.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By St. Denis!" she exclaimed. "To -think that my silver dagger should be sullied -by the blood of a base routier. But I am forgetting. -I have to thank thee, sir, and thy -comrades for this timely assistance. I trust thou -art a gentleman of coat armour?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Oswald hastened to assure the haughty dame -that both he and his two friends were of noble -birth.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The saints be praised!" was the lady's -remark. "It would ill-become the wife of -Sir Raoul d'Aulx, seigneur of Maissons, to be -beholden to bourgeois or villein."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey felt tempted to point out that 'twas -with the aid of the merchants and the common -archers that the affair had been decided, but -the announcement of the lady's title completely -took him by surprise.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Certes!" he exclaimed. "This is passing -strange. It is to Sir Raoul d'Aulx that my -companion here, Richard Ratclyffe, squire to Sir -Thomas Carberry, Governor of Portchester Castle, -doth bear a letter from his lord."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then perchance thou canst do us a further -service," replied Lady d'Aulx. "Since our -horses are done for and many of our men have -fallen, it may be possible for us to journey -to Rouen together."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Our boat, though inconveniently crowded, -<a id='Page_57'></a>is at thy service, madame," said Roche, who -was busily engaged in completing the binding of -a slight cut on his wrist.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Boat, quotha! I like not this mode of -travelling; yet 'tis better than nothing at all. -But, sir, thy name and rank?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>The Southampton merchant quailed beneath -the imperious glance of the haughty French -woman. Shuffling his feet uneasily, he tried -to make reply.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"My worthy friend hath ever been bashful -in the presence of beauty," explained Ratclyffe -with courtier-like quickness. "He bears the -name of Sir Paul Roche, of Lucre Castle, hard by -the town of Southampton."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Greetings, Sir Paul," exclaimed Sir Raoul's -wife, as the pseudo-knight gallantly kissed her -hand. "But 'tis to no purpose to dally here. -Aimée, my belle, come hither; it is to these -honourable cavaliers that we owe our preservation."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Aimée d'Aulx, Sir Raoul's only daughter, -was a tall, graceful maiden of about thirteen -years of age, with dark chestnut tresses and a -wondrous clear complexion. She had now completely -recovered from her fright, and Geoffrey -especially could not help noticing her beauty. -While possessing a certain sense of dignity, -she lacked the haughty mien of her mother, -and unaffectedly she presented her hand to be -saluted by Geoffrey and his companions, including -"Sir Paul," who, having regained his composure, -seemed not a little tickled by his newly-acquired -position.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_58'></a>Arnold Gripwell had meanwhile given the -archers orders to dispatch the wounded robbers, -according to the custom of the Middle Ages, -when human life was cheaply esteemed in the -case of common men who were unable to pay -ransom.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I pray thee examine yonder rogue," said -the Lady d'Aulx, pointing to the corpse of the -cross-bowman who had held her captive. "Methinks -he was the leader of the rabble, yet I trow -he is no base-born serf."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The old man-at-arms strode over to the spot -where the dead ruffian lay, and with a kick turned -the body over on its back.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"See here, Master Geoffrey," he shouted. "I' -faith, though thou wert reckless enow in rushing -in upon a levelled cross-bow, the rogue was but -playing a trick. See, here is the string still -notched, but no sign of a quarrel."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then he was a brave man to cover his comrade's -retreat with a boltless bow," replied the lad.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And thou equally brave, not knowing that -thy life was saved by this man being without -a shaft," added Gripwell.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By St. George, what have we here?" he -continued, tearing aside the dead man's cloak -and disclosing a small device upon the left -breast of his doublet. "A red axe upon a field -of murrey. Dost know this cognizance, Master -Geoffrey?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, forsooth," replied the lad.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then I trust that thou wilt ever see it in -the dust. 'Tis the coat of Yves, Lord of Malevereux."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_59'></a>"Surely this is not the corpse of the man -who holds my father captive?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, young sir; the Lord of Malevereux is -great in stature and inclined to stoutness. -Moreover, 'tis unreasonable to suppose that -he would lead in person a band of churlish cut-throats -such as these. Without doubt they are -of the household of Malevereux."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Of Malevereux?" exclaimed the Lady -d'Aulx. "Then I do perceive how matters stand. -This base-born Yves knew that I was journeying -'twixt Harfleur and Rouen, and doubtless -thought to hold me to ransom. My faith, if Sir -Raoul doth not bring him to book for this, may I -never break bread again."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis to this purpose that I am sent to the -Castle of Maissons, madame," said Ratclyffe. -"So that they of Taillemartel should join forces -with the garrison of Maissons 'gainst this villainous -Yves."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Young squire, in the name of Sir Raoul -d'Aulx I shall welcome thee and thine to Maissons, -yet methinks that this matter concerning -the combining of the two garrisons must wait, -seeing that Sir Raoul hath been called to Paris -by his Sovereign."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"When will he return, fair lady?" asked -Geoffrey anxiously.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, that I cannot say; but rest assured, -young sir, that thine anxiety concerning the -chastisement of the Lord of Malevereux is not -greater than mine."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The Englishmen and the party they had -succoured embarked upon the boat, and the -<a id='Page_60'></a>journey up stream was resumed. Ere sunset -on the following day the city of Rouen was -reached, and Gaston was dismissed with liberal -payment.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Here, after a night's rest, the travellers dispersed. -Paul Roche and his fellow merchants -addressed themselves to the disposal of their -wares; the Lady d'Aulx and her attendants, -accompanied by Richard Ratclyffe, set out on -the road to Maissons; while Geoffrey, Oswald, -and Arnold Gripwell, with the two surviving -archers, took horse and were soon speeding -on their way to Taillemartel.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_61'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER VII<br /> <br />HOW GEOFFREY CAME TO TAILLEMARTEL</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>A few leagues from the city of Rouen -Geoffrey and his companions began to -come across evidences of the fearful struggle -'twixt Burgundians and Orleanists.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Here would be seen a "Burgundian mitre"—the -scorched and blackened gables of a partially -demolished cottage; there the corpse of some -unfortunate peasant dangling from the withered -branch of a tree. Ever the air reeked of charcoal -and of the fetid odours emanating from -carcases of unburied cattle; for the marauders -ruthlessly slew every four-footed creature that -they were unable to drive off to their embattled -retreats.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Utmost caution had to be exercised by the -English travellers, since they were not strong -enough to hope to successfully repel the attacks -of any but the smaller bands of freebooters. -Twice they were compelled to take refuge in -friendly woods. Once a détour of three leagues -was necessary, owing to the approach of suspicious -parties of horsemen, so that the sun had -set ere Geoffrey arrived at the portals of his -father's Norman castle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the gloom the lad could distinguish the -outlines of two massive circular twin towers -<a id='Page_62'></a>connected by a battlemented wall, pierced by a -lofty gateway concealed by the raised drawbridge. -On either side of the towers the wall -ran for a distance of about fifty yards till it -joined another circular though smaller tower -forming the angle of the fortified work. Within, -the summit of a square keep was just visible -above the battlements. Barbican or outwork -there was none, but a deep moat surrounded the -castle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What think ye of Taillemartel?" asked -Gripwell as the cavalcade reined in their steeds -at the edge of the moat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis a noble pile, Arnold," replied Geoffrey, -"though not so large as Warblington, I trow. -But how——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey's words were interrupted by a hoarse -shout from the battlements, and a sentinel demanded -the names and errand of the newcomers.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"They keep good ward," remarked Oswald, -as one of the English archers who was about -to sound a tucket thrust his trumpet behind -him.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ho, there! Who comes?" repeated the -sentinel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I would have speech with the seneschal," -replied Gripwell.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In a few minutes torches flickered behind -the battlements, glittering on steel headpiece -and breastplate; then a voice exclaimed: -"Here am I, Bertrand de Vaux, seneschal to my -Lord Oliver Lysle. Who would have speech -with me at this unseemly hour?"</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_63'></a>"Sir Oliver's son stands without, and would -be admitted."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I wot not that Sir Oliver's son was coming -hither," replied the seneschal. "What proof -have I that ye are not of Malevereux, or of -Entrevilles, or of Faux?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A truce to thy stubbornness, Bertrand," -shouted Oswald. "Dost recognize my voice? -I am Oswald Steyning, Sir Oliver's squire."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A thousand pardons, monsieur. Now I -know 'tis no trick or stratagem. Nevertheless, -be it known that Sir Oliver's strict injunctions -allow neither the gate nor the sally-port to be -opened after sunset, save by virtue of his written -order."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Doth that also apply to the drawbridge?" -asked Gripwell.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay," replied the seneschal. "That I will -have lowered, but to what purpose?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hast ever heard how the blessed St. Paul -left the city of Damascus? I pray thee lower -ropes from the battlements if naught else will -serve, and I'll warrant that this night we'll -slumber quietly within the walls of Taillemartel."</p> - -<p class='c010'>To this suggestion there was no verbal response, -but almost immediately the iron chains -of the drawbridge creaked and clanked as the -ponderous wooden structure fell slowly on its -hinges.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile the two archers had tethered the -horses of the party in a meadow hard by the -moat. This done, Geoffrey and his companions -crossed the drawbridge, to find three stout, -<a id='Page_64'></a>noosed ropes dangling from the almost invisible -heights above.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Spinning round and round like a joint on a -jack, Geoffrey was drawn up, and in this somewhat -undignified manner he made his entry into -his father's Norman home.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Oswald and Gripwell followed, the ropes being -again lowered for the two archers, and soon -the travellers found themselves standing on the -battlements surrounded by the eighty men-at-arms -and archers comprising the garrison of -Taillemartel, but it was not until the letter -bearing the Lady Bertha's signature and the -seal of Warblington was produced and read -that the seneschal led the round of cheering -that greeted Sir Oliver's son.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Bertrand de Vaux was a short, broad-shouldered, -bull-necked Norman, of about forty years -of age. Muscular strength was evinced by his -frame, while his deep-set eyes and heavy -square-cut chin denoted resolution and determination -akin to obstinacy.</p> - -<p class='c010'>He was soberly attired in a close-fitting suit -of green cloth slashed with red, while a silver -belt, ornamented with the arms of the Lysles, -encircled his waist. On his head he wore a -velvet cap of maintenance ornamented by a -silver clasp, also stamped with the turbot and -the stars, while his feet were encased in untanned -leather shoes, the toes of which terminated in -long points that for convenience' sake were -turned upwards and fastened to the wearer's -calves by means of silver buckles.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I pray you bear me company to the banqueting-hall," -<a id='Page_65'></a>said the seneschal addressing -Geoffrey and Oswald. "I doubt not that Taillemartel -can still provide a repast fitting for Sir -Oliver's son, e'en though Sir Oliver himself be -not here to have the ordering of it."</p> - -<p class='c010'>So saying, he led the way to the hall where -the men-servants had already prepared a plentiful -repast of cold venison, pheasants, long rolls -of bread, and a copious supply of mead and -wine.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Arnold Gripwell had partaken himself to the -quarters of the <i>sous-officiers</i>, while the archers -had to content themselves with company of the -Norman soldiery, but their slight knowledge -of the foreign tongue was sufficient to enable -them to carry on a conversation with their new -comrades.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hast heard or seen aught of Sir Yves of -Malevereux?" asked Geoffrey, as they were -doing full duty towards the viands.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Of Sir Yves nothing; of his following overmuch. -Thrice within the last fortnight have his -men appeared within sight of Taillemartel. -Yet though they did us no scath, they did not -hesitate to mock at us. <i>Ma foi</i>, when they -mentioned the name of Sir Oliver, and taunted -us that we were children not to stir on his behalf -'twas as much as I could do to keep my men in -hand. Yet seeing that they of Malevereux -were thrice as many, and that little or no good -was to come of adventuring ourselves 'gainst -them in the open, I kept our men within walls."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I trust that they have done no harm to the -tenantry?"</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_66'></a>"Only to Pierre, the wood-cutter," replied -Bertram carelessly. "Poor fool, he would not -take shelter within the castle as the rest have -done, so they slew him on his own threshold—not -before he had killed two of the villains."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now that is good cheer," continued the -seneschal, when Geoffrey had told him of the -proposed alliance with Sir Raoul d'Aulx. "By -St. Denis, with three hundred men-at-arms, -archers, and cross-bowmen 'gainst it, Malevereux -will assuredly fall. And then——Ah, with Sir -Oliver set free, and the plunder of two score -years within our grasp, life will be worth -living."</p> - -<p class='c010'>On the morning following the arrival of the -Englishmen at Taillemartel, Oswald Steyning -set out to deliver the letter from the Lady Bertha -to Sir Yves de Malevereux.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In spite of the young squire's forebodings, -he persevered in his determination of bearding -the Tyrant in his den. Refusing to take any -of the garrison as an escort, he bade farewell to -Geoffrey and his friends, both English and -Norman; then, trusting to chance to avoid -straggling parties of raiders (though the fact -that he bore a letter addressed to the Tyrant -might afford him safe conduct), he rode forth -from the sheltering walls of Taillemartel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>From that moment it seemed as if the earth -had opened and swallowed up the bold and -devoted squire of Sir Oliver Lysle. Day after -day passed, yet Oswald did not return. Reluctantly -Geoffrey had to admit that, unless some -misadventure had befallen his friend on the -<a id='Page_67'></a>way, Sir Yves had been guilty of a gross breach -of faith, and had made the young squire captive -in the gloomy castle of Malevereux.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For the next fifteen days following Oswald's -departure nothing of interest occurred to break -the ordinary routine observed at Taillemartel. -Occasionally parties of horsemen, bearing Sir -Yves' livery, would appear before the castle, -but they wisely forbore from approaching within -bow-shot. Nevertheless, Geoffrey had not been -idle. Under Gripwell's tutorage he studiously -practised the use of the lance, sword and mace, -or engaged in tourneys with blunted lances. -Hard knocks were given and received with good -grace, and day by day the heir of Warblington -made rapid progress in the art of war.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length Richard Ratclyffe arrived at the -castle, his crestfallen face forewarning the garrison -of the failure of his mission. Sir Raoul had -been summoned to Paris to attend upon the -Dauphin, and for an apparently indefinite -time the Castle of Maissons was to be shorn -of its numerous soldiery, a bare thirty men-at-arms -and cross-bowmen being left to hold -the fortress during its lord's absence.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I can only return to my master, Sir Thomas -Carberry, with assurances of Sir Raoul's condolence," -exclaimed Ratclyffe ruefully. "That -is but cold comfort, yet 'tis better than nothing -at all. But on the other hand, Geoffrey, there -are great doings afoot. I heard, on the authority -of one of the French king's attendants, -that our King Harry hath formally presented his -claim to the throne of France. Failing an -<a id='Page_68'></a>immediate compliance he vows that he will submit -his claim to the arbitrament of the sword."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis good news," replied Geoffrey enthusiastically, -but the brow of the Norman seneschal -clouded ominously.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"France for the Frenchmen," said he. "So -long as Sir Oliver holds Taillemartel as a fief -of King Charles I am content. With Burgundian -fighting Orleanist I am likewise content to -side with the Duke of Burgundy. Should he -think fit to make alliance with your King Henry -'tis well; but failing that, how can I, Bertrand -de Vaux, stand aloof when English armies tread -on French soil?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Have a care, sir, lest you fall betwixt two -stools," exclaimed Ratclyffe. "'Tis said that -Burgundy favours King Henry's claim."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"If that be so, I, too, am with him; yet at -heart I am a Frenchman."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Time will prove, good Bertrand. Meanwhile, -concerning the matter in hand; it is my purpose -to journey homewards to-morrow, Geoffrey, so if -thou hast a message to send to Warblington I -will be the bearer."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Since so little has been done towards setting -free my father, I am at a loss what to say," replied -Geoffrey, sadly. "But this: bear my -mother my most dutiful expressions of regard, -and tell her that by the blessing of God I am in -good health. Also that I am striving to do my -devoirs as a true Lysle."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Late in the afternoon of the day following -Ratclyffe's departure, a small cavalcade was -observed to be rapidly approaching the castle. -<a id='Page_69'></a>The battlements were immediately manned, -the gates shut, and the drawbridge raised, -while speculation was rife as to the object of the -new-comers.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Without hesitation the little band rode fearlessly -up to the edge of the moat. There were -but seven, all most magnificently mounted -and accoutred, while their leader bore the -French Royal arms upon his surcoat—the silver -lilies upon an azure field. A horn was sounded, -and admittance was demanded for a herald of -King Charles of France. Upon this the drawbridge -was lowered, and the gates thrown -open.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Welcome, Sir Jacques d'Erquai," exclaimed -the seneschal, recognizing the new arrival as a -distinguished knight of the French Court. -"What is thy pleasure?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I ask entertainment for me and mine this -night, Bertrand. To-morrow we hasten towards -Harfleur, for my royal master hath deigned -to favour me. In sooth, I am ambassador-extraordinary -to the King of England."</p> - -<p class='c010'>That evening Sir Jacques was the guest at -Taillemartel. During his stay he spoke but -little concerning the nature of his mission. -When, however, he had taken his departure, -Arnold Gripwell approached the English lad, -his face working with excitement.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yesternight I lay low and said but little, -though mine ears were as busy as a housewife's -fingers. Certes, though I understand that this -Sir Jacques d'Erquai kept a proper curb on his -tongue, his varlets lacked common discretion. -<a id='Page_70'></a>What, think ye, is the Dauphin's answer to our -Sovereign Lord's demands?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Surely the Dauphin will not submit -tamely?" suggested Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Of a surety he will not," continued the man-at-arms. -"Not only hath he refused the king's -conditions, but he hath gone further; by the -hand of Sir Jacques he hath sent an insulting -message, together with a present."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The message?" asked Geoffrey eagerly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To fully understand the message 'tis necessary -to know the nature of the present, young -sir. In short, the Dauphin has sent a box of -tennis balls with the message that King Harry -would do better to find amusement with them -rather than present a claim to the crown of -France."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"After that there can be but one issue," -remarked Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay—war," was Gripwell's curt response.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_71'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER VIII<br /> <br />OF THE AMBUSH LAID BY THE MEN OF TAILLEMARTEL</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>Slowly the months sped, yet towards taking -any definite steps to secure his father's -release Geoffrey could do little or nothing.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The realization of his two great hopes—the -return of Sir Raoul from the French capital, and -the expected invasion by King Henry—seemed -too uncertain. The feast of St. Silvester—a -critical time in the affairs of Sir Oliver Lysle—was -now but a few days off, and, as the rapidly -dwindling interval appreciably diminished, -the need for action on the part of his son became -more and more urgent.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Early one morning in June a horseman rode -with loose rein up to the castle with the news of -the approach of a strong body of mounted men -from Malevereux, and that the invaders' intention -was undoubtedly to sack and plunder the -village of Taillemartel, that, up to the present, -had escaped the unwelcome attentions of the -ruthless Sir Yves. Possibly its proximity to -the castle had accounted for its immunity -hitherto, but with the force at his command -on this occasion the Lord of Malevereux doubtless -thought the opportunity had come to sack -the village.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_72'></a>"Now is the time to gain honour and distinction, -young sir," quoth Gripwell to his charge, -as he hurried from the armoury with his harness -but partly buckled, and a sheaf of weapons under -his arm. "'Tis not for me to give orders, -but saving thy presence, I would suggest that -we take steps to thwart these rogues of Malevereux. -Though they be the stronger party -I have but little doubt that by stratagem we may -worst them."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How so, Arnold?" asked Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thus," was the reply, and the man-at-arms -proceeded to unfold a carefully prepared plan -of action.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey and the seneschal expressed their -unstinted admiration of Gripwell's proposal, -and without a moment's hesitation the plan was -put into execution.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Leaving but ten men to guard the castle -Geoffrey led the rest of the garrison to the -village, which lay but two bow-shots from the -walls of Taillemartel. Here the soldiers proceeded -to occupy the cottages on either side of the -only road that passed through the little village, -while outposts were placed with instructions -to hasten back to the main body without being -perceived, on the first sign of the approach of -the enemy.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Already the terrified peasants were busily -engaged in removing such of their scanty goods -and chattels that were capable of being easily -carried away, while the womenfolk and children -were streaming in a disorderly mob along the -dusty road leading to the castle.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_73'></a>"Bid those villeins stop, young sir," exclaimed -Gripwell, pointing with his sword towards -the mob of villagers. "They do but -hinder our work of making good the defences."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Calmly Geoffrey walked across to where the -peasants were, the seneschal accompanying him. -Like the rest of their men they were unmounted, -so that the risk of being seen by the enemy was -considerably reduced.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Listen, men," exclaimed Sir Oliver's son in -the Norman patois, for, like most of the knights -and squires of that period, he could speak the -French tongue. "Listen, men, and if ye be -worthy of the name, I pray you desist from -this work of removing your goods. Is it not -better to have a thatch over your heads than a -few sorry remnants of your belongings without -a cottage wherein to store them? We are here, -by God's help, to protect you from the rogues of -Malevereux. Were it otherwise 'twould have -been more profitable to remain within the walls -of Taillemartel and let the village take its -chance.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now," he went on, "this is my pleasure; -let all those who have any regard for their own -skins and faith in the protecting arm of their -over-lord—let these stand firm and assist in -the defence of their hearths and homes. Those -who are not so disposed, let them hasten behind -the walls of Taillemartel—but, be it understood, -not a stick of their goods must be borne hence."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Of the three-score male inhabitants only four -took advantage of Geoffrey's offer to gain the -shelter of the castle, and, amid the hooting and -<a id='Page_74'></a>hissing of their fellows, and the rude jibes of -the soldiers, they slunk sheepishly away.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Those of the peasants who stood firm were -ordered to drag their wagons and ploughs -to the end of the village street nearer the castle, -and to pile them in a rough breastwork that was -practically impassable by mounted men.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Eagerly the villagers obeyed. Fired by the -ardour of their young seigneur they gained -both strength and resolution, so that in a very -short space of time the crowd of demoralized -peasants was changed into a band of determined -and comparatively disciplined men.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now get you gone to your houses," continued -Geoffrey, speaking according to Gripwell's -suggestions. "Arm yourselves with -scythes, flails, clubs, or any other weapon -ye may have to hand. Moreover, lay in a -supply of stones, but, on pain of severe punishment, -let no man stir or show himself until he -hears a trumpet blown."</p> - -<p class='c010'>In a wonderfully short time the village street -was almost deserted, for the men-at-arms, archers -and cross-bowmen had already taken up their -quarters within the houses. Only Geoffrey, -Gripwell, the seneschal, and a few archers -remained without. Venturing to the furthermost -end of the village they awaited the arrival -of the outposts with news of the approach of -the men of Malevereux.</p> - -<p class='c010'>They had not long to wait. Wellnigh breathless, -with his arms pressed closely to his sides, -a lightly-clad archer ran towards the village, -taking advantage of every depression in the -<a id='Page_75'></a>ground that might serve to hide him from the -foe. Close behind him ran another, and, a -bow-shot in the rear, a third. All bore the -same tidings. A body of mounted men, estimated -at nearly two hundred, and led by Sir -Yves in person, was even now within a league of -the village.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sir Yves, himself!" ejaculated Gripwell. -"Certes, if we cannot bring him to earth, may -I never see Warblington again. Pass the word, -Florestan," he continued, addressing an archer, -"that one cross-bowman in each house reserve -his quarrel especially for the Tyrant of Malevereux. -A crown for the man who brings him -down."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As the archer ran to communicate the order -the man-at-arms turned to Geoffrey: "Tis -time that we took cover, young sir. Be of good -heart, for I'll warrant that these wolves will -turn tail and make off faster than they came. -My place is by the side of my master's son. -But above all things take heed that not a bow -be loosed nor a stone thrown till the tucket -sounds."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Barely had the defenders retired to their -rude defences ere the followers of Sir Yves -appeared; for, deeming the village an easy -prey, they had ridden furiously upon it to plunder -and kill.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Fortunately for Gripwell's plan the cottages -standing more remote from the castle were -meaner than those in the middle of the village. -This fact was evidently known to the men of -Malevereux, for, without waiting to despoil -<a id='Page_76'></a>the poorer houses, they passed on towards -that part of the hamlet where most plunder was -likely to be obtained.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the van, composed of mounted men-at-arms, -clad in quilted coats, breastplates and iron -caps, rode a person of quality, for he was armed -cap-à-pied in steel, and bore a shield with the -device the red axe. Previous to entering the -village he had closed his visor, so that his features -were not visible.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Is yon knight the Tyrant Sir Yves?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Without a doubt," replied Gripwell in an -undertone. "But 'tis ill that such a gap divides -two companies; the van will have reached the -barricade ere the rear-guard rides fairly into the -trap."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Who, then, is this?" continued the lad, -as a short, broad-shouldered man passed at the -head of the rear-guard.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The leader of the second company was clad -in a complete suit of chain armour, similar -to that in vogue two centuries before, but -with the addition of a steel breastplate, gorget, -tassets, and sollerets. His hands were encased -with brazen gauntlets, the backs of which were -composed of thin overlapping plates studded -with knots of steel. On his head he wore a -steel bascinet with a beaklike visor, but the -latter had been thrown back, disclosing a dark, -cruel-looking face, partially hidden by a heavy -beard and moustache.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey repeated the question, for this -knight's device was very similar to the first's.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"It can be none other than Sir Yves' brother, -<a id='Page_77'></a>Sir Denis. I see that his shield shows that he -is his brother's cadet. But stand to it; the -time is at hand. Peter, sound a rousing tucket, -I pray thee!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thus ordered, one of the English archers blew -a shrill blast upon his horn, and the next moment -volleys of arrows, bolts and stones whistled -through the air. The close array of mounted -men was transformed into a shouting, panic-stricken, -struggling mob. Many fell, dead or -wounded, the plunging, terrified horses adding -to the tumult. Here and there, men braver -and cooler than their fellows stood at bay or -attempted to force their way into the houses -that sheltered their assailants.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Three cross-bowmen had made Sir Denis -their particular mark, but, doubtless carried -away by their excitement, their aim was faulty. -One bolt shattered itself against the knight's -steel breastplate, another glanced from his -helmet, while the third missed entirely.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Closing his visor, Sir Denis slipped from his -horse and, mace in hand, strode towards the -door of the nearest cottage. In vain quarrels -and stones rattled against his armour of proof, -and, like a man bearing a charmed life, he continued -his advance.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Make good the door 'gainst him," shouted -Gripwell to the two English archers. As he -spoke a thunderous blow of the Norman's -mace burst in the upper part of the door.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Peter, the archer who had given the signal -for the onslaught, immediately delivered a -spear-thrust; but the knight, with a sweep -<a id='Page_78'></a>of his ponderous weapon, shattered the head of -the spear from the haft. Quick to take advantage, -the archer grasped the end of the mace, -and a fierce struggle ensued.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sir Denis' mace was secured to his wrist -by a chain, so that even had he quitted his hold -the weapon would still be attached to his person, -yet he had no intention of so doing.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Swaying to and fro on either side of the partially -demolished door, archer and knight strove -for mastery. Both were powerful men, and -both equally determined to gain possession -of the mace. At one time the mailed casque -and shoulders of the Norman would be dragged -through the irregular aperture; at another -the Englishman was sore put to prevent himself -being hauled from his retreat. Nor could his -comrades give him assistance by laying hold -of the knight's weapon; all they could do -was to rain powerful, yet futile, blows upon the -armour of the struggling foeman.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile Gripwell, after giving the archer -instructions to hold the doorway, had darted -to the inner room, where a pail of charcoal, -intended by its late owner for cooking purposes, -glowered darkly on the floor.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Seizing the portable fire with his gauntleted -hands, the man-at-arms bore it into the other -room, where, awaiting his opportunity, he -dashed its contents into the visored face of the -Norman knight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Some of the particles of the red-hot charcoal -passed through the narrow slits in Sir Denis' -bascinet. Nearly blinded by the pain the -<a id='Page_79'></a>knight relinquished his hold on the mace -and involuntarily attempted to raise his arms -to protect his face. The sudden release of -the object of their contentions caused the -archer to reel backwards, till the strain on -the chain pulled the knight's arm towards the -doorway.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With a shout of triumph, Gripwell also -seized the mace, and archer and man-at-arms -united their efforts to pin their formidable -antagonist to the woodwork by the strain -upon the chain.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yield thee, Sir Knight," thundered Arnold. -"Methinks thou art a good bond for the safety -of my master, Sir Oliver."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As he spoke Sir Denis gave a powerful heave, -the chain snapped asunder, and the two Englishmen -fell heavily on the floor. The Frenchman -reeled backwards a good five paces ere he, too, -came to earth.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Unable to rise, by reason of the weight of -his armour, he lay helpless, groaning with the -effect of the red-hot embers.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We'll have him anon," cried the man-at-arms, -struggling to his feet. "Look to yon -window."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The warning came barely in time. During -the struggle at the doorway a score of men -from Malevereux had assailed the window, -which Geoffrey, sword in hand, was defending -by the aid of two archers of the garrison of -Taillemartel and three peasants.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Already one of the latter was down, slain -by a quarrel shot at close range, while one of -<a id='Page_80'></a>the archers was severely wounded by a blow -from a "morning star."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The arrival of Gripwell and the two English -archers soon turned the scale. While the man-at-arms -dealt irresistible blows with his heavy -axe, the archers shot fast and true, and in a -short space the band of assailants seemed to -melt away.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We hold our own everywhere," said Arnold, -leaning out of the window during the brief -respite.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The man-at-arms spoke truly. With one -exception every house had made good its defence, -and already the demoralized men of -Malevereux—those who had not been slain or -grievously wounded—were seeking safety in -flight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At one place, almost in the centre of the -village, the noise of conflict was still to be heard. -Ordering the cross-bowmen from the houses, -Geoffrey gave instructions to form up at the -furthermost end of the village, so as to repel -the enemy should they return to the attack, and -also to cut off the retreat of any of the remaining -men of Malevereux should they attempt to -escape.</p> - -<p class='c010'>This done, Geoffrey, accompanied by Gripwell -and several archers and men-at-arms, made -his way through the corpse-encumbered -street to where the struggle was still maintained.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We have him safe enough, fair sir," exclaimed -a bowman, pausing in the act of replenishing -his quiver with arrows that were -<a id='Page_81'></a>everywhere 'feathering the ground. "The -Tyrant is cornered in yonder house."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The Knight of the Blood-red Axe had had his -horse shot under him early in the fight. Basely -deserted by his panic-stricken followers, he -found his retreat cut off by the infuriated -defenders. For a space he kept his foes at bay, -a ring of dead and wounded men surrounding -him as he fought. Wounded in several places -till the blood oozed from the joints of his -armour, the knight made a sudden rush towards -a deserted cottage.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Here he made a stand, bringing down the -seneschal of Taillemartel by a sweeping cut with -his sword, till, borne back by weight of numbers, -he took shelter in one of the rooms.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Leave him to me," shouted Geoffrey authoritatively, -as he forced his way 'twixt the crowd -of soldiery.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, thou'rt foolhardy," objected Gripwell, -laying a detaining hand on the shoulder of his -charge. "Let the men have their way with -the rogue; he is unworthy to be treated as a -gentleman of coat-armour."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Forbear to hinder me; my purpose is -fixed," replied Geoffrey stoutly, and, sword in -hand, he rushed into the room where the knight -stood, back to the wall, three writhing bodies -on the floor testifying to his prowess as a -swordsman.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yield thee, Sir Knight," exclaimed Geoffrey. -"I promise thee quarter."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Give quarter to those who ask it," was the -reply. "I surrender to no man."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_82'></a>The next instant their blades crossed. Both -combatants were equally matched. The English -lad lacked the size and weight of his antagonist; -but, with the exception of a slight -wound received earlier in the fight, Geoffrey was -comparatively fresh, while the knight had -already borne the brunt of a prolonged encounter -against enormous odds.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On his part Geoffrey strove, by means of a -succession of rapid passes, to find a joint of -his antagonist's armour; while the Frenchman, -mustering all the strength at his command, -relied mainly upon his powerful sweeping -cuts to disable his youthful and active -foe.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length the Englishman wounded his enemy -by a lightning-like thrust that took effect 'twixt -the flexible plates of the Frenchman's gauntlet. -But Geoffrey had to pay for his advantage. -With a roar like the bellowing of a bull the -knight shortened his sword, and ere the lad -could recover his blade the steel was snapped -asunder a span's length from the hilt.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The Frenchman was not slow to take advantage -of his enemy's misfortune. <i>Swish!</i> came -his heavy weapon. Geoffrey's fragment of -steel could not stop the cut, though it deflected -the sword-cut, and, receiving the blade full -in his gorget, the lad was sent staggering across -the room.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The knight could not forbear from following -up his stroke. Unwisely he left his point of -vantage by the wall, and, whirling his sword, -prepared to deal a <i>coup de grâce</i>.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_83'></a>In his excitement he forgot the low beam that -ran athwart the ceiling, and ere the stroke could -be completed his sword encountered the rafter, -sinking in so deeply that he was unable to extricate -his weapon.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Already a dozen men-at-arms were about to -intervene, when Geoffrey threw himself boldly -upon his antagonist.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With a resounding crash the two mail-clad -bodies fell upon the floor, the English lad uppermost. -The point of his dagger was at the slit -of his antagonist's visor, and the knight was at -Geoffrey's mercy.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yield thee, Sir Knight."</p> - -<p class='c010'>This time the Frenchman thought ere he -declined the proffered condition.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou art of noble blood?" he asked. "If -not, slay me."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I am the son of Sir Oliver Lysle, whom -thou——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then I surrender myself," replied the knight, -without waiting for further explanation.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Breathlessly Geoffrey leaned upon the shoulder -of one of the archers, while Gripwell -and one or two others proceeded to cut the -laces of the Frenchman's bascinet.</p> - -<p class='c010'>When at length the vanquished man was -unhelmed a cry of astonishment arose from the -onlookers.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Instead of the cruel, debased features of Sir -Yves of Malevereux the face of a young man of -about twenty years of age greeted the eyes of -the men of Taillemartel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Who art thou, young sir?" demanded -<a id='Page_84'></a>Geoffrey. "Methought I had captured the -Tyrant of Malevereux."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I am Henri, son of him whom thou hast -named the Tyrant," was the reply.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_85'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER IX<br /> <br />CONCERNING GEOFFREY'S DESPERATE RESOLVE</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>"Though we have not Sir Yves in our -hands, we have not fared badly," said -Arnold Gripwell, as they hurried off to muster -the men of Taillemartel, leaving the son of Sir -Yves in the charge of a party of archers. "With -Sir Denis and this Henri as our captives we -ought to bring the Lord of Malevereux to his -senses."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"He will scarce dare to carry out his threat -now," replied Geoffrey. "No doubt he will be -willing to effect an exchange of prisoners. But -what have they done with Sir Denis?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>The man-at-arms and his charge had reached -the scene of the encounter with the brother of -Sir Yves, but the helpless steel-clad body of Sir -Denis was nowhere to be seen.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Perchance some of our men have him in safe -keeping," observed Gripwell. "I pray thee -summon our soldiers that we may question -them on this matter."</p> - -<p class='c010'>In response to a trumpet call the garrison of -Taillemartel formed up in the village street, -wearied yet triumphant. The defence and -subsequent rout of the invaders had not been -accomplished without severe loss. Eleven men -<a id='Page_86'></a>had been killed, and over a score grievously -wounded, including Bertrand de Vaux, the -seneschal; while nearly every other man-at-arms -and archer had received some slight injury. -Of the peasants but three had been killed and -ten wounded, for they had mainly contented -themselves by hurling stones from a safe distance.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Careful inquiries failed to throw any light on -the fate of Sir Denis. Unnoticed by the defenders, -his varlet, with praiseworthy devotion, -had dragged the hapless knight from the fray, -and, assisting him to a horse, had provided him -with the means of flight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Great was Geoffrey's disappointment at the -escape of Sir Denis, but, consoling himself with -the fact that the only son of Sir Yves was a -prisoner in his hands, he led his men back to the -Castle of Taillemartel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Some of the bolder spirits were for setting off -in immediate pursuit of the remnants of the -invading forces, while the investment of Malevereux -was seriously discussed. But Gripwell -knew that the slender garrison of Taillemartel -was quite insufficient to hope to reduce the -formidable defences of Sir Yves' stronghold. -More prudent measures must be taken if Sir -Oliver were to regain his freedom.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Accordingly one of the prisoners was liberated -and given a letter to his master in which the -news of his son's capture was made known. -Geoffrey also expressed therein his willingness -to hand Henri over to his father should Sir -Yves set Sir Oliver and his squire Oswald at -liberty, without further delay.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_87'></a>Three days later a curt message was received -from the Tyrant of Malevereux.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Do as thou wilt with my son," he wrote. -"Since he hath been fool enough to fall into -thy hands, let him shift for himself. But rest -assured concerning the oath I swore relating to -Sir Oliver, not one jot nor one tittle will I abate -in fulfilment of it."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Here is a fine ado," quoth Gripwell. "'Tis -certain this base villain hath no more regard for -his son than for the veriest cur in his kennels."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Perchance this Henri will offer ransom," -suggested Geoffrey doubtfully.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We can but try him. Methinks that with -all the treasure stored within the walls of Malevereux -'twould be passing strange if this prisoner -of ours hath not command of ten thousand -crowns."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Accordingly Geoffrey and the men-at-arms, -attended by two archers, entered the narrow -chamber in which Sir Yves' son was confined.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Henri de Valadour, the son of Sir Yves de -Malevereux, was sitting on a stone bench, -brooding over his misfortunes. He had been -shown a consideration that contrasted favourably -with his sire's treatment of Sir Oliver, but -the sullen countenance of the prisoner belied -any feelings of gratitude for his courteous though -compulsory entertainment.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ten thousand crowns, by my hilt!" he cried -disdainfully when the matter was mentioned. -"Ye'll do well if ye see the colour of ten thousand -sous. If it be thy will to put me to death -<a id='Page_88'></a>so be it; but I pray thee, fair sir, that it may -not be by means of a hempen rope."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Twould be a fine sight for the countryside -to see Henri, son of Sir Yves, dangling by his -neck from the topmost turret of Taillemartel," -said Gripwell roughly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Forbear, Arnold, forbear," exclaimed Geoffrey, -speaking in English. "'Tis not meet -that a commoner should speak thus to the son -of a belted knight—e'en though his sire is -unworthy of his coat-armour."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then turning to Henri: "Nay, we are not -murderers," he continued. "Failing the ransom -or a fair exchange of prisoners, thou must -needs remain here awhile in durance. Perchance -thy father may see fit to swerve from his purpose."</p> - -<p class='c010'>A look of gratitude flashed across the sullen -countenance of the prisoner. As a raider, captured -in an attempt to pillage the village of a -neighbouring baron, he had expected nothing -less than death, since a ransom was not to be -considered.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fair sir, I thank thee," he replied. "Would -that I could serve thee by saving Sir Oliver's -life; but, though it shames me to say it, neither -mercy nor justice will stand in my father's -path."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Despondently Geoffrey brooded over the -apparently insoluble situation. Here he was -within thirty miles of the castle where his -father was languishing. The slender garrison -of Taillemartel was insufficient to beleaguer the -fortress of Malevereux, though at a word every -<a id='Page_89'></a>man would gladly follow him on a forlorn hope. -Also he held the son of his arch-enemy as a -surety for his father's safety, yet that hope, too, -had failed him. Neither could he raise and -offer the stipulated ransom, seeing it was against -Sir Oliver's fixed purpose. And the eve of the -feast of St. Silvester was now within the space -of a few days.