for they give
proficiency and steadiness, but in time of war he who can sit firmly
in his saddle and wield sword and battle-axe lustily and skillfully is
equal to the best; but never fear, when this expedition is over, and we
have time for such things, I will see that you are instructed in them.
One who has achieved so much martial skill as you have done at so early
an age will have little difficulty in acquiring what may be termed the
pastime of chivalry."

Ralph arrived just as Walter was setting out. The latter presented
him to the knight, who spoke with praise of the gallantry which he had
displayed on the previous day, and then handed him over to John Mervaux,
with instructions to enroll him as a man-at-arms among his followers, to
inform him of his duties, and to place him with those who attended upon
the other esquires.

After seeing Ralph disposed of, Walter went across to the Earl of Talbot
and was again conducted to the presence of Dame Vernon.

"You have changed since we met last, young sir," she said with a smile,
"though it is but a month since. Then you were a 'prentice boy, now you
are an esquire of Sir Walter Manny, and on the highway to distinction.
That you will win it I am well assured, since one who risked his life to
rescue a woman and child whose very names were unknown to him is sure to
turn out a noble and valiant knight. I little thought when my daughter
called you her knight, that in so short a time you might become an
aspirant to that honour. I hope that you do not look askance at us,
now that you know I am in possession of the lands of your parents. Such
changes of land, you know, often occur, but now I know who you are, I
would that the estates bestowed upon Sir Jasper had belonged to some
other than you; however, I trust that you will hold no grudge against
us, and that you may win as fair an estate by the strength of your arm
and the king's favour."

"Assuredly I feel no grudge, madam," Walter replied, "and since the
lands were forfeited, am pleased that of all people they should have
gone to one so kind and so fair as yourself."

"What, learning to be a flatterer already!" Dame Vernon laughed. "You
are coming on fast, and I predict great things from you. And now, Edith,
lay aside that sampler you are pretending to be so busy upon and speak
to this knight of yours."

Edith laid down her work and came forward. She was no longer the
dignified little queen of the tournament, but a lau