ght hues and rich
embroidery contrasting with the squalid appearance of all around, as,
indeed, did the noble though pale features of the wounded man himself,
and the graceful attire and shining hair of the fair young boy who
stood over him. But Sir John beheld all with no dissatisfaction.

"Well, my brave young Sir," said he, advancing, "how is it with you
this morning? You look cheerily; I trust we shall soon have you on
horseback again."

"Thanks to the blessed Saints and to you, Sir John," replied Eustace.
"I fear you fared ill last night for,"--and he looked round with a
smile--"you see, I occupy the state bed-chamber."

"The better, Sir Eustace," said Chandos. "It does my heart good to see
such a chamber as this--none of the tapestry and hangings which our
young Knights nowadays fence themselves with, as if they kept out the
foe--this is what it is meant for--a stronghold, and not a bower. I'll
have my dainty young Master Neville up here, to see how a good Knight
should be lodged."

"I fear he would scarce consider it as an example," said Eustace,
smiling, "since all our simplicity would not have availed to protect
us, but for your coming. We little dreamt to see this morning's light."

"True, but where should I look for a garrison to make such a defence as
you and your Squire have done? When I saw the spot, and looked at the
numbers, and heard how long you had held out, methought I was returned
once more to the good old days of Calais. And here this youth of mine,
not yet with his spurs, though I dare say full five years older than
you, must needs look sour upon it, because he has to sleep on a settle
for one night--and that, too, when he has let Oliver de Clisson slip
through his fingers, without so much as a scratch taken or given on
either side! It grieves my very soul to think on it! But all has gone
to rack and ruin since the Prince has been unable to set the example."

"Is the Prince better in health?"

"Yes--so they say--but his looks tell another tale, and I never expect
to see him on horseback again," said the old warrior, with a deep sigh.
"But I have to do his bidding here, and have much to ask of you, Sir
Eustace; and I do it the more willingly, that I rejoice to see a brave
man righted."

"Has the Prince, then, commanded an inquiry into my conduct?" exclaimed
Eustace, joyfully. "It is what I have ever most warmly desired."

"And know you whom you have to thank?" said Sire John. "T