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As he ruminated over these things Geoffrey -had an inspiration. It was but a faint hope, he -told himself, yet 'twas better than nothing. He -would take advantage of the open house that Sir -Yves kept on the eve of his patron saint's day -and enter the castle in disguise. By some means -the opportunity might occur to provide Sir -Oliver with a file or a knife. With these in his -possession much might be done in the hours of -darkness 'twixt the eve and feast of St. Silvester.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey realized that he must keep Gripwell -in ignorance of his errand—at least, till he had -placed a fair distance between him and Taillemartel; -for the old man-at-arms would never -permit his charge thus to place his head in the -lion's jaws. But the lad had counted the cost, -and was prepared to take the risk.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere long the plan matured into action. -Stealthily providing himself with a long rope, -the lad hid it in one of the small rooms built -in the outer wall of the castle. A suit of mean -attire was also laid by, and all that remained -to be done was to wait till darkness set in.</p> - -<p class='c010'>An hour before dawn the guards patrolling -the battlements stumbled over a knotted rope -secured to the carriage of a mangonel.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_90'></a>The alarm was instantly raised, and Gripwell, -on arriving on the scene, ordered a general -parade, fearing that one of the garrison had -deserted.</p> - -<p class='c010'>By the aid of a glare of torches the sub-officers -began to tell off the men of their respective -divisions, but ere that could be accomplished -the word was given that Sir Oliver's son was -missing.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thinking that some foul attempt had been -made upon his charge, Arnold Gripwell seized -a torch and ran to the lad's apartment. It was -empty. His couch had not been slept on, but -instead a sealed letter lay upon the pillow.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With trembling fingers the man-at-arms broke -the seals and read the contents—</p> - -<p class='c011'>"Arnold Gripwell,—I have set out, with -God's blessing, to endeavour to do some small -deed of advancement. Do not, I charge thee, -attempt to follow or hinder me. Meanwhile -the ordering of Taillemartel is in thy hands.—Geoffrey."</p> - -<p class='c010'>For a while the old soldier gazed at the missive -without realizing its meaning. The lad had -gone, but whither? With bowed head and -clasped hands Gripwell knelt before the prie-dieu -till the grey dawn gained the mastery over -the shades of night, craving for Divine protection -for his errant charge.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_91'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER X<br /> <br />THE EVE OF ST. SILVESTER</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>Across the vast plain that surrounded the -gloomy Castle of Malevereux streamed a -long straggling line of people, all making towards -the open gateway of Sir Yves' feudal pile.</p> - -<p class='c010'>There were merchants from Rouen, soberly -attired and wearing long straight swords as a -protection against the perils of the roads; -peasants of both sexes, striving to overcome the -deep-rooted sense of fear in spite of the assured -immunity of goods and person for one day in the -whole year; men-at-arms and archers, unarmed -save for the short knives that hung from their -belts; and a sprinkling of knights, monks, -palmers, jongleurs, and minstrels.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Amongst Sir Yves' thus generally invited -guests limped a lad, footsore and weary, meanly -dressed in coarse gaberdine, doublet, and points. -It was Geoffrey, son of Oliver, Lord of Warblington.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Bound tightly to the inner side of the lad's -left arm were two files, while in addition to the -short dagger that hung in his belt a sharp knife -was concealed in one of his undressed leather -buskins. Geoffrey's fair curls had been ruthlessly -clipped in order to better his disguise, but -his clear-cut features belied his rôle of peasant.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_92'></a>Crossing the drawbridge, Geoffrey found himself -within the portals of the fortress, where the -Tyrant held his father captive, and with a -quivering sensation in his throat the lad paused -beneath the deep vaulted archway, through -which the bases of the triple portcullis shone -dully like the fangs of a savage beast.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On either side of the inner gateway stood a -strong guard of archers and men-at-arms. Each -arrival was closely scrutinized, and ere allowed -to pass was compelled to temporarily surrender -his weapons. Only in the case of knights and -gentlemen of quality was the restriction relaxed, -since they were to take part in the grand joust in -honour of Sir Yves' patron saint.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Without being challenged Geoffrey gave up -his dagger, though one of the soldiers glanced -askance at the lad's refined face. Deeply self-conscious, -he bowed his head and hastened his -footsteps till he gained the outer bailey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Here the rectangular grassy space was surrounded -by wooden stands covered with gay-coloured -cloth, rising in tiers towards the -encircling walls. In the centre of the platform -facing the gateway was a daïs provided with a -canopy. This was for the use of Sir Yves de -Valadour and his principal guests.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As yet the stands were deserted, the assembled -company being entertained in the grass-grown -courtyard, where a profusion of broached -casks and trestled tables groaning with food -showed that on this and similar occasions Sir -Yves disbursed his liberality with an unsparing -hand.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_93'></a>Scorning to partake of his enemy's food, -Geoffrey stole softly betwixt the crowd of -gesticulating and chattering guests and made -his way towards the frowning walls of the keep, -that reared themselves skywards at the junction -of the battlements of the outer and inner walls.</p> - -<p class='c010'>He vaguely wondered whether those long -slit-like apertures in the base of the keep were -the windows of the dungeons, till the sound of -revelry proceeding from them told that the -lower storeys of the keep were appropriated to -the garrison. The dungeons, therefore, he -reasoned, were beneath the ground-level, yet -there was nothing to indicate their position.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Continuing his tour of investigation, Geoffrey -came to a lofty doorway communicating with -the inner bailey. Here numbers of gaily-clad -guests were streaming out, laughing and exchanging -coarse jokes with each other.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For a space the lad stood without, then glanced -wistfully in the direction of the inner ward. -Then, summoning up courage, he made his way -towards this gateway.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ho! stand there!" shouted a hoarse voice. -"Who art thou—some masterless rascal, I'll -declare."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Barring his progress stood a huge man-at-arms, -resting his gauntleted hands upon a -massive battle-axe.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Methought the castle was free to all this -day," replied the lad.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"This part only to the principal guests of the -Lord of Malevereux," announced the soldier. -"Now, rascal, what would'st thou?"</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_94'></a>"My foster-brother Pierre told me that within -I could see the dungeons."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"If thou wilt see the dungeons, take heed lest -the dungeons keep thee, <i>vaurien</i>," replied the -man, laughing. "Now, hence, ere I lay this -stick about thy back."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Discomfited, Geoffrey rejoined the crowd of -revellers. He felt that his plan was doomed -to failure, since the prison quarters were evidently -in a remote and strictly-guarded portion -of the castle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Just then his quick ear caught a fragment of -the conversation between two of the guests.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"... and after the joust what happens, -gossip?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I know not of a certainty, but 'tis said that -Sir Yves hath promised to set the English knight -in the lists."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What English knight?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I know not. 'Tis reported that he hath -been a prisoner here for some time past. But -in any case we shall see what a half-starved -Englishman can do 'gainst a gallant Frenchman."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Who is to oppose this English knight?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Rumour hath it that Sir Denis himself will -sweep the rogue from his horse. <i>Ma foi</i>, 'twill -be a merry business. But——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>A loud blast upon a horn caused the conversation -to terminate abruptly; the guests made -a hurried scramble towards the platforms, while -a crowd of lacqueys and serving-men ran hither -and thither, removing the depleted tables and -wine-casks.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_95'></a>In a few minutes all signs of the feast had -vanished. Soldiers began to erect the barrier -for the spear-running, while the opposing knights -with their squires and pages took up their position -at one end of the lists.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Precisely at high noon a fanfare of trumpets -announced the entry of Sir Yves de Valadour, -Lord of Malevereux, and his chosen company.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sir Yves was a man of about fifty years of -age, dark features, black-bearded, and with -beetling brows that, in spite of the festive season, -seemed to wear a perpetual scowl. He was -slightly over middle height, bull-necked and -inclined to obesity, while as he walked his legs -seemed too weak to support his ponderous -body. He was richly apparelled in silk trimmed -with fur, though men would have it -that underneath his slashed doublet he wore a -suit of light sword-proof mail. With the exception -of a short dagger he was unarmed, while in -his hand he carried a warder with which the -signal for the commencement or termination of -an encounter was to be given.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Amidst the plaudits of the majority of the -spectators, who louted with the utmost servility -as he passed, Sir Yves ascended the daïs, which -was raised about five feet from the ground, and -took his seat in a high-backed oak chair. On -his right sat Sir Denis, his brother, his face still -inflamed from the glowing charcoal that Gripwell -had hurled at him on the occasion of the -raid upon the village of Taillemartel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At his left hand sat Arnaud de Convers, a -knight of almost as bad a reputation as his -<a id='Page_96'></a>host. With them were about two score ladies -and their husbands or lovers, their bright garments -adding to the picturesqueness of the -assembly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For a space Sir Yves regarded the crowds of -spectators with a curious sneering expression, -then turning towards Arnaud de Convers he -whispered something that brought a grim smile -to their faces.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Raising his warder, the Tyrant gave the -signal for the tourney to commence, and amid -a prolonged fanfare of trumpets the contesting -knights, twelve in number, rode slowly down the -lists. With closed visors, shields on their left -arms and lances raised, the steel-clad warriors -made a brave show, taking no apparent heed -of the outburst of vociferous cheering and the -shouts of acclamation as their respective partisans -recognized the devices of their favourite -knights.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Opposite the daïs each knight reined in his -steed and saluted the Lord of Malevereux by -lowering the point of his lance, while one of the -marshals of the list read out the name and style -of the respective champions.</p> - -<p class='c010'>While this ceremony was in progress Geoffrey, -seated on a crowded bench within three spears' -length of the daïs, was taking careful stock of his -surroundings, while at the same time his mind -was actively dwelling on the conversation between -the two men that related to one who could -be none other than his father, Sir Oliver. There -could be no possible doubt that the Tyrant -meant to cause the death of the English knight, -<a id='Page_97'></a>since a man ill-fed and weakened by close confinement -could hardly be expected to do otherwise -than fall an easy victim to the powerful -and well-armed Sir Denis.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey's reverie was interrupted by a stirring -trumpet-call, and, in spite of his fears and -anxieties, his martial instinct was aroused by -the sight that met his gaze.</p> - -<p class='c010'>From end to end of the lists the field was -empty, save for the presence of two knights -armed cap-à-pied, who, motionless as statues, -sat upon their steeds. To the right of each -horseman was the stout oaken barrier that ran -athwart the field, so that at the moment of -impact it would prevent the chargers from -coming into actual contact.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At the terminations of the barrier fences were -erected enclosing spaces reserved for the other -champions and their attendants, while booths -had been set up for the armourers and shoeing-smiths; -also, with a great significance, for the -accommodation of those who sustained injuries -in the tourney, priests and chirurgeons being in -attendance.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A tense silence fell upon the multitude, -broken by the hoarse shout of "<i>Laissez aller!</i>" -by Sir Yves.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Instantly the steel-clad statues were transformed -into the personification of warlike -activity. The merest touch of the sharp rowelled -spurs sufficed to set their horses into a -furious gallop, while with bodies crouched, -shields pointed, and lances in rest, the rival -knights prepared to meet the shock.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_98'></a>With the turf flying in pellets from the -horses' hoofs, the sharp points of their lances -scarce swerving a hair's breadth with the motion -of their chargers, the champions closed. For -a brief instant both seemed to sway in the saddle, -then recovering themselves they passed each -other and reined up at their respective ends -of the lists ere the fragments of their shattered -weapons fell to earth.</p> - -<p class='c010'>An outburst of shouts and acclamations -greeted this feat of arms, but without pausing -to recover breath the two champions wheeled -and, sword in hand, rode to continue the encounter.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sparks flashed as steel met steel. It was -mainly cut and parry, though now and again a -lightning-like thrust was given and smartly -caught upon the shield of the opponent.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length, from sheer exhaustion, both knights -began to relax their efforts, while the crowds, -unmindful of the presence of the Lord of Malevereux -in their excitement, shouted encouragement -and applause. Several of the spectators -on the daïs begged Sir Yves to throw down his -warder and declare the combat a drawn one, -but grimly the Tyrant refused.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"They have a private quarrel, methinks; -therefore <i>à l'outrance</i>, let it be."</p> - -<p class='c010'>But Sir Yves was to be disappointed. With -their shields riven asunder the knights continued -the fight, till the sword of one was broken close -to the hilt. Instantly he grasped his mace, -and, with all his energy thrown into the stroke, -dashed his opponent's weapon from his grasp.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_99'></a>The latter instantly seized his mace, but on -urging their steeds up to the barrier to renew -the encounter neither warrior could put forward -sufficient strength to raise his ponderous weapon. -There they sat, their eyes flashing behind their -visors in speechless rage, till at a signal from Sir -Yves their squires ran in and led them back to -their respective tents.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The next bout was betwixt two knights -armed with blunted lances. In the encounter -their weapons proved more dangerous than the -naked steel; one of the combatants caught his -opponent fairly on the gorget, while the latter's -weapon glanced harmlessly from the former's -shield. Wedged in betwixt the high-peaked -tilting saddle, the knight of the slippery lance -was bent backwards till he fell sideways from -the saddle, crippled for life.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then two champions armed with battle-axes -took their places, the intervening barrier in this -instance being removed. Both were short, -broad-shouldered men of immense strength, -and each was actuated by a desire to advance -the claims of his lady, since a saffron-coloured -glove adorned their casques. In this encounter -it seemed as if the result would be similar to -the first, for neither gained any great advantage, -although they fought vigorously for a considerable -time.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length one of the two champions tripped -and fell, his opponent immediately standing -over him with his miserecorde at the bars of his -visor. Once more Sir Yves' warder descended, -and the vanquished knight was assisted to his -<a id='Page_100'></a>feet by his lacqueys and taken off the field, while -the victor, proud of his achievement, and in -the knowledge that he was the richer by a suit -of brazen armour—for by the rules of the -tournament the harness of the conquered became -the property of the conqueror—stalked -slowly round the field with open visor that all -might see and acclaim him.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For the space of over three hours the tourney -continued, not without much shedding of blood, -till there remained only one who had not as yet -engaged in the contest.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Even from a distance Geoffrey felt sure that -he recognized the steel-clad figure and the -device on his shield, and a glance at the vacant -seat on Sir Yves' right hand strengthened his -conviction—'twas Sir Denis de Valadour, brother -of the Tyrant of Malevereux.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then arose a fanfare of trumpets, and, escorted -by a body of men-at-arms, a tall, gaunt, erect -figure entered the arena. In spite of his -pale features—for weeks of confinement had -banished the bronzed hue of health—Geoffrey -could make no mistake. The new-comer was -his father, Sir Oliver Lysle.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_101'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XI<br /> <br />HOW SIR OLIVER GAINED HIS FREEDOM</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>A roar of merriment, mingled with a few -cries of shame and pity, greeted the -English knight's reappearance in the lists. Clad -in an ill-fitting suit of chain mail with breastplate -and bascinet, the joints of which were so -rusty and stiff that considerable effort was -necessary to move them, Sir Oliver rode slowly -into the lists, his lean and decrepit steed barely -able to carry its rider.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Yet, in spite of the obvious inferiority of his -harness and the feebleness of his horse, Sir -Oliver Lysle bore himself with a knightly -demeanour that changed the roar of mirth into -the silence of shame.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sir, this is beyond knightly forbearance," -expostulated Sir Conyers de Saye, one of the -champions in the previous encounters. "I -pray thee grant this knight the use of his harness -and a proper charger."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, Sir Conyers, he must abide by that -which he hath," replied Sir Yves angrily.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I pray thee, Sir Oliver, to do me the favour -of accepting the loan of my plate armour," cried -another knight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And my charger," added another.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And I do perceive that thy lance is three -<a id='Page_102'></a>spans shorter than that of thine adversary," -exclaimed a third.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fair sirs, I thank ye," replied Sir Oliver. -"But concerning the harness 'tis not meet that -I should place a true knight's suit of mail in -jeopardy. This mail will suffice, since already -it is accustoming itself to my limbs. Also the -offer of a lance I beg to decline. Methinks an -English heart behind this lance will atone for -its shortness when opposed to a recreant knight -who hath not the courage to openly declare either -for Burgundy or Orleans."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sir Denis winced within his shell of proof -mail. If the steel of the English knight were -as sharp as his tongue, his own task would not -be quite so easy as it had seemed. As for Sir -Yves, he was grinding his teeth with rage and -discomfiture.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nevertheless," continued Sir Oliver, "I -will deem it an honour to accept the loan of a -suitable charger from a true and gallant knight -of France."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, that shall not be," objected the Tyrant. -"Either the charger provided or none."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Charger, forsooth!" exclaimed Sir Conyers -de Saye scornfully. "Art blind, Sir Yves, -that thou canst not tell good horseflesh from bad, -or is it a case of <i>oculos habent et non videbunt</i>? -Either Sir Oliver hath leave to accept the loan -of a serviceable charger or I'll shake off the dust -of this place."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And I," "And I," shouted the other -knightly guests, who, in order to prove the -sincerity of their intentions, began to call upon -<a id='Page_103'></a>their squires and pages to follow them from the -castle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Let him have the horse, then," replied the -Lord of Malevereux ungraciously.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I pray for thy success," whispered Sir -Conyers encouragingly, as Sir Oliver was assisted -into the saddle of the borrowed charger.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A tucket sounded, and Sir Denis cantered -to the other end of the lists, while the English -knight, after having given his steed a short -run to test its capabilities, drew up in anticipation -of the signal for the onset.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Unable to control his feelings during the inevitable -pause, Geoffrey started to his feet.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"St. George for England, father!" he cried -out, oblivious to all else besides the two combatants.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Men turned in astonishment to gaze at the -daring youth. Sir Denis marked the lad with -a ferocious glare. Sir Yves, engaged in conversation, -heard but the first portion of the -exclamation, while Sir Oliver caught everything -but the last word.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, young sir, St. George for England and -God's benison on my task," he replied.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The next instant the warder of the Lord of -Malevereux clattered on the floor of the daïs.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Both antagonists started at the signal. Sir -Denis urged his charger down the lists at its -utmost speed, while with sharpened lance held -firmly in rest he sought to transfix his adversary, -or at least to sweep him from the saddle. On -his part Sir Oliver rode more cautiously, keeping -a firmer hold upon the bridle than on his lance.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_104'></a>The spectators held their breath. Surely -the ill-armed Englishman must go down before -the impetuous rush of the burly, powerful -Frenchman? But ere their lance-points crossed -Sir Oliver pulled in his steed, dropped swiftly -forward across the animal's mane, and raised -his shield obliquely above his head, his lance -falling from his grasp as he did so.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere Sir Denis could lower his lance-point the -steel glided from the oblique surface of his antagonist's -shield. The next instant the Englishman's -sinewy arm was around the Frenchman's -waist, and, throwing all the power of his half-starved -frame into one mighty heave, Sir Oliver -lifted his steel-clad opponent clean out of his -tilting saddle. With a dull clang the brother -of the Tyrant fell upon the turf, helpless and -beaten by one whom he had regarded as an -easy victim to his prowess.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Already some of the squires and pages of -Sir Denis were running to their master's aid, -while others attempted to seize the bridle of his -riderless horse. But urging his steed into a -gallop, Sir Oliver ranged alongside the masterless -animal, and before the astonished crowd could -realize his action he was in the saddle but recently -occupied by Sir Denis, while his borrowed -charger was trotting back to its lawful owner.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Seize me yon English knight," shouted Sir -Yves with an oath. "What! Why tarry? -Dost think 'tis the Prince of Darkness?" For -feelings either of surprise or repugnance towards -the man who had already shown his intention of -breaking his plighted promise restrained the -<a id='Page_105'></a>servants of the Lord of Malevereux. Not a -hand was raised to apprehend the knight who -had held his own against such fearful odds.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sir Yves' perjurous utterance was his death -warrant. Goaded to fury by this breach of -faith, Sir Oliver spurred his horse up to the -foot of the daïs, and, mace in hand, dealt a -crashing blow at the recreant knight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Hemmed in by the high-backed chair, the -Lord of Malevereux was unable to avoid the -stroke. With warder raised he strove to parry -the ponderous weapon, but death came to him -far more mercifully than he had brought it to -others. Sir Yves de Valadour, of the high, of -the middle, and the low, lay a corpse in the -midst of the assembly that had gathered to -witness his triumph over his captive.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Wheeling, Sir Oliver rode straight for the -gateway of the castle. Not one of the knights -stirred a hand to hinder him, though several of -the garrison of Malevereux attempted to bar -his way. Two men-at-arms went down under -his charger's hoofs, but before the portcullis -could be dropped or a cross-bowman had levelled -his cumbersome weapon the English knight -was spurring across the drawbridge, well on his -way to freedom.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_106'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XII<br /> <br />IN WHICH GEOFFREY IS LAID BY THE HEELS</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>The courtyard of the Castle of Malevereux -presented a scene of utter confusion, -following Sir Oliver's desperate deed and successful -flight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With one accord the spectators made towards -the gate, shouting and jostling in their haste to -leave the scene of the tragedy. Many were -the glances cast askance at the mangled heap -lying in ghastly solitude on the floor of the daïs, -for not one of the chief guests remained by the -body of the dreaded Tyrant.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Filled with a wild excitement of joy at his -father's escape, Geoffrey mingled with the surging -crowd. Now that the object of his visit -to Malevereux was accomplished, though 'twas -not his doing, the lad realized that his best plan -was to depart as unobtrusively as possible and -make his way back to Taillemartel, whither Sir -Oliver must assuredly have gone.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The lad had gained the gateway of the outer -bailey. In another moment he would have -crossed the drawbridge and shaken the dust -of Malevereux from his feet, when a heavy hand -grasped him by the shoulder.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis he, sure enough. Secure him, mes -<a id='Page_107'></a>garçons," exclaimed a deep voice, and, turning -his head, Geoffrey found that his captor was the -man-at-arms who had spoken to him at the -entrance to the inner ward.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sir, why thus? Methinks that all have -safe conduct here this day."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"List to him," laughed the soldier. "Doth -a peasant lad talk thus? His speech betrayeth -him."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I myself heard him cry encouragement to the -Englishman," said another soldier.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, and he called him father," added a -third.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ah, is that so? Guard the lad carefully. -We must bring him before Sir Denis. Answer -me—is Sir Oliver thy sire?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey kept silence. He was in sore straits, -yet he resolved to bear himself right manfully. -His arrest had been carried out without attracting -attention from the outgoing throng, and -even had he appealed for aid his words would -have fallen upon deaf ears.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the centre of a ring of steel the lad was -urged against the press of departing spectators, -and conducted to a groined room in the inner -ward, where Sir Denis was lying stripped of his -harness.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The discomfited knight was in a sorry plight, -for, in addition to the partially-healed burns -sustained at Taillemartel, he had been bruised -from head to foot by the fall from his horse. -Added to his bodily injuries, the fact that he -had been vanquished by an opponent whom he -had regarded with disdain did not improve -<a id='Page_108'></a>his temper. The iron of humiliation had eaten -into his soul.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"<i>Parblieu!</i> 'Tis well that ye have laid the -young viper by the heels," he exclaimed. "Did -I not hear him shout words of encouragement -to the Englishman? More than that, he called -him father."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, <i>mon seigneur</i>, I also heard him speak -thus," added one of Geoffrey's captors.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thy name and conditions, sirrah. I perceive -that thou art not of common stock. -Answer truly for thy life."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I'll answer thee truly, though not by reason -of fear. I am Geoffrey, son of Sir Oliver Lysle."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"If thy father were worthy of the name he -would have returned to aid his son," sneered -Sir Denis.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Without doubt he will in good time," -replied Geoffrey boldly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I trust he will. Perchance he may again -be a guest under my roof. But a truce to idle -talk; search him."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Under the rough practised hands of the -soldiers the files and the dagger concealed on the -lad were discovered and promptly taken possession -of by his captors, and with coarse gibes -he was hurried from the presence of the fierce -baron.</p> - -<p class='c010'>From the room in the inner ward Geoffrey was -taken across the courtyard, where he had a -brief glimpse of the clear blue sky that was to -be a stranger to him for many a long, weary day.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Unlocking a small heavily-barred door on the -ground level of the massive keep or "donjon," -<a id='Page_109'></a>the men-at-arms thrust the lad within. Then, -taking a lighted torch that cast a weird glare -upon the low, musty stonework of a long passage, -one of the men led the way, followed by the -captive and the rest of his guards.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At the termination of the passage a flight of -narrow stone steps communicated with another -tunnel-like way twenty feet beneath the upper -one. Here the atmosphere was even more -dank and unwholesome, while to the young -prisoner the footfalls of the men sounded like -a knell.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Still deeper in the bowels of the earth did -they descend, till Geoffrey found himself in -another tunnel-like passage roughly constructed -of stones set herring-bone fashion, rising to an -uncemented line of key-stones overhead. -Through the joints the moisture dripped incessantly, -forming slimy pools that reflected the -dull red glare of the flaming torch.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Here's thy kennel, wolf's whelp," said a -soldier gruffly, laying a detaining hand upon the -lad's shoulder. 'Twas well he did so, otherwise -Geoffrey would have stepped blindly into a -yawning unfenced pit in the floor of the passage.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Hitherto the captive had offered no resistance, -but the sight of the horrible pit filled him with -a nameless terror. Madly he struggled with his -captors, but, in spite of his youthful strength -and energy, he was no match for the burly -ruffians that worked the will of the Lord of -Malevereux.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In a trice he was secured, a stout cord passed -<a id='Page_110'></a>through a rope girdle fashion round his waist, -and with a savage kick Geoffrey was hurled -into space. Then the cord took the strain of -his weight, and slowly he was lowered into the -loathsome den that was to be his prison.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Down and down he found himself being -dropped, till far above his head he could perceive -a narrow circle illumined by the torchlight, -then with a jerk his feet touched the floor of the -pit.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Throwing down one end of the cord and hauling -up the other, the men-at-arms removed all -means of communication with their prisoner, -and with a brutal jest and mocking laugh they -disappeared, their echoing footsteps growing -fainter and fainter till all was still.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Left to himself, Geoffrey could scarce control -the agony of his emotions. The impenetrable -darkness seemed to possess weight—it literally -crushed him with its terrors.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For a considerable while he dared not move -a foot, fearing that the uneven floor might contain -a pitfall that would assuredly compass his -destruction. There he stood, overcome with -the sense of his horrible surroundings, vaguely -wondering how long his body and mind could -exist under such appalling conditions. He -had heard of men languishing for months, nay, -years, in oubliettes and loathsome dungeons -till death came as a merciful release, but until -now he had not realized the bodily and mental -torture of the silence and darkness of a living -tomb.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length his legs refused to support him, and -<a id='Page_111'></a>having carefully felt all around him, Geoffrey -sank down upon the moist and slimy stones that -formed the floor of the dungeon. Then he -gradually worked his way, proceeding with the -utmost caution, till his hands encountered the -jagged wall. This he followed, making several -complete circles ere he realized, by the leaving -of one of his shoes on the floor, that the place -was built in the shape of a bottle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then, gaining confidence, he made another -circle, taking count of the number of strides -required to bring him back to his starting-place. -Thus Geoffrey discovered that his prison was -but twenty paces round, and without angles -or doorways communicating with other parts of -the subterranean chambers.</p> - -<p class='c010'>This was one piece of information, but a most -trying question was how to measure the space -of time. Already he was unaware how long he -had been in the awesome pit; time seemed to -have ceased to exist.</p> - -<p class='c010'>After seeming hours of torturing suspense -the sound of footsteps rumbled down the tunnel-like -passage, and a gleam of light, that gave -indescribable comfort to the miserable prisoner, -began to grow brighter and brighter, till the -outlines of a man leaning over the mouth of -the pit were thrown into strong relief by the -light of a horn lantern.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Here's thy food," announced the man -gruffly. "Cast loose the cord, I pray thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As he spoke he lowered a pitcher of water and -a loaf of rye bread. Geoffrey unfastened the -cord by which they were lowered, and without -<a id='Page_112'></a>another word the gaoler proceeded to pull up -the sole means of communication.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How long am I to lie in this horrible den, -I beg of thee to tell me?" asked the lad pleadingly, -but his only answer was a gruff chuckle, -and the man hurried away.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey consumed his sorry meal, then -sitting with his head resting on his knees, tried -his utmost to reconcile himself to his surroundings. -Fortunately, sleep came to the relief of -his bodily and mental anguish, and stretched -upon the hard floor he fell into a deep yet -dream-haunted slumber.</p> - -<p class='c010'>How long he slept he knew not. Suddenly -he awoke with a start, to find the pit illumined -by the glare of numerous torches, while men's -voices roughly shouted to him to bestir himself.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Staggering to his feet, Geoffrey found a -stout-noosed rope dangling within a few inches -of his head, and, in obedience to an order, he -passed the loop under his arm-pits. The next -instant he was lifted off his feet, and, swaying -to and fro, he was hauled to the surface.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Escorted by his captors, the lad retraced his -steps along the damp stone passage that he -had traversed long hours before, but ere the -ground level was reached the party halted -before a low iron-bound door.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"This will be thy quarters," exclaimed one -of the men, producing a heavy key that hung -with others on his girdle. "How did'st thou -like the night in my lord's guest-chamber, eh? -Have a care, therefore, and behave thyself circumspectly -<a id='Page_113'></a>in thy new abode; for, failing this, -back to yon pit thou'lt go."</p> - -<p class='c010'>So saying, the gaoler unlocked the door, that -creaked and groaned on its hinges as it opened.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"In with thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey could not but obey. Indeed, he -was only too thankful to have escaped the -terrors of the oubliette. But as he stepped -across the low threshold he gave a cry of surprise, -for the glare of the torches showed him -that the prison-chamber was already occupied—and -by none other than Oswald Steyning!</p> - -<p class='c010'>The ponderous door was closed and locked, -but Geoffrey heeded it not. He had almost -forgotten his gloomy surroundings in the joy -of greeting his friend. For some considerable -time both lads were too full of excitement to -do more than wring one another's hands, but -by degrees they calmed down, and for the next -two or three hours they exchanged stories of the -events that led up to their presence in the Castle -of Malevereux.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thus began the first of many long days of -joint captivity. The room in which the lads -were held prisoners was gloomy enough, -though it lacked the grim terrors of the pit. -It was barely ten feet in length and six in -breadth, while from floor to ceiling the height -varied from nine to five feet.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At the highest end, which was farthermost -from the door, was a square aperture communicating -with the open air, but owing to the -thickness of the walls and a sharp curve in the -opening it was impossible to see the broad daylight. -<a id='Page_114'></a>Consequently, though there was a tolerable -supply of fresh air, only a dim subdued -light filtered in through the grated aperture, -barely sufficient to penetrate the gloom of the -prison.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Beyond the daily visits of the gaoler who -brought their food and water, the lads saw no -one. Time hung heavily on their hands, though -in addition to being able to engage in conversation, -they took as much exercise as the confined -limits of the cell would permit, in order to -preserve, as far as possible, the suppleness of -their limbs and the strength of their muscles.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Notwithstanding the threat of the oubliette -that hung over their heads like the sword of -Damocles—for Oswald, too, had made acquaintance -with the loathsome dungeon—the lads -were ever on the alert to take advantage of an -opportunity to effect their escape.</p> - -<p class='c010'>So far their vigilance was ill-rewarded, for, -being without weapons or tools, they were -unable to remove the iron bars forming the -grating of the air-shaft, while tunnelling through -the walls or under the floor was equally impossible. -Nor did the gaoler take any undue -risks; for, although he entered the cell alone, -three or four armed men were always within -easy call, ready to rush to his aid at the first -summons.</p> - -<p class='c010'>One day the lads were aroused by an unwonted -stir without the castle walls. Borne faintly -to their ears came the sounds of strife, men -shouting and shrieking, weapons clashing, and -the sharp hiss of bolts and arrows.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_115'></a>"The castle is attacked," exclaimed Oswald. -"They are storming the battlements."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou art right," replied Geoffrey. "I -trow 'tis my father and the men of Taillemartel -that are without."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Would that we could see," continued his -companion, hauling himself up the bars of the -grating. "Certes, 'tis a fierce encounter."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Dost hear English voices?" asked Geoffrey -anxiously.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, I cannot distinguish any such."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Long did the sound of strife continue, till at -length all was quiet, save for the exultant shouts -of the garrison. Whoever the attackers were, -it was evident that they had been repulsed, and -with the utmost dejection the lads were compelled -to admit that their hope of deliverance -had been rudely shattered.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_116'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XIII<br /> <br />THE POSTERN FACED WITH POINTS OF STEEL</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>About three months after this event the -captives were aroused from their sleep -by the door of their prison being thrown open. -Accompanied by four men-at-arms was Sir -Denis de Valadour.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Instinctively both lads realized that something -untoward was at hand, and starting to -their feet they steeled themselves to meet the -coming ordeal with stout hearts.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Greetings, gentles," exclaimed Sir Denis, -with a forced attempt at a smile. "Your -pardon for this intrusion, for 'tis unbetimes; -yet methinks the nature of my visit will make -amends for all things. To be brief, after due -consideration, 'tis my bounden duty to admit -that I owe ye courteous treatment."</p> - -<p class='c010'>He paused and eyed the lads narrowly, -endeavouring to note the effect of his words. -But, receiving no reply to his somewhat vague -utterances, the knight continued—</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Certes, 'tis strange how the wheel of fate is -ordered by small matters. When my brother, -Sir Yves, fell beneath thy father's hand, Master -Geoffrey, only his son stood betwixt me and the -castle and estates of Malevereux. Henri was -ever a lusty youth, and bade fair to live to a -<a id='Page_117'></a>green old age—always excepting the chance of -dying in harness. Yet, alas and alack! he must -needs attempt to swallow a carp's bone, with -the result that I am an uncle no longer."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Once more Sir Denis paused, a hypocritical -look of sorrow overspreading his saturnine -features.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And mark ye, carp, lordly salmon, and the -roast beef ye Islanders boast so much about! -On these he was fed by thy father's bounty, -while I have given thee but craven fare. Fie on -me! Yet I will make amends. As Lord of -Malevereux—for such I now am—'tis in my -power to do so. More, 'tis my wish. Therefore -I give you both your freedom."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The youths could scarce grasp the full significance -of the word "freedom." To them the -ever-present longing for liberty had grown -fainter and fainter, till only a feeble hope was -left them. Now, with startling suddenness, -freedom awaited them.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sir Knight, I thank thee," exclaimed Geoffrey -when at length he found words.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, 'tis nought," replied Sir Denis. "I -trust that Malevereux will be at peace with its -neighbours. But, fair sirs, of your charity pray -for the soul of Henri de Valadour, my nephew. -By so doing my reward for the deed is assured."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"When are we permitted to leave the castle?" -asked Oswald.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"When ye list. There is no time like the -present, fair sirs. But I must needs point out -that my act of clemency is ill-regarded by a -section of the garrison, therefore 'twould be -<a id='Page_118'></a>better to depart secretly. Though the night be -dark, the way is easy. Therefore, when we have -supped I myself will conduct ye to the postern."</p> - -<p class='c010'>So saying, Sir Denis clapped his hands, and -in response to the summons a serving-man -entered the cell bearing a trencher loaded with -good cheer. After months of poor fare the -repast was doubly welcome, though in their -excitement the lads could scarce do justice to -the tempting viands.</p> - -<p class='c010'>While the meal was in progress the new Lord -of Malevereux stood leaning against the wall, the -glare of a torch held by one of the men-at-arms -throwing his features into strong relief. Was it -fancy, thought Geoffrey, that he saw a sinister -gleam in the eyes of Sir Denis?</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Are ye ready, young sirs?" asked the baron -when the lads had finished their repast. "Then -follow me; tread boldly, for there is none to -hinder ye."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Traversing three long passages, interrupted by -short flights of steps, the Lord of Malevereux -stopped before a low archway where strong bars -took the place of a solid door. Outside the -youths could see the dim outline of a stone wall, -feebly lighted by the torch of the attendant -man-at-arms, while the twinkling stars beyond -seemed to beckon the captives to the freedom -that had so long been denied them.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Here is a cloak apiece," said Sir Denis, as a -soldier handed the garments to the lads. "These -will not come amiss, I take it, for 'tis cold without. -Now, Hubin, unlock the portal, I pray -thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_119'></a>The man-at-arms, fumbling at a bunch of -keys at his waist, at length produced the required -article, and, thrusting it into the lock, -contrived with much exertion to open the rusty -wards.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis but rarely that men pass this way," -explained Sir Denis. "But see, yonder lies -thy path. Adieu, fair sirs."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As the twain passed under the archway the -grille was closed with a ponderous clang, but -with feelings of intense thankfulness the lads -realized that they were on the right side of the -detaining bolts and bars.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With light steps they traversed the groined -passage. Another ten paces and they would be -under the canopy of Heaven.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hold, Oswald!" exclaimed Geoffrey, grasping -his companion by the arm, at the same -moment dragging him backwards. "By St. -Paul! what have we here?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey's warning came only just in time. -Another step would have precipitated them into -a gloomy and unfathomable pitfall.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The stars had been obscured by passing clouds, -and so intense was the darkness that, although -the loom of the country was faintly discernible, the -extent of the new danger was totally concealed.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The false knight hath betrayed us," exclaimed -Oswald. "What is to be done?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We cannot do better than stand where we -are till dawn," replied Geoffrey. "To proceed -is to court a speedy death; to return is to suffer -a worse fate. Perchance when 'tis light we may -find a way."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_120'></a>As he spoke Geoffrey looked towards the open -bars of the doorway through which they had -just passed. The torches had been extinguished, -but a low mocking laugh told the lads that -some one was listening and waiting to enjoy -their discomfiture.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Is this the way a knight keeps his pledge?" -asked Oswald.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Why doubt my word?" replied a deep voice -that the youths had recognized as that of Sir -Denis of Malevereux. "Did I not tell ye the -way was open? Fare ye well, then. If so be -ye will not profit by my advice, then stay and -starve. On the morrow, ay, and many succeeding -morrows, I'll watch the struggle 'twixt thy -choice of death."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Slowly the night passed. The sky, hitherto -slightly overcast, became so clouded that the -pitch-like blackness restricted the youths' field -of vision to such an extent that they could -scarce discern each other.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With the banking up of the clouds a strong -wind sprang up, increasing in violence till ere -long it blew with terrific violence.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Crouching on the stone floor against the side -of the vault-like tunnel, the lads awaited the -dawn. The wind pierced them like a knife, -and in their scanty clothing their bodies shivered -with the cold.