ode my mule up the road I met this man
speeding toward his home. A woman rode by his side, and though her face
was hooded I heard her laugh as she passed me. That laugh I have heard
before, and it was under this very roof, from the lips of Mistress
Edith."

The Knight's knife dropped from his hand. But the debate had been such
that neither Mary nor Nigel could fail to have heard it. Mid the rough
laughter and clatter of voices from below the little group at the high
table had a privacy of their own.

"Fear not, father," said the girl--"indeed, the good Father Athanasius
hath fallen into error, and Edith will be with us anon. I have heard her
speak of this man many times of late, and always with bitter words."

"It is true, sir," cried Nigel eagerly. "It was only this very evening
as we rode over Thursley Moor that Mistress Edith told me that she
counted him not a fly, and that she would be glad if he were beaten for
his evil deeds."

But the wise priest shook his silvery locks. "Nay, there is ever danger
when a woman speaks like that. Hot hate is twin brother to hot love. Why
should she speak so if there were not some bond between them?"

"And yet," said Nigel, "what can have changed her thoughts in three
short hours? She was here in the hall with us since I came. By Saint
Paul, I will not believe it!"

Mary's face darkened. "I call to mind," said she, "that a note was
brought her by Hannekin the stable varlet when you were talking to us,
fair sir, of the terms of the chase. She read it and went forth."

Sir John sprang to his feet, but sank into his chair again with a groan.
"Would that I were dead," he cried, "ere I saw dishonor come upon my
house, and am so tied with this accursed foot that I can neither examine
if it be true, nor yet avenge it! If my son Oliver were here, then all
would be well. Send me this stable varlet that I may question him."

"I pray you, fair and honored sir," said Nigel, "that you will take me
for your son this night, that I may handle this matter in the way which
seems best. On jeopardy of my honor I will do all that a man may."

"Nigel, I thank you. There is no man in Christendom to whom I would
sooner turn."

"But I would lean your mind in one matter, fair sir. This man, Paul de
la Fosse, owns broad acres, as I understand, and comes of noble blood.
There is no reason if things be as we fear that he should not marry your
daughter?"

"Nay, she could not wish for better."

"It