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Occasionally they would converse in short -broken sentences, debating upon the turn of -events and the probable disclosures brought by -the dawn. Fortunately, they did not as yet -feel the pangs of hunger, thanks to their repast -<a id='Page_121'></a>ere they were taken from their prison; but the -vague threats in which Sir Denis referred to slow -starvation filled them with gloomy fears.</p> - -<p class='c010'>When at length the eastern sky began to -assume a vivid crimson hue the lads staggered -to their feet, eager to take stock of their surroundings.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Almost at their feet the floor of the passage -terminated abruptly, descending into what was -undoubtedly a part of the fosse or dry moat. -Its depth was not very considerable, being -barely twenty feet from the coping to the bottom -of the ditch, which was about ten paces -broad, with its furthermost side sloping steeply -to the normal level of the surrounding land.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But, to the lads' consternation, the whole of -the floor of the moat was studded with sharp -stakes, each about the height of a man. In -serrated rows they stood, so close that it was -impossible to essay a leap without being impaled -upon one, at least, of the spikes.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Grasping Oswald's hand, Geoffrey leant cautiously -forward and examined the wall on -either side of the postern. As far as he could -see the masonry was smooth and even, so that -there was no means of finding a foothold. -Above the archway the wall towered to a height -of thirty feet, while, from the presence of two -loopholes, through which the ends of rusty -chains still hung, it was evident that at one time -a light drawbridge crossed the moat at this -point, forming a means of communication between -the postern and the open ground. On a -level with the loopholes a row of cross-shaped -<a id='Page_122'></a>oyelets, or apertures, for discharging crossbows -commanded the approach on this side of the -Castle of Malevereux.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We are fairly trapped," exclaimed Oswald -as they completed their examination of the moat. -"This passage is like to be our death-chamber."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What lieth at the other end?" asked Geoffrey. -"Methought there was a wide space -betwixt the grille and the wall, though yesternight -I caught but a brief glimpse in the torchlight."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We can but see," replied Oswald. "But -we must needs wait awhile, till the light is strong -enough to overcome the gloom of the archway."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Upon investigation the archway was found to -afford no possible means of escape, though, -owing to a slight deviation in its general direction, -an intervening curve in the masonry hid -the outer portion from the observation of a -person standing without the gate.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As for the latter, it was composed of wrought -iron with massive hinges. The upper part from -a distance of three feet from the ground was -open, but secured by the bars of the grille, the -space betwixt each bar being sufficient to enable -a man to insert his head without allowing his -body to follow.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Without the door all was quiet. The stone -passage, wrapped in sombre gloom, was deserted. -Deeming his prisoners perfectly secure, the Lord -of Malevereux had purposely neglected to post -a sentry at this gate.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The way is clear," said Oswald. "Could -<a id='Page_123'></a>we but squeeze through yon bars, perchance we -might lie hidden in some dark recess."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To what purpose? We should still be -within the castle."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We cannot make our position one whit the -worse, Geoffrey. Who knows but that we may -be able to escape by some other postern? Thou -art the slighter build, though certes, we both are -as thin as a stripped distaff. Through with thee, -and I'll do my best to follow."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey immediately essayed the difficult task, -but though he raised one arm well above his -head and kept the other close to his side, while -his comrade assisted by heaving and pushing, -his slender body was too large to pass betwixt -the narrow space in the grille. Yet not till he -was black in the face and utterly exhausted by -his struggle did Geoffrey confess himself beaten.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As the sun rose higher in the heavens the -wind died away, and by high noon the atmosphere -was in a state of extreme sultriness. -Though protected from the fierce rays by the -stonework of the arch, both lads began to feel -the torture of an agonizing thirst, which was -intensified by the tantalizing sight of a small -brook meandering through the fields at a short -distance from the castle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Once did Sir Denis, clad in complete armour, -approach the bars of the door to gloat over his -captives, but after a few moments' stay he went -away without a word. Shortly afterwards the -lads saw him at the head of a body of mounted -men riding rapidly from the castle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yon base caitiff will trouble us no more -<a id='Page_124'></a>awhile," observed Geoffrey, pointing towards -the receding troop. "Come, now, art willing -to hazard a leap?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay," replied Oswald, regarding the formidable -array of spikes with a shudder. "Cold -steel I'd face in battle as becomes an Englishman, -but, by St. George, to be skewered by a -rusty spearhead—for thus I perceive them to be—is -more than I can stomach."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then I will essay the leap," exclaimed Geoffrey, -stripping off his cloak and rolling it into a -ball as a protection for his hands. "If I fail -perchance my weight will thrust aside sufficient -of these spikes for thee——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, art mad?" interrupted his companion, -laying a detaining hand upon Geoffrey's -shoulder.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Anything but this horrible thirst."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Methinks that will shortly be assuaged. -Mark yon cloud; observe how it draws nigh -'gainst the little wind that blows. Within half -an hour 'twill be passing strange if there be not -a thunder-storm."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Oswald was right in his surmise. Ever and -anon a dull rumble could be heard, the sound -gradually increasing in intensity, till, accompanied -by incessant flashes of lightning and -deafening rolls of thunder, a torrential rain -descended.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Eagerly the lads extended their open palms -to catch the thirst-quenching moisture, till, -feeling greatly relieved, they were glad to -retreat to the furthermost end of the archway to -escape the fury of the elements.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_125'></a>"Ho, ho! young sirs. What, still here? -Why are ye not well on your way to Taillemartel?" -exclaimed a gruff voice.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Both youths turned at the sound of the voice, -and at the same time a dazzling flash of lightning -played upon the steel cap and breastplate of -one of the men-at-arms. Geoffrey instantly -recognized him as the man who had stayed his -advance on the occasion of the memorable -joust-day.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Art hungry?" continued the soldier.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Unable to resist the apparent invitation, the -lads made their way to the barred door. Without -stood the man-at-arms, with a loaf of rye -bread in his hand, held in such a manner that -the glare of a torch enabled it to be clearly -seen.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ostentatiously the man cut off a slice with -his dagger, then replacing the weapon in a sheath -that hung at his right side, he proffered the bread -to the prisoners. Ere they could stretch out -their hands the soldier conveyed the food to his -own mouth, his body shaking with merriment -at the lads' disappointment.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Twice he repeated these tantalizing tactics, -till, realizing that 'twas no intention on the part -of the man-at-arms to provide them with food, -Geoffrey and Oswald retired a few steps from -the grille.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What! Too tired to take thy food?" -roared the rogue. "Nay, that will not serve. -See, here is a tempting morsel."</p> - -<p class='c010'>A sudden inspiration came to Geoffrey. The -man had thrust his arm betwixt the bars in -<a id='Page_126'></a>order to still further tantalize the famished lads. -With a swift and surprising spring Geoffrey -threw himself at the door and grasped the -fellow's arm by the wrist.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Quick, Oswald!" he exclaimed.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Oswald had mistaken his comrade's intention, -for without attempting to seize the food that -was still grasped in the man's hand, he thrust -his hand between the grille and laid hold of the -soldier's dagger.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The next instant the man had fallen a corpse -upon the floor, with his own dagger plunged into -the nape of his neck, Geoffrey still retaining his -hold of the soldier's wrist.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"One villain the less," exclaimed Oswald -triumphantly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Fortunately, a deafening peal of thunder -had drowned the scream of the stricken man. -This storm was proving a blessing in disguise -to the two desperate youths, for the remnant -of the garrison, driven from their posts by the -tempest, had already taken shelter.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I see a way," whispered Geoffrey earnestly. -"Here, take yon dagger and strip off the fellow's -breastplate."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Without stopping to question his companion -Oswald did as he was told, Geoffrey the while -holding the wrist of the corpse to prevent it -from falling below the grille. A few minutes -sufficed to ease the man-at-arms of his steel plate -and cap, and, retaining the dagger, the lads ran -to the edge of the moat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now dost see, Oswald? I am going to leap -upon these spikes holding the breastplate in -<a id='Page_127'></a>front of me to turn the points aside. Should I, -with the blessing of Heaven and the protection -of my patron saint, succeed in my attempt, -'twill be an easy matter to clear aside a space -for thee to leap."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis possible," replied Oswald, as he broke -the captured bread and divided it between his -comrade and himself. "But why shouldst -thou take the honour and the risk of this enterprise? -Rather let me essay the leap."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Finding that Geoffrey remained obdurate, the -young squire continued—</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis untoward to stand here debating this -matter, since every moment is precious. Let us -draw lots."</p> - -<p class='c010'>So saying, Oswald pulled two threads of -unequal length from his frayed doublet, and, -holding them in his hand, allowed one end of each -only to be visible.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To me!" he exclaimed, as Geoffrey drew -the shorter thread. "Certes. If I fail I -trust my failure will be the means of thy -safety."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Grasping the breastplate in front of him so -that the hollow side would be uppermost, -Oswald boldly leapt into the moat. The steel -plate turned aside two of the spear-heads, and -in the space thus cleared the squire alighted, -though the fleshy part of his right leg was -badly lacerated by one of the still standing -spikes.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Regardless of the pain, the lad staggered to -his feet, and, grasping the shafts of the spears -nearest to him, wrenched them from their -<a id='Page_128'></a>supports. This done, Geoffrey took a careful -leap and alighted close to his companion's side, -safe and unhurt.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In fear and anxiety the two lads began to force -their way through the maze of up-pointed weapons, -expecting every moment to hear a challenge -from the towering walls behind them, or the -sharp hiss of a shaft from a vigilant bowman; -but, thanks to the blinding rain, and the storm -being at its height, the sentinels had relaxed -their customary watchfulness.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On gaining the edge of the furthermost side of -the moat the lads broke into a run, in spite of -Oswald's painful wound, for it was expedient -that the belt of level ground should be traversed -with the utmost despatch.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Without detection they reached the banks -of the little stream that they had observed from -the postern, now swollen into a foaming torrent. -Here, taking advantage of a slight dip in the -ground, they followed the course of the stream, -since Geoffrey felt certain that 'twas the same -that crossed the road 'twixt Malevereux and -Taillemartel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For two days and nights the weary fugitives -continued their journey, subsisting on roots and -turnips, for the countryside had been swept by a -party of marauders, so that not a farm nor a -cottage had escaped destruction by fire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Oswald's wound, also, began to cause great -anxiety, for the lack of rest and proper attention -had aggravated the injury. But in spite of the -great disadvantages under which they laboured, -the lads manfully pursued their way, till they -<a id='Page_129'></a>were rewarded by the sight of the Castle of -Taillemartel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Encouraged by the prospect of a safe ending -of their tribulations, the fugitives quickened their -pace, till Geoffrey suddenly came to a halt.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Do I see aright, Oswald?" he exclaimed. -"Behold the banner over the keep."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Oswald shaded his eyes and looked, and as he -did so a look of dismay passed over his face. -For in place of the mullet and the three stars of -the Lysles floated the black eagle of De Chargné—one -of the most powerful adherents to the -Orleanist cause.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_130'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XIV<br /> <br />HOW ARNOLD GRIPWELL WAS FREED FROM HIS<br />BONDS</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>Aghast at the disconcerting discovery -that the Castle of Taillemartel was in -hostile hands, the lads stood in dire perplexity. -The one refuge on French soil which they had -relied upon was now denied them.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What hath befallen Sir Oliver, thy father?" -asked Oswald at length. "Surely, had he -gained the castle he would have held it against -all odds."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I cannot say," replied Geoffrey. "But, -unless we wish to find ourselves behind iron bars -once more, it behoves us to give Taillemartel a -wide berth."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And to go whither?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To the coast. Since our mission is accomplished, -and my father is no longer in the hands -of the Lord of Malevereux—though, for aught -I know, he hath again met with some misfortune—we -must needs make our way homewards. -But look! A man approaches."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I trust he is peaceably inclined," observed -Oswald, handling the dagger he had snatched -from the luckless soldier. "Let us hide behind -yonder tree till we can make more of him."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_131'></a>Accordingly the lads took shelter and awaited -the stranger's approach.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis Néron de Boeuf," whispered Geoffrey, -as the new-comer drew nearer. "He was ever a -good servant of my father. Let us show ourselves -and gain tidings."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Is he still true to his salt?" asked Oswald -cautiously.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Without doubt. Ho, Néron! What's amiss -with Taillemartel?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>The man stood still at the sound of the lad's -voice, with amazement written in every line of -his wrinkled face. He was a short, corpulent, -middle-aged man, who had held a post in the -buttery at the castle, and, as Geoffrey had said, -had always boasted of loyalty to his master.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"<i>Pardieu</i>, monsieur!" he exclaimed as Geoffrey -stepped from behind the tree-trunk. "What -has happened to thee? And Monsieur Oswald -also."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"It matters little what hath befallen us, -Néron," replied Geoffrey. "Tell us who holds -Taillemartel, and where is Sir Oliver?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Concerning Taillemartel, the castle hath -been taken by Sir Bertrand de Chargné, though -there was but a poor defence. Only the Englishman, -Gripwell, and a few others struck blows -for Sir Oliver's cause. They say that the King -of England hath declared war 'gainst this country, -and that every Islander hath either been -thrown into prison or hath fled across the seas. -Beyond that I know little; but this I can tell -you: Sir Oliver is still a captive of the Lord of -Malevereux."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_132'></a>"But with mine own eyes I saw my father -fight his way out of Malevereux, Néron."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then the saints be praised, monsieur. But, -be that as it may, Sir Oliver hath not set foot -in Taillemartel since the evil day when he was -taken by the Tyrant."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And Gripwell—what of him?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I cannot say with certainty. Some would -have it that he hath gotten clear away, after -vanquishing five of de Chargné's men-at-arms."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I trust it may be true; but, tell me, what -befel Henri, son of Sir Yves? I was told that -he died before his trencher."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, whoever told thee that lied in his -throat. He tried to escape by rending his -sheets into strips and making a rope, but the -rope broke and he fell to his death."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Whither goest thou, Néron?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To the castle, monsieur," replied the Norman -apologetically. "A man must live, e'en if -he hath to serve a new master. But, monsieur, -thou art worn and hungry, and so is thy friend."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, that we are," assented Geoffrey. "Perchance -thou canst furnish us with food, and put -us on the safest road to the coast?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Concerning food, if ye will bear me company -to the village of Tierny, which hath so far -escaped the freebooter, at the house of <i>ma belle -mère</i> ye can be accommodated. 'Tis but two -leagues distant, and it matters little when I -return to Taillemartel."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thanks, good Néron. Some day I hope to -repay thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"When Sir Oliver again comes to Taillemartel -<a id='Page_133'></a>as its master, monsieur," replied Le Boeuf -sententiously.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The Norman and the two youths bent their -steps in the direction of Tierny, the former -talking volubly the while concerning the events -of the day, in which he seemed well versed.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At the house of his wife's mother he procured -food for the fugitives, and when they had eaten -they prepared to take their leave.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, I cannot give thee directions for the -whole journey," he replied in answer to a question. -"But 'tis said that the road through -Valions, St. Barre-en-ville and Plesse will bring -thee to Harfleur, being more direct than by the -banks of the river. As it seemeth certain that -ye'll not go further than St. Barre this day, I -commend ye to one Charles Vidoe, who keeps the -<i>Sign of the Lion</i>. Say that ye are known to -Néron de Boeuf and your comfort is assured."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With a final adieu the Norman bade the lads -farewell, and began to retrace his footsteps -towards Taillemartel, while Geoffrey and Oswald, -still footsore, yet the better for a good meal, -resumed their long journey towards Harfleur -and England.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"This is great news, if it be true," said Oswald. -"Perchance ere we reach the coast an English -army will have set foot on French soil."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"But if so, how are we to find a ship that will -bear us across the channel?" asked Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"In that case we stop with the forces of our -King," replied Oswald.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, 'tis not that I mean. If war hath -<a id='Page_134'></a>broken out, and the English army hath not yet -left our shores, it will be well-nigh impossible -to get clear of French soil."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then we must bide our time. Meanwhile -thou and I are poor peasants bound for Harfleur, -whither our relatives have already gone. This -will be the surest way of evading awkward -questions."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere the lads reached Valions their plan of -action was already decided. Without incident, -and practically unnoticed, they passed through -the little village and began the last stage of -their day's journey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For the most part of the three leagues into -St. Barre the road ran in a straight line, flanked -on either side by gaunt willows.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the ill-tilled fields a few peasants were at -their labours, but the sight of two strangers had -the effect of making them run for their lives. -The frequent attention of freebooters had -crushed the spirit of the miserable countrymen, -and a craven fear of their fellow-men had -become the chief characteristic of the French -sons of the soil.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"This must be St. Barre," said Oswald, -pointing to a small hamlet at the foot of a hill. -"Think of the pleasure of being able to sleep -on fresh straw."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Tis not to be lightly esteemed," replied -Geoffrey. "But let us proceed with caution, -for, unless I be mistaken, there are more people -in St. Barre than the village can hold."</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was well that the lads exercised care, for on -nearing the hamlet they found that it was in -<a id='Page_135'></a>possession of a strong body of cross-bowmen and -spearmen, wearing the arms of De Chargné upon -their surcoats.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Not only does he hold Taillemartel, but the -countryside as well," remarked Oswald bitterly. -"We must needs sleep in the open this night, -since 'tis madness to enter the village. Alas -and alack for my bed of fresh straw!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, it might have been worse," replied -Geoffrey encouragingly. "We might have set -our heads in a trap. But the sun sinks low; -we must cast about for a resting-place if we are -not to lie upon the open ground."</p> - -<p class='c010'>A short distance from where the lads stood a -ruined outbuilding reared itself by the roadside. -Its thatched roof had almost totally disappeared, -the gaunt rafters standing out clearly against the -red glow in the sky.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"This must needs serve," exclaimed Geoffrey, -as they arrived at the barn. "I' faith, if we -have no worse company than rats I am content."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The building consisted of only one storey, -but on the horizontal beams beneath the roof a -few planks had been left. Geoffrey contrived -with little difficulty to gain the lofty perch, -whence he assisted his comrade, who still felt -the effects of his wound, to reach the scanty -planking of the loft. Here they found that the -remnant of the thatch afforded tolerable shelter, -and wrapping themselves in their cloaks they -were soon fast asleep.</p> - -<p class='c010'>When they awoke it was broad daylight. -Although their slumber had been sound, it was -<a id='Page_136'></a>the babel of men's voices that aroused the -youths.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I tell thee 'tis the fault of old Néron le -Boeuf," exclaimed a Norman voice. "He hath -deceived us."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"If so, he'll pay dearly for it," replied another. -"Yet why should he play us false? With -promise of a liberal reward—which of a surety -his greed would forbid him from refusing—'tis -unlikely that he would have sent us on a -false errand."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"He said that the English lads were to be at -the <i>Sign of the Lion</i> in yonder village?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, that he did. Yet those of our men who -were in the village swear that no stranger passed -that way."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Perchance the rascals themselves have -cheated us."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"In any case Le Boeuf will pay for it. But -we shall rue it too. No prisoners, no reward, -and three of the horses completely foundered. -What a greeting we shall have when we return -to the castle!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou hast forgotten that we have one -prisoner?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A man of mean condition. By St. Denis, -were it not for the information we may get from -him, I'd as lief pass my knife across his throat. -And, look ye, comrades, since some of our horses -are done up, 'twill be best that two of ye stay -here with the prisoner. The rest of us will push -on back to Taillemartel, whence we will send -more horses for those that tarry here."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The lads heard this conversation with bated -<a id='Page_137'></a>breath. Evidently Néron le Boeuf, the trusted -servant of Sir Oliver, was a traitor, and had not -scrupled to betray those whom he had appeared -so anxious to befriend.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Cautiously the lads looked through a crevice -in the planking of the loft, fearful lest the slightest -movement would cause the timbers to creak, -or would dislodge a portion of the mouldering -thatch.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the barn below were six bearded men-at-arms, -clad in leather jerkins studded with iron -bosses. Each wore a long, straight-bladed sword -with a plain cross-hilt and a short knife or dagger. -Why they had entered the barn seemed a mystery, -for they had not attempted to search the -place, and, fortunately, the lads had made no -sound in their sleep that was likely to betray -their presence.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now, out with ye, and bring in the horses -and the prisoner," quoth a man who was evidently -the leader of the party. "And mark ye -well. While we are gone take heed that ye be -not seen by our master, for, as ye know, he -journeys to Amiens this day. Had we not been -fooled by this rascally Le Boeuf 'twould have -mattered little, but, <i>ma foi!</i> to be discovered in -this plight would mean a raw hide for us -all."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With this admonition four of the men went -out, and on returning brought with them two -horses and a man, his arms bound behind his -back.</p> - -<p class='c010'>To the lads' astonishment the prisoner was -none other than Arnold Gripwell.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_138'></a>"Now, hasten, <i>mes camarades</i>," continued the -leader. "Ye that remain keep a sharp eye on -this rogue. If he gives trouble pass a knife -across his throat."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Give me a knife and a free hand, and I'll -serve any twain of ye in a manner that ye'll -have good cause to remember," growled Gripwell.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, thou rascal. Joseph and Gros Vibart -yonder have already good cause to remember -thee. Anon we'll give thee a knife, Master -Englishman, though not in the way thou -wouldst."</p> - -<p class='c010'>So saying, the Norman leader passed a thong -round Arnold's ankles—a difficult task, for the -old man-at-arms lashed out with his feet like an -untamed stallion—and at length the prisoner -was secured. Then with a parting caution -the <i>sous-officier</i> and three of the men rode -off.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Left to themselves, the remaining two stood -by their captive till the sound of the horses' -hoofs had died away in the distance. Then -they went out, whereupon Gripwell began -struggling to free himself of his bonds.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Arnold! Arnold Gripwell," said Geoffrey in -a hoarse whisper, "'tis I, Geoffrey Lysle, and -Oswald too! Keep silent, and we'll be at thy -side in an instant."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Save ye!" ejaculated the man-at-arms. -"By all the saints of Christendom, how came -ye here?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hush! Here they come," cautioned the -lad. Not a moment too soon; one of the quick-eared -<a id='Page_139'></a>Normans had detected the sound of a -voice.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What wert thou babbling about, rogue?" -he asked, throwing down a bundle of firewood -that he had collected, and administering a -vindictive kick at the helpless prisoner.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Can only a Frenchman call upon his patron -saint?" demanded Arnold fiercely.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Apparently the explanation sufficed, for the -man said no more, but arranged the firewood -and set light to it. The thick smoke ascended -to the shattered roof, well-nigh causing the -lads to choke and gasp for breath.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile the second Frenchman had taken -a small iron pot from his saddle bow, and had -filled it with water from a leather bottle that -hung from the saddle of his companion's horse, -but on rising and stepping back from the fire -the first man upset the utensil and spilled every -drop of the liquid.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A curse on thy clumsiness, Gros Vibart! -Not a drain remains."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"There is water to be had from the brook——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Two bow-shots away. Since thou hast -caused the mischief thou canst best make -amends. Off with thee, I say."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Gros Vibart grumblingly departed, leaving -his comrade alternately reviling him and the -luckless Gripwell. Presently the Frenchman, -having exhausted his vocabulary of abuse, -came to a standstill in the centre of the barn, -almost underneath the planks on which the lads -were lying.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Cautiously Geoffrey raised himself into a -<a id='Page_140'></a>crouching posture, then unhesitatingly sprang -upon the Frenchman's shoulders. Down went -the man like a felled ox.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Without a moment's delay Geoffrey cut the -thongs that bound Gripwell's arms and legs, -and, stiff and cramped, the man-at-arms slowly -rose to his feet.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Certes! I little wot that 'twould be by thy -aid, Master Geoffrey. But a truce to gossiping, -for the other rogue will be here soon. Not -that I had lost hope, for I meant to outwit them -both. There! Now my limbs begin to feel -themselves once more. Hand me thy dagger, -for there's more work to be done ere we leave -this place."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile Oswald had contrived to descend -from his perch, feeling stiff and weary with the -partially-healed wound.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Welcome, Arnold. But how say ye? -How are we to evade the swarm of men in -yonder village?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Time to discuss that, young sir, when we -have settled with the other rascal—him I owe -much for his scurvy treatment. My word! -He'll pay dearly for kicking a trussed and helpless -man."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Presently Gros Vibart returned, but on entering -the open door his ruddy face blanched as he -realized that the tables were turned. Yet he -was not devoid of courage, for, hurling the water-pot -full at the English man-at-arms, he -drew his sword and rushed straight at his antagonists.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With uplifted arm Gripwell parried the missile. -<a id='Page_141'></a>The next instant steel crossed—the heavy double-edged -blade of the Norman and the slender -dagger of the Englishman.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With an agility that belied his corpulent -frame Gros Vibart got in a lightning thrust that -required all Gripwell's skill to parry, but the -Norman's blade, slipping down the steel of his -foeman, caught in a deadly notch in the Englishman's -guard. A powerful turn of Arnold's -wrist sent his antagonist's weapon hurtling -across the barn; and, so quickly that the lads -could scarce follow its thrust, the dagger was -plunged to the hilt in the Frenchman's bull -throat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now to work," exclaimed Gripwell breathlessly. -"Strip yon carrion while I serve this -one the like. Geoffrey, thou art tall for thine -age. That rogue's garments will suit thee most -passably. I will make shift with this one's -clothes, e'en though they be over full for my -lean frame."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And what of Oswald?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"He must needs go as he is. Thou and I are -to be of De Chargné's following. Master Oswald -is to be our prisoner, and we are bound for -Amiens, where De Chargné is now resting. If -that will not serve we are undone."</p> - -<p class='c010'>It did not take long to complete their preparations. -Geoffrey and Arnold donned the clothes -of the slain Normans, whose bodies were -forthwith hidden in the long grass. The horses -were led for a considerable distance; then, -finding they were useless, the Englishmen -turned them adrift.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_142'></a>By making a wide détour the adventurers -succeeded in giving the slip to the troops in -the village of St. Barre, and in high spirits the -three comrades in misfortune set off on the -road to Amiens.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_143'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XV<br /> <br />HOW THE THREE COMRADES SEIZED THE FISHING<br />BOAT</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>"Nay, there is little cause to trouble concerning -Sir Oliver," remarked the man-at-arms -in answer to Geoffrey's anxious question. -"He is safe and well cared for, though a prisoner -in the hands of—whom thinkest thou?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I cannot say."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"None other than Sir Raoul d'Aulx. 'Faith, -the knight could do naught else but hold Sir -Oliver captive, since 'twas by the orders of the -King of France. Yet Sir Raoul was ever a -courteous knight; and moreover, bearing in -mind that once he and Sir Oliver were comrades -in arms, and also that thou, his son, hast rendered -good service to Sir Raoul's wife and -daughter, my master's condition is not to be -deplored, save that he is under a solemn vow to -keep within the boundaries of the Castle d'Aulx, -until the termination of the war or release by -our own forces."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Aye, we heard that war was declared, Arnold. -But why doth King Harry tarry?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That is his concern, young sir. 'Tis certain -that the French expect his coming, since every -available knight and common soldier is being -hastened into Normandy. What would I give -to see a troop of English lances and a few stout -companies of English bowmen."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Who knows but that thy wish will shortly -be gratified?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then it behoves us to hasten towards the -sea-coast. From Amiens we ought to be able -to reach Abbeville and seize a craft of sorts -that will bear us to Old England."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Buoyed up with hope the three comrades -pursued their way, but, as luck would have it, a -few leagues from the town of Amiens they -encountered none other than De Chargné himself. -The baron was returning from a hawking -expedition, and was attended only by a -page who carried a falcon attached to his wrist -by a silver chain.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In ignorance of the identity of the man whose -livery they wore, Geoffrey and Gripwell passed -him with heads erect and fearless glances.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ho, there! Insolent varlets! Why have -ye not louted to me, Bertrand de Chargné? -What manner of men have I in my service that -pay not proper respect to their lord and master? -Your names, sirrahs? And I'll warrant that -my marshal will lay his rod soundly athwart -your backs, so that another time ye will have -good cause to remember me."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Vehemently the French baron poured out -this speech, his eyes rolling in his anger.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Have at him, Geoffrey," shouted Gripwell, -drawing his sword. "If he 'scapes us, 'twill -be our undoing."</p> - -<p class='c010'>But even in his hot anger De Chargné scented -danger.</p> - -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<a id='Page_144'></a><img src='images/i_156.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' /> -<div class='ic002'> -<p>"THROW ME YON ROPE!" HE SHOUTED.</p> -</div> -</div> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_145'></a>"<i>Peste!</i> Have we wolves in sheep's clothing?" -he exclaimed. "Ride, Michel, for thy -life."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As the page set spur to his steed the baron -did likewise, and both riders were soon clattering -down the dusty highway.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We have seen something that few men can -boast of," said Gripwell gleefully. "We have -seen the back of a De Chargné. But we must -look to ourselves, for, by St. George, we are like -to be in a sorry plight."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Realizing that ere long the Frenchman would -raise an alarm, and that the countryside would -be scoured, the adventurers divested themselves -of their surcoats with the De Chargné device. -It was now out of the question to proceed to -Amiens, so taking a by-lane the Englishmen -set off at a rapid pace, keeping the while a sharp -look-out for any signs of pursuit.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Three days later the fugitives, footsore and -hungry, came in sight of the blue waters of the -English Channel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What village is that I see yonder?" asked -Gripwell, addressing a peasant who was toiling -along the road, bent double under the weight of -a huge basket filled with seaweed.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis St. Valery-en-Caux, monsieur."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"<i>Ma foi</i>, comrades, we are well out of our -way," remarked the man-at-arms in order to -avoid suspicion. "'Tis to Abbeville that we -would go."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Of a surety thou speakest truly," assented -the peasant. "It lieth far along the shore, -though I have ne'er set foot in the town."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_146'></a>"This village will serve our purpose," quoth -Gripwell, as the peasant resumed his way. -"We must needs lie hidden till dusk; then, -unless I am much at fault, we can with ease -take possession of one of those fishing-boats I -see yonder."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Canst manage one of these craft?" asked -Oswald anxiously.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The wind blows fair. E'en though I be -not a seaman, I am a man of parts. By the -help of St. George I fear not that the task be -beyond me."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Encouraged by their comrade's self-reliance -the lads took heart. Even though they were -compelled to wait till night, the old soldier was -not idle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Leaving the two youths snugly sheltered in a -field of barley Gripwell went off on a foraging -expedition, returning presently with three large -rye loaves and a bottle of wine.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How earnest thou by them?" asked Geoffrey -in astonishment.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou hadst best not to ask, Master Geoffrey," -replied the man-at-arms with a sly wink. -"'Tis but an old trick, known to all hardened -campaigners. Food and drink we must have -at all costs, and when the goodwife hath -finished gossiping with her neighbour she can -discover her loss with as much good grace as -it pleaseth her. Certes! The miracle of the -vanishing loaves of St. Valery will be a subject of -discourse for a long time to come, I trow. But, -come now, let us eat."</p> - -<p class='c010'>When darkness set in the three comrades -<a id='Page_147'></a>waited till the last visible light was extinguished -and the village plunged into slumber. Then -cautiously they made their way to the little -quay, against which half a score of strongly-built -fishing boats and traders were fastened.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was now just after high water, and already -a steady current was setting out of the harbour.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"This one will suit our purpose," whispered -Gripwell, pointing to a stout craft of about -thirty feet in length, that lay in the outermost -tier. "Tread softly, for the least sound will -betray us."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Without mishap Geoffrey clambered over the -deck of an intervening ship and gained the -planks of the craft Arnold had indicated. She -was of good beam, entirely open amidships, -with a deck fore and aft, under which were two -small cuddies for the accommodation of her -crew and for the stowing of gear.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Cast off yon rope," whispered Gripwell. -"Yarely now, or we shall be left by the tide; -I can touch bottom with an oar."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Swiftly the two restraining hawsers were -unbent, and the boat began to glide stern -foremost towards the open sea.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Seizing an oar Arnold worked with powerful -yet silent strokes, till the craft's bow was turned -seaward. Twice or thrice her keel scraped -against the rocky bed of the stream, but, greatly -to the new crew's relief, the strong ebb swept -her clear, and soon the water began to deepen.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hist!" exclaimed Oswald. "Another boat -comes this way."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With beads of sweat standing out on his forehead -<a id='Page_148'></a>the man-at-arms peered through the -darkness. The squire was right. A huge unwieldy -craft, propelled by oars, was slowly -stemming the tide.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Take the tiller and keep her so," exclaimed -Arnold, placing Geoffrey's hand upon the long, -wooden pole. "Say not a word."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Resuming their oars Oswald and the old soldier -urged the boat as swiftly as they were able, -exercising due caution to prevent the sound of -their blades from being heard.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The <i>Jean Baptiste</i> is abroad late this night," -shouted a gruff voice as the two craft swept past -each other at less than twenty yards' distance.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Gripwell could not trust himself to speak. -Bending over his oar he grunted something -incoherently.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Heed him not, Simon. He hath been -drinking. Old Jacques is ever surly in his cups. -May the blessed Peter see to it that he tears his -nets on the Roches d'Ailly."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I' faith," exclaimed Gripwell as the boats -drew beyond earshot. "'Twas a narrow escape. -Bear witness, young sirs, how the proverb -'One man's meat is another man's poison' can -be reversed. But now we are clear of the land, -and the breeze is beginning to make itself felt. -Stay where thou art at the helm, Master Geoffrey—nay, -'twill be best for thy companion -to take the tiller, seeing that he is hurt. Thereupon, -I pray thee, bear a hand with this sail."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Not without infinite trouble Geoffrey and the -man-at-arms succeeded in hoisting the heavy -<a id='Page_149'></a>yard and its huge brown sail. Then, heeling -to the steady breeze, the little craft began to -slip quickly through the water.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That is well," ejaculated Arnold as he -relieved Oswald at the helm. "Another twelve -hours at this speed and we ought to sight the -white cliffs of England."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How canst thou make sure of the way?" -asked Oswald, doubtful of the old soldier's skill -in seamanship.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Mark yon pennon," replied Gripwell, pointing -to a fluttering streamer at the masthead. -"So long as that keeps ahead and the wind -holds true, all will be well. 'Tis a wide mark -from Dover to the Wight, and it matters little -at what part we touch."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Throughout the short June night the lads -remained on deck, dozing at intervals in spite -of their lengthy rest in the rye-field hard by the -village of St. Valery, yet filled with joy at the -thought that they were being borne rapidly -homewards.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length the day dawned. Eagerly Gripwell -scanned the horizon, but to his great satisfaction -not a sail broke the sky-line. The low -white cliffs of France, too, had vanished beneath -the encircling rim of trackless sea.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the growing light the adventurers were able -to make a thorough inspection of the stolen -craft. Anxious to husband their scanty stores, -Gripwell hoped to find some kind of provisions -on board. Accordingly he handed the helm to -Oswald, and telling Geoffrey to explore the -after cuddy, he clambered forward to investigate -<a id='Page_150'></a>the contents of the place that did duty for -the forepeak.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Placing his hands upon the coamings of the -little hatch Geoffrey lowered himself into the -dark recesses of the cuddy. Bewildered by the -sudden transition from daylight to almost pitch -darkness, he stood upon the floor, his shoulders -bent to save his head from contact with the -low deck-beams, waiting till his eyes became -accustomed to the gloom.</p> - -<p class='c010'>An unexpected lurch of the little craft caused -him to lose his balance, and the next instant he -was thrown violently against the side of the -cuddy. Struggling to regain his balance Geoffrey -thrust out his hands, and to his utter -astonishment his fingers closed upon the throat -of a human being.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere the lad could realize his position he was -seized in a powerful grip, and, beyond a strangled -shout from his unseen antagonist, the two -silently engaged in a desperate struggle. Interlocked -in an unyielding grip they swayed -to and fro, each adversary trying to bend the -back of his antagonist.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Attracted by the scuffling Arnold came running -aft. In his haste he had forgotten to bring -his arms, and well it was that this was the case, -for on gaining the hatchway he could only perceive -two unrecognizable struggling forms.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Cold steel would have been equally dangerous -to friend or foe. All that Gripwell could do -was to lie full length on the deck, ready with -outstretched arm to aid the English lad the -moment he could be sure of him.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_151'></a>In spite of the obvious disadvantage of being -attacked in unfamiliar surroundings Geoffrey -stoutly maintained his own, but the strength -and endurance of his unseen foe seemed inexhaustible. -At length the lad bethought him -of a trick taught him by one of the archers of -the garrison of the Castle of Warblington many -months agone.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Hitherto he had been striving to force his -enemy backwards, but suddenly he changed his -thrusting motion into a lift. In this he was -aided by his antagonist's own efforts to resist -the previous mode of attack, and with a mighty -heave Geoffrey raised his foe from the floor.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With a dull crash the fellow's skull struck the -deck-beams overhead, and a convulsive twitching -of his limbs followed by an unmistakable -limpness showed Geoffrey that he had stunned -his adversary.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Breathless and well-nigh exhausted the English -lad gained the deck, where he lay filling -his lungs with the pure, salt-laden air.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile Arnold had descended the hatchway -and unceremoniously dragged the senseless -body of the mysterious occupant of the cuddy -into the light of day.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A cry of surprise burst from Geoffrey's lips; -his late antagonist was a youth of about his -own age.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis a Norman fisher-lad," exclaimed Gripwell. -"He must have been hiding ever since -we laid hands on this craft. But, what is to -be done with him?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"He is my prisoner by the right of conquest," -<a id='Page_152'></a>replied Geoffrey. "'Tis not in my mind -to do him further scath, for, certes, he hath held -his own as manfully as any Englishman."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere long the young Norman recovered his -senses, and finding that he was being kindly -treated and that he was not to be thrown overboard—a -common practice in mediæval days -when vanquished shipmen were ruthlessly jettisoned—he -became quite communicative.</p> - -<p class='c010'>He had, it appeared, stolen on board the boat -to escape the wrath of his master, whose enmity -he had roused. Overcome by sleep he had -slumbered soundly throughout the night, undisturbed, -even by the noise of the footsteps of -Gripwell and his two youthful companions, till -he felt Geoffrey's fingers at his throat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Have no fear," exclaimed Geoffrey kindly. -"We bear thee no ill-will. But, willy-nilly, -thou must come with us to England; then, on -my honour, I vow that thou shalt be given a -passage back to France."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sir, I thank thee," replied the stranger in -the patois of the Norman shore. "But, if ye -hope to reach dry land in safety, I pray ye look -to the sail. Already the wind increases, and -ere long there will be a gale."</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_153'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XVI<br /> <br />THE WRECK OF <i>L'ETOILE</i></h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>"A gale coming—how dost thou know -that?" demanded Gripwell anxiously.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I have not been brought up to the sea these -last six years for nothing, monsieur," replied -the fisher-lad. "In my mind I can feel the -coming storm. Moreover, did not Père Gobin -tell old Sardeau, my patron, that 'twould be -hazardous to put to sea yesternight? But, -monsieur, since we are likely to be caught out, -we must needs meet danger with a stout heart."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou art a brave youth," observed Arnold -approvingly. "What is thy name?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Jean," replied the other simply.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What would'st thou have us do with the -craft?" continued the man-at-arms. Bold -and fearless as he was he recognized in the Norman -lad his superior in the shipman's art.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We must hoist a smaller sail, monsieur. -Even now the boat is pressed over much."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As he spoke a vicious squall, the precursor -of the storm, began to thrash the water a bow-shot -astern.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Without a moment's hesitation, Jean, whose -thick skull had received a blow that would have -disabled many a man for days to come, ran -<a id='Page_154'></a>forward to the mast. Ere the hissing blast -swept down upon the craft he had let go the -halyards, bringing the heavy yard, with its -bellying sail, to within a few feet of the deck.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Fortunately Gripwell had the sense to thrust -his whole weight upon the stout tiller to keep -the vessel on her course dead before the wind. -In a few minutes the squall had passed.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Descending into the forehatch the Norman -lad soon re-appeared, bearing a small sail rolled -up under his arm. This, with Geoffrey's aid, -he bent to the yard, in place of the larger canvas, -and under easy sail the <i>Etoile de St. Valery</i>—for -such was the name of the stolen craft—tore -before the howling winds. Ugly, white-crested -waves reared themselves on either hand, but, -thanks to her broad beam and comparative deep -draught, the threatening breakers swept harmlessly -under her hull.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Where are we?" asked Oswald dolefully, -for he had succumbed to the attacks of his old -enemy, and was lying well-nigh helpless against -the low bulwarks.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"St. George be my aid: I know not," replied -Gripwell. "But by yonder sun that tells close -on midday, I perceive we are holding a proper -course," he added, pointing to a faint light in the -fleeting clouds that marked the position of the -orb of day.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For the next hour or two the <i>Etoile de St. -Valery</i> flew before the gale, heading blindly -towards the as yet invisible shores of England.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Suddenly Geoffrey gave a warning cry, and -pointed his finger towards the boat's bow.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_155'></a>"I see land," he shouted, striving to make -himself heard above the roaring of the elements.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou'rt right," agreed Gripwell, as an -apparently unbroken wall of glistening chalk -cliffs loomed up through the mirk. "But 'twill -be a hard task to get into safety with this sea -running. Certes, yesternight I would have -given a seven pound candle to the altar of the -church of St. Thomas à Becket at Warblington -to be able to see yon cliffs, but now I would -willingly give one of a score pounds not to see -them."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How so?" asked Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Since we know not on what part of the -coast we have lighted, and not a sheltering port -is to be seen, methinks we shall have much ado -to prevent our corpses being washed ashore."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Can we not cast anchor?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis impossible, monsieur," replied the -Norman lad, who had overheard Geoffrey's -question. "The stout rope that holds the -anchor would be rent asunder like a wisp of -smouldering flax. Nay, monsieur, we must -needs push on, keep the boat's stem to the waves, -and trust to be cast fairly on shore. Alas for the -<i>Etoile de St. Valery</i>!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Courage, comrades," shouted Gripwell. "I -espy a place where the cliffs dip somewhat. -We will run the craft ashore at that point. -Pull thyself together, Master Oswald. E'en -within an hour thou mayst set foot on dry land."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As the <i>Etoile</i> approached the shore the seas -became shorter and steeper owing to the shoaling -bottom. No longer did the stout craft rise -<a id='Page_156'></a>easily to the rollers, but labouring heavily she -took in water on all sides.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"There are men on the shore," said Geoffrey, -as a number of people armed with bows, swords -and axes, ran down the steep gorge in the cliffs.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And a warm welcome they will give us," -replied Gripwell gloomily. "Not a hand will -they raise save to help themselves."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The old man-at-arms spoke truly. Every -foreign ship—ay, and many a luckless English -craft as well—that had the misfortune to be -cast on shore was regarded by the lawless men -of the coastwise hamlets as a prize. In many -cases not only were their crews left to their fate, -but any unfortunate man who reached the -shore alive might be cruelly slain for the sake of -a few trifles on his person.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hold fast as she strikes!" shouted Gripwell. -With feet placed wide apart and body -braced to meet the shock the man-at-arms -gripped the tiller.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then with a crash that shook the craft from -keel to masthead, the doomed vessel grounded -heavily on the shingle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thrice she pounded heavily, each time being -cast nearer in shore, till with her hold filled with -water, the <i>Etoile</i> settled firmly on a bed of sand.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Desperately her crew held on, watching the -callous spectators on shore, who, in turn, were -waiting for the wreckage to be cast at their feet. -Not a word was spoken by the shipwrecked -men; all they could do was to await the end in -whatever form it might come.</p> - -<p class='c010'>After a considerable time had passed in this -<a id='Page_157'></a>hazardous position Geoffrey fancied that the -shocks were becoming less violent. Cascades -of foam still swept over the craft, and already -portions of the hull were beginning to show -signs of breaking-up. All but the stump of the -mast and the small spread of sail had vanished, -having gone by the board soon after the first -shock.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Yes, now he was certain; the tide was falling.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Making his way along the steeply sloping -deck to where Arnold was standing Geoffrey -communicated the discovery.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, it gives us hope," shouted Gripwell in -reply. "The boat holds together. In another -half-an-hour we may essay the task."</p> - -<p class='c010'>So saying he whipped out his knife and began -to sever one of the ropes that trailed across the -deck. It was a hazardous business, since he -had to release his grasp upon the coaming of -the hatchway; but by dint of working hard -between the sweep of each succeeding breaker -he contrived to secure a goodly coil of cordage.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With this the four members of the crew were -lashed together with a distance of about twelve -feet between them.</p> - -<p class='c010'>These preparations were observed by those -on shore, for there was a decidedly hostile movement -on their part, some going so far as to string -their bows.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Look at them," exclaimed Jean excitedly. -"They are about to kill us."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And these are Englishmen!" added Oswald.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Hoping to pacify the clamorous throng -ashore, the man-at-arms shouted that he and his -<a id='Page_158'></a>comrades were Englishmen, but either the words -were lost in the howling of the wind and the -roar of the breakers, or the shoremen were convinced -that since the wrecked craft was of foreign -build the crew must likewise be foreigners. But, -whatever view they took of the situation, the -mob showed no signs of abating their hostility.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At this juncture a horseman appeared on the -edge of the cliffs to the right of the gorge. For -a brief space he took in the strange scene beneath -him, then, unhesitatingly, he urged his -steed down the steep declivity. Often the -intrepid rider was standing in his stirrups as -the horse slid on its haunches; more than once -a mass of chalk slipped away from under the -beast's forefeet and came crashing on to the -beach below; but the daring horseman never -ceased his downward way till he gained the -shore and tore up to the crowd of expectant -wreckers.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Although the new-comer was evidently a -man of some position he did not, at first, have -things his own way. Voices were raised in angry -protest, twice or thrice knives gleamed in the -air, but by sheer force of will the horseman -succeeded in calming the more turbulent members -of the assembly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>This done he forced his horse through the -waves, till up to the girths in water, he came -within a spear's length of the stranded craft.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Throw me yon rope; follow me, your lives -are safe!" he shouted.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With that Gripwell heaved the line, and struggling -<a id='Page_159'></a>through the strong under-tow the four -members of the crew gained the land.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Who are ye, and whence came ye?" demanded -their rescuer.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We are Englishmen escaped from France," -replied Gripwell.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"There, did I not say so?" asked the horseman -turning towards the still surging crowd. -"Fie on ye."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"But the boat is ourn by ancient rights," -objected a bearded fisherman, whose ears were -pierced by a pair of gold earrings, probably part -of the spoil from some castaway.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Let them have the craft by all means," -quoth Gripwell. "I' faith, we are right glad -to see the last of her."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Where were ye making for?" asked the -horseman.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Firstly to the shores of England, which, by -St. George, we have made far too forcibly to -my mind. Secondly we belong to the Castle of -Warblington. Yonder stands Geoffrey Lysle, -son of the Lord of Warblington."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou hast gone wide of the mark, good -shipmaster," replied the horseman with a merry -laugh. "Now ye must needs foot it for nearly -a score of leagues ere ye reach Warblington. -Ye are now at Birling Gap, midway on the shore -of Sussex. Hast money? Nay? Then here -is a groat apiece. Follow yon track and ye'll -soon strike the great highway betwixt Dover -and Southampton. The rest of the way, though -it be long, is not difficult to find."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"One moment, fair sir," quoth Geoffrey. -<a id='Page_160'></a>"To whom do we owe this right courteous treatment?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"It matters not," was the reply, as the horseman -prepared to take his departure. "But -stay; if so be that ye have time to remember -me in your prayers, men call me Wild Dick o' -Birling."</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_161'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XVII<br /> <br />OF THE COMPANY AT THE SIGN OF THE BUCKLE</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>Glad to have come out of their difficulties -so lightly, Arnold Gripwell and the three -lads set out along the path indicated by the -kindly Dick o' Birling.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Reaching the summit of the cliff they turned -to gaze upon the scene of their shipwreck. Far -below them the crowd of wreckers and fishermen -seemed like a swarm of ants as they flocked -around the stranded hull of the <i>Etoile</i>, now left -high and dry, slashing with their axes at the -planks and tearing away everything they could -lay their hands on.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The sun was low in the western sky ere the -wayfarers crossed the Ouse at Seaford and -reached the little village of Bishopstone.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Here is an inn," said Gripwell, pointing -to a long straggling building, from the upper -storey of which a broom was displayed denoting -the fact that wayfarers could find rest and -refreshment.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Welcome to the <i>Buckle Inn</i>, gentles," -shouted the host. "What might be your commands?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A joint of English roast beef will not be -amiss," replied Gripwell. "After that beds -with fresh straw, an it please thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_162'></a>"The <i>Buckle</i> is ever known for the quality -of its beds, fair sirs," replied the host with well-assumed -dignity. "I pray ye enter."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The four wayfarers promptly accepted the -invitation, and found themselves in a long -narrow room, with low, oaken rafters black -with smoke. Gathered around a fire blazing -on an open hearth were nearly a score of men, -clad in white surcoats blazoned with the cross -of St. George. Many of them had removed -their armour, and were stretching their limbs -before the comforting fire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Welcome, comrades," shouted a burly giant -with a thick crop of reddish hair. "Sit at your -ease and drain a tankard with honest archers. -Whence come ye?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"From France," replied Gripwell, overjoyed -at the sight of a friendly surcoat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A roar of laughter greeted his reply.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"From France, quotha? Nay, by my hilt, ye -are going the wrong way. 'Tis to France that all -stout-hearted men are wending their way."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nor will ye find me backward in that -matter," replied Arnold stoutly. "We have -but lately set foot in England and are sore in -want of news. Discuss with us, I pray thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hast not heard that King Harry hath -summoned all true Englishmen, knights, squires, -men-at-arms and bowmen to assemble at Southampton -for the taking of France? Such an -army hath never before been equalled. They -say that a chirurgeon and twelve others of his -class are to go with us for the comfort of the -sick and wounded."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_163'></a>"The first part of thy speech delights my -heart, comrades, but concerning the latter, one -leech in the field will, I trow, do more harm -than a score of French lances."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou speakest pertly, sir stranger. Methinks -if thy comb were cut thy crowing would -be somewhat less."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Give me a stout broadsword, archer, and I'll -warrant, old as I am, that thou wilt not clip it."</p> - -<p class='c010'>This was a direct challenge. In a moment -all was confusion, some of the company shouting -encouragement to the man-at-arms, others urging -their comrade to carry out his threat, while -the host of the <i>Buckle</i> besought his patrons -to have regard for the good ordering of the inn.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The loan of thy sword, friend," said Gripwell -calmly, addressing himself to an archer -who was shouting himself hoarse on his behalf.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Take it comrade—but stay, where have I -seen thy face before? Why, 'tis none other -than Arnold Gripwell, who clove a Scot to the -chin with his own claymore at Homildon Field."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then thou art Thomas Voysey, the archer -who threw the ox over his shoulder in the -market-place at York. By St. Thomas à Becket, -to think that I did not recognize an old comrade -ere this. Thy hand, Thomas; when this slight -bickering is over I'll quaff a tankard with -thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, I meant no offence," protested the -man who had expressed his intention of cutting -Gripwell's comb. "I have ever a regard for a -staunch veteran."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis too late to climb down, friend," replied -<a id='Page_164'></a>Gripwell resolutely. "If so be that thou art -unwilling to cross steel, let us discuss the matter -in another way. I do perceive a bundle of -stout staves in yonder corner. What sayest -thou—art willing to try a bout with cudgels?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Clearly the aggressor was anxious to avoid -an encounter, but yielding to the clamour and -ironical jeers of his comrades, he selected a -weapon and stood on his guard.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Have at thee," shouted the man-at-arms, -and the next instant the bout began.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With a quick succession of dull taps as the -cudgels met, both combatants warmed to their -work. Blows were smartly parried and counter-strokes -rapidly delivered. Arnold's antagonist -was younger and more heavily built, but he -lacked the endurance and coolness of the -veteran. Slowly, but surely, amid the subdued -enthusiasm of the spectators, the elder -man forced his opponent backwards, till, with -the sweat running down his face and his -breath coming in quick gasps, the archer -lost all control of himself. Whirling his heavy -cudgel he strove by a succession of powerful -strokes to break down the veteran's guard; -till, seizing a favourable opportunity, Gripwell -got home a shrewd blow on his antagonist's -forehead, following it up by a sharp cut that sent -the archer's weapon flying to the far end of the -room.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou art the better man," gasped the archer, -clapping his hands to his bruised pate.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Spoken like a sensible rogue," replied Arnold, -throwing down his cudgel. "My hand, comrade! -<a id='Page_165'></a>Thou, too, shalt share a cup with me, -though I have but a groat in my pouch, of -which one penny is for my bed. Host, a tankard -of thy best ale."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Good humour having been restored, the rest -of the evening passed in story and song, till -tired out with the crowded events of the last -few days, Geoffrey and his companions were -glad to seek repose.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On the morrow it was decided that the man-at-arms -and his comrades should travel in -company with the archers, not only for the -sake of protection on the road, but because the -sturdy and honest soldiery, hearing the condition -of Geoffrey and Oswald, insisted on -sharing their meals with the lads who had undergone -such adventurous ordeals in the land of the -Fleur de Lys.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I cannot see why King Harry—God bless -him!—should call his army together at Southampton," -remarked Voysey, the master-bowman, -as the company took to the road once more. -"I am a man of Rye, my comrades all hail from -ancient and loyal Cinque Ports, and seeing the -distance across the Channel is lesser than from -Southampton, it is passing strange that we -should have this long march thither, not that I -complain—'tis a soldier's duty to obey orders."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nevertheless, to me the plan is simple -enough," replied Gripwell. "By landing at -Harfleur—a strong place, for I know it well—and -advancing up the valley of the Seine the -King can use his army as a wedge, to split the -French kingdom asunder. Rouen and Paris, -<a id='Page_166'></a>rich cities, are likely to fall into his hands, and, -mark you, the booty that is to be had!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay," replied the bowman, reflectively. "A -man can cross to France with naught but his -clothes and his arms, and return home laden -with gold. 'Twas thus in my grandsire's time. -So now for a prosperous campaign, comrades!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Talking thus, the long miles seemed to slip -by, and late afternoon found Geoffrey and his -comrades in the city of Chichester.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis enough for one day," observed the -leader of the detachment of the Cinque Ports -archers. "Here we will rest till the morrow."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"As thou wilt," replied Gripwell. "But since -we are within half a score miles of Warblington, -my young masters will be wanting to push on. -How sayest thou, Master Geoffrey?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Right gladly, Arnold."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then so be it. Comrades, adieu, and may -we meet ere long on French soil."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Amidst the boisterous and hearty farewells -of the archers Geoffrey and his three companions -set out on the last stage of their homeward -journey. Along the well-known highway they -sped, recognizing in every landmark an old -friend. Quickly the great West Gate of Chichester -was left behind; then the Saxon tower -of Bosham Church loomed up on their left hand, -to bear them company till the fishing hamlet of -Emsworth hove in sight. Then, joy of joys, -the grey tower of Warblington Castle, standing -out clearly against the setting sun, bade them -welcome home.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As for Geoffrey, the discomforts and perils -<a id='Page_167'></a>of his journeyings were forgotten; he regarded -them as a closed page of his life-story. He -realized that a new phase of his existence was -about to commence, and that on French soil -he would have a chance to win his spurs. But -even in the midst of his day-dreams came the -disquieting thought that, however creditably -he had borne himself in his mission, he had left -Sir Oliver still a prisoner in a foreign land.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_168'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XVIII<br /> <br />SQUIRE GEOFFREY</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>"Welcome, Geoffrey. I bring thee -good tidings," exclaimed Oswald, slipping -from his saddle and embracing his friend -and tried comrade.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was a month after Geoffrey's home-coming, -but during that period much had taken place.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The Lady Bertha had warmly welcomed her -son, whom she had almost given up as lost. -Concerning Sir Oliver her anxieties were greatly -relieved, since she now knew that he had effected -his escape from the clutches of the Lord of -Malevereux. Sir Raoul d'Aulx, her husband's -captor, she also realized to be an upright and -gentle knight, in whose hands Sir Oliver would -be sure of honourable treatment. The loss of -Taillemartel she regarded with equanimity, -since the fief was ever a source of anxiety and -trouble.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Taking all things into account, Geoffrey," -said the châtelaine, "I have much to be thankful -for. Next to thy father's life his liberty is -most to be desired, but for the nonce I must rest -content. But, another matter: since it is our -noble King's pleasure to lead an army into -France, it is the duty of his loyal subjects to -make sacrifices to that end. Had thy father -<a id='Page_169'></a>been here he would gladly have placed -himself at the head of his retainers and led -them to the rendezvous at Southampton. Since -that is impossible, and that our men and archers -must go nevertheless, 'tis fitting that, as thy -father's heir, thou should'st lead them. Now, -art willing to do so? Remember, unless thy -heart be in thy work 'tis labour in vain."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Madame, such is my ardent desire," replied -Geoffrey, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I expected no other answer, my son. Go, -and may the saints protect thee. Of the -nineteen men-at-arms, fifteen are to join the -King's army; of the thirty and seven archers -I purpose keeping but five. Thus the quota -provided by the Manor of Warblington will -number forty-seven men under Oswald and -thyself, too few to form an independent company. -Therefore I have asked Sir Thomas Carberry -to allow our men to muster under his banner. -If he be willing—and I have no doubt to the -contrary—his reply will be forthcoming ere -night, for Oswald hath ridden over to Portchester -this morn."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I crave thy patience on a small yet weighty -matter, mother," exclaimed Geoffrey. "What -is thy wish concerning Jean?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The Norman fisher-lad whom thou hast -brought overseas? 'Twould be unseemly to -send him back to France with thee. I have -already spoken to the lad, and, by St. George, -he is no patriot. Doubtless he finds himself -well treated here, for with tears in his eyes he -besought me to keep him here at Warblington. -<a id='Page_170'></a>Therefore 'tis my purpose to place him -under the charge of Herbert the falconer, since -for a Norman peasant lad he showeth great -promise."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"On that score, then, my mind is easy," replied -Geoffrey. "And now tell me, when do -we set out for Southampton?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The King's orders are that the troops -assemble on the Feast of St. Christopher, the -twenty-sixth day of the present month. That -is but four days off, and it would ill-become -the retainers of Sir Oliver were they not the -foremost of the fore, since the men of Hampshire -are ever amongst the first to obey the call -to arms. Therefore, by the day after to-morrow -thou must bid me farewell."</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was at this juncture that Oswald Steyning -came to Warblington with the words, "Welcome, -Geoffrey. I bring thee good tidings."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, Oswald, I have already heard the -news. I am to serve my lord the King in the -field."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then thou hast but heard a moiety. Sir -Thomas Carberry sends greeting to the Lady -Bertha, and expresses his regard for the courtesy -of the Châtelaine of Warblington in entrusting -her contingent to his care. Moreover, he offers -thee, Geoffrey, the post of second squire to -attend upon his person."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Good news! Good news indeed!" exclaimed -Geoffrey. "Thou and I, then, are to -be fellow squires as well as companions in -arms."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Save that I am a masterless squire," added -<a id='Page_171'></a>Oswald. "I would that Sir Oliver displayed -his banner side by side with the crescent and -star of Sir Thomas Carberry."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And Richard Ratclyffe—what of him?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"He is first squire to Sir Thomas, and will, -of a surety, attend on him. But I saw him not, -since he hath already journeyed to Southampton -to see to the ordering of the Portchester -company's camp."</p> - -<p class='c010'>During the remainder of the day, and the -day following as well, activity reigned within -the walls of Warblington. Though every man -had been well equipped, much had to be done -ere the little band set out to throw in its lot -with the men of Portchester. Horses had to be -re-shod, swords, bills, and spearheads required -grinding and sharpening, bows had to be overhauled, -spare cords waxed, and barrels of arrows -prepared. With the men-at-arms and archers -twelve sumpter horses with their attendants -were to bear the baggage as far as the camp of -Southampton, while, by express orders from -the King, smiths were at work day and night -preparing iron tips for the stakes that were -to play so important a part in the forthcoming -campaign.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length the time of departure drew near. -Having bade farewell to his mother, the châtelaine, -Geoffrey, now accoutred cap-à-pied in -bascinet, globular breastplate, steel gorget, -greaves and sollerets, took his place at the head -of the column, with Oswald, similarly attired, -at his right hand.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A spear's length in the rear rode Arnold Gripwell -<a id='Page_172'></a>with a grim look of expectancy on his rugged -features, as he bore the banner of the turbot -and the three stars of Warblington. A close -observer would have noticed a wavy black line -running athwart the banner from corner to -corner, signifying that the knight whose device -it was was absent or prevented from taking -personal command.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Behind Gripwell rode the fourteen men-at-arms, -wearing steel caps and quilted coats, -additionally protected by iron plates, while at -the side of each hung a two-handled heavy-bladed -sword.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The archers were on foot, each man clad in -leather jacket, over which was a white surcoat -with the cross of St. George, loose hose, and -caps of either stiff leather or wicker-work -stiffened with bars of iron. They were armed -with the world-renowned bows of English yew, -a well-filled quiver of arrows hanging from the -right-hand side of their belts, while as a supplementary -weapon every man carried a short axe -or a dagger.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the rear were the sumpter horses and -baggage, attended by a number of the tenantry -of Warblington, who were to accompany the -troops only as far as the port of embarkation.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The first day's march was an easy one. That -night the men of Warblington joined those of -Portchester, and quickly the two companies -fraternized, since they had much in common -and little cause for dissension.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As the combined forces were about to leave -<a id='Page_173'></a>the Castle of Portchester, Sir Thomas Carberry -turned to his newly-appointed squire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"It is in my mind," quoth he, "that I should -bestow upon the Prior of Southampton this -purse of gold for the entertainment of the poor -and needy during our absence overseas. Therefore -I pray thee take Oswald and ride across -the hill to Southwick. Thou knowest the -Priory?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I have heard of it only, sir."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis easy to find, though the road thither -be rough. Present my compliments to the -worthy Prior and give him this. Thence thou -canst make thy way through the villages of -Wickham and Botley and rejoin us at the camp -at Bitterne, hard by the town of Southampton. -Have I made mine orders clear?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yea, Sir Thomas."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then set forth directly the troops have -heard mass. Perchance I shall not see thee -again until thou comest to Southampton, but -these instructions are complete. Pass the word -for the men to fall into their ranks."</p> - -<p class='c010'>A trumpet sounded loud and shrill, and ere -its long-drawn note had died away the eager -soldiers were pouring from their quarters into -the outer bailey. Then, to the accompaniment -of a series of hoarse orders shouted by their -under-officers, the men ranged themselves in -close ranks.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Passably done," commented Sir Thomas, -as, accompanied by his squires, he walked -towards the centre of the column, where his -standard was proudly displayed. "There was -<a id='Page_174'></a>slight confusion in the ordering of the lines, but -I'll warrant another fortnight will amend all."</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was indeed a force that any knight of -Christendom might well be proud of. Two -hundred and forty men, the flower of the yeomen -of South Hamptonshire, were drawn up, -armed and accoutred for active service.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Some of these were old veterans, skilled in -the craft of war, gaunt, sinewy, and stolidly -alert; others were middle-aged men, trained -by constant practice at the butts in the use of -the deadly long-bow; while the majority were -lads upon whose unwrinkled faces the down of -manhood was beginning to assert itself.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Beyond an occasional brawl, few of the latter -had seen a blow struck in deadly earnest, though -they were eager for a chance of winning fame -against the hereditary enemy of England. -Their lack of experience on the field of battle -was all but counterbalanced by their enthusiasm, -while the stiffening of veterans was calculated -to have a good effect upon the <i>morale</i> of the -comparatively undisciplined archers of the company.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Having walked between the lines and carefully -inspected the men under his command, the Constable -of Portchester addressed them in a few -rousing words. Then, as the prolonged cheering -died away, a tucket sounded, and every man, -laying his bow, axe, or sword upon the greensward, -marched slowly and soberly into the -church of St. Mary, that lies within the castle -walls.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Half an hour later the rear of the long column -<a id='Page_175'></a>had trailed beneath the land-port tower on its -way to the wars, while Geoffrey and Oswald -were breasting the steep ascent of Portsdown -that lay betwixt the Castle of Portchester and -the Priory of Southampton.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_176'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XIX<br /> <br />TREASON</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>Having carried out the Constable's instructions -relating to the Prior of Southwick, -Geoffrey and Oswald set out on their long ride -to rejoin their comrades at Southampton.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Both lads were lightly accoutred, their armour -having been sent on with the baggage train, -and in high spirits they cantered their steeds -along the stretch of grass that bordered the -narrow highway.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Presently the open country gave place to -dense masses of trees, the outlying confines -of the Forest of Bere—the hunting-ground of -kings, and the haunt of robbers and other evil-doers -to boot. Yet there was little fear of -wayfarers being molested in this part of the -forest, the outlaws devoting their attentions to -the more remote districts, where the power of -the law, as exercised by the Constable of Portchester, -lost somewhat of its terrors. Nevertheless, -the two squires rode warily, keeping a -bright look-out for a possible ambush.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Methinks I hear men's voices," remarked -Oswald, reining in his steed and listening -intently.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And what of it?" replied Geoffrey with a -<a id='Page_177'></a>laugh. "Is not the road free to all, and may -not a man talk if so he listeth?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, but 'tis like the shout of a multitude."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I can now hear it, though 'tis a long way -off."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We must needs ride yarely, for it seemeth -as if the sound comes from the highway in front -of us. Let us therefore turn aside through this -thicket."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay," replied Geoffrey stoutly. "That -shall not turn us from the highway. Should -there be a band of robbers, 'twill be better to -keep to the road than be entangled in the -thickets. Let us set spur, therefore, and put a -brave face on't, though truly I doubt that there -be danger."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thus encouraged, Oswald increased his pace, -and, keeping side by side, the two comrades -drew near to the cause of the shouting.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was a strange sight that met the gaze of -the squires, as they turned a slight bend in the -road.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On the right of the highway lay a broad sunlit -glade. Seated in a semi-circle were about two -score men, some of whom were yeomen and -farmers, though most were peasants and wood-cutters. -Although many furtive glances were -cast in the direction of the highway, the main -attention of the assembly was centred on the -form of a speaker, whom the lads instantly -recognized.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Certes, 'tis my Lord Cobham!" exclaimed -Geoffrey. "We have fallen upon a nest of -Lollards."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_178'></a>At that instant one of the assembly happened -to catch sight of the two horsemen, and, giving -a warning shout, brought all the crowd to their -feet. Some made towards the undergrowth like -startled hares, but for the most part the Lollards -rallied round their leader.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"They will do us no scath," observed Oswald. -"Let us therefore ride past them in peace. Yet -'tis passing strange that these, forming an unlawful -assembly, should fail to set outposts. -Had we been a troop of lances bent on their -capture not a man would have escaped."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The squire's resolve to pass them by was -doomed to failure, for, seeing that they were -but two wayfarers, several of the men intercepted -them.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Who are ye, and whence come ye?" demanded -a burly miller, his garments dusty with -the traces of his calling.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Peaceable subjects of King Harry," replied -Geoffrey boldly. "Ye are, I perceive, of the -following known as Lollards."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I trust that ye do not mean to betray us? -Otherwise——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, threaten us not. We would have -speech with Sir John Oldcastle."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Blank astonishment was written on the faces -of the men who had barred the lads' way. -Several of them muttered under their breath -that they were lost men.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"So be it," replied the spokesman briefly, -and laying hold of the bridle of Geoffrey's horse, -led him to where Lord Cobham was still standing, -surrounded by the braver of his followers.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_179'></a>"Greetings, my Lord Cobham," exclaimed -Geoffrey, raising his velvet cap, to which salutation -Sir John Oldcastle courteously replied. -"I pray thee that thy men give us free passage."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Who art thou, fair sir?" asked the knight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Canst call to mind the time thou rebukedst -the friar hard by the Castle of Portchester, my -lord?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, is it possible that thou art the lad who -stood by?" asked Oldcastle. "Thou hast -grown somewhat, I trow."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Tis the same; and my companion here -was also with me on that day. In truth, sir -knight, though I be a true member of the Church, -thy action I could not but admire."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"My work in that direction still remains -unfinished," remarked Lord Cobham. "Behold -me, a fugitive, thanks to the persecution of my -Lord Archbishop. The meanest of these my -followers might be the richer by the sum of a -thousand marks were they to betray me; but on -that score I have scant anxiety. My destiny is -in the hands of One above, and should it please -Him to hand me over to mine enemies, His will -be done."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ask them to swear secrecy concerning thee, -fair lord," said one of the Lollards.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, I ask no pledge; their way is clear."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Friends," exclaimed Geoffrey, "I tell ye -this: concerning this meeting we two will keep -our own counsel. Nevertheless, if the question -is put straightly to us in this matter we must -reply truthfully."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Bravely spoken, young sir," replied Oldcastle. -<a id='Page_180'></a>"It will suffice me, though I trust none -will ask thee if thou hast seen aught of me and -my following. Now farewell, and the blessing -of Heaven be with ye both."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey was fated never to see the great -Lollard leader again. It was not, however, till two -years later, in 1417, that Oldcastle was captured -in the fastnesses of Wales after a desperate -resistance. Hailed to London, he was brought to -trial, and even his former friendship with the -King could not save him from the vindictiveness -of the ecclesiastical party, for, under circumstances -of extreme barbarity, he suffered death -by fire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For the next five or six miles the lads conversed -on the incident they had just witnessed. -The road was practically deserted, and beyond -the sight of a peasant walking in the fields, or a -chapman ambling along with his wares, the -two squires saw nothing to attract their attention.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Late in the afternoon they arrived at the -village of Botley, where the horses had to be -fed and watered. While the beasts were being -attended to the clatter of horses' hoofs was -heard, and swinging round a bend in the road -came about a score of mounted men-at-arms, -all completely equipped, while at their head -rode a young man with a set, grave expression -on his thin yet clear-cut features.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Greetings, fair sirs," exclaimed their leader -courteously. "Canst tell me whether accommodation -is to be had for me and mine? We -are bound for Southampton to join the King's -<a id='Page_181'></a>army, but having travelled far this day, 'tis -impossible to reach the town this night."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We also are strangers," replied Geoffrey. -"And we, too, are for Southampton on a like -errand as thyself."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"My name is Olandyne, of Ripley, in the -county of Surrey. Perchance, young sirs, ye -will bear us company on the morrow?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay," answered Geoffrey, after he had -announced the names and qualities of Oswald -and himself. "We must needs meet my master, -Sir Thomas Carberry, this day. Yet I trust -we may meet again on French soil, even if not -before at Southampton."</p> - -<p class='c010'>While the horses were being watered the two -squires held conversation with Olandyne, who -had, at his own expense, raised a troop of a -score of men-at-arms for service with the King's -forces. At length, the men-at-arms having -found quarters in the village, Geoffrey and -Oswald resumed their way.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Hardly had they gained the hamlet of Hedge -End than the sky became overcast, and a dark, -leaden-coloured cloud began to drive rapidly -against the light westerly wind. Then, Nature's -sure warning, the air became sultry and motionless, -while even the birds ceased singing in anticipation -of the coming storm.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Twill thunder ere long," said Oswald. -"Ought we not to find shelter in one of these -cottages? Our velvet cloaks are but a bad -protection from the weather, and 'twould not -do to appear before Sir Thomas like two bedraggled -varlets."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_182'></a>"It is my mind to push on," replied Geoffrey. -"Perchance we may escape the storm. See yon -cloud bids fair to pass behind us."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then as thou wilt, but it behoves us not to -spare spur," replied his companion, urging his -horse into a sharp trot.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On and on they rode, Oswald casting anxious -glances at the approaching cloud, while ever and -anon the low rumbling of distant thunder was -borne to their ears. Then a few heavy drops -began to fall.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou art right; we are fairly caught," -exclaimed Geoffrey. "Were we campaigning -in France 'twould matter but little, but since -we may have to attend the Constable when he is -received in audience by the King, it behoves us -to take care of our apparel. I see a cottage -yonder; can we but gain it all will be -well."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As he spoke Oswald's horse tripped on a mole-hill, -and with a crash its rider fell to the earth. -Fortunately, the soil was soft, and with nothing -more than a shaking the young squire rose to his -feet.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Art hurt?" asked Geoffrey anxiously, as -he leapt from his saddle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis naught; but alas! my horse."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Oswald's exclamation called his companion's -attention to the animal. The fall had broken one -of its fore-legs, but without as much as a whinny -the poor beast stood motionless. Instinct -seemed to tell it that its days of usefulness were -numbered.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Having removed the saddle and muffled the -<a id='Page_183'></a>horse's eyes, Oswald drew his dagger, and with a -swift blow put the animal out of its misery.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Poor Firebrand!" he exclaimed. "'Tis a -sorry ending. But let us hasten, Geoffrey; the -rain increaseth."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Together the lads made their way towards -the distant cottage, Geoffrey leading his horse, -while Oswald bore the trappings and saddlery -of his dead steed.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Suddenly a vivid flash of lightning seemed to -dart across their path, temporarily blinding them -with its intensity. Geoffrey's horse, already -rendered strangely unquiet by the tragedy which -had overtaken its companion, became mad with -terror, and, rearing on its hind legs, wrenched -the bridle from its master's hand. Then, -snorting wildly, the powerful brute galloped -madly away, leaving the two astonished squires -gazing after it in bitter dismay.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By the Rood of Bosham, we are undone!" -exclaimed Oswald when he had recovered his -speech.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We shall be utterly so if we tarry here," -replied Geoffrey, as another vivid flash played -upon the rain-sodden ground. "Let us run to -yonder hovel."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And be soaked to the skin ere we gain it? -Nay, let us rather take shelter under that oak," -said Oswald, pointing to a large tree that stood -in a slight depression in the ground, half a bow-shot -away on their left.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The squires, ignorant of the danger they were -incurring, made their way to the spot indicated. -Here for a while they remained under the shelter -<a id='Page_184'></a>of the thick foliage while the torrential rain -descended with terrible force.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere long, though the tree afforded protection -from the falling rain, the surface water began -to collect in the hollow surrounding the base -of the gnarled trunk.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Unless we want to be ankle deep in water -we must climb into the branches," said Geoffrey. -"So up with thee, and I'll throw up the saddle."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With little difficulty Oswald obtained a -secure perch on one of the massive limbs of the -oak, and having, after one or two ineffectual -attempts, succeeded in placing the saddle in his -companion's hands, Geoffrey made haste to -follow. Here, fairly well sheltered from the -wind and rain, the two squires waited and -watched the vivid flashes of lightning, to the -accompaniment of deafening peals of thunder.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For over half an hour the storm lasted, but -just as its fury was beginning to abate Oswald -called Geoffrey's attention to a horseman approaching -their place of refuge. He was completely -cloaked, while his broad-brimmed hat -was drawn well over his eyes; but since he -rode cautiously and without undue haste 'twas -apparent that his object was not to shelter -from the storm.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Say not a word to him," cautioned Geoffrey. -"Methinks the tree is a trysting-place."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As the stranger came within the protection -of the wide-spreading branches he halted at -the edge of the newly-formed pool, secured his -steed, and looked long and steadily in the direction -of the tree-clad valley towards Winchester. -<a id='Page_185'></a>As he did so the squires saw that the lower part -of his face was that of a young man and far from -prepossessing. A perpetual sneer seemed to -linger round his slit-like mouth as he impatiently -gnawed his nether lip.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thrice he made a wide circuit of the tree-trunk, -then, stamping his foot with ill-concealed -impatience, resumed his vigil.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Presently he was joined by two other horsemen, -one apparently a person of quality, and -the other a thick-limbed, low-browed retainer.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Greeting, Sir Thomas Grey," exclaimed the -former of the twain who had just ridden up. -"Didst think that I had played thee false?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, but I must confess 'twas in my mind -that if my Lord Scrope was daunted by a thunderstorm, -his words are more weighty than his -actions."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Let that pass," replied the knight addressed -as Lord Scrope, with an attempt at sternness. -"'Tis no time for sorry jest. Hast seen aught -of Cambridge?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The Earl hath kept within doors at his -lodging at Winton," replied Grey. "Nor would -he trust himself in writing. Yet according to -his promise made when last we met, 'tis certain -he will abide by our proposals."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis well. Now concerning Harry of Monmouth?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I know of a surety that he journeys to -Waltham four days hence."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then he must pass——?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Through Stoneham and Durley."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Of that thou art certain?"</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_186'></a>"As certain as death."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, talk not of death," replied Lord Scrope -with a superstitious shudder. "Wilt thou -bring thy five lances to the cross-roads at Horton -Heath—thou knowest the place where the lane -opens out beyond the pine-trees?—then with -my fifteen and the Earl's score of mounted men -we can easily make an onfall upon this base -usurper."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis not to be a spear-running to find favour -in the eyes of our ladies," observed Sir Thomas -Grey. "If we can bring the wolf to earth without -scath to ourselves 'tis to be preferred. -Therefore I propose to line the hedge with cross-bowmen, -shoot down the King and as many of -his retinue as possible, and put the rest to the -sword."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And then——?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The rest is easy. We must needs make our -way north as quietly as we are able. The Earl -of Cambridge will, in the ordinary course of -events, proclaim the Earl of March, and with -this puppet wearing the regal purple our future—by -the powers of darkness, what is -that?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What hath startled thee, Grey?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Methought I heard something fall from -above."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A fine conspirator thou art, to jump at the -creaking of a bough," remarked Lord Scrope. -"Didst thou hear aught, sirrah?" he continued, -raising his voice and addressing his retainer, -who stood barely within earshot.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, my lord."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_187'></a>"'Tis as I thought. Now to continue our -discourse."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile the two squires, perched upon one -of the overhanging boughs, had heard almost -every word of the diabolical plot, save when a -clap of thunder interrupted their hearing. In -his eagerness to follow the conversation -Oswald had leant forward, and in so doing his -dagger slipped from its sheath. Fortunately, -its point stuck into a branch below, and though -discovery was averted, the dull thud had reached -the ears of the younger of the two conspirators.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We have heard enough," whispered Geoffrey, -touching his comrade on the shoulder. "Make -thy way cautiously to the other side of the tree, -creep along its lowermost branch, and when the -next peal of thunder comes drop to earth and -run for your life."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And thou?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Art with thee, never fear."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Three hours later Sir Thomas Carberry, Constable -of the Castle of Portchester, was supping -in his tent in the camp at Bitterne. The non-arrival -of his squire and his companion had -caused him no little anxiety, yet, reflecting that -the storm had compelled them to take shelter, -he prepared to retire to rest.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Suddenly he heard the voice of one of the -men-at-arms on guard raised in a peremptory -challenge. The flap of the tent was thrust -aside, and two breathless, footsore, and rain-soaked -persons, whom the knight hardly recognized, -burst into his presence without so much as -"By thy leave."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_188'></a>"Sir," gasped Geoffrey, "we have happened -upon a plot——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To do me out of my night's rest?" interrupted -Sir Thomas grimly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, sir, 'tis no jest. 'Tis a plot against -the life of the King!"</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_189'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XX<br /> <br />THE TRAITORS' DOOM</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>Early on the morning of the first day of -August Sir Thomas Carberry, accompanied -by his two squires and Oswald, waited -upon the King at his lodging in the High Street -of Southampton.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Although King Henry had been in residence -for nearly twenty days, his indomitable energy -had compelled him to take long daily journeys -to all parts of the county of Hampshire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thus one day he would be at Portsmouth, -inspecting the scanty defences of that as yet -infant fortress. Then at Winchester, conferring -with the city council concerning the raising of a -loan, or at Bishop's Waltham, there to attend -to some affairs that many would have regarded -as too trivial to occupy the Sovereign's precious -moments. But it was in things small as well -as great that Henry was thorough. He had -fully grasped the importance of the fact that -attention to details brought its own reward.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Early though it was, the King had already -transacted a heavy share of work ere Sir Thomas -Carberry alighted before the door of the house -that sheltered his youthful Sovereign.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At the moment of his arrival a deputation of -<a id='Page_190'></a>the Honourable Guild of Merchants was leaving -the royal presence—the senior alderman with -his gold chain of office, the seneschal, chaplain, -four echevins, and the usher, attended by the -customary number of sergeants. Their faces -bore testimony to the performance of a serious -yet successful business, for the Guild had received -the royal assent to an important charter -in consideration of the sum of twenty thousand -marks—the loyal contribution of a powerful -and wealthy community.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was King Henry's custom to receive deputations -and persons of quality in semi-public -state. At the termination of each audience -properly accredited personages were permitted -to enter the hall where the Sovereign held his -levée, and there to await their turn according -to the order of the <i>Ceremoniarius</i>.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thus when Sir Thomas had announced his -name and style to the herald he and his attendants -found themselves in the royal presence, -a barrier of cloth of gold separating the waiting -audience from the daïs and a broad intervening -space, where the greatest of the nobility and -clergy of the realm stood about their Sovereign.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Henry V was now in his twenty-eighth year, -and in the full vigour of his life. He was slightly -above middle stature, with strongly and handsomely -formed limbs. His features were oval -in shape, clear-skinned, and surmounted by a -thick crop of smooth, dark brown hair. His -lips were characteristic of firmness, his indented -chin denoted stubbornness, while sagacity and -prudence showed themselves in a straight nose -<a id='Page_191'></a>and clear, brilliant eyes, though a reddish -tinge in the latter gave promise of a stern, -almost brutal, temper when provoked to anger.</p> - -<p class='c010'>This was the commanding presence that -invited Geoffrey's attention. To those surrounding -the daïs he gave slight heed, albeit -there were Gloucester and Bedford, the King's -brothers, Exeter, his uncle, Salisbury and Warwick, -His Grace of Canterbury, the Bishops -of Winchester, Exeter, Ely, and Norwich, and a -host of the most famous knightly warriors of -the realm.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At the moment of the Constable of Portchester's -entry a young gentleman of quality -was being presented to the King, and, to the -great surprise of Geoffrey and Oswald, they -heard the name of their chance acquaintance -at Botley.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Olandyne of Ripley, in the County of -Surrey. Greeting, Master Olandyne, what is -thy pleasure?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A boon, sire," exclaimed the suppliant, -falling on one knee and kissing the extended -hand of the monarch.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Say on, young sir, though many are the -boons that we are asked to confer."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sire, I have raised at no small cost a troop -of twenty men-at-arms. These I respectfully -offer for service in the field." Here Olandyne -paused, unable to utter another word.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We see not what is the nature of thy request. -To us it savours of a service most loyally rendered," -replied the King. "Say on—what -boon dost thou ask?"</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_192'></a>"That I may be permitted to lead them in -battle, sire."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thy request is most reasonable, young sir. -Since——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I crave your Majesty's hearing for a few -brief moments," exclaimed the Bishop of Norwich -in deep, measured tones. "It hath come -to my knowledge that this fellow was formerly -a monk of the Charterhouse, and hath broken -his vows of charity, obedience, and constancy to -the Order."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What hast thou to say to this accusation, -young sir?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis indeed true, sire," replied Olandyne -brokenly. "Yet the desire for a soldier's life -overcame the choice made for me of service -within the walls of an abbey. In sooth, sire, -I could not keep the vows that were forced upon -me. I——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Enough, young sir," thundered Henry, his -eyes blazing sternly at the trembling form of the -ex-monk, while the Duke of Exeter whispered -something in the ear of his royal nephew.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, Uncle Exeter, we are not ashamed to -speak our mind, nor are we willing to offend -Holy Mother Church. Therefore, Master Olandyne, -thy services are not required. Thou canst -withdraw from our presence, disgraced, but -free from any fear of apprehension and punishment."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Louting low to his Sovereign, Olandyne -backed slowly from the daïs, his face ashen with -mortification, confusion, and anger. Nor were -there few of the assembled company who had -<a id='Page_193'></a>compassion for the luckless man whose proffered -service had been so curtly declined and whose -visions of martial prowess were so rudely dispelled.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ah, our trusted and much beloved Sir John -Carberry," exclaimed the King heartily as the -Constable of Portchester advanced to the daïs, -followed by the three squires. "Well, Sir John, -how fares it with thee?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sire, I am a soldier and slow of speech. -Words come not readily to the tip of my tongue. -But, sire, on a matter of deepest importance -I would speak with thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Is the matter so important that it cannot -be declared in the presence of our trusty and -loyal subjects?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That is for thee to decide, sire. But if so -be that thou wilt desire the Earls of Gloucester -and York, the Earl Marshal, and His Grace of -Canterbury to attend thee in private, I bid so -bold as to say that my communication is no -ordinary one."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Be it so, then," replied Henry, rising from -his oaken chair. "Fair sirs, we would your -presence in private."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now, Sir John," continued the King as the -doors of the ante-room were closed, "'tis no -personal matter of thine, on that I'll stake my -crown."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sire, saving thy presence, my Sovereign's -safety is mine honour, and mine honour I -deem a personal matter."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou hast a shrewd argument, Sir John, -in spite of thy slowness of speech. Thou -<a id='Page_194'></a>hast hinted at danger to our person. Say -on."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Briefly, yet concisely, the Constable of Portchester -related the treasonable meeting of Lord -Scrope of Masham and Sir Thomas Grey under -the oak tree, while Geoffrey and Oswald felt their -hearts beat rapidly and their cheeks flush as -their part in the discovery of the fell plot was -unfolded to the royal ears.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"This is no light matter," remarked King -Harry at the conclusion of the knight's story. -"Justice must be worked upon these traitors. -Where are Cambridge, Scrope, and Grey?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Lord Scrope is in audience, your Majesty," -replied the marshal. "Sir Thomas Grey was at -his lodging hard by the Bar Gate but an hour -agone. As for His Grace of Cambridge, according -to this list I find that he is still at Winchester."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Get thee hence, Sir Marshal," said the King. -"Set a guard of archers to watch my Lord -Scrope, without giving him cause for alarm. -Send also to the caitiff Grey, and require his -presence instantly. Should he refuse, then arrest -him, otherwise let him come unsuspectingly. -As for the Earl, send a party of mounted men-at-arms -to Winchester and secure his person."</p> - -<p class='c010'>When the marshal had departed on his errand -the King turned to Sir John Carberry.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By my halidome, thy squire and the squire -of our absent Sir Oliver Lysle have borne themselves -with credit. Harry of Monmouth is slow -to reward, yet none the less sure. Let them -prove themselves by some deed of arms in the -<a id='Page_195'></a>field, and in due course the gilded spurs of -knighthood shall be theirs."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now, my lords," he continued, "let us return -to the council chamber. Not a word nor a look -must be given to show that aught is amiss till -Grey is confronted with his partners in their -most abhorrent guilt."</p> - -<p class='c010'>On returning to the larger hall the King -resumed his reception, devoting his attention -to every suitor who sought a hearing, though at -intervals his glance was directed at the throng -behind the barriers, where the traitor Scrope -was a conspicuous figure.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length Sir Thomas Grey, who had evidently -arrayed himself with haste, entered the room -in company with the marshal.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ah, we do perceive our right worthy Grey," -exclaimed the King. "Forward, fair sir, we have -need of thy services on some small matter."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Unsuspectingly Sir Thomas Grey advanced -to the daïs, where he stood awaiting his Sovereign's -pleasure.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We believe, Sir Thomas, that thou wert sent -as envoy to our cousin of France?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yea, sire."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Let me think, who were thy fellow-envoys?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sir George Pakenham and Lord Scrope of -Masham, sire."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Is Sir George present?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>The voice of the herald in waiting was heard -calling for the absent Pakenham, whom the -King knew to be on duty at the Tower of -London.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_196'></a>"Then, my Lord Scrope—is he, too, absent -on affairs of State?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I am here, sire," exclaimed the recreant earl -edging his way towards the King's presence.</p> - -<p class='c010'>If either of the two conspirators had had an -inkling of what was in the mind of their Sovereign, -neither showed it. Grave and imperturbably -dignified they stood side by side before -the daïs.</p> - -<p class='c010'>King Harry kept silence for a few moments, -then with a dangerous flash in his eyes he -exclaimed:</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Uncle Exeter, thou knowest thy duty."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Henry, Lord Scrope of Masham, I arrest -thee for high treason. Thomas Grey, knight -of Northumberland, I arrest thee also for high -treason."</p> - -<p class='c010'>A tense silence fell upon the assembly, broken -at length by movement of the King's body-guard -of archers as they advanced to seize the two -traitors. As for Lord Scrope, he sullenly submitted -to be bound, but Grey's hand flew to his -sword-hilt. The weapon flashed dully in the -subdued light, but a soldier's hand grasped the -knight's wrist in a vice-like grip; the steel -clanked upon the oaken floor, and in a twinkling -the second traitor was secured.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The fate that befel the three conspirators is -a matter of history. Cambridge, Scrope, and -Grey were brought to a hasty trial, and condemned -on the 2nd day of August, 1415. The -same day Grey was led on foot from the Watergate -to the North Gate, and there beheaded. -On the 5th of the same month the Earl of Cambridge -<a id='Page_197'></a>walked the same route, while his meaner -partner in crime, Lord Scrope, was drawn to -the North Gate on a hurdle, where both paid -the death penalty.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The earl's body was buried in God's House, -in the town of Southampton, while the heads of -Scrope and Grey were sent to York and Newcastle -respectively, where they were exhibited -as a stern warning to those who sought to plot -against their lawful Sovereign.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On the same evening of the earl's trial Geoffrey -and Oswald were walking by the shore near the -Watergate, when their attention was drawn -to a young man vehemently bargaining with the -master of a fishing-boat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"For forty marks I'll set thee ashore on -French soil, young sir," exclaimed the seaman -decisively. "Not a groat less."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then do so, for before heaven I have forsworn -the land of my birth."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Instinctively Geoffrey gripped his comrade's -arm. The voice was that of the ex-monk -Olandyne.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_198'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XXI<br /> <br />HOW GEOFFREY FARED AT THE SIEGE OF<br />HARFLEUR</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>It was an unwonted sight that met the eyes -of the burghers of Harfleur on the morning -of the 14th day of August, 1415. From the -Rade de Caen to the Rade de Havre the estuary -of the Seine was dotted with sails—not those of -peaceful merchantmen, but of the ships of the -English invaders.</p> - -<p class='c010'>King Harry led the van in a carrack with -purple sails, on which were embroidered the -arms of England and France. The sun glinted -on the armour and shields of the knights of his -household, while to add to the almost barbaric -splendour of the royal ship musicians blew -trumpets and clarions, with all the energy left -at their command after a stormy passage across -the Channel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the wake of the King's carrack, and stretching -in irregular lines far to the east and west, -lumbered the rest of the fleet of fifteen hundred -vessels, till the wide estuary seemed choked -with floating fortresses.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On the towering forecastle of the <i>Rose of -Hampshire</i>, Sir Thomas Carberry's own cog, a -knot of squires and men-at-arms were eagerly -<a id='Page_199'></a>scanning the walls and towers of the still distant -town of Harfleur.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I' faith, 'tis a vast difference since the time -when we crawled in thither in the old <i>Grâce à -Dieu</i>," observed Gripwell.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay," assented Geoffrey. "But what thinkest -thou—will the citizens of Harfleur offer resistance?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Not to our landing, young sir. Were they -ten times as strong they could not hold the vast -stretch of shore. But methinks all this host -will not frighten them into letting go of their -riches without a tough struggle. Mark ye the -Jumelles—those twin towers guarding the harbour? -Unless mine eyes deceive me, I perceive -the glint of steel behind the battlements."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I heard it mentioned that five of our largest -galleys were to make a dash into the harbour," -remarked Oswald.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Foolish talk," ejaculated the old man-at-arms -contemptuously. "When we were last -within this part didst thou not mark two great -chains trailing from embrasures in either tower? -Ere now, I'll warrant, those chains have been -drawn up, so that no vessel can pass in or out. -Certes! Swept by stones, bolts, and arrows, -to say nought of those new-fashioned bombards, -no craft will remain afloat for five minutes. -Nay, Master Oswald, therein thou hast been misinformed, -for a leader like King Harry, for all that -he be young and daring, would not hazard a -main on such a vain enterprise."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As Gripwell had foretold, the English host -landed without opposition, at a spot barely a -<a id='Page_200'></a>league from the town of Harfleur. Altogether -the arduous task of disembarking the stores and -munitions of war occupied another three days, -at the end of which time Henry commenced a -strict blockade of the doomed town.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Nor did he merely sit down before Harfleur. -A double line of trenches and batteries at the -most salient points were constructed; bombards, -firing a thirty-pound stone shot, were -secured to their cumbersome carriages, and a -heavy fire was directed against the walls.</p> - -<p class='c010'>While this was in progress a mine was commenced -close to the northern gate of the town. -Working day and night, the sappers plied mattock -and spade so diligently that on the third -day of the siege the tunnel had all but reached -the base of one of the flanking towers of the gate.</p> - -<p class='c010'>To protect these underground toilers a strong -force of men-at-arms was stationed in the -subterranean gallery under the orders of the -Constable of Portchester, who directed his two -squires Richard Ratclyffe and Geoffrey, to take -alternate duty in the mine.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And mark ye well," he exclaimed. "Ever -and anon ye must bid the diggers cease. Then -listen attentively. If ye hear the sound of the -Frenchmen's spades speed and bring me word, -or our labour is undone. They of the city are -not a mere rabble of townsfolk to be despised, -for both the Lord of Gaucourt and Sir Jean -d'Estrelle are past masters in the art of war. -If they have not already commenced a countermine, -may I never again break bread."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Just before midnight Geoffrey descended -<a id='Page_201'></a>the shaft leading to the tunnel. The sullen -glare of the torches threw a weird light upon -the naked backs of the diggers, the tarnished -armour of the men-at-arms, and the timber -props of the long, narrow gallery that reeked -vilely of an unwholesome smoke-laden atmosphere.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hast heard aught?" asked he of Ratclyffe, -who had hastened to meet him with -evident relief.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I did but bid the men cease a short while -ago," replied the elder squire. "All is quiet -as the grave."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Left to himself, Geoffrey slowly paced the -tunnel betwixt the bottom of the shaft and -the part occupied by the guard of men-at-arms. -The heat soon became so oppressive that he -removed his bascinet, placing it on a convenient -baulk of timber, then wrapping a scarf round -his head he continued his measured pace to and -fro till he had completed twelve lengths of the -tunnel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then bidding the toilers desist, he placed his -ear to the damp ground and listened intently.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Methinks Sir John will have to forswear his -bread," he exclaimed to himself, as the diggers -resumed their operations.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thrice did the squire call a halt, but on each -occasion there were no signs or sounds of the -counter-miners' work.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length one of the sappers called out that -he had struck stone. Making his way to the -head of the tunnel, Geoffrey saw by the aid of -a torch that the man had spoken truly. The -<a id='Page_202'></a>lowermost layer of masonry of the tower lay -exposed three feet from the floor of the tunnel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>All that now remained to be done was to -undermine the base and place explosives in -position.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Go and carry word to Sir John," ordered -Geoffrey, addressing a man-at-arms. "Perchance -he may wish to examine the stone-work -ere the powder is brought hither."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The soldier hastened on his errand, while the -men continued to attack the hard soil with their -spades. They had succeeded in their efforts to -strike the base of the tower, and one and all -were delighted with their success.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Just as Geoffrey was on the point of bidding -the toilers desist the floor of the tunnel suddenly -collapsed, leaving a gaping hole, through which -a swarm of armed men poured with shouts of -triumph.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere the English men-at-arms could draw their -swords the foemen were upon them, striking -down the unarmed sappers right and left. In -the confusion most of the torches were extinguished, -and in the almost total darkness friend -gripped friend by the throat, the cries of the -wounded adding to the uproar.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With cries of "<i>A Gaucourt!</i>" "<i>St Denis à -mon aide!</i>" the French knights pressed home -the attack, while the English men-at-arms, with -cries of "St. George for England!" strove to -hold their own against the overwhelming numbers. -More torches were brought to illuminate -the ghastly scene, and by their light men fought -and died like wild beasts.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_203'></a>Unmindful of his unprotected head, Geoffrey -had drawn his sword at the first alarm, and had -contrived to force his way to the front. Skill -and coolness were thrown to the winds, and -striking madly at the forest of opposing spears -and swords, the squire strove to keep the foe at -bay.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Soon his fury began to tell on him; his sword-arm -was becoming nerveless under the strain, -while his shoulder was bleeding profusely from a -thrust betwixt the joints of his armour.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Still he fought on, till he heard the glad sounds -of the succouring forces that the Constable of -Portchester was bringing up with all dispatch to -the rescue. Just then a mortally wounded -man-at-arms gripped the lad's ankle. Simultaneously -a powerful Norman flung himself upon -the enfeebled and embarrassed squire, and losing -his balance, Geoffrey fell.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the glare of the torchlight he saw the -Frenchman's arm raised to deal a <i>coup-de-grâce</i>, -but with an exclamation of surprise the -man checked the descending knife. A thousand -flashing lights danced before Geoffrey's eyes, and -with a groan he lost consciousness.</p> - -<hr class='c004' /> - -<p class='c010'>When the young squire came to his senses he -found himself lying on a rough pallet in a darkened -room. It was now morning. From without -came the sullen roar of artillery, mingled -with the shouts, shrieks, and cries of the combatants, -showing that the assault was being -pushed home.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_204'></a>By degrees Geoffrey remembered the events -of the previous night—the opening of the countermine, -the grim and terrible struggle in the -subterranean depths, and his own misfortune. -He had a vivid recollection of the arresting of -the descending knife of his adversary, but beyond -that his memory failed him. Why was he -thus spared? Where was he, and by whose -agency had he been brought hither?</p> - -<p class='c010'>But the lad's throbbing brain could not suggest -a reason. In vain he strove to collect his -thoughts, till with a groan of pain and mental -anguish he turned himself on his couch. Then -he became aware that his shoulder had been -dressed, and that a wet bandage had been tied -round his head.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Presently, worn out with utter exhaustion, -the squire fell into a troubled sleep.</p> - -<p class='c010'>When he awoke the sounds of conflict had died -away. A slight murmur in the room caused him -to turn his face towards the door. He was not -alone. Standing on the threshold was a man -dressed in a leathern jacket and close-fitting -iron cap, while above his right shoulder projected -the stirrup and part of the steel bow of an -arbalist.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In spite of his dress and equipment, Geoffrey -recognized the man; it was Gaston le Noir, the -pilot of La Broie.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Art awake, young sir?" quoth the Norman. -"I trust thou wilt soon be thyself once -more."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How came I here, Gaston?" asked Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_205'></a>"How camest thou here? By St. Denis, -'twas by reason of the debt I owe thee, which I -have been enabled to repay. Yet, let it be -understood that 'twas more by chance than -otherwise, for had I not seen thy face my knife -would have been plunged into thy body."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then thou art the man who grappled with -me, Gaston?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay," replied the pilot shortly, "I came -near to slaying thee in fair fight."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How camest thou to be shut up in Harfleur?" -asked Geoffrey curiously.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Young sir, I am ever a true Frenchman, -therefore 'tis my duty to bear my part in defending -the town. Moreover, thy countrymen have -burned the village of La Broie, and with it my -house; and, what is more, my boat has been -pressed into their service."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"But when the war is over and we are masters -of France thou canst return to ply thy trade as -pilot."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The English will never be masters of France, -young sir," replied the Norman fiercely. "The -greater the danger the stronger will all true -Frenchmen stand."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Art thou not a vassal of the Duke of Normandy, -and is not our king the Duke?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A duke who wars against his overlord is no -master of mine," retorted the Norman. "But -now, young sir, I must away. Wilt thou give -me thy solemn word that thou wilt remain my -prisoner, and not attempt to escape? Bear in -mind that on the occasion of the attack upon -the English mines an order was given that no -<a id='Page_206'></a>prisoners were to be taken. At great risk I bore -thee hither, and if thou wert discovered by the -governor of the town or his officers 'twould go -hard with thee and me. Come, Squire Lysle, -thy promise!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay," replied Geoffrey resolutely, "I'll -not give thee my parole. Yet rest assured, -should I fail in my attempt to break away, none -shall know from whose care I have escaped."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hot-headed boy!" exclaimed Gaston. "Thou -wilt undo all the good I fain would do. Nevertheless, -I'll see that thou art guarded. When I -am on the walls my man Philippe will stand -without the door. Shouldst thou attempt to -pass hence thy blood be upon thine own head."</p> - -<p class='c010'>In high dudgeon Gaston le Noir left the lad's -presence, vowing that since he had requited his -debt he would not suffer his prisoner to be a -source of danger to him. Presently he returned, -accompanied by a heavy-browed, huge-limbed -man whom Geoffrey recognized as being one of -the crew of the pilot's boat on the occasion of -his journey up the Seine to Rouen.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Philippe, mark well," exclaimed Gaston. -"I have made a fool of myself by giving quarter -to this squire; yet thou and I must needs keep a -sharp eye on him. Therefore, should he attempt -to quit this place, do not fear to pass thy -knife across his throat."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Gaston's companion regarded the youth with a -grim stare, while Geoffrey took stock of him, -wondering whether in his weak state he could, -by any manner of chance, prove a match for the -powerful-looking seaman. Then, as the door -<a id='Page_207'></a>was closed and barred, Geoffrey fell back upon -his pallet, a prey to deep despondency.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Though he appreciated Gaston's action in -saving his life, the squire realized that the man -meant to keep his word. Then, as he dwelt -upon the situation, Geoffrey began to see the -object of the Norman's solicitude. With the fall -of the town, for fall it must, unless succour were -speedily forthcoming, the inhabitants would in -all probability be put to the sword for having -offered resistance to their feudal lord. Therefore -Gaston hoped to save his own life by proclaiming -his good deed in rescuing the squire from certain -death.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Slowly the days of captivity passed, yet the -vigilance of the youth's captors was in no wise -relaxed. On the subject of the state of the -siege they maintained a strict reticence, though -by the scanty fare supplied Geoffrey knew that -provisions were beginning to fail within the -beleaguered town.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile the besiegers lay thick without -the walls, and slowly yet surely advanced their -trenches almost under the shadow of the battlements. -But a deadly foe had made its appearance -amongst King Henry's host. Dysentery, -caused by bad and insufficient food and the -September dampness, raged through the camp, -till three thousand men, or one-tenth of the -invaders, fell victims to the dread pestilence.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Under these circumstances the King realized -that it would be better to risk a few hundred -lives in a general onslaught than to lose his men -in the comparative inaction of an investment; -<a id='Page_208'></a>and on the eighteenth day of September preparations -for a desperate attack upon the defences -were commenced.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Eager to learn the reason for the unmistakable -bustle in the besiegers' camp, the Lord of -Gaucourt sent a spy from the town. The spy -was detected, and on being taken before King -Henry he was ordered to be hanged at sunset -before the North Gate.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Within the town famine was rampant, but, -suspecting that some of the inhabitants had -concealed a stock of provisions instead of contributing -to the common fund, Gaucourt ordered -a house-to-house search.</p> - -<p class='c010'>One of the results of the examination was that -Geoffrey was discovered in the house where Gaston -had taken up his abode. But for Philippe's -dulness of mind the young squire might have -been regarded as one of the wounded defenders -of the town, but instead the squire was seized -and carried before the Governor of Harfleur.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Closely questioned by the Lord of Gaucourt, -Geoffrey admitted that he was a squire to the -Constable of Portchester, and had been taken -prisoner at the destruction of the mine, but he -steadfastly refused to give the name of his -captor; and as Gaston had hidden himself on -the news of the apprehension of his prisoner, -and Philippe had retained sufficient sense to -pretend to be unable to throw light upon the -matter, the culprit who had broken the orders -relating to the refusal of quarter remained undiscovered.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Away with him," thundered Gaucourt at -<a id='Page_209'></a>the conclusion of the interrogation. "To the -tower at the North Gate. Bid the men-at-arms -erect a gallows on the battlements and send -a herald to the enemy. Tell them that an -English squire is in our hands, and should they -execute our spy this squire's life shall pay -forfeit."</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was a strange sight that met Geoffrey's -gaze as he found himself on the lofty battlements -with the shadow of a rough gallows falling -athwart the shattered masonry.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Around him stood Gaucourt and the chief -men of the garrison and town, while in the -background were the men-at-arms and cross-bowmen -to whom the defence of the tower was -entrusted.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Below the outlines of the besiegers' trenches -were spread out like a gigantic map, while upon -the earthworks English archers and men-at-arms -swarmed like ants, shaking their fists and -shouting in impotent rage at the men who -were about to take vengeance upon their -prisoner.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Yet not an arrow nor a bolt was discharged -from either party, for an hour's truce had been -agreed upon, so that the French herald could -place his master's proposals for the life of the -spy before King Henry.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At a safe distance in the rear of the trenches -clustered the tents of the English host, the -largest flying the banner of the lion and leopards -quartered with the fleur-de-lys that denoted the -royal pavilion.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Massed in close columns were bodies of the -<a id='Page_210'></a>English men-at-arms, accompanied by a swarm -of lightly-clad men bearing long scaling ladders. -Amongst the banners of the knights who were -to lead the desperate attack Geoffrey recognized -the star and crescent of Sir Thomas Carberry's -company as the Hampshire men stood to their -arms, ready at the termination of the truce to -rush towards the walls to rescue or avenge their -young squire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length, escorted by a guard of mounted -archers, the French herald left the royal pavilion -and rode slowly towards the town. Hardly -had he reached the innermost of the triple line of -trenches when there was a commotion amidst -the tents, and, accompanied by a brilliant train -of knights, Henry himself advanced to direct -the threatened assault.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How now, herald?" demanded the Lord of -Gaucourt as the envoy, hot and breathless, -gained the summit of the tower.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fair sir, the English king is not to be bent -from his purpose. He bids me say that, according -to the usages of war, he will hang our man. -Moreover, if this squire dies on the gallows, thy -life and that of a score of the bravest knights -and men of quality of this town will answer for -it—'not by the sword, but by a hempen cord, -be the blood of a Gaucourt ever so blue.' Those -were the words of the King of England."</p> - -<p class='c010'>At the threat of the rope the French knight's -cheeks blanched, for, brave though he was, -he recoiled at the thought of dying the death -of a churl. Then recovering himself, he exclaimed—</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_211'></a>"Let not the King of England think to turn -me from my purpose. Watch yon gallows carefully; -if our spy is thrown from the ladder, then -up with yon squire. I also will remain here to -see to the ordering o' it."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile the stormers of the English army -had advanced to within an arrow's flight of the -walls. Like a gigantic spring the attackers -clustered together in a vast coil, ready to unwind -and thrust itself against the battlements of Harfleur; -yet, though the truce was at an end, the -reopening of the hostilities seemed suspended till -the double tragedy was enacted.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Bravely Geoffrey braced himself to undergo -the final ordeal. Come the worst, he was determined -to let his enemies see how a true English -squire would die, cheered by the desperate -yet doubtless unavailing efforts of his own -countrymen to effect his rescue.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Slowly the sun sank in the west; longer grew -the shadow of the lofty towers, till it was lost in -the distance. Then as the blood-red orb disappeared -beneath the horizon the gallows on the -plain was not without its burden.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The shout of execration that rose from the -Frenchmen on the walls was drowned by the -sullen roar of rage and fury from the besiegers as -the men-at-arms seized the English squire and -raised him on their shoulders.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The fatal noose was already around his neck -when the Lord of Gaucourt spoke.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Cast the squire loose," ordered he. "By -St. Denis, I am not a butcher. The King of -England spoke truly when he said that the spy -<a id='Page_212'></a>had placed himself beyond the pale, but this -prisoner hath not merited such a death. Take -him to the quarters in the citadel. Ho, there! -Bid our men stand fast for the honour of France, -for our enemies are upon us!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the midst of a guard of men-at-arms, -Geoffrey, well-nigh bewildered by the sudden -change of his fortunes, felt himself hurried -from the walls and through the narrow streets. -Even as he went he heard the air torn by the -thunderous discharge of the bombards, while -ever and anon a huge stone shot, glancing from -the battlements, would hurtle overhead and -bury itself in the midst of the crowded houses of -the town.</p> - -<p class='c010'>All that night the squire remained awake in -his place of detention, listening to the rumble -of the ordnance. Yet though the bombardment -was continuous, there were no signs of an actual -assault being delivered, and at dawn the cannonade -ceased.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Three more days passed, yet beyond a desultory -discharge of artillery hostilities seemed to be -suspended, then to the squire's inexpressible -joy he heard the steady tramp of feet and shouts -of exultation uttered by hundreds of lusty -English voices.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere he could realize that Harfleur had indeed -fallen, the door of his prison was thrown -open, and Sir Thomas Carberry, attended by -Oswald, Ratcliffe, Gripwell, and several of the -men-at-arms of Warblington, flocked into the -room.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Unable to utter a sound, Geoffrey grasped the -<a id='Page_213'></a>knight's hands, while his overjoyed comrades -almost overwhelmed him with anxious questions -and hearty congratulations.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thus a second time did Geoffrey Lysle taste -the joys of freedom.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_214'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XXII<br /> <br />THE MARCH OF THE FORLORN SEVEN THOUSAND</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>It will now be necessary to relate the final -incidents of the siege of Harfleur, after -Geoffrey had been removed from the shadow -of the gallows.</p> - -<p class='c010'>All that night a heavy cannonade was directed -against the doomed town in order to prepare -the way for the grand assault. But ere the -latter was delivered the Lord of Gaucourt sent -a herald to the King of England offering to -capitulate within three days unless the town -should be succoured before the expiration of that -term.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Incredibly inactive, the King of France made -no effort to relieve the fortress that had held -out so bravely and desperately for more than -thirty days, and on Sunday, September 22, -Gaucourt, accompanied by the principal knights -and burgesses of Harfleur, delivered up the -keys of the town.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On the following day Henry and his forces -entered Harfleur with all the pomp and magnificence -of a conqueror, but at the North Gate -he removed his casque and shoes, and with -impressive humility walked barefooted to the -principal church of the town, where the <i>Te Deum</i> -<a id='Page_215'></a>and <i>Non Nobis</i> were sung with the greatest -fervour by hundreds of battle-worn English -warriors.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Having done his spiritual duty Henry's -next care was to secure the captured town against -attacks from without, and to take steps to -husband his resources. Accordingly the captured -knights and men-at-arms were compelled -to give up their arms and armour, and allowed to -retain only those garments sufficient to cover -them. Those who were willing to give their -parole to surrender themselves at Calais at -Martinmas were dismissed. A few who declined -to give such assurances were sent to -England with the booty.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The English had, by sheer valour and perseverance, -secured the chief town and port in -Normandy; but in so doing their losses by -wounds and sickness were so great that the -primary object of the invasion—the conquest -of France—was for the time being out of the -question.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Henry had three courses open to him: he -could either remain within the walls of Harfleur -till reinforcements arrived from England, or he -could re-embark and give up the fruits of victory; -or he could adopt the desperate step of -marching along the coast to Calais, a distance of -more than one hundred and seventy miles. -Something had to be done; so, with the glorious -record of his great grandfather, Edward III, -to raise the enthusiasm of his men, Henry decided -upon the third and most dangerous -alternative.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_216'></a>His preparations were soon complete, for the -massing of a huge French army hastened his -actions. Five hundred and fifty men-at-arms -and twelve hundred archers were to be left at -Harfleur to hold the town at all costs; the sick -and wounded, together with the artillery and -heavy transport, were sent back to Southampton, -and with a bare seven thousand men -King Harry set out upon his desperate enterprise -on the morning of October 8.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By St. George, 'twill be a question of no -little advancement or a glorious death," exclaimed -Sir Thomas Carberry to his squire as -from his position in the vanguard of the host he -turned and saw the orderly lines of men breasting -the hill beyond the town of Harfleur. "If -we gain our end our deed will be sung as long -as England remains a nation. Failing that, -<i>dulce et decorum est pro pâtria mori</i>—what -sayest thou, Geoffrey?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fair lord, I am in accord with thee, though -to speak plainly I would rather return to England -victorious than lay my bones in the soil of -France. What thinkest thou of our chance, Sir -Thomas?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis not a chance: our future lies in the -hands of One above. Yet, speaking as a man -well versed in war, our position is very little -different from that of the worthy King Edward -III before Crécy, and, certes, not worse than -before Poictiers. Mark yon line of hungry men -clad in rags and rusty armour: I'll warrant -they'll fight as blithely and as well as did their -forefathers. Times and manners change, in -<a id='Page_217'></a>sooth, but the character of the English soldier -will, I trow, ever remain the same."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Day after day the weary march was maintained, -the troops sleeping in the open at night, -in constant expectation of a sudden onfall by -the overwhelming host that was known to be -hovering in the vicinity. Yet without any serious -opposition the English Army reached the -mouth of the Somme, where Edward III had -made a successful crossing on his march to -Calais.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But the fortune that had favoured his great-grandsire -was denied the brave and headstrong -King Henry, for at Blanche-Taque, the scene of -the passage of the Somme, the French were -massed in such a strong position that it would -have been sheer madness to attempt the ford.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By my halidome, my lords," exclaimed the -King, when he saw the enemy's strength and -unassailable position, "ere I left Harfleur I -registered a solemn vow not to retrace one step -while I wear coat-armour. If I cannot go on, -here I must abide, but since I am unwilling to -stand here and hurl defiance at these Frenchmen, -I must needs go on."</p> - -<p class='c010'>To this deliberate vow Henry scrupulously -adhered. On one occasion it is recorded that -he inadvertently rode past a house that had -been selected for his night's resting-place. -Stubbornly he refused to return, and spent the -night with his troops in the open.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It can be readily understood that a man who -rigorously kept his oath pertaining to small -matters would be even more strict in the ordering -<a id='Page_218'></a>of greater things. He now gave orders -for the little army to turn aside and march -inland, following the left bank of the swift-flowing -Somme.</p> - -<p class='c010'>This meant that the danger of his position -was increased fourfold. So long as he kept to -the coast his left flank was secured from attack, -but directly the English Army marched away -from the sea, it was liable to be completely -surrounded by the ever-growing French host.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For eight long days the English army marched -slowly up the valley of the Somme, vainly -endeavouring to find a bridge or a ford that -had been left slenderly guarded. To the -fatigues of their arduous march were added the -difficulties of obtaining provisions in a devastated -country, but encouraged by the personal -example of their Sovereign the troops maintained -their courage and self-confidence.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Canst perceive yon castle?" asked Gripwell -of Geoffrey, pointing to the summit of a -square keep that showed itself above a distant -hill. "Tis the Castle of Maissons where the -Count, Sir Raoul d'Aulx, holds thy father captive."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I have heard much of Maissons, but never -before have I perceived it," replied Geoffrey, -shading his eyes as he looked towards the grim -pile. "How sayest thou, Arnold? Perchance Sir -Raoul and most of his men are in the field. If I -obtain my lord's permission to take a score of -men-at-arms, 'twould be an easy matter to ride -over to Maissons and demand its surrender. -Without doubt the near presence of the English -<a id='Page_219'></a>army would frighten them into opening their -gates."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, 'tis not to be thought of, Squire Geoffrey," -replied Gripwell. "Hath not the King -issued orders concerning stragglers and against -affairs requiring the absence of any soldiers -from the army? Think no more of it yet awhile, -for I'll warrant that if we vanquish the host -that threatens us the gates of every castle in -Normandy will be thrown open to the King."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Reluctantly the young squire had to abandon -the chance of rescuing his father, but ere long an -event occurred that kept him fully occupied for -some time to come.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Geoffrey," exclaimed Sir Thomas Carberry, -who had just left the King's presence, "the -time hath come when we must prove our courage -and devotion. Dost mark yon mill, at the head -of the river? The red roof is to be seen above -the trees on thy left."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Yes, sir," replied the squire. "Methinks -that foes are in force there, since the smoke of -many camp fires rises skywards."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, 'tis the fires of the wood-cutters of -Peronne. But to the point: my company -must seize yon mill at all costs, and hold the -ford above but hard by the mill till the main -body of the army can cross. See to it that the -mounted men-at-arms only are to essay this -task—of the archers we have no need. Now, -hasten, for every moment is precious."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Led by Sir Thomas Carberry in person, with -Geoffrey and Oswald and Richard Ratclyffe -riding close behind him, the eighty men-at-arms -<a id='Page_220'></a>rode steadily through the open valley towards -the ford. Then, as the company rounded an -intervening spur of ground, the mill again -appeared in sight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Scattered in and around the rambling stone -building were several French knights, crossbowmen -and men-at-arms. Although placed -there for the express purpose of guarding the -important passage, it was not until the head -of the English column showed itself that the -defenders realized the danger. Standing in his -stirrups Sir Thomas shouted his battle-cry; -then with a roar the horsemen thundered towards -the ford.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere the horses could gain the water sufficient -time had elapsed to enable the crossbowmen -to wind their cumbersome weapons, and with a -dull bass hum the heavy quarrels began to speed -over and betwixt the Englishmen, some finding -a billet in the bodies of the charging horsemen -or their steeds. Now and again a horse would -sink to earth, throwing its rider headlong, while -those following had much ado to prevent themselves -from being overthrown by the still plunging -animal. Sometimes a thrown rider would -struggle to his feet and begin to stumble -blindly after his comrades, but more often the -thrown warrior would lie still and motionless, -never again to hear the shouts of his victorious -comrades in arms.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Now the head of the column was in the swift-flowing -river. The water soaked through -Geoffrey's mailed shoes and greaves, but the -squire heeded it not: his whole attention was -<a id='Page_221'></a>directed against a knot of mail-clad Frenchmen -who were urging their steeds into the stream to -contest the possession of the ford.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With a crash the sharpened lance-points met, -but owing to the retarding influence of the water -the shock was not so great as that of the tilt-yard. -Some of the less skilful riders were hurled -from their saddles to perish miserably in the -river, but the majority, casting aside their -unwieldy lances, fell upon each other with axe, -mace and sword.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Of what happened during the next few moments -Geoffrey had but a dim recollection. It -was cut, thrust, and parry, steel ringing on steel, -horses champing and neighing, wounded men -shrieking dismally till their miserable cries were -stifled by the silent yet swift-running current, -and above all the hoarse shouts of the English -men-at-arms who were not to be gainsaid in their -determination to win the ford.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length the mêlée thinned, and the squire -found himself opposed to a knight clad in bronzed -armour, and armed with a long two-handled -sword. Wedged firmly in his high-pommelled -saddle the Frenchman had slung his shield -behind his back, and, with the reins dropped upon -his horse's mane, he was able to devote his whole -strength to the wielding of his mighty weapon.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A sweeping cut delivered at Geoffrey's head -the squire caught upon his shield, with no other -ill effect than to shear off its upper corner.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then with lightning rapidity the cut was repeated, -this time full on the youth's right side. -The Englishman's sword barely checked the -<a id='Page_222'></a>swinging blow that all but numbed the lad's -sword-arm, while his counter-cut fell harmlessly -upon the French knight's gorget.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Realizing that the only way to avoid the -seemingly tireless cuts was to get within his -adversary's guard Geoffrey dug his spurs into -the flanks of his charger. The powerful brute -instantly responded, and the two animals were -plunging neck to neck as Geoffrey rained a hail -of ineffectual blows upon the Frenchman, who -in turn endeavoured to shorten his sword and -recover his lost advantage.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Heedlessly the two combatants were edging -down stream, till with a neigh of terror the -Frenchman's horse lost its footing. Its hind -feet had slipped over a shelf in the bed of the -river. Scraping desperately with its fore -hoofs it strove to regain a foothold. Only by -his prompt action was Geoffrey able to save -himself and his steed from a similar fate.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Help me, I yield," shouted the knight, dropping -his sword and holding out his right hand.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In reply, Geoffrey stretched out his gauntleted -hand to grasp his vanquished foe, but ere -he could do so the struggling animal's feet -slipped from the ledge, and in an instant horse -and knight were lost to view in the depths of the -mill-stream.</p> - -<p class='c010'>By this time the ford was won. Those of the -defenders who had escaped slaughter had fled, -save a few who, taking shelter in the mill, -resisted desperately till slain to the last man.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The Constable of Portchester's company had -lost heavily. Fifteen gallant men-at-arms had -<a id='Page_223'></a>ridden to their death, while a score more had -been sorely wounded. Ratclyffe was making -light of a blow that, cracking his steel bascinet, -had grazed his forehead till he was well-nigh -blinded with blood. Neither Sir Thomas nor -his squire Geoffrey had sustained injury, though -dents in their armour bore silent testimony to -the heat of the action. But the object of the -engagement was achieved, for without further -molestation the whole of the little English army -crossed the Somme.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, my lord, they bore themselves right -manfully," replied Sir Thomas Carberry, when -the Earl of Exeter complimented him on the -gallant exploit of the company. "But here -we are across the river, and I'll warrant our -difficulties are only begun. Yet mark these -rascals of mine, they reck not the odds, so long -as there is the prospect of a fight."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then they'll have their desire ere long, Sir -Thomas," replied the Earl—"a fight compared -with which this gallant deed is but naught. -The fame of the English arms will ring through -Christendom ere we reach Calais."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Amen," replied the Constable. "For 'tis -for this purpose that we are here."</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_224'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XXIII<br /> <br />THE EVE OF AGINCOURT</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>The English army had crossed the Somme at -a distance of more than sixty miles from -the ford of Blanche-Taque, where Edward III -had made his bold stroke eighty years previously. -To regain the sea by descending the right -bank of the river would mean a march that was -beyond the strength of the weary soldiers; -accordingly King Henry resolved to abandon -his original plan and march direct to Calais.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was not until the morning of October -24, that the invaders crossed the River -Ternoise after a slight skirmish at the ford of -Blangy. On and on they toiled, soaked by the -October rain, half famished, and footsore -through hard marching; yet the indomitable -spirit that pervaded the dauntless band never -for one moment showed signs of flagging.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On crossing the Ternoise the order of march -had been reversed. The Hampshire companies, -on whom the brunt of the vanguard actions had -fallen, were ordered to fall in with the main -body, while the advance guard was entrusted to -the men of Yorkshire and Devon, under the -command of the Duke of York.</p> - -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<img src='images/i_238.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' /> -<div class='ic002'> -<p>"SIRE, WERE THERE ANY WHO DWELT IN FEAR OF THE ISSUE<br />OF THE BATTLE, WOULD THEY SLEEP SO QUIETLY?"</p> -</div> -</div> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_225'></a>Steadily Geoffrey and Oswald trudged through -the stiff clay that sorely impeded the progress -of the soldiers. The squires had divested -themselves of a portion of their armour, that -dangled from the saddle-bow of their chargers. -In common with many of the mounted men they -had temporarily given up their steeds to those of -the archers who would otherwise have fallen out -by the wayside.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Twelve miles of that tedious route had been -accomplished since the passage of the Ternoise, -when a soldier, galloping madly on a foam-flecked -horse, came thundering along the road, -a shower of mud flying from the hoofs of his -steed.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The enemy, sir," he shouted as he passed -the leader of the Hampshire companies.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Already the vanguard was observed to be at -a standstill, while the supporting troops extending -right and left were taking up their -position on the flanks. The spirit of battle -was in the air.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Massing in close order the five thousand men -of the main body moved to the support of their -van. Cold, fatigue, hunger—all were forgotten.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was a stirring sight that met the gaze of -Geoffrey and his comrades as they gained the -brow of a low hill overlooking the woods of -Maisoncelles. Before them lay a gently-sloping -plain, flanked on either side by dense masses of -trees, while across the open ground could be -traced the narrow lane that passed through the -village of Agincourt and joined the broader -road from Abbeville to Calais, just beyond the -cluster of thatched and mud-walled houses.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But to the observers' eyes the lane was lost to -<a id='Page_226'></a>view in the serried ranks of the mighty host -representing the chivalry and power of France. -Three bowshots off, at the very least, the enemy -stood, barring the advance of the slender English -force.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Swiftly, yet in an orderly manner, the archers -and men-at-arms of the invading army took up -their positions. The men-at-arms, barely four -thousand in number, were placed in the centre, -the bowmen being massed on either flank; but -by mutual consent, for the night was beginning -to draw on, there was no inclination to engage -in battle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The King's orders are that ye rest yourselves," -announced Sir Thomas Carberry, as he -rode up to his company. "'Tis nearly certain -that the foe will not attack us this night, yet -to guard against surprise let each man sleep -in his ranks, with his arms ready at his side. -'Tis a sorry night, men, for rest, yet be assured I -and my squires will share the discomforts with -you."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I heed not the rain, fair sir," exclaimed an -archer boldly, "though I be powerful hungry."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Good-humoured laughter from his fellows -greeted these words. Geoffrey recognized the -voice as that of one of the Warblington archers, -who in times of peace was a wild-fowler of the -marches of Thorney.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Have no fear on that score, archer," replied -the Constable. "Already the sutlers are abroad, -and many wains of provisions are on their way -from yonder village. I do perceive, also, that -<a id='Page_227'></a>on our right flank the men are lighting fires. -Gripwell, do thou send ten men into the woods -and bring back faggots sufficient to last us the -night."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Quickly the men went on their errand, and ere -long thick columns of smoke arose from the -sodden logs, till the heat gaining the mastery, -the dull red flames began to throw out a comforting -glow. Then, with the arrival of the -victualling wains, drawn by peasants pressed -into service, the camp began to show signs of -cheerfulness, in spite of the almost continuous -downfall of icy rain. Yet the utmost order and -decorum prevailed in the English lines—a -striking contrast to the boisterous laughter and -merriment that was wafted on the winds from -around the watch fires of the French camp.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At intervals officers passed slowly along the -lines intent on seeking out their friends, whom, -perchance, they were to see and converse with -for the last time; priests and friars, too, threaded -their way amongst the soldiery, hearing confessions -and giving spiritual consolation to all -who desired their ministrations.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thus the time passed till it was midnight. -At intervals the rain ceased, and the pale moonbeams -glittered upon the damp grass and the -waving foliage of the neighbouring woods. -Most of the English troops had fallen asleep, -slumbering fitfully under the canopy of heaven. -Others conversed in low tones, or offered up -prayers for the safety of their comrades and -themselves, and for the successful issue of the -coming struggle. Still the French camp maintained -<a id='Page_228'></a>its state of revelry, for food and wine -were in abundance, and, with every prospect of -delivering a crushing defeat upon their numerically -weaker foes, the mercurial spirits of the -Frenchmen rose high. They had forgotten -their defeats at Crécy and Poictiers; time had -erased the memory of the English longbow.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The night drags slowly on," remarked Oswald, -drawing his saturated cloak more closely -around his shoulders. "Would that we had -something to do to bring some warmth to our -bodies."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We'll not lack for warmth ere the sun sets -again," replied Geoffrey. "But what discord -those Frenchmen are making. Could we but let -loose a troop of lances through the camp there -would be no little advancement occasioned by -the deed. But who cometh?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>At that moment a soldier walked swiftly -along the front of the line of recumbent men. -The moonbeams glistened on his armour that a -long cloak failed entirely to conceal.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Halt! who comes?" demanded Geoffrey, -barring the stranger's way with drawn sword.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A friend! Why hast thou challenged me?" -replied the man in a deep voice.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis not permitted to pass without the lines," -replied the squire. "I pray thee keep close to -the fires, lest an over-zealous archer feather thy -back with an arrow."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thanks for thy warning, fair sir; I will -pay heed unto. But I pray thee, who art thou, -what is thy condition?" asked the man with a -trace of authority in his speech.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_229'></a>"Since thou art a stranger 'tis thy place to -give thy name first," replied Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And if I refuse?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then 'tis my duty to bring thee before my -master, Sir Thomas Carberry," answered the -squire, at the same time beckoning to two men-at-arms -who were standing close to one of the -camp-fires.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, use not force, fair sir," replied the -cloaked man. "To thy master I can give a -good account of myself."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I trust for thine own weal that thou canst," -said Geoffrey as he preceded his prisoner, the -two soldiers following to prevent a possible -treacherous attack on their young squire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sir Thomas Carberry was at that moment -conversing with Sir Hugh Talbot of the Salisbury -company, and on the approach of the party he -turned.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Whom hast thou here?" demanded the -Constable.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A man whom I found without our lines," -replied Geoffrey. "According to mine orders -to detain all who might be thus found I have -brought him hither."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thy squire, Sir John, is to be commended -for his action," said the stranger in an altered -tone, as he removed the cloak from his head and -shoulders, disclosing the familiar features of -Henry, King of England.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sire!" gasped the astonished knight. -"Thy pardon for my squire and for me——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Pardon for faithfully executing mine orders, -good knight? Nay, rather let us be quick to -<a id='Page_230'></a>recognize a stern devotion to duty. But how -sayest thou, Sir John? Thou art grown grey -in warfare. What thinkest thou of our chances -in the coming fight?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A better chance the royal Edward never -had at Crécy, sire, unless yon host have the sense -to enfold us by their superior numbers. Yet -methinks they will risk their advantage in a -frontal attack, and neglect to make use of the -cover afforded by yon woods."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Trusted men I have already sent to make -sure of the nature of the ground on our right -flank," said the King. "For a like purpose have -I come to thee. Hast thou a trusty level-headed -man or two whom thou canst send through the -woods on our left? If so, I pray thee dispatch -them with haste, and let them bear me a full -report within an hour. But, bear in mind, none -but those who have counted the cost and are -willing to undertake the hazard are to be sent. -Thy zealous squire, there: he hath lurked in -trees before to-day, as we know full well—perchance -he may be eager to repeat his exploits. -But that is his affair. Fare thee well, Sir -Thomas.... Stay—another question: What -dost thou think of the spirits of the men under -thy command?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>In answer the Constable pointed to the lines -of slumbering men.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sire, were there any who dwelt in fear of -the issue of the battle, would they sleep so -quietly in the face of danger? Speaking for -our company, I can safely say that their hearts -are full of courage and devotion to thy person."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_231'></a>"'Tis well, Sir Thomas. Thrice happy is a -king whose people's hearts are his throne. Again, -farewell, and may Heaven look favourably upon -us this coming day."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Geoffrey, thou hast heard his Majesty's -word?" asked Sir Thomas. "Certes, thy service -in the matter of the conspiracy at Southampton -he hath not forgotten. How sayest -thou? Art willing to undertake this enterprise? -Bethink thee; 'tis a perilous service, -and short will be thy shrift if thou art discovered."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fair sir, I have already counted the cost. -Give me thy leave and thy blessing, and I will -go."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"But not alone. Choose a burly comrade -and get thee away. Remember that within an -hour the King requires my report."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The squire made his way to where Gripwell -was standing, with Oswald and Ratclyffe.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ho, Squire Lysle!" exclaimed the man-at-arms. -"Who was yon fellow whom thou hast -carried to our master? Hast 'prisoned a -hornet? I' faith, he swaggered past us as if -he were King Harry himself."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Twas none other than the King," replied -Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What! The King? A fine story to tell -at home—if home we ever see—how that Squire -Lysle laid hands upon his liege lord."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, let that pass," replied Geoffrey, "for -I have other work in hand. Art willing to bear -me company as far as the French camp?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Right willingly," replied the grey-headed -<a id='Page_232'></a>man-at-arms when the squire had explained -the nature of his errand.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And I, too, will go with thee," exclaimed -Oswald.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And I," added Ratclyffe.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, four are too many for a secret errand -such as this," objected Geoffrey. "Now help -me to unhelm, Oswald. My coat of mail must -also be left behind."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Swiftly the rusted armour was removed, and, -armed only with a poniard, Geoffrey set out -on his desperate errand, with Arnold Gripwell, -similarly armed, to bear him company.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In a whisper they replied to the cautious -challenge of the alert sentinel, then crossing -the bog-like ground in front of the lines, they -gained the sombre recesses of the wood.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Here the darkness was more intense than in -the open, but by degrees their eyes became -accustomed to the gloom, though at almost every -step they stumbled over the slippery moss-grown -roots that encumbered the ground in all directions.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For a distance of nearly a bow-shot the two -adventurers pursued their way, till, plucking at -his comrade's sleeve, Geoffrey came to a sudden -standstill.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For full five minutes they listened, striving -to detect above the confused noise of the French -camp the sound of some unseen foe. A sudden -rustling in the undergrowth caused the lad's -heart to beat violently, while his right hand -clutched the hilt of his dagger. Then came a -sharp squeal of pain, and a hare, with a stoat at -<a id='Page_233'></a>its throat, tore almost across the squire's feet.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Presently the twain came to a clearing, -through which wandered a little brook. Here -the ground was almost knee-deep in stiff clay, -so that both men had to hold the tops of their -shoes to prevent them being dragged off their -feet by the tenacious slime. The crossing of -the glade was a nerve-racking ordeal, since -neither knew but that an invisible foe lurked in -the thickets beyond.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Fortune favoured them, however, and unharmed -they gained the friendly shelter of the -furthermost wood.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Now they were abreast of the French outposts. -Peering through the bushes, Geoffrey could see -the mail-clad sentinels either sitting motionless -on their horses or walking slowly to and fro -to the accompaniment of a clanking and groaning -of the joints of the harness and the squelching -noise of the animals' hoofs in the mire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The nearmost horseman was humming a -chanson of Picardy, quite oblivious of the fact -that two Englishmen were almost within a -stone's throw of him; yet, though the cordon -extended completely across the open ground, -through some inexplicable error the French had -utterly neglected to hold the woods on either -side of the valley.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Resuming their cautious movements, Geoffrey -and Gripwell skirted the second line of outposts, -where a row of fires threw its weird light upon -the crowd of soldiers, mainly engaged in drinking, -singing, and gambling, while the position -of the two daring Englishmen was rendered -<a id='Page_234'></a>doubly hazardous by the constant procession of -varlets and peasants who were engaged in cutting -wood to feed the watch-fires.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Still the French camp seemed a long way off, -though the silken tents of the nobles were now -discernible in the glare of the huge pile of burning -faggots.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We have gone far enough," whispered the -man-at-arms.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, 'tis my purpose to press on," remarked -Geoffrey. "Stay here an thou wilt."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That cannot be. Where thou goest I will -follow," said Gripwell doggedly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then let us gather a bundle of faggots apiece, -and set out boldly towards the camp. It is in -my mind to see how these Frenchmen fare."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Struck by the audacity of the squire's proposal, -Gripwell could not but assent, so, hastily -collecting a heavy load of wood, the twain stumbled -upon a path where numbers of soldiers and -peasants were passing to and fro.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Unsuspected the Englishmen joined in the -throng, and, bending low under their burdens, -jogged steadily towards the vast city of tents.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ho, there, comrade!" shouted a cross-bowman. -"Bring hither that fuel; our fire -is all but out."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay," replied Gripwell in good French. -"That cannot be. This wood is for my master, -the Lord of Rougemont."</p> - -<p class='c010'>This encounter showed that there was no -suspicion towards a stranger, and, encouraged -by the discovery, Geoffrey and his companion -walked boldly down the lines till they reached -<a id='Page_235'></a>a tent that the squire knew by reason of its size -and magnificence belonged to no mean personage. -Two men-at-arms stood without the door, over -which hung a shield emblazoned with a golden -oriflamme.</p> - -<p class='c010'>From within came the sounds of tankards -clashing upon oaken boards, the rattle of dice, -and mingled bursts of laughter, disappointment, -and anger.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Methought I was to hear a council of war," -exclaimed Geoffrey in a low voice, "but 'tis -a roystering crew."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Perchance in their jollity we may hear some -smattering of news," replied Gripwell, and -flinging down his burden with a gesture of utter -fatigue, he seated himself upon it, with his head -resting on his arms. Geoffrey hastened to -follow his example. In the constant throng -their action seemed natural. The two guards -barely condescended to notice them, since they -were some distance from the tent, which was -that of no less a personage than Charles d'Albert, -Constable of France.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A curse on thy luck, my Lord of Marle," exclaimed -an excited voice. "I have not cast a -main this night. I owe thee two English earls -and four knights already."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, Falconberg, 'tis five knights by my -reckoning. Without doubt these rascally Islanders -will be cheap enough ere to-morrow -even, but be that as it may, one cannot ignore -the rules of the game."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I cannot understand the Duc de Bourbon," -grumbled the first speaker. "Though I am -<a id='Page_236'></a>willing to admit that he has prior claim to the -person of the King of England, he will not risk -his share of the spoil. Surely my offer of twenty -thousand crowns and the Duke of York will be -sufficient inducement?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I am weary of casting the dice," replied -Bourbon. "Ere dawn I shall be too tired even -to ride down a single English knight."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Peste! The battle will be over in a quarter -of an hour. Our first division is strong enough -to sweep these English off the face of the earth. -My Lord d'Alençon, the second division, which -thou hast command of, must be mounted, since -there will be no other work left than to ride down -and slay the light-footed archers. As for thy -division, my Lord Falconberg, there will be -nothing left for it to do."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Unless it be to shout encouragement to -thy men," replied Falconberg with a laugh. -"Alas! these poor Englishmen. But let's -proceed. Who'll throw with me for my last -three knights?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We have learnt what is worth a bushel of -gold, Squire Geoffrey," whispered Gripwell. -"Let us away. As it is, the hour is wellnigh -spent."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Resuming their loads, the two comrades made -for the nearest fire, and, having cast the faggots -upon the smouldering embers, retraced their -footsteps towards the shelter of the woods. -On the way they fell in with a party of soldiers -in search of a load of wine that had gone astray -between the camp and the village of Agincourt, -and, imitating their staggering gait and drunken -<a id='Page_237'></a>song, they contrived to get clear of the line of -tents without being challenged. Then, taking -advantage of the narrow path through the forest, -the two comrades succeeded in slipping away unnoticed -by their maudlin companions.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now let us hasten," whispered Gripwell. -"Yet be cautious, for we know not whether -any enemy hath entered this part of the wood -since we came hither."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Unmolested they passed the flank of the -French advanced posts, then gaining confidence -in the fact that the English outposts were but -a bow-shot off, they increased their pace.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The trunk of a tree larger than its fellows -barred their path. Geoffrey recognized the -tree as having been the means of causing him -to stumble over one of its exposed roots on their -outward journey. This time he leapt lightly -over the obstacle, to find himself thrown violently -in contact with a human being.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The impact hurled both to the ground, while -Gripwell, unaware of what was amiss, narrowly -escaped tripping over the two struggling forms.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Noiselessly the squire and the unknown -wrestled on the ground. Geoffrey was unable -to draw his poniard, nor was his antagonist -able to use a weapon; but the English lad, even -in the midst of the desperate struggle, could not -help wondering why his foeman did not shout -for assistance. On his own part he knew that -one cry would doubtless bring the French -outposts to the spot, and the night's work would -be undone.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Whoever the stranger was, he had no lack -<a id='Page_238'></a>of strength and courage, for not until Gripwell -had contrived to distinguish the combatants -in the darkness and had wound his cloak tightly -round the fellow's head was the issue decided.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Stand by while I plunge my knife into his -body," hissed the old man-at-arms.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Not so," whispered Geoffrey in reply. -"'Tis but a short distance to the camp, and this -rascal may be of service. Help me carry him -thither."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With this the stranger began to writhe and -struggle again, mumbling incoherently from the -suffocating folds of Arnold's cloak. There was -no help for it; a sharp blow on the temples -from the man-at-arms' powerful fist reduced -the captive to a state of semi-insensibility.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thereupon Gripwell bound the man's arms -with his own belt, secured his feet with the folds -of his cloak, and effectually gagged him by means -of a fir-cone held in position by Geoffrey's scarf. -This done, the squire raised the helpless prisoner -by the shoulders, and the man-at-arms took hold -of his feet, and with their heavy burden the -two comrades resumed their way till they were -greeted by the welcome sounds of the English -outposts.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Whom hast thou there?" asked Sir -Thomas Carberry, who had been anxiously -awaiting the return of his squire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Some fellow who stood in our path, fair -sir," replied Geoffrey breathlessly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>By this time the prisoner had recovered his -senses, and by an unexpected thrust of his feet -sent Geoffrey staggering into the arms of the -<a id='Page_239'></a>Constable. At the same time he contrived, -bound as he was, to wrench himself out of Geoffrey's -arms, and, falling on his feet, he swayed -to and fro in helpless rage, unable, by reason of -the gag, to utter a sound.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But as the glare of the fires fell upon his -features Geoffrey found, to his discomfiture and -consternation, that his prisoner was none other -than his fellow squire, Richard Ratclyffe!</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_240'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XXIV<br /> <br />THE BATTLE OF AGINCOURT</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>"A scurvy trick hast thou played on me," -exclaimed Ratclyffe when the amused -soldiers had released him from his bonds. -"By the Rood I'll think twice ere I venture -again into the forest to seek for thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hadst thou but spoken thou wouldst not -have been mishandled thus," replied Geoffrey, -who had by now expressed his sorrow for the -mistake.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Spoken! Forsooth! Did I not try to -speak the moment I heard Gripwell discussing -with thee on the subject of letting out my life's -blood? But what with being wellnigh smothered -by his cloak, and——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, say no more, squire," interrupted Sir -Thomas. "'Twas all a mistake, and beyond a -shrewd blow—of which we shall have plenty ere -long, I trow—there is little scath. Now, -Geoffrey, the nature of thy report?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Briefly the squire told his master of what -had occurred, the nature of the ground, the -position of the French outposts, and, most -important of all, the conversation in the tent -of d'Albert relating to the plan of attack.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By St. Paul! Thou hast entered their -camp?" exclaimed the knight. "This is almost -<a id='Page_241'></a>beyond belief. But as it is we now know -that we can occupy the woods on the Frenchmen's -flanks without let or hindrance. I'll -now to the King, but, rest assured, thou wilt -have full credit for thine enterprise. Ay, and -thy man-at-arms also," added Sir Thomas, as -his squire began to remind him that Arnold -had shared the perils of the desperate errand.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thoroughly tired out, Geoffrey laid himself -down by one of the fires, and, heedless of the -steady rain, he was soon fast asleep.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile, Sir Thomas Carberry had hastened -to make his report to the King. Henry had -taken little repose, for having completed his -inspection of the lines in the guise of an ordinary -officer, he retired to his tent to don all his armour -save his gold-encircled bascinet. This done he -had mass celebrated in his quarters, followed by -a general council, at which all the commanders of -divisions were ordered to attend.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Most excellent service," exclaimed the King -when Sir Thomas had delivered his report. -"See to it, Uncle Exeter; send at least four -hundred lances to the wood on the enemy's -left flank. Half that number of archers are to -take up their position on the opposite side of the -valley. Impress upon them the utmost importance -of concealment till the word is borne -them."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Silently the troops intended for the ambush -moved towards the stations allotted them, and -ere the council was broken up, the Duke of Exeter -returned with the news that the manœuvre -had been successfully executed.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_242'></a>"Now, my lords, the day breaks," exclaimed -Henry. "Let us to our stations and do our -duty as becomes Englishmen. To-day, fair -lords, is the Feast of the blessed saints Crispin -and Crispian. From this day till all times will -our names be linked with them, if we acquit -ourselves nobly. Therefore let us be of good -courage, remembering that our souls and bodies -are in God's holy keeping."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With the dawn the rain ceased, and across -the sodden valley the trumpets of the little -English army rang out loud and clear as the -sun rose in a cloudless sky. Eagerly the chilled -and shivering men-at-arms and archers flocked -to take up their positions, glad that the dreary -period of inaction was over.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the centre, under the Duke of Kent, stood -the dismounted men-at-arms, resting stolidly on -their spears and axes, while as an afterthought -a sprinkling of archers took their stand in front -of the heavy troops. On either flank were hundreds -of bowmen under Lords Beaumont and -Willoughby. In addition to their deadly longbow -and their swords and axes, each archer bore -an iron-shod stake.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Barely twenty paces in the rear of the front -rank were marshalled the reserves, composed -chiefly of spearmen, under the command of the -Earl of Exeter.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The army being drawn up in line of battle, -Henry, mounted on a white palfrey, rode slowly -between the ranks. He had now donned his -surcoat emblazoned with the lions of England -and the lilies of France, while on his head he wore -<a id='Page_243'></a>a polished steel bascinet which was encircled -by a very rich crown of gold, rendering its -wearer a conspicuous object in the field.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Certes," exclaimed the veteran Lord Camoys -to the Constable of Portchester, as his -gaze travelled from the seemingly countless -multitude of Frenchmen to the six thousand -Englishmen standing motionless in the ranks. -"What would some of the good knights who -have remained in England give to be here?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What sayest thou, my lord Camoys?" -asked the King, who had overheard the knight's -remark. "Dost wish for more good Englishmen -to be here? Nay, I would not have a single -man more. If God give us the victory we know -that we owe it to His goodness. If He does not, -the fewer we are the less will be the loss to -England. But let us fight with our usual courage, -and God and the justice of our cause will -protect us."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Having completed his inspection the King -took up his position at the head of the second -line, with the Duke of Gloucester, Mowbray, the -Earl Marshal, and the Earls of Oxford and Suffolk, -while above him fluttered the Royal Standard, -leaving no doubt as to the identity of -the King of England.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile, the French had been mustering -in dense masses across the valley, till their -three divisions, each ten files deep, seemed to -resemble a solid wall of steel, dominated by a -forest of banners. At length their preparations -were complete, but there seemed no inclination -on their part to open the battle.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_244'></a>Suddenly, to the surprise of the English, -three French knights, armed cap-à-pied, rode -fearlessly across the intervening plain. Some -of the archers began to bend their bows, but -were restrained by their officers.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"They bear a message," shouted Lord Camoys -to those nearest him. "Open ranks and let -them pass, but take heed that they see not the -pointed stakes."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Haughtily the three Frenchmen rode through -the gap in the front rank and reined in before -the Royal Standard, where Henry, now on foot, -awaited them.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sire," exclaimed the foremost knight. "I -am Jacques de Helly, Maréchal of France."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That we do perceive," replied the King -curtly, "both by thy cognizance and by reason -of the fact that thou wert, and still ought to -be, our prisoner in England."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis on that matter that I am come," replied -de Helly. "'Tis reported that I have -broken my parole. Let it be known to all men -that 'tis false. To all or any who would gainsay -me, I hereby offer to meet them in single -combat, here betwixt the armies."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis no time for single combats," replied -Henry sternly. "Hence, lest I lose patience -with thee. Also go tell thy countrymen to -prepare for battle at once."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sire," exclaimed de Helly, his swarthy features -livid with anger, "I shall receive no order -from you; Charles is our liege lord; him we obey, -and for him we'll fight when the time comes."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Away, then," replied the King. "Take -<a id='Page_245'></a>care that we are not before you," and as the -haughty Frenchmen turned and rode beyond -the English front, Henry shouted in a loud -and ringing voice, "Advance banners in the -name of God and St. George!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Standing in his stirrups the grey-haired Sir -Thomas Erpyingham threw his warder in the -air—the signal for the advance. Instantly the -little English host was electrified into activity, -and with shouts of "St. George for Merrie England," -the foremost division began to close upon -the seemingly overwhelming masses of the -enemy.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Still the Frenchmen showed no signs of advancing. -Something must be done to goad -them to move to meet the attack, otherwise the -handful of Englishmen would be thrown away -upon the solid phalanx of French steel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>From his position on the right of the men-at-arms -of the Hampshire division, Geoffrey saw -the Frenchmen standing in close ranks, regarding -their on-coming foe with looks of disdain. Now, -the foremost division was on the edge of the -intervening belt of bog-land. A few more steps -and the natural defence on which the king had -placed so much hope would be turned from an -advantage into a hindrance, then——</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Halt," shouted the young Duke of Kent in -a voice that was borne high above the subdued -hum of the ranks. "Archers! Loose wholly -together!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>There was very little of nervous haste on the -part of the bowmen. Even the comparatively -raw recruits were as steady as the most exacting -<a id='Page_246'></a>leader could desire. Hardly had the words of -command ceased when the air was torn by the -sharp swish of the speeding arrows, and at less -than half a bow-shot the French received the -death-dealing blast.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the twinkling of an eye their foremost -ranks were thrown into the utmost disorder. -'Gainst the deadly cloth-yard shaft, plate armour, -leathern coat, and iron buckler alike were -useless. Knights and men-at-arms rolled on the -ground, transfixed, not once but many times, -by the goose-wing-tipped arrows.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But amongst the struggling press of Frenchmen -brave men were to be found in plenty. -Disentangling themselves from the disorderly -mass, the mounted men with lance at rest -spurred towards the archers.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Stand fast behind your stakes," shouted the -company commander, realizing that once the -heavy cavalry came within striking distance -of the lightly armed archers the latter would be -cut to pieces and scattered like chaff.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On came the French horse, knee to knee, -plunging heavily in the thick tenacious clay, -while unceasingly the hail of arrows was maintained -till the line of stakes was faced by an -almost insurmountable barrier of dead and -dying steeds and their riders.</p> - -<p class='c010'>To add to the confusion the English archers -in ambush delivered a raking fire, till, losing -men both in the flanks and rear of their division, -besides those who perished in the charge upon -the palisades, the French began to give back.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Forward—men-at-arms and archers!" -<a id='Page_247'></a>shouted a ringing voice that all who heard -recognized as the King's. Conspicuous by his -gold-emblazoned helmet and the royal arms -on his surcoat, Henry led the counter attack -in person.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The deadly bows were dropped or slung across -the archers' backs, and with axe, sword, spear -and mace the dismounted men-at-arms and -bowmen hurled themselves upon the swaying, -demoralized mob of their enemies.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For a while the battle resolved itself into a -series of desperate conflicts, all order being -thrown to the winds. Often the combatants -had no room to ply their weapons, the two-handed -swords of the French men-at-arms -being useless when opposed to the knives and -daggers of the English archers. So thick did -the press become that the King's brother, the -Duke of York, was crushed to death betwixt -two mailed Frenchmen.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Into the thickest of the mêlée plunged the -Constable of Portchester, with Geoffrey, Oswald -and Ratclyffe close at his heels as became their -duties; but ere long the heir of Warblington, -separated from his comrades, found himself -confronted by a tall knight whose armour bore -no device. In an instant they closed, Geoffrey's -antagonist endeavouring to hurl the squire to the -earth, while the young Englishman attempted -to deliver a poniard stroke between the joints -of the knight's armour.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As they fought an archer sprang upon the -squire's foeman, and with a mighty heave -wrenched his bascinet from his gorget, disclosing -<a id='Page_248'></a>the features of the ex-monk Olandyne. The -next instant the recreant had fallen with the -archer's knife buried in his throat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Suddenly a shout arose, "To me, Englishmen!" -and Geoffrey perceived the Duke of -Gloucester hard pressed by four or five French -knights. Unable to make good his defence the -Duke was already wounded, yet he stubbornly -continued the unequal combat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>One of the foremost of his attackers was a -broad-shouldered knight whose surcoat had -been torn away during the earlier stages of the -conflict. His shield, too, had been lost, but -armed with a heavy battle-axe, he pressed the -Duke with demoniacal fury.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In reply to the shout for aid Geoffrey made -his way through the struggling crowds towards -the Duke, but ere he could disengage himself, -Gloucester was beaten to the earth by a mighty -sweep of the Frenchman's battle-axe.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The next instant the King himself had stepped -across his brother's prostrate body, and with -shield outstretched and ready blade he defended -the helpless Duke from the combined assault -of the French knights.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But help was at hand. Geoffrey and three -others threw themselves upon the King's assailants, -Henry directing his attention to the unknown -knight of the axe. In this he had enough -to do, for the Frenchman's weapon descended -with fearful force upon the King of England's -helmet. Luckily the blow was a glancing one, -yet it clove the golden crown on his bascinet, -and brought Henry to his knees.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_249'></a>But the unknown's triumph was short-lived. -Regaining his feet the King in turn sent his -antagonist reeling to the earth, while, carried -away by the heat of the battle, his three subjects -were about to slay the man who had so nearly -achieved his purpose.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hold, I yield! I am Alençon," exclaimed -the prostrate knight. But the offer of surrender -came too late. Ere the King could stretch -forth his hand to protect his enemy, the Duc -d'Alençon had received his death-blow.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, fair sirs," exclaimed the King breathlessly, -"I am unhurt; yet, an I were, 'tis no -time for condolences."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Henry had spoken truly, for approaching -him in a compact body were eighteen knights, -each of whom had sworn a solemn oath to kill -or take the King of England or perish in the -attempt. The Royal Standard of England -had served them as a guide only too well.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In an instant Geoffrey was swept to the earth -by the desperate rush, one of the knights who -had gone to the King's assistance was slain, -and Henry with three of his followers was left -to meet the determined attack.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Once again the King, defending himself with -courage and coolness, was beaten down upon -his knees, but others of his supporters came to -the rescue, and the eighteen Frenchmen kept -their vow—they died to a man.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Slowly Geoffrey extricated himself from the -mire and regained his feet. Beyond being -sorely bruised he was unhurt, and with the -knowledge that the King was safe he plunged -again into the press.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_250'></a>But already the tide of battle had turned. -Unless a surprising rally should take place on -the part of the enemy the conflict was decided. -The first division of the foe had recoiled upon -the second, and now both were assailed by the -victorious English, and the remains of both -were seeking safety in flight. As for the -third line, the fate of their comrades had struck -them with panic. On the approach of the -four hundred English lances, who had hitherto -remained in ambush with remarkable self-restraint, -they, too, fled, and the victory was -complete.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In an endeavour to find Sir Thomas Carberry, -Geoffrey made his way betwixt the piles of corpses -to where a few valiant French knights still held -out. For a while the squire searched in vain, -till he perceived seven or eight surcoated archers, -whom he recognized as being Warblington men, -standing in a semi-circle with brandished -weapons.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As Geoffrey drew near the object of their -position became apparent. Standing with his -back against a tree was a Frenchman. He was -clad in complete mail, but in spite of this he -had received more than one wound. The -plume had been shorn from his crest, his shield -was splintered, his armour cracked and dented, -and his sword, broken close to the hilt, lay at -his feet. Battle-axe in hand he stood at bay, -disdaining to receive quarter at the hands -of base archers, while his antagonists hesitated -to come within reach of the menacing weapon.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Send a shaft through him," suggested one.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_251'></a>About to act upon this advice, an archer bent -his bow.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hold!" exclaimed Geoffrey, grasping the -man by the shoulder. Even as he did so the -arrow sped, but wide of the mark. Angrily -the archer turned about.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Who art thou to stand betwixt an honest -Englishman and a rascally Frenchman?" he -demanded, for he failed to recognize his young -leader, whose armour was covered from helm -to solleret in mud and gore.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Dost not know me, Hubert?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By Our Lady, 'tis Master Geoffrey. Thy -pardon, young sir. But this is our affair, -therefore, come not to prevent us working our -will on this thick-headed Frenchman."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Have ye not demanded his surrender?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay," replied the men in a chorus. "And -he refuses."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sir Knight," exclaimed the squire earnestly. -"Wilt yield?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Art thou a gentleman of quality, sir?" -replied the Frenchman. "If so——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, since we are to be done out of his -ransom let him die," interrupted the archers -sturdily.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fret not yourselves," exclaimed Geoffrey. -"Were he dead not a groat would ye receive. -On the other hand, if he surrender the ransom -I'll bestow upon you."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then we are content," replied the soldiers, -and they moved away.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Wilt yield, sir Knight?" repeated the -squire. "I am a gentleman of coat-armour, -<a id='Page_252'></a>and will give thee every consideration befitting -a gallant and debonair gentleman of France."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fair sir, I yield," but as the vanquished -knight tendered the hilt of his axe he toppled and -fell heavily to the ground.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Drawing his poniard Geoffrey knelt beside -the unconscious man and deftly severed the -laces of his bascinet. Upon removing the -heavy headpiece he found to his surprise that -his captive was none other than Sir Raoul -d'Aulx, Seigneur de Maissons and the knight -who held Sir Oliver Lysle in courteous captivity.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In vain Geoffrey searched for fresh water. -In the furrows and ditches there was water in -plenty, but discoloured by the blood of friend -and foe. But to the squire's intense relief the -colour began to return to the face of Sir Raoul, -and at length he opened his eyes.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ho, Geoffrey, I have sought thee high and -low: methought thou hadst bitten the dust," -exclaimed a well-known voice as Oswald Steyning -approached, his unhelmed head swathed -in a blood-stained scarf.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I have indeed bitten the dust, Oswald," -replied Geoffrey with a smile, "yet, thanks be -to God, I have received no hurt. But thou -bearest some token of the fray?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A mere cut," replied Sir Oliver's squire -lightly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And Sir Thomas and the rest of the company?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Beyond a few slight but honourable wounds -Sir Thomas is unscathed, but alas! Ratclyffe -is no more."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_253'></a>"Tis sad news. And Gripwell——?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"As blithe as a maid on May Day. Certes, -he hath good cause, for but a short while ago -I saw him with mine own eyes taking two French -knights to the camp. If he see England again -never another day's work will he need to do, for -his prisoners are worth four thousand crowns -apiece."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I pray thee lend me thine aid with this one," -said Geoffrey, pointing to his captive. "'Tis -none other than Sir Raoul d'Aulx."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Therein thou art fortunate," replied Oswald. -"Let us quit this field, for my stomach turns -at the sight of it."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With a squire supporting him on either side -Sir Raoul was placed on his feet and assisted -towards the rear, where the baggage and horses -had been placed under guard, and where the -captives were being taken for safety; but, ere -Geoffrey and his charge reached the fringe of -the corpse-encumbered field, a man-at-arms rode -past them in hot haste.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Look to yourselves," he shouted. "We are -attacked in the rear. The camp is taken!"</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_254'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XXV<br /> <br />THE MASSACRE</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>The alarming news that an attack was -being made on the rear quickly spread, -and from all parts of the field knights, men-at-arms -and archers came running towards the -Royal Standard as fast as their wearied bodies -and cumbersome armour would permit.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Yet, even in the face of this new danger the -mercenary instinct of the common soldiers was -paramount. They had fought and won; rich -and noble prisoners, worth princely ransoms, -were theirs, and even the threatened attack -failed to make the archers and men-at-arms -abandon their hard-earned prizes. Thus the -King found himself surrounded by a medley -of Englishmen, intermingled with a crowd of -French knights and gentlemen who in the -confusion of the impending attack would undoubtedly -be a source of danger to their captors.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Henry was quick to act. As a general and -a soldier he resolved upon stern measures.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"My Lord Camoys," he exclaimed, "take -a thousand lances and at all costs hold the -enemy in check until the men-at-arms and -archers can be formed up. Pass the word also -that every man is to put his prisoner to death."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_255'></a>Unhesitatingly Lord Camoys rode to execute -his terrible orders, but to the King's anger and -surprise, sullen murmurs of protest and defiance -rose on all sides. Though realizing the gravity -of the situation, the English—knights and -common soldiers alike—were loth to take such -extreme measures. In some cases feelings of -humanity prompted them to resist their liege-lord's -orders, but, generally speaking, it was the -reluctance to put a high-born prisoner to death -that incited them to refusal. According to the -practice of the times the indiscriminate slaughter -of the common soldiers—men who could not -afford to pay ransom—was regarded as the -custom of war, but the murder of every prisoner -who was willing to pay a large sum to his captor -was in every sense abhorrent.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By the Blessed Trinity," thundered the -King, "what is this I see? Open rebellion? -Sirs, ye will pay dearly for this anon."</p> - -<p class='c010'>And turning to one Thomas Almer, squire to -Sir John Cornwall, afterwards Baron Fanhope, -he ordered him to take three hundred archers -and execute the helpless prisoners.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, I cannot abide it," exclaimed Geoffrey -resolutely, as the shrieks of the unfortunate -Frenchmen began to ring in his ears. "E'en -if my own life has to pay forfeit this knight must -be protected."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Bidding Oswald support the tottering form -of Sir Raoul, Geoffrey made his way to where -lay the body of a slain English man-at-arms. -Quickly he stripped the corpse of its white -surcoat with the distinguishing Cross of St. -<a id='Page_256'></a>George, and returning, began to place it over -the body of his captive.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Feebly Sir Raoul tried to resist. This donning -of the hated cognisance was repugnant to his -sense of honour, but his strength was unequal to -his resolution, and with a groan he swooned away.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We are indeed in sore straits," exclaimed -Geoffrey as he carried out his plan of disguising -the Frenchman's appearance. "If we stay -here perchance they will see through the trick; -if we go on we shall fall into the hands of our -enemies. Yet, by St. George, I'll see Sir Raoul -to safety or perish."</p> - -<p class='c010'>By dint of great exertions the two squires -dragged the mail-clad body of the helpless knight -to the shelter of a thorn-bush. Here they -waited, reluctantly compelled to witness the -horrible scene as the archers went about their -murderous business.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Presently three of the executioners, with reeking -weapons in their hands and their white -surcoats splashed with blood, approached.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Whom hast thou here, sir squire?" demanded -one, pointing with his blade at the -unconscious Sir Raoul. "I' faith; I'll swear -yon red cross covers no English carcase."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis a wounded knight," replied Geoffrey. -"I thank thee for thy offer of assistance, but -must needs decline it."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hark at him! Decline, forsooth? Nay, -mine assistance is to help the rogue to Paradise, -so stand aside, squire, in the King's name, for -no man dare tell me that his harness was -fashioned in England."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_257'></a>"Nay, 'tis no affair of thine, archer; yet if a -gold piece or two will——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Offerest thou me gold?" replied the soldier -with a gruff laugh. "I'll wager I have enough -gold sewn up in my doublet to buy thee thrice -over."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then take care lest I slit thy doublet and -thy hide as well," replied Geoffrey, standing -on his guard. "'Tis ill that Englishmen should -shed each other's blood, yet I have sworn to -protect this man, and before Heaven I'll not -go back from my word."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fall on, comrades," shouted the archer. -"We'll see whether this young cockerel can -scratch as well as crow."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Draw, Oswald; I <i>command</i> thee!" exclaimed -Geoffrey, and wondering at his companion's -tone, Oswald, sword in hand, took -his place at his side.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We are but wasting time," expostulated -one of the archers. "The squire is right: why -should we fight Englishmen? Are we not -exceeding our orders?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"What! Art afraid of two lads?" replied -his fellow. "Come on, I say, and let's settle this -business."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Do it thyself. For my part I'll pass by. -The King can be told of this opposition -anon."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Go, chicken-heart! What will thy friends -and kinsfolk at Ely say when they hear that -thou hast shown the white feather to two -beardless squires? Now, look to thyself, -squire."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_258'></a>As the archer with two of his comrades was -on the point of closing, a cry went up "In the -King's name, the slaughter of the prisoners -must cease!" The order was repeated in all -parts of the field, and in a very short space of -time the work of massacre had ceased, the -archers being, for the most part, glad to cease -their unprofitable and hateful task.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis well for thee, squire," growled Geoffrey's -antagonist, smartly thrusting his sword back -into its scabbard and turning on his heel. "But, -mark ye, the King shall hear of this."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The report of the attack upon the rear guard -had proved to be greatly exaggerated. Finding -that the camp had been left slenderly guarded -a seigneur living close to the village of Agincourt, -Isambard by name, had gathered together a -band of five hundred peasants, and falling upon -the baggage guard had put them to flight. -This done, the marauders set to work to pillage -the baggage, till they were dispersed by the -English lances.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Yet Isambard had not been unsuccessful, for -part of his spoil consisted of the King's crown -that had been made in anticipation of his coronation -in Paris, and also a diamond-hilted sword -belonging to the royal treasures.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But to counterbalance this gain 'tis said that -no less than fourteen hundred defenceless and -unarmed knights and squires of France had -been slaughtered in cold blood. No wonder, -therefore, was it that when Isambard presented -his trophies to the Duc de Burgundy that irate -prince, reproaching the seigneur as being the -<a id='Page_259'></a>cause of the massacre, ordered him to be cast -into prison.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I fear we have not seen the end of this -affair," remarked Oswald, as the two squires -stood much disquieted by the side of their -prisoner, and the gravity of their offence began -to loom larger. "If this comes to the King's -ears we are likely to be put to death."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I, perchance, but not thou, Oswald," replied -Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How so? Did I not draw with thee?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Didst thou not hear me <i>order</i> thee to draw? -Since thou art my father's squire and I am his -representative in the field, thou art under my -orders, though heretofore I have not exercised -any authority over thee. Therefore, should it -come to pass that the matter is taken up, thou -canst—nay must—plead that 'twas by my command -that thou didst resist the King's orders."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou meanest me well, Geoffrey; but -methinks 'twill not serve," replied Oswald as -the generous nature of his friend's act became -apparent to him. "However, 'tis of no use -waiting for trouble; let us find Sir Thomas -Carberry and confide in him."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Acting on this sensible advice the two squires -assisted Sir Raoul, who had again recovered -consciousness, to his feet, and having left him -in a secure place in charge of two of the Warblington -archers, who had strayed across their -path, they set out to find the Constable of -Portchester.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The field of battle was literally smothered -with corpses of men and horses; shattered -<a id='Page_260'></a>weapons lay everywhere, while in front of the -still-standing row of stakes the barrier of -slaughtered Frenchmen was piled breast-high. -Amid these horrible surroundings archers were -carelessly sauntering, withdrawing arrows that -had sunk deep in the clayey soil to replenish -their quivers, or stopping to plunder the body -of some wealthy knight. Here and there walked -small knots of soldiers searching for the corpse -of their master, or engaged in succouring their -wounded comrades, whose groans and cries of -pain rose on all sides; but most of the English -knights and squires, as well as a vast concourse -of men-at-arms, had gathered round the Royal -Standard that floated proudly over the fatal -field.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ah, there is Sir Thomas," exclaimed Oswald, -pointing to the star and crescent banner that -showed bravely amidst a waving forest of silken -guidons and pennons.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Heaven be praised," exclaimed the Constable, -"that I see thee safe and sound, Geoffrey. -Methought I had lost both my squires. And -Oswald, too!"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fair lord, I have as yet been spared, though -Richard Ratclyffe hath fallen."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, and right bravely he fought and died; -Heaven rest his soul," added the knight gravely. -"But what hath gone amiss? I see trouble in -thine eyes."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sir, thou art like to lose another squire," -replied Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"How so? How so?" demanded the Constable -anxiously. Then with a smile he added, -<a id='Page_261'></a>"Perchance the King hath thought fit to give -thee advancement?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Advancement of a kind, fair sir," replied -Geoffrey gloomily, and in a few words he related -the events concerning Sir Raoul's capture and -escape from massacre.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By St. George! What hast thou done?" -exclaimed Sir Thomas, aghast at his squire's -temerity. "Thou hast flouted the King's -authority."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"In this matter I had no choice," replied -Geoffrey. "Deeply I regret my error, but I am -under a vow to save this French knight."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Twill require all my efforts to save thee -from the hangman's rope, young sir. But, -certes, I'll do my utmost. An I can but get -the King's ear when he is in a good mood, so -much the better. Above all I must have my -say ere the squire in charge of the archers can -lay his complaint. Yet think not to get off -lightly, Geoffrey. Thou hast erred and must -needs pay the penalty."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That I know, fair sir."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then bear thyself like a true soldier. But -here comes the French herald. List to what he -hath to say, for 'tis of much import."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Even in his distress Geoffrey craned his neck -to see the meeting twixt the victorious king -and the representative of the conquered foe.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The French knight was magnificently harnessed -in a suit of white armour, over which -was a tabard emblazoned with the royal arms of -France. He was unarmed and unhelmed, for -he bore his casque in his right hand. Alighting -<a id='Page_262'></a>from his palfrey, he threw the reins to an attendant, -and accompanied by two pages, advanced -to where Henry stood, clad in his soiled and -dented armour, surrounded by his lords and -chief officers.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I am Denis Mountjoye, King-at-Arms, and -a loyal servant to my master King Charles, on -whose account am I here."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Greetings, herald," exclaimed the King -courteously. "We would fain know thy -errand."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I crave permission to bury our dead, sire."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"First tell us, herald: to whom belongs this -victory—to us or to the King of France?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To you, sire."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And yon castle—what name does it bear?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The Castle of Agincourt, sire."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then let this battle be called the battle of -Agincourt," announced the King in a loud voice. -"Herald, thy request is granted. Five hundred -peasants can see to the burial of thy master's -dead; Sir John Crofton will give thee further -directions."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As soon as Mountjoye had taken his departure -the King removed his helmet, which bore eloquent -testimony to its wearer's prowess, and in -obedience to an order, knight, squire and -common soldier followed his example. Then, led -by Henry in person, the psalm <i>Non nobis, -Domine</i>, was chanted by the English army in -order to acknowledge, in the midst of triumph, -the only Giver of victory.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The French losses were enormous. Ten thousand -fell on the field of battle, and of these only -<a id='Page_263'></a>fifteen hundred were common soldiers. The -Constable of France, the Counts of Nevers and -Marle, the Dukes of Brabant, Alençon and -Barre, and the Archbishop of Sens were -amongst those who laid down their life for -France; while the Dukes of Bourbon and -Orleans were amongst the prisoners.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The losses on the victorious side were proportionately -small. The Duke of York, the -Earl of Suffolk, four knights, seven squires, -and about fifteen hundred men-at-arms and -archers died in battle, or, roughly, one in every -four men engaged. Had the remnant of the -French army rallied and made another attack -in the open, the shattered English force might -never have reached Calais, but so disheartened -were the defeated troops that any attempt at a -renewal of the fray was impossible.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Deeming himself secure from further molestation -Henry withdrew his forces to the camp at -Maisoncelles, a short distance from the scene of -action, to allow his wearied men a good night's -rest ere resuming their coastward march.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The shades of evening were falling upon the -ghastly field of Agincourt as the Constable of -Portchester returned from audience with the -King. He had gone alone, thinking it wiser -to leave the two culprits in their quarters during -the fateful interview with his royal master.</p> - -<p class='c010'>During his absence Geoffrey and Oswald had -not been unmindful of their lord's comfort. -Tents there were now in abundance, for the -fugitive host had left the whole of the camp -equipment standing.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_264'></a>"What think ye of our condition, Arnold?" -asked Geoffrey of the old man-at-arms, pausing -in the midst of arranging Sir Thomas's couch.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Faith! many a man has been hanged for -less," replied Gripwell, bluntly outspoken in his -sorrow. "E'en though the order was unnecessary, -as it seems, yet 'twas thy place to obey -it. Yet likely thy youth and thy previous good -service being taken into consideration, thou -mayest save thy neck. But here comes our -master. Methinks I read good tidings on his -face."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Dutifully the two squires hastened to relieve -Sir Thomas of his armour, placing wine and food -before him as he eased his wearied limbs upon -the couch. Though both lads were consumed -with anxiety they preserved a strict silence, -awaiting the news of the knight's mediation.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By Our Lady," exclaimed the Constable, -"'tis strange that after a hard day in the -field I should have to spend a harder time in -exercising my sorry tongue on behalf of two -wrong-headed young squires. Yet fret not -thyself, Geoffrey; nor thee, Oswald. In short, -ye are pardoned for your transgression, though -at a price."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fair lord, I thank thee," Geoffrey exclaimed.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, wait and hear me out. Certes, when I -told the King his brow was as black as a thundercloud, -yet, on recalling thy services to him both -at Southampton and on the field when he was -beset by d'Alençon, he mused awhile.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Then the chief culprit was the squire -who went into the enemy's camp, and who later -<a id='Page_265'></a>helped most valiantly to beat d'Alençon to the -earth? And he would spoil himself on account -of a French knight? Well, Sir Thomas, we'll -let this pass. It was in our mind to bestow -upon him the gilded spurs of knighthood, but -now 'tis not to be thought of. As for his companion -in trouble thou sayest he acted under -compulsion? Let that also pass.'</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then as I was about to withdraw who -should appear but Sir John Cornwall. 'Sire, -I have a plaint to lay before thee. My squire -Almer hath reported that two squires have -obstructed certain of my archers in the execution -of thy orders.'</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Thou art too late, Sir John,' replied the -King. 'Sir Thomas, here, hath already lodged -a case 'gainst them. Yet thanks for thy zeal -in our cause.'</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Once more I was about to withdraw when -the King called me back. 'Who is this French -knight, and what hath he done that thy squire -should so stoutly befriend him?'</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Sire,' I replied, 'he is Sir Raoul d'Aulx, -seigneur of the Chateau de Maissons, and he -holds this squire's father, Sir Oliver Lysle, in -captivity.'</p> - -<p class='c010'>"''Tis indeed strange. We would have -thought that 'twould be an eye for an eye, a -tooth for a tooth. But concerning this Castle -of Maissons—doth it not lie near this place?'</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'But a short distance from the ford at -Peronne.'</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Then see to it, Sir Thomas. Let a troop -of lances on the morrow be sent to bring Sir -<a id='Page_266'></a>Oliver hither, for we have heard much concerning -the Lord of Warblington, and have need of -his services.' With that I thanked the King -and withdrew."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fair lord, then we are much beholden to -thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, 'twould ill become me if I failed to do -my utmost for my squires. Now to rest, -Geoffrey, for thou must be up betimes, since -it is my desire that thou shouldst ride with the -men-at-arms to Maissons."</p> - -<p class='c010'>For a space Geoffrey could not utter a word, -then with an effort he asked—</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Did I hear aright, fair sir? The King—did -he say that the gilded spurs of knighthood -were not to be thought of in my case?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Aye, that he did," replied the Constable -with a twinkle in his deep-set eyes. "Aye, that -he did; but beshrew me, I have forgotten to -add his own words 'for a while at least.' -So bear up, young heart, and I'll warrant that -thou'lt be Sir Geoffrey ere the King sets foot in -Paris."</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_267'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XXVI<br /> <br />AT THE CASTLE OF SIR RAOUL D'AULX</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>The morning after Agincourt dawned bright -and clear, with a keenness in the wind -that betokened the approach of winter.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere the camp was fully astir, for the war-worn -soldiers were thoroughly enjoying their -hard-earned rest, forty men-at-arms of Sir -John Carberry's command formed up on an -open stretch of ground in front of the Hampshire -Company's lines.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The horses, thanks to a complete day's idleness -in the rich pasture ground, were fresh and -well-fed, presenting a vast contrast to their -gaunt and stern riders, many of whom bore -traces of the ordeal they had undergone culminating -in the desperate advance upon the -disordered French lines. Yet they were one -and all filled with enthusiasm, for all of them -knew Sir Oliver as a gallant knight, while every -available man of the Warblington contingent -had volunteered for the expedition that was -to set free their beloved master.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Arnold Gripwell had barely completed his -careful inspection of the equipment of the troop, -both horse and rider, when the Constable of -Portchester, accompanied by Geoffrey and -<a id='Page_268'></a>Oswald, emerged from his tent to bid his men -Godspeed.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou knowest the way?" he asked as the -squires mounted their chargers. "'Tis plain -enough, since 'tis worn by the feet of seven -thousand of our men. But take heed lest ye -fall in with any large bodies of roving Frenchmen, -e'en though they have been soundly -beaten. All being well ye should be back ere -sunrise to-morrow; but if by noon ye have not -put in an appearance I'll lead a double company -to your aid."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis well, fair lord," replied Geoffrey. "I -will do my utmost to return at dawn."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then, without so much as a cheer or a trumpet -note the little band set out, and passing through -the lines of the sleeping camp, gained the open -country beyond.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Without molestation, for the country appeared -deserted, the men-at-arms recrossed the -Ternoise and the Somme, and an hour before -noon came in sight of the towers of Maissons.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Here Geoffrey, on Gripwell's advice, called a -halt, to rest and refresh the horses, and to give -the men a short respite ere advancing upon the -castle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The squire had already made cautious inquiries -of his captive, Sir Raoul, concerning the -possible garrison of Maissons; but, unwilling -to inform the knight that it was proposed to -summon the castle to surrender, Geoffrey had -been unable to gather any definite information -as to its state of defence.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"They are ready to give us a right warm -<a id='Page_269'></a>welcome!" exclaimed Oswald, as in nearing the -castle the drawbridge was observed to be drawn -up, while the sun glistened upon steel caps and -spearheads over the battlements.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Certes, they are by no means few," observed -Gripwell, shading his eyes. "It would seem -that the followers of this Sir Raoul have not -stuck to the field with their master. There -must be at least three score of them—and -behind stout walls too. By St. George, we'll -have a tough task here, squire Geoffrey."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"That is to be seen," replied Geoffrey. "Has -any man a white scarf with him? If so let him -bind it to his spear."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Two or three of the required articles were at -once forthcoming, and using one as a flag of -truce, Geoffrey rode boldly up to the edge of the -moat, a man-at-arms riding close behind him -with the emblem of parley.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I would have speech with the representative -of Sir Raoul d'Aulx, Seigneur de Maissons," -exclaimed Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thy message, sir," replied a woman's voice, -and to the squire's astonishment and confusion -there appeared the figure of the Lady Aimée, -daughter of the seigneur and the haughty -châtelaine whom Geoffrey had rescued on his -journey up the Seine two years previously. -She had donned a light steel corselet and cap -that failed to conceal her dark brown tresses, -and leaning upon a shield emblazoned with the -d'Aulx arms, she stood proudly and defiantly -upon the battlements of her ancestral -home.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_270'></a>Even though Geoffrey had raised the visor -of his helmet he felt certain that the damosel -failed to recognize him. Nor was that to be -wondered at, since the squire had altered and -matured not a little during those two years of -strenuous life and activity, while in complete -mail he looked a very different person from the -lad who in ordinary travelling attire had dared -to rush in upon a levelled crossbow to aid the -haughty Lady d'Aulx.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"In the name of the most puissant sovereign -Henry, King of England and France, I demand -surrender of the castle known as Maissons, -now in the possession of the representatives -of Sir Raoul d'Aulx."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis easy to demand, sir," replied the girl. -"Yet not easy to acquire. How dost thou -think that thou canst take this castle with more -than half a hundred defenders behind its walls. -Have a care, sir, lest the forces of King Charles, -the only King of France, do not sweep thee and -thine from off the face of the earth."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I fear them not," replied Geoffrey. "Thou -knowest only too well that only yesterday the -French fled before our arms, leaving vast -numbers of gallant knights upon the field and -in our hands."</p> - -<p class='c010'>In spite of her coolness Aimée d'Aulx staggered -beneath the shock of the news, but -recovering herself, she replied, "A truce to -thy words, sir. An thou wilt take the castle, -advance, for 'tis a warm reception that awaits -thee and thine."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With that the girl disappeared from view, -<a id='Page_271'></a>leaving Geoffrey staring up at the battlement -where she had stood.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Fair sir," quoth the man-at-arms who bore -the white flag. "Hast thou taken notice of -those nine steel caps showing above the -wall?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay," replied the squire shortly, for, truth -to tell, during the interview he had eyes only for -the fair Aimée d'Aulx.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"They have not moved a hair's breadth these -five minutes," continued the man. "Since 'tis -impossible for a Frenchman to remain quiet, -for curiosity must have otherwise consumed -them, I am of opinion that those head-pieces -are set up only to trick us."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By the rood, Hubert, methinks thou shouldst -be right in this matter," exclaimed the squire -excitedly.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And, moreover," went on the soldier imperturbably, -"didst thou not mark how yon damsel -was taken aback when thou told'st her of the -rout of yesterday?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Now thou speakest of it I call it to mind," -admitted Geoffrey. "What of it?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"This, fair sir: 'tis certain that none of this -knight's followers have gained the shelter of the -castle, otherwise the news would have been no -news. I'll warrant, could we but cross the -moat, that ten stout men-at-arms could carry -the castle by escalade."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thine advice is good, Hubert," said Geoffrey, -as the twain turned and rode back to their -comrades.</p> - -<p class='c010'>After a short council had been held, ten of the -<a id='Page_272'></a>men-at-arms divested themselves of their armour, -and armed only with their axes and daggers, -ran boldly towards the moat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Here they were assailed by a shower of ill-directed -stones, while from a few of the oyelets -came an irregular discharge of arrows, shot so -feebly that for the most part they failed to pass -within a spear's length of the object of their -intended mark.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A roar of derisive laughter burst from the -lips of the seasoned veterans, as without a -moment's hesitation they plunged into the -waters of the moat. Unscathed, though the -stones churned up the water all around them, -the men swam to the opposite side, where, -taking advantage of a narrow terraced ridge of -rock at the base of the castle walls, they gained -the shelter of the raised drawbridge.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Soon a coil of rope, weighted by an axe, was -thrown deftly over one of the chains that supported -the drawbridge full thirty feet above the -ground.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Up with thee, John o' Bosham," exclaimed -the man who had been appointed the leader of -the enterprise. "Thou wert a shipman ere -thou wert man-at-arms. And thou, too, Peter -of Gosport. Up with thee, I say."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With their axes thrust into their belts the -two soldiers swarmed up the swaying rope, and -agilely balancing themselves on the chain, they -looked about for some means to sever the stout -iron links. Being without files they soon realized -that the task was beyond them.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Try the woodwork, John!" shouted one -<a id='Page_273'></a>of the men from below. "Yet take good heed -when thou hast done thy work."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Blithely the twain set to with their axes, and -amid a shower of splinters the chain-plate -secured to the frame of the drawbridge was cut -out, falling with a loud clang against the wall.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With that the two men-at-arms made their -way astraddle of their lofty swaying perch, and -having passed the rope through one of the links -of the still-holding chain and secured themselves -to it by their belts, they again fell to work. -"Stand clear below," exclaimed Peter, as the -woodwork creaked ominously.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The next moment the chain-plate was wrenched -from its hold, and with a crash the heavy drawbridge -fell, rebounding more than once ere it -came to rest. Then amid the cheers of their -comrades the two daring and by this time well-nigh -exhausted men slid down the rope to the -ground.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile Geoffrey and the main body had -not been idle. At great pains they had felled a -young fir tree, and having stripped it of its -branches, bore it to the edge of the moat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As the drawbridge fell, two score willing -hands raised the heavy battering-ram, and -recking not the shower of stones that rattled -harmlessly on their headpieces, the men-at-arms -attacked the iron-bound oaken door.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At the third blow the massive timber was burst -asunder, and with shouts of triumph the men-at-arms -swarmed into the castle, to find it -deserted save by half-a-dozen trembling serving -women incongruously wearing steel headpieces, -<a id='Page_274'></a>two decrepit men-servants, and the Lady Aimée -d'Aulx!</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou hast conquered, sir," exclaimed the -girl haughtily. "Accept my congratulations -on thy feat of arms—this victory over a handful -of helpless women-folk."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, fair lady," replied Geoffrey, advancing -with raised visor. "We do not make war upon -women. Rest assured, therefore, that neither -thou nor thine will suffer harm."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then why art thou here?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To carry out the orders of my royal master. -Further——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"The saints preserve me!" exclaimed the -damsel. "Of a surety I have seen thee before? -Ay, 'tis the youth that befriended us at the -Dos d'Ane."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Shrewdly guessed, fair lady. I am in -truth Geoffrey Lysle, squire to Sir Thomas -Carberry, and son of Sir Oliver Lysle, whom -thy father holds captive in this castle, and -whom it is my desire to set at liberty."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Tell me, young sir," asked the girl eagerly. -"Thou didst say that our arms have suffered a -reverse? Canst say aught concerning my father, -Sir Raoul?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"He is safe, though hurt; a prisoner. More, -he is my prisoner."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then thou art willing to set him at liberty -in exchange for thy sire?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"My father I hope to regain by virtue of the -success of our arms in the taking of this castle -of Maissons. As for Sir Raoul, 'tis my purpose -to receive two thousand crowns for his ransom."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_275'></a>"Like the rest of these Englishmen, thou -wouldst place money before honour?" said the -girl scornfully. "No doubt it was for that -purpose alone that his life was spared?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey coloured at the unjust taunt. He -shrank from telling how he had rescued Sir -Raoul at the risk of his own life and honour, -and that he had demanded the ransom solely -on account of the archers, whose offers of -quarter the knight had resolutely refused.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"'Tis the usage of war on both sides, fair -lady," he replied with a dignity equal to her -own. "But of that anon. Oswald, do thou -conduct the Lady Aimée to her apartments, and -see that none of the men-at-arms venture upon -her privacy."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then turning to an old servitor, who, by -reason of a bunch of keys hanging from his -girdle, was evidently custodian of the keep—</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hasten thee, rascal, take me to the Lord -of Warblington's quarters—or prison, whichever -it be."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Obediently the man complied, and soon -Geoffrey was grasping his father by the hand. -His long quest had ended at last.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sir Oliver's quarters were plainly yet comfortably -furnished, and were situated in a part -of the domestic buildings of the castle. Under -his promise not to break faith with his captor -unless ransomed or rescued, he had been allowed -almost complete freedom, being at liberty to -hunt in an adjoining forest, or to wander in or -about the castle. Punctilious towards his captor -and strictly true to his parole, the Lord of -<a id='Page_276'></a>Warblington had endured his detention with -fortitude, though his thoughts were ever speeding -towards his wife and home across the -English Channel.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For the space of nearly two hours father and -son remained in eager and joyous converse, -while the soldiers were feasting in the courtyard -of the castle, till the necessity of rejoining the -English camp became apparent.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Art ready, Oswald?" asked Geoffrey, after -Sir Oliver had warmly greeted his faithful squire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"All is ready," replied Oswald, "but I bear -a message from the Lady Aimée. She would -see thee in the great hall."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With mingled sensations of hope and fear -Geoffrey made his way to the girl's presence. -Seated on an oak chair, with two tiring maids -in attendance, the Lady Aimée d'Aulx awaited -the coming of her captor. She had discarded -her steel corselet, and had taken particular -care that her tresses should be rearranged, while -in place of her riding-habit she had assumed a -dark blue kirtle with hanging sleeves slashed -with murrey-coloured silk, and on her head a -high sugar-loafed cap after the fashion of the -times.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thy pleasure, fair lady?" exclaimed Geoffrey, -louting low before her.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Squire Geoffrey, I must needs make amends -for my ill-natured tongue. Thy friend Oswald -hath told me concerning thy generous and -courteous treatment of my father. I crave thy -forgiveness."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey vehemently protested that no forgiveness -<a id='Page_277'></a>was necessary, since nothing untoward -could fall from the lips of the daughter of Sir -Raoul d'Aulx. Then time passed rapidly and -unheeded, for the two were engaged in animated -conversation, regardless of the presence of the -tiring maids who had discreetly withdrawn to -one of the alcoves.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length the squire prepared to take his -departure, for his ears had caught the warning -long-drawn blast of a trumpet in the courtyard.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And hast thou truly forgotten what I said -concerning my father's ransom?" asked the -girl.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay, truly."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And dost thou not require that <i>I</i> should be -held to ransom, squire Geoffrey?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>For answer Geoffrey's steel-grey eyes looked -steadfastly into the dark glistening orbs of the -Norman maiden. Then courteously and reverently -he raised her hand to his lips.</p> - -<p class='c010'>When Geoffrey Lysle rode away from the -Castle of Maissons he took with him the heart -of the Lady Aimée d'Aulx.</p> - -<hr class='c004' /> - -<p class='c010'>True to his promise Geoffrey and his men-at-arms -regained at dawn the English camp, where -Sir Oliver received a rousing welcome, not only -from his own retainers, but from the many -knights who regarded him with the warmest -feelings of esteem.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Though the men-at-arms who had carried -out the raid on Maissons had had little rest, -there was scant time for leisure. The army -had to resume its march to Calais, where, accompanied -<a id='Page_278'></a>by a vast host of prisoners, Henry arrived -without let or hindrance.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Here, safe within the walls of that fortress, a -council was held at which it was recognized -that the only thing to be done at present was -to return to England. A rest of several days -was allowed to the hard-worked troops, during -which time most of the prisoners, save those of -higher rank, were permitted to depart upon payment -of their ransoms and the promise to take -no active part against the invaders.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Amongst the released captives was Sir Raoul -d'Aulx. The two thousand crowns received -by Geoffrey were handed over to the men to -whom the ransom had already been promised. -The French knight took farewell of Sir Oliver -and his son with the utmost good humour, for -the bonds of old comradeship betwixt the Lord -of Warblington and the Seigneur of Maissons -were too strong to be severed by the quarrels -of two nations.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length, in the middle of November, the -King with his victorious forces recrossed the -Channel. At Dover the enthusiasm was intense, -the townsfolk rushing knee-deep into the icy -cold water to bear their national idol ashore, -while the streets were hung with bright colours -in honour of the brave.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thence, after a few days' rest in the castle, -Henry resumed his triumphal progress to London, -attended by his nobles, knights, and soldiers, -and accompanied by his prisoners.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But Sir Oliver Lysle did not bear his sovereign -company. Since he had not taken an active -<a id='Page_279'></a>part in the campaign he was loth to share in the -welcome extended to the veterans of that perilous -march from Harfleur to Calais. So, obtaining -permission to withdraw, he returned to -Warblington Castle, whither Geoffrey and Oswald -hastened after the festivities in London -were concluded.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_280'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XXVII<br /> <br />THE SIEGE OF ROUEN</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>Although Henry V had left the shores -of France without having concluded a -treaty with his defeated foes, hostilities were -practically suspended for a space of nearly -two years. But in 1416 the King entered into -an alliance with the Duke of Burgundy, who, -since the fatal field of Agincourt, had become -paramount in France.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With this powerful ally Henry's chances of -securing the French crown were greatly increased, -and in the month of July, 1417, he -again prepared to invade Normandy.</p> - -<p class='c010'>After two years of ease following the strenuous -life in the field, Geoffrey longed for the -opportunity of buckling on his armour and -again seeking his fortune in the land of the -Fleur de Lys, and great was his delight when -orders were received for the army to assemble -at Southampton.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As in the glorious expedition of 1415 Geoffrey -went in attendance upon Sir Thomas Carberry, -but with this difference: he was now the senior -squire, a lad of fifteen, Walter Talbot by name, -having recently been taken into the Constable -of Portchester's service as junior squire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>This time the star and mullet of the Lysles -<a id='Page_281'></a>was also in evidence, but without the waving -black line, for Sir Oliver Lysle was now present -in person to lead the men of Warblington. -With him went Oswald Steyning, and though -in separate companies the two comrades had -ample opportunities of enjoying each other's -companionship.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Arnold Gripwell, also, had joined the army -assembled at Southampton. Sinewy as of yore -the gaunt old man-at-arms looked no older -than he did on the day when he watched in vain -for his master's return in the <i>Grâce à Dieu</i>, -though in truth his strength was slowly failing.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On the 1st day of August, 1417, the English -army landed on the shores of Normandy, and -the march of the invaders became a veritable -pageant of martial triumph. The royal castle -of Touques fell after a short siege, and disheartened -by the success of their foes and torn -by internal dissensions, the French seemed to -have given up all hope of holding the Duchy of -Normandy. Damvilliers, Harcourt, Eu, Evreux, -opened their gates without resistance, and after -a stubborn yet ineffectual defence Caen was -taken by escalade on the last day of August.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Shortly after this success the Duke of Brittany -deserted the cause of Charles of Valois, and -swearing fealty to Henry, joined his forces to -those of the invader, with the result that the -town and castle of Falaise—so closely associated -with William the Conqueror—surrendered on -the second day of January, 1417. This was the -last of Henry's successes in that year.<a id='r1' /><a href='#f1' class='c012'><sup>[1]</sup></a></p> - -<hr class='c013' /> -<div class='footnote' id='f1'> -<p class='c010'><span class='label'><a href='#r1'>1</a>. </span>It must be borne in mind that at this period the New -year was reckoned from the 1st of March, and not from -the 1st of January. This peculiarity has given rise -to many apparently conflicting dates in mediæval history.</p> -</div> -<hr class='c013' /> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_282'></a>Spring was well advanced ere the King left -his quarters at Bayeux and marched up the left -bank of the Seine. Once again he had set himself -a formidable task—this time the taking of -Rouen, the capital of Normandy.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The city was of immense strength, occupying -a splendid natural position on the north or -right bank of the Seine. Lofty walls, powerfully -mounted with bombards and mangonels, -completely encircled the town, the battlements -being pierced by six gates on the landward side, -in addition to the two water-gates that abutted -on the spacious quays, where ships of considerable -burthen could moor after ascending the -river from the sea.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Its garrison consisted of twenty-five thousand -men trained to the use of arms, while the numbers -of the ordinary inhabitants were largely -increased by the influx of crowds of terrified -country-folk who had sought a doubtful security -behind the walls of the town.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The presence of the host of non-combatants -was a source of weakness to the besieged, since -they had to be fed and could do little service -in return, while the time of year was too early -for the rich harvest to be gathered and stored -within the town.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Having seized and garrisoned the Pont de -l'Arche, to three leagues above Rouen, the King -was able to cut off all communications betwixt -the city and Paris. He thereupon proceeded to -<a id='Page_283'></a>erect six strong forts, one opposite each of the -land-gates, connecting them by a "curtain" -or line of trenches strengthened with earthworks -and palisades.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The river, too, was obstructed both above -and below the town, by spiked booms and -sunken barges, while in addition to a fleet of -English vessels that had ascended the Seine -and kept guard below the city, a number of -large galleys were, by dint of much manual -labour, dragged overland for a distance of -nearly a league, and launched once more above -the town.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Having completed his circumvallation of -Rouen the King, unwilling to risk a general -assault, ordered a strict blockade to be maintained, -and in a very short time the besiegers -settled down to their task, their works assuming -the appearance of a town enveloping a town. -The strictest discipline was maintained: even -the wild Welsh levies and the still more untrained -Irish irregular cavalry were kept under -perfect control, the punishment of death being -inflicted upon all found guilty of plundering, -and even on those who straggled beyond the -lines.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On the other hand, every day found the -position of the besieged becoming more and -more desperate; and it was not long ere famine -began to stalk through the congested streets of -Rouen.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thereupon the governor of the town resolved -upon a desperate and pitiless expedient. Gathering -together nearly fifteen thousand of the -<a id='Page_284'></a>non-belligerents, he ordered them to leave the -city.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As the last of the multitude issued from -beneath the battlements the gates were shut. -Thinking that they would be granted safe -conduct through the English lines the miserable -wretches advanced, forgetting their plight in -their expectations of being able to find food in -the open country beyond the entrenchments -that encircled the town.</p> - -<p class='c010'>But to their consternation Henry refused to -allow any of the refugees to pass. Probably -he thought that by so doing the Governor of -Rouen would be compelled to re-admit them, -and thus hasten the fall of the city through -famine. On the other hand the Governor -was of opinion that Henry would relent and -allow the non-combatants to pass.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Neither King nor Governor would give way, -and in consequence the fifteen thousand helpless -wretches were cooped up betwixt two fires, -subsisting on roots, and on the very scanty -supplies with which the English soldiers, at great -risk, secretly supplied them, in spite of the -King's orders.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Some succeeded in stealing through the invaders' -lines. Hundreds fell by the hands of -their own countrymen in attempting to force -their way back into the town, while, save for a -very few, the rest perished miserably of hunger.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Henry's action can only be described as -barbarous. Coupled with the massacre of -prisoners at Agincourt it forms a blot upon his -reputation, and in this case there was no such -<a id='Page_285'></a>imperative necessity—those non-combatants -could have done him no harm.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Fortunately the Hampshire Companies were -posted on the riverside, and in consequence -Geoffrey and his companions were spared the -horrors of the scenes that followed, though they -heard with feelings of shame, and compassion -of the barbarity practised upon the luckless folk.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Slowly the siege wore on. No attempt was -made to sally from the city, nor was there -any on the part of the Dauphin to relieve the -capital of Normandy, and thus the blockade, -though rigidly enforced, became so tedious and -irksome to the besiegers that they longed for -something to occur that might rouse them into -activity.</p> - -<p class='c010'>One day in September, Sir Oliver Lysle and -Sir Thomas Carberry had ridden to another part -of the English lines to confer with Sir Brocas -Scorton concerning the providing of a fresh -supply of hurdles for the entrenchments.</p> - -<p class='c010'>On this occasion neither knight saw fit to -take his squire with him, and in consequence -Geoffrey, Oswald, and young Walter Talbot, -together with five or six other squires were -holding a feast in one of the rooms of Sir Oliver's -quarters; it being the anniversary of Oswald's -birthday.</p> - -<p class='c010'>In the midst of the festivities a mounted -messenger pulled up at the door, and knocking -with the hilt of his dagger, demanded to be -shown into Sir Oliver's presence.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"He is not here," replied Oswald. "He -hath gone to the lodging of Sir Brocas Scorton."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_286'></a>"Then bear this letter to Sir Oliver, young -sir. Methinks thy revelries are apt to be rudely -disturbed," replied the horseman, whom Geoffrey -recognized as one of the King's own heralds. -"But I must away, since I have three cartels -to deliver within an hour."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Evidently the missive was one of the greatest -importance; and consumed with impatience -Geoffrey and Oswald made ready to ride across -to the lodgings of the brave old Yorkshire -knight, Sir Brocas Scorton.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By St. Wilfred of Ripon, thou art most -fortunate," exclaimed Sir Brocas, as Sir Oliver -read the King's order and passed it to the other -two knights.</p> - -<p class='c011'>"To our trusty and well-beloved Oliver Lysle, -knight, Lord of the Castle of Warblington, in the -county of Southampton, and at present serving -with our forces before Rouen. Greeting.</p> - -<p class='c011'>"Whereas it hath come to our knowledge -that our rebellious subject Denis, Lord of -Malevereux, hath caused us much trouble by his -ill-conduct; it is our pleasure that thou shouldst -proceed to the before-mentioned Castle of -Malevereux with such forces as thou mayst deem -necessary and carry it by assault and hang the -said Sir Denis upon the battlements of his castle.</p> -<div class='lg-container-b'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>"(Signed) Henricus Quintus, Rex.</div> - <div class='line in17'>"Ang: et Franc."</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>"I' faith, 'tis plain enough," remarked Sir -Thomas Carberry. "Oliver, my right trusty -friend and companion-in-arms, I pray thee that -<a id='Page_287'></a>I may have a share in this business, though, be -it understood, I do not aspire to any honour -that might detract from thine advancement."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I accept the offer of thy services, Thomas," -replied Sir Oliver. "Betwixt us we can muster -eighty lances and four score and ten archers. -If we are not able to bring this recreant to boot -may I never see Warblington again. But there -is no time to be lost; the King's orders must -be obeyed with promptitude, so, Sir Brocas, -this matter concerning the hurdles must needs -stand over a while."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"May ye both be here to attend to it this -day week," answered the Yorkshire knight. -"So fare ye well."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Ere sunset the two Hampshire knights with -their squires and followers, nearly two hundred -strong, were well on their way towards the -gloomy Castle of Malevereux.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_288'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XXVIII<br /> <br />THE FATE OF MALEVEREUX</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>Judging by the grimly exultant expressions -on the faces of the men, the expedition -was a popular one. The Warblington men were -well aware of the hardships their master and his -son had undergone at the hands of the villainous -Sir Denis, while the Portchester troops had -occasion to remember that their Constable's -squire had been treacherously detained by the -Lord of Malevereux.</p> - -<p class='c010'>There was also the inducement held out by -the presence of vast quantities of booty to be -had on the taking of the fortress; while, above -all, knight, squire, and common soldier realized -that they were carrying out a direct command -of the King.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Owing to the fact that the archers were afoot -the progress of the column was necessarily slow, -and when Sir Oliver called a halt for the night -only four leagues separated them from their -late quarters before Rouen.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The men slept in the open, wrapped in heavy -cloaks. The horses, securely tethered, were -placed in the centre of the camp, while sentinels -were posted on all sides.</p> - -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<img src='images/i_304.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' /> -<div class='ic002'> -<p>"WITH SPEAR THRUST AND SWEEP OF AXE THEY FELL UPON THE STORMERS."</p> -</div> -</div> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_289'></a>Shortly after midnight the alarm was raised -that the camp was attacked, and with shouts -of "Stand to your arms!" the men-at-arms -and archers, hastily awakened, formed up -for the purpose of repelling the threatened onslaught.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Standing at his post behind his sire and -the Constable, Geoffrey could make out the -sharp thud of the hoofs of numerous horses, -while a babel of discordant sounds, shouted in a -foreign tongue, resounded on all sides of the -camp.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Archers, make ready; let no man loose till -I give the word," shouted Sir Oliver, as, waiting -sword in hand, he strove to detect something -in the voices of his unseen antagonists that -might tell him who they were!</p> - -<p class='c010'>In spite of their rude awakening the soldiers -preserved a coolness only to be gained by constant -training in the field. Mechanically the -dismounted men-at-arms fell into line, and -dropping on one knee, drove the butts of their -long spears into the earth, while in the intervening -gaps the archers, with arrow on string, -awaited the order to let fly their deadly -shafts.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Thrice the unseen cavalry galloped completely -round the bristling circle of steel, though -at a respectful distance, as if attempting to -find a weak spot at which to deliver an attack.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Let them keep to it," remarked Sir Oliver, -with a laugh. "Methinks their horses will be -blown ere they come within bow-shot."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Pile on more wood, then," ordered Sir -Thomas Carberry. "Make a rousing blaze, -for 'tis in our favour, since our backs are to -<a id='Page_290'></a>the light. Then perchance we may have a -glimpse of our doughty foes."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"They shout in no French tongue, fair sir," -exclaimed Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then, perchance, they are the German -troops whom, report saith, the Dauphin hath -hired."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"A truce to conjectures," said Sir Oliver. -"Sound a tucket—one of our camp calls—and -see what that will bring forth."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Hardly had the last notes of the trumpet -died away ere the discord ceased, save for -the clattering of a single horseman, who rode -straight for the hedge of steel, guided by the -fiercely-blazing camp-fire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Stand! Thy name, condition and errand," -shouted Sir Oliver.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A rich rolling voice replied, "I am Sir Brian -of Ennisbarry, in the county of Wexford. If -ye be enemies of the King of England look to -yourselves. Further, should any knight among -you wish to ease his soul or seek some small -advancement, I am here to help him in the -furthering o'it."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Certes, 'tis the Irish kernes," observed Sir -Oliver in an undertone; then raising his voice -he replied—</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Greetings, Sir Brian: two most unworthy -knights of Southampton give thee welcome. I -pray thee first quiet thy followers, then if it -please thee join us around the camp-fire."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Amid a babel of voices the Irish horsemen -formed a bivouac within a bow-shot of -their English companions-in-arms, and when -<a id='Page_291'></a>they had settled for the night, for they were -about to encamp just before they stumbled -across the outposts, Sir Brian, attended by -two squires, rode up to the two Hampshire -knights.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Once again welcome, Sir Brian," exclaimed -Sir Oliver. "Though I am afeared we have -but sorry fare to offer thee."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sure, 'tis better than I've had these last -two days," replied the Irishman, quaffing a horn -of wine that Oswald had produced from the -baggage on his master's sumpter horse.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sir Brian was a short, slender man of about -fifty years of age. He was clean-shaven, thus -revealing a long upper lip and a strongly-formed -cloven chin. His bluish-grey eyes were close -set, and brimming with good-humour. His -hair fell in long lank masses from beneath a -cone-shaped steel cap. His body was unprotected -by defensive armour save by a breast-plate -that terminated at his waist, and was -without gorget. From his belt dangled a long, -cross-hilted sword in a scabbard of black leather, -ornamented with Runic characters, while across -his back was slung a targe of wood covered -with undressed leather.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As for his two squires, they were unable to -speak a word of English, and since Geoffrey -and Oswald were ignorant of Irish their attempts -to entertain their visitors were limited to dumb -show.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was a strange story that Sir Brian related -a part of. His light cavalry had been surprised -earlier in the day by the soldiers of Sir Denis, -<a id='Page_292'></a>and after a fierce engagement the former were -compelled to retreat, leaving four of their -number in the hands of the Lord of Malevereux, -by whose orders they were hanged on the -battlements of the castle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>When the Irish knight heard that Sir Oliver -was about to assault the stronghold of Sir Denis, -his excitement knew no bounds. He would, -he declared, join his men with those of the -Hampshire knights. There would be booty -enough and to spare for all, but he chiefly desired -vengeance upon the Lord of Malevereux for the -execution of his four men.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"As thou wilt, Sir Brian," quoth Sir Oliver. -"The more the merrier; but, since we start at -daybreak, thou hadst best seek repose."</p> - -<p class='c010'>When the march was resumed a strange -sight met Geoffrey's eyes. He had often heard -of the King's Irish kernes, but since they were -employed almost exclusively in scouring the -country around Rouen, he had never before -had the opportunity of seeing them.</p> - -<p class='c010'>They were for the most part only partially -clad. Many were barefooted, others boasted -of one stocking and one shoe only. They rode -barebacked upon wiry mountain horses, so -small that the riders' feet came within a few -inches of the ground.</p> - -<p class='c010'>All except their leader were quite without -armour, their offensive weapons consisting of -stout spears and long double-edged knives, -while a few carried round targes provided with -a steel spike in the place of a boss. Though they -were ill-disciplined they were excellent scouts, -<a id='Page_293'></a>while in a hand-to-hand conflict they made up -for their lack of mail by a wild impetuosity that -struck terror into the hearts of the well-accoutred -French men-at-arms.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It was late in the afternoon when the expeditionary -force came in sight of the Castle of -Malevereux. The appearance of the gloomy -pile, rendered even more forbidding by the presence -of four gibbets and their ghastly burdens -standing clearly against the sky, aroused many -burning thoughts in Geoffrey's mind.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As it was too late that day to open the assault -Sir Oliver ordered his men to rest themselves, -and having constructed hasty entrenchments -the Englishmen and their Hibernian allies lay -around the castle, so that none might leave or -enter.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The night passed without interruption, and -shortly after daybreak preparations were made -to deliver an assault upon the frowning walls. -From the neighbouring woods the besiegers -obtained timber, out of which rough ladders -were constructed, while the Irish levies, who -had tethered their horses at a safe distance from -the castle, were kept busily employed in gathering -and carrying bundles of straw and faggots to -fill the moat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Clad in complete mail, Sir Oliver, accompanied -by his squire and a mounted man-at-arms, rode -towards the gateway, while a strong body of -archers occupied a position half a bow-shot in the -rear.</p> - -<p class='c010'>To all outward appearances the castle seemed -deserted, save by the dangling corpses of the -<a id='Page_294'></a>unfortunate Irish prisoners, but on Sir Oliver -ordering a rousing blast to be sounded, a burly -figure, whom Geoffrey recognized from a distance -as Sir Denis, appeared on the battlements, wearing -a white scarf.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"In the name of the most puissant sovereign -Henry King of England and France, I, Oliver, -knight of Warblington, summon thee, Denis de -Valadour, Lord of Malevereux, to give up the -said castle immediately and unconditionally," -shouted the English knight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>For an answer, Sir Denis raised his right arm, -and pointed derisively at the swaying bodies -that hung from the gibbets. This action was -the signal for a sudden discharge of cross-bow -bolts from the oyelets, while a huge stone hurled -by a mangonel cunningly concealed behind a -projecting spur of masonry, flew but a few inches -above Sir Oliver's head. As for the bolts, one -glanced from Oswald's shield, another struck -the horse of the man-at-arms to the earth, but -the rest either fell short or wide.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Standing in his stirrups the Lord of Warblington -shook his fist at the treacherous and recreant -Norman, while a flight of arrows, well and truly -sped, rattled against the corslet and visor of Sir -Denis. Whether any of the missiles took effect -or not the Englishmen were unable to see, but -the knight quickly disappeared behind the -parapet.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Scorning to turn his face from the foe, Sir -Oliver, regardless of the bolts that still came -from the castle, slowly backed his horse till -out of range.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_295'></a>"This will be a right joyous encounter, -Thomas," he exclaimed to his companion knight, -at the same time dismounting and handing his -steed over to the care of an archer. "Is all -prepared?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Ay," replied Carberry. "The men are -like hounds in leash. Look also, I pray thee, -at those Irish."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sir Brian hath a strange following, yet, -methinks they are not lacking in courage e'en -though they may err through rashness. But -bid the archers shoot."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Under a fire so straight and true that none -of the enemy dared show himself, the Irish -kernes ran up to the dry moat and threw -down their burdens, till a swaying yet passable -causeway took the place of the raised drawbridge.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Men-at-arms! In the name of St. George -and for Merrie England—forward!" shouted -Sir Oliver, and with one accord squires and -common soldiers ran steadily towards the walls, -keeping decorously behind the two mail-clad -knights, whose armour greatly retarded their -speed.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Mingled with the men-at-arms were several -archers, whose special duty it was to carry the -scaling ladders up to the walls, while in the -rear their comrades maintained their steady -fire.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The mass of panting, shouting, and excited -men gained the edge of the moat, and, with -swords and axes brandished above their heads, -prepared to follow Sir Oliver and Sir John across -<a id='Page_296'></a>the temporary bridge, when a cross-bowman -more daring than his fellows showed himself -for an instant above the battlements and shot -his bolt.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The next instant he toppled over the parapet, -pierced by half-a-score of arrows; but the -mischief was already done, for the quarrel -transfixed Sir Oliver's leg just above the left -genouillère, or metal knee-cap.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With a crash the knight fell to the ground, -but as two men-at-arms rushed to his assistance -he waved them off.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"To the walls," he exclaimed. "Ye can do -much service there. As for me, I will tarry here -till we gain the castle."</p> - -<p class='c010'>In spite of this momentary check the stormers -pressed forward, and scaling ladders were reared, -and, led by Sir Thomas Carberry, the men-at-arms -clambered impetuously up the swaying -and creaking timber.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Hitherto the English archers had kept the -garrison well in check, but now, fearful of -harming friend as well as foe, they desisted. -In a moment the battlements were thronged -by the desperate defenders, foremost of whom -was Sir Denis.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With spear thrust and sweep of axe they fell -upon the stormers ere the latter could gain -a footing on the walls. Many an Englishman -and Norman, clasped in a deadly embrace, -were tumbled from the battlements; to the -hoarse shouts of the combatants were added the -shrieks of the maimed and wounded, while the -steady stream of ascending men continued -<a id='Page_297'></a>without any appreciable sign of a lodgement -being obtained upon the fiercely-defended -wall.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Geoffrey, sword in hand, found himself half-way -up the creaking ladder, when a loud shout -of warning rose high above the din. The enemy -had loosened a huge mass of masonry, and -toppling it over, swept the ladders of their -human burden.</p> - -<p class='c010'>From the mingled crush of dead and wounded -the survivors contrived to extricate themselves, -and, hopelessly repulsed, began to give back, -with cries of rage and alarm.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Shaken and bruised from head to foot, but -otherwise unhurt, Geoffrey found himself lying -on the brushwood that had broken his fall. -With an effort he regained his feet, stung with -the bitterness of defeat.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Stand!" he shouted to the wavering men-at-arms. -"Stand! E'en though we have not -yet won the day we cannot leave our comrades -here."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Encouraged by his words, and by the fact -that the English archers were again able to -deliver a death-dealing flight of arrows, the -discomfited men-at-arms stood their ground, -and began to remove the bodies of their unfortunate -comrades from the floor of the moat, and -with some semblance of order they retired to -the rear of the bowmen.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The losses in the repulse had been great. -In addition to Sir Oliver, the Constable of -Portchester had been stunned through being -hurled from the ladder, while eleven dead and -<a id='Page_298'></a>fifteen badly wounded men-at-arms testified -to the stubbornness of the defence.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Geoffrey, my son," exclaimed Sir Oliver, -as Gripwell and another man-at-arms were -preparing to withdraw the quarrel from his leg, -"on thee has fallen the command. Thou -must needs turn this check into victory, and -that soon, otherwise 'tis better to perish to a -man than to return to our King beaten and dishonoured."</p> - -<p class='c010'>Then overcome by the anguish of his wound -the knight swooned.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The squire realized the responsibility that -had been forced upon him. Undoubtedly -he must act, and that quickly; yet he -was adverse to making another attempt -without adopting some other and better plan -of attack.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Hastily conferring with Oswald, Gripwell, -and Sir Brian, he expounded his proposals for -the renewed assault. The Irish, who had hitherto -been held in reserve, were to set fire to the -heap of faggots and straw that lay in the moat -before the gateway. Should the latter be -sufficiently charred to enable it to be splintered -with axes, the kernes were to dash through the -smouldering embers and force an entrance; -while the men-at-arms, led by Geoffrey, were -to assail the postern through which the two -squires had effected their escape on the occasion -of their captivity.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The main entrance and this portion being on -opposite sides of the castle gave the attackers -an advantage, inasmuch as the besieged would -<a id='Page_299'></a>be compelled to divide their numbers instead of -concentrating the whole of their forces in one -spot.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Bravely thought of, young sir," exclaimed -Sir Brian. "Give my fellows but a footing -in the gateway, and they'll serve yon villains -as did the blessed St. Patrick the serpents in ould -Ireland."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Saving thy presence, sir," quoth the master -bowman. "Our stock of arrows is but scanty. -Already many of the archers have empty -quivers."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then I pray thee bid them husband their -shafts," replied Geoffrey. "Without a covering -flight the escalade will assuredly be a doubly-hard -task. Art ready, Sir Brian?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Supported by a steady discharge of arrows -a body of the Irish levies, bearing flaming -torches, rushed to the edge of the moat, and -in a few moments a crackling column of flame -ascended.</p> - -<p class='c010'>While the fire was in progress, Geoffrey, -profiting by the confusion, led his men-at-arms -to the opposite side of the castle, where, -lying in ambush in the depression formed by a -brook, they waited the signal for the combined -assault.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As soon as the fire had burned itself out, Sir -Brian placed himself at the head of his men, and -with a wild shout the Irish rushed at the charred -door. Though numbers fell as they crossed the -moat the advance was irresistible. With a -ponderous crash the timbered door was shattered, -and the ill-armed swarm of Irishmen flung -<a id='Page_300'></a>themselves upon their better accoutred yet -demoralized foes.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Meanwhile the English men-at-arms had -crossed the pike-studded moat, and, ere the -defenders were aware of the assault, fifty mail-clad -warriors had forced the wicket gate at the -end of the disused postern-gallery.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With shouts of triumph the assailants threaded -their way through the narrow tortuous passages -and emerged at the inner bailey. Here they -found themselves in the rear of the survivors -of the garrison, who were being hard pressed -by the Irish kernes.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Caught betwixt two bodies of their attackers -the Normans fought with the fury of despair, -scorning to ask the quarter that they knew -would be denied them.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sir Denis was almost the last to fall. In spite -of his cruel and treacherous character he was no -coward in the fight, and wielding his axe with -ferocious skill and strength, he kept at bay the -circle of steel that surrounded him.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At length, mindful of Geoffrey's shouts to -take him alive, three of the men-at-arms using -a stout plank as a means of offence, brought -him to his knees. Even then the knight continued -to lay about him, till he was finally over-borne -by a rush of the infuriated Irish, who -were with the utmost difficulty prevented -from plunging their knives into his body.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"I pray thee make an end and that quickly," -exclaimed Sir Denis dauntlessly, when, at the -end of the combat, he was brought before -Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_301'></a>"That I must do," replied the squire. "Yet -e'en though thou hast dealt foully with me and -mine, 'tis not by my will that thou must die. -By the orders of my sovereign lord—and thine, -though thou art a rebel—thou must be hanged -on thine own battlements."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hanged!" exclaimed Sir Denis, his face -turning an ashen grey. "Hanged! 'Tis impossible. -A knight to die a villein's death?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Such are mine orders," replied Geoffrey -curtly. "If there is aught on thy mind thou -mayest have an hour's respite."</p> - -<p class='c010'>The sun was sinking low in the west as the -doomed prisoner, accompanied by a strong -guard of men-at arms and archers, was led to the -battlements, where Sir Brian, Geoffrey, Oswald -and Walter Talbot were present to execute the -King's commands. Already some of the Irish -troops had removed the bodies of their comrades -from the gallows, and the rope of one was in -readiness to receive its victim.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With a firm step Sir Denis walked to the place -assigned for him, his arms bound behind his -back, and his neck bared for the fatal -noose.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Young sir," said he, "cannot this be put -aside? I do not beg for life, yet of thy -charity, give me the axe rather than the -cord."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay," replied Geoffrey shortly, for he could -not trust himself to say more. Then turning -to the archers he signed to them to proceed with -their work.</p> - -<p class='c010'>As one of the men bent to secure the knight's -<a id='Page_302'></a>ankles, Sir Denis leapt backwards, sprang on to -the parapet, and with a hoarse roar of defiance, -dropped to his death upon the rocks fifty feet -below.</p> -<div class='chapter'> - <a id='Page_303'></a> - <h2 class='c006'>CHAPTER XXIX<br /> <br />THE GOLDEN SPURS</h2> -</div> -<p class='drop-capa0_3_0_5 c009'>That night the victorious troops spent in -possession of the captured castle. Sir -Oliver and Sir Thomas Carberry were brought -within the fortress, and every possible care was -bestowed upon the disabled leaders.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Sir Oliver's wound, though not dangerous, -would prevent his taking the field for many -weeks to come, while the Constable of Portchester's -condition gave cause for great anxiety. -It was, therefore, decided to remove the two -knights and the two score and nine wounded -soldiers to the Castle of Taillemartel, that had -long since been occupied by the English invaders.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Accordingly this was done, and the helpless -men were sent thither in wains under a suitable -guard; the Castle of Malevereux was thoroughly -plundered, and afterwards given to the -flames; and the Irish kernes, each man with -a goodly bundle of loot thrown across his wiry -steed, rode off to find fresh openings for their -activity.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Mustering his scanty force, Geoffrey gave the -word to march, and with eight wagons, piled -high with booty, the column set off towards the -King's camp before Rouen, leaving a tall pillar -<a id='Page_304'></a>of smoke in their rear as a token that their -mission was accomplished, and that the accursed -pile of Malevereux would no more be a terror -to the countryside.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Without interruption the two companies -arrived at Pont de l'Arche, where Geoffrey -handed over the spoil to the custody of the -keeper of warlike stores. This done, the -march was resumed towards their quarters -on the left bank of the Seine.</p> - -<p class='c010'>At a bend in the road Geoffrey perceived a -large body of horsemen riding towards him. -Knowing not whether they were friend or foe, -since straggling parties of Frenchmen frequently -assailed the English outposts, the squire ordered -his men-at-arms to dismount and the archers -to make ready.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Canst discern their banners?" he asked of -Oswald, who was riding at his left.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, the sun is behind them," replied Sir -Oliver's squire. "Yet, for their numbers there -is no lack of standards and banners."</p> - -<p class='c010'>As he spoke a horseman was observed to leave -his party and ride rapidly in the direction of the -Hampshire men.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Hold!" he shouted, when he came within -hailing distance. "Who and what are ye?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"We are of the companies of Sir Oliver Lysle -and of Sir Thomas Carberry," replied Oswald, -"and are for the camp before Rouen, having -completed some small enterprise at the Castle -of Malevereux."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then why are not the banners of these two -gentle knights displayed?" returned the horseman. -<a id='Page_305'></a>"But delay thine explanations: yonder -is none other than King Henry. To him thou -must needs give account of thyself."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With fast-beating heart and rising colour, -Geoffrey ordered his men to redress their ranks, -and with Oswald at his side, and Gripwell, bearing -the furled banner of Malevereux, close behind -him, the young leader rode to meet his -royal master.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The King had that morning made a circuit -of the entrenchments, and accompanied by the -Dukes of Exeter, Gloucester, and Clarence, and -a galaxy of gaily attired nobles and clerics—amongst -the latter being the warlike Cardinal -Beaufort—was on the point of returning to his -quarters when the sight of a column of armed -men marching from the direction of Malevereux -arrested his attention.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By my halidom!" exclaimed the King. -"We would know why yon body of soldiers -should approach our lines without displaying -the banner of the knight in command. 'Tis -contrary to our express orders. Therefore, Sir -Gilbert, ride over and ask their leader why our -commands are disregarded. Bid them also -approach, so that we may see what manner of -men they are."</p> - -<p class='c010'>"From Malevereux!" exclaimed Henry on -the return of his messenger. "Then Sir Oliver -hath failed to carry out our commands? Dare -he return with defeat written broad upon his -features?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>Impatiently the King awaited the approach -of the leader of the expedition, the absence of -<a id='Page_306'></a>the knight's banner having misled him as to the -issue of the enterprise.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Where is Sir Oliver Lysle?" he demanded.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sire, he hath been wounded and hath been -left at the Castle of Taillemartel, as also hath -Sir Thomas Carberry," replied Geoffrey.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"And the rebel Sir Denis of Malevereux: -hath he been hanged on the battlements of his -own castle, according to our commands?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Nay, Sire——"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then thou hast ventured to return hither -branded with the unpardonable disgrace of -defeat?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Sire," replied Geoffrey, pointing to the -captured standard that Arnold Gripwell had -unfurled, "Sir Denis is dead, slain by his own -act, ere we could work thy will upon him. We -were, by the grace of God, able to carry the -castle after one repulse." And in a few words -the squire gave a plain account of what had -occurred during the expedition, modestly omitting -the gallant part he had played in the final -assault.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thy name, squire?" demanded the King, -and Geoffrey gave it.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"By our Lady! Thou art the same that -served us right well at Southampton, and -again on the eve of our victory at Agincourt, -though at the end of that thou didst wellnigh -place thy neck in a halter. By the soul of my -father we have a good memory for such matters. -Now, return to thy company, young sir. Sir -Gilbert, bring before us the two squires whom -we perceive stand at the head of the column."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_307'></a>The King listened attentively to Oswald's -version of the capture of Malevereux, the squire -mentioning several details that Geoffrey had -purposely omitted, while young Talbot stoutly -praised Geoffrey's bravery in rallying the discomfited -stormers at the termination of the -first onslaught.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Then 'tis to Squire Lysle that the credit of -the successful assault is due?" remarked Henry. -"Are we to understand that both Sir Oliver -and the Constable of Portchester were sore -hurt before the second attempt was made? -And is this the reason why their banners are not -displayed?"</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Such is the case, Sire," replied Oswald.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Once again Geoffrey was called before his -sovereign, while the men-at-arms and archers -were formed up in a double line twenty paces -from where the King and his retinue were -standing.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Geoffrey Lysle, squire to that right worthy -knight, Sir Thomas Carberry," began the King, -"it hath been our pleasure to receive from the -hand of thy master no slight account of thy -deeds and thy devotion to duty in times past. -Moreover, under divers circumstances, we ourselves -have witnessed thy courage on the field of -battle.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Concerning this latter we are judging by -the outward appearance, which, as we know to -our cost, is apt to be deceptive. E'en the -sweetest flower may harbour a vile worm gnawing -at its stalk unperceived; a brave coat of -mail may conceal a craven heart, a closed visor -<a id='Page_308'></a>a face graven with treachery. Yet, on the -other hand, Sir Thomas hath had ample opportunities -to study thee at the festive board, in -the camp, and in the hour of peril. Courage -alone counteth for little; yet, when consorting -with loyalty, truthfulness, and humanity, 'tis -a fitting quality for a knight.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Thou hast found thyself in petty disgrace -ere now, young squire, yet for this we must -make due allowance withal. By our Lady, we -can call to mind divers misdeeds committed -in our youth, the which our enemies have -thought fit to make much of. Hence we can -lightly pass over thy transgressions and reward -thy good and gallant deeds in the past." Then -turning to Sir Gilbert the King asked for his -sword.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Kneel, young sir."</p> - -<p class='c010'>With bowed head and overflowing heart -Geoffrey sank on his knee. The long-hoped-for -guerdon was his.</p> - -<p class='c010'>"Arise, Sir Geoffrey Lysle!" exclaimed the -King in a ringing voice, bringing the blade -lightly down upon the young warrior's shoulder.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Amid loud shouts of delight and redoubled -cries of "Long live the King!" Geoffrey arose, -and, with more words of good cheer and advice, -Henry re-mounted his charger, and accompanied -by his suite resumed his way to the camp.</p> - -<hr class='c004' /> - -<p class='c010'>With the passing of Geoffrey Lysle the Squire -our story draws to a close.</p> - -<p class='c010'>It remains to be said that the newly-made -knight bore himself right valiantly throughout -<a id='Page_309'></a>the long-drawn siege of Rouen and the stern -conflict before Pontoise, adding to his laurels in -a manner worthy of a man whom the King had -delighted to honour.</p> - -<p class='c010'>After the Perpetual Treaty of Troyes, Geoffrey -followed the example of his royal master, and -took unto himself a wife from the Land of the -Fleurs de Lys, the fair bride being Aimée, -daughter of the chivalrous Raoul d'Aulx.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Oft-times did Sir Geoffrey Lysle cross the -Channel under the banner of England, and, in -the dark pages of history relating to the undoing -of all that King Henry V had achieved, his -deeds, together with those of numerous warriors, -both of high and low degree, serve to show that -in the hour of defeat the spirit of the English -nation can still remain undaunted.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Oswald Steyning, too, won his spurs, by a -signal act of devoted gallantry at Verneuil. -Throughout the long-drawn contest for the -possession of the realm of France the two knights -maintained the bond of friendship cemented -in their early days, and on their retirement -from service in the field no joust or spear-running -held in the counties of Hampshire and -Sussex was considered a success unless honoured -by the presence of the veteran knights, -Sir Geoffrey Lysle and Sir Oswald Steyning.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The valiant old man-at-arms, Arnold Gripwell, -settled down to a quiet life upon his freehold -farm purchased by the hard-earned spoils of the -field of battle. But his martial instincts oft reasserted -themselves, especially when, surrounded -by an eager crowd of boys—the future guardians -<a id='Page_310'></a>of the sea-girt realm of England—he -would relate the story of how the young Squire -of Warblington won his spurs in the glorious -days of Agincourt.</p> - -<div class='figcenter id003'> -<img src='images/i_327.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' /> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c1'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div>THE END</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c1'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div><i>Printed by</i> <span class='sc'>Butler & Tanner</span>, <i>Frome and London</i>.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c014'><a id='Page_311'></a>Some attractive Volumes from the Catalogue of</p> - -<p class='c010'>THE PILGRIM PRESS.</p> - -<p class='c010'><i>SPLENDID SELECTION OF BOOKS FOR BOYS.</i></p> - -<p class='c010'>ROBERT LEIGHTON'S ROMANCES.</p> - -<p class='c010'>WITH NELSON IN COMMAND.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A Tale of Nelson and the Baltic. With Illustrations. Imperial -16mo, cloth boards, olivine edges, 3s. 6d.</p> - -<p class='c010'><i>Third Edition.</i></p> - -<p class='c015'><i>Morning Post.</i>—"The reader obtains a good idea of Nelson's character, while the -condition of the eastern counties of England at a time when smuggling was rife and the -pressgang won men for the Navy is described with accuracy. The story itself goes with -a swing and dash which make it excellent reading, and if the young hero's promotion to -the quarter-deck is rapid, he certainly won it manfully."</p> - -<p class='c015'><i>Nautical Magazine.</i>—"While the historic narrative of the Battle of the Baltic is -carefully adhered to throughout, the story lends an element of excitement and charm -which makes us forget we are reading history. The book is a splendid one for boys."</p> - -<p class='c010'>THE GREEN PAINTED SHIP.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A Romance of the Sea. With Illustrations by <span class='sc'>J. W. Charlton</span>. -Imperial 16mo, cloth boards, olivine edges, 3s. 6d.</p> - -<p class='c010'><i>Second Edition.</i></p> -<p class='c015'><i>Daily Telegraph.</i>—"A mutiny, an abandoned ship, the discovery of a pirate's hoard -of treasure, and many exciting episodes, go to make up a story after the British boy's own -heart, and one that fully maintains its author's reputation as a writer of stirring and -exciting tales."</p> - -<p class='c010'>HURRAH FOR THE SPANISH MAIN.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A Tale of the Days of Drake. Illustrated by <span class='sc'>J. Ayton Symington</span>. -Imp. 16mo, cloth boards, olivine edges, 3s. 6d.</p> - -<p class='c015'><i>Guardian.</i>—"Boys should, and will, be grateful for an excellent story of peril and -adventure."</p> - -<p class='c015'><i>Methodist Recorder.</i>—"We can hardly imagine the boy to whom its stirring pages -will not appeal."</p> - -<p class='c010'>THE OTHER FELLOW: <span class='sc'>The Mystery at Barracombe -Manor</span>.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Illustrated by <span class='sc'>Saville Lumley</span>. 6s.</p> - -<p class='c015'><i>Standard.</i>—"There is plenty of sensation, but it is of a healthy kind, and the -detective interest is very skilfully managed. We should not be surprised if the book -were to be one of the favourites of the season."</p> - -<p class='c010'>THE HAUNTED SHIP.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A Romance of the Devon Smugglers. With Six full-page Illustrations -by <span class='sc'>H. L. Shindler</span>. Imperial 16mo, cloth, olivine edges, -3s. 6d.</p> - -<p class='c010'><i>Second Edition.</i></p> - -<p class='c015'><i>St. James's Gazette.</i>—"Everything that a boy's book ought to be, and seldom is."</p> - -<p class='c015'><i>Expository Times.</i>—"From beginning to end it is exciting, and the hair's-breadth -escapes of its hero will delight all its readers."</p> - -<p class='c010'><a id='Page_312'></a>IN THE LAND OF JU-JU.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A Tale of Boys' Adventures in Benin. With Six full-page Illustrations -by <span class='sc'>Cecil Scruby</span>. Large imperial 16mo, cloth boards, -olivine edges, 3s. 6d.</p> - -<p class='c010'><i>Second Edition.</i></p> - -<p class='c015'>"A delightful story, which has, too, a geographical and historical value."—<i>Daily -Telegraph.</i></p> - -<p class='c010'>FIGHTING FEARFUL ODDS; or, <span class='sc'>The Temptation -of Jack Rodney</span>.</p> - -<p class='c010'>With Six full-page Illustrations by <span class='sc'>J. Ayton Symington</span>. -Imperial 16mo, cloth boards, 3s. 6d.</p> - -<p class='c015'>"A clever story, interesting throughout, and wholesome in tone."—<i>Record.</i></p> - -<p class='c015'>"Such a story as this is all too rare."—<i>Spectator.</i></p> - -<p class='c015'>"There is not a dull page in the book."—<i>Newcastle Chronicle.</i></p> - -<p class='c010'>UNDER THE FOEMAN'S FLAG.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A Tale of the Spanish Armada. Illustrated by <span class='sc'>Paul Hardy</span>. -Imperial 16mo, cloth boards, 3s. 6d.</p> - -<p class='c010'><i>Second Edition.</i></p> - -<p class='c015'>"A rattling story, quite one of the best of the year."—<i>Daily Chronicle.</i></p> - -<p class='c015'>"The story is told with great spirit, and is full of excitement and interest."—<i>Standard.</i></p> - -<p class='c010'>IN THE GRIP OF THE CORSAIR.</p> - -<p class='c010'>An Historical Romance of the Mediterranean. With Illustrations -by <span class='sc'>Maynard Brown</span>. Imperial 16mo, cloth boards, 3s. 6d.</p> - -<p class='c010'><i>Third Edition.</i></p> - -<p class='c015'>"It is a stirring story, and well told."—<i>Speaker.</i></p> - -<hr class='c004' /> - -<div class='nf-center-c1'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div>By OTHER AUTHORS.</div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>A GENTLEMAN ADVENTURER.</p> - -<p class='c010'>A Story of Panama, 1698. By <span class='sc'>John Bloundelle-Burton</span>, -Author of "The Hispaniola Plate," etc. With Illustrations by -<span class='sc'>Maynard Brown</span>. Imperial 16mo, cloth boards, 2s. 6d.; -paper covers, 6d.</p> - -<p class='c010'><i>Third Edition.</i></p> - -<p class='c015'>"Few will lay down the story without feeling that they have for a time been completely -carried away into a stirring world and into contact with vigorous passions."—<i>Times.</i></p> - -<p class='c010'>IN A DEEP-WATER SHIP.</p> - -<p class='c016'>A Personal Narrative of a Year's Voyage as Apprentice in a -British Clipper Ship. By <span class='sc'>Ernest Richards</span>. Profusely Illustrated. -Imperial 16mo, cloth, gilt top, 3s. 6d.</p> - -<p class='c010'><span class='sc'>16 Pilgrim Street, London, E.C.</span></p> -<div class='chapter'> - <h2 class='c006'>Transcriber's Note</h2> -</div> - -<p class='c009'>The original spelling and punctuation have been retained. -Except were noted.</p> - -<p class='c010'>Variations in hyphenation and compound words have been -preserved.</p> - -<p class='c010'>The illustration caption for the frontispiece does not fully contain -the text listed in the List of Illustrations for the frontispiece. The -difference was retained.</p> - - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's Under King Henry's Banners, by Percy F. 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