least half a dozen inns on the Continent
had been hastily compelled to rechristen themselves when, from some
cause or other, the particular individual whose name or arms they bore
fell suddenly into disgrace. That such might happen in this case,
however, never crossed his mind.

Passing the guards, who knew him and saluted, he entered the house, but
was stopped at once by two strange squires, who informed him that the
Duke was at present engaged. But even as they spoke, the inner door
opened and Sir Richard Ratcliffe came out.

"Welcome back, Sir Aymer," he exclaimed. "The Duke has inquired for
you. Why were you not announced?"

"I was told he was engaged," said Aymer.

"That was because they did not know you were of the Household. Come--"
and himself admitted him.

The Duke was alone, seated before a rough table with his head upon his
hand, and he did not stir until De Lacy stood directly before him.
Then raising his eyes he fastened them intently upon the young Knight's
face, though without sternness.

[Illustration: The Duke fastened his eyes upon the young knight's face.]

"You stopped at Pontefract," he said.

"I did, so please you," replied Aymer promptly. "I could gain but
little by going farther that evening."

"And might gain much by staying," said Gloucester, sententiously.
"However, I am glad, since you can give me word of the Duchess. How
fares she?"

"As when you left, my lord. She sent her loving wishes to you."

Then drawing out De Bury's letter, he presented it without remark.

Richard read it carefully, and inquired regarding the journey to
Craigston Castle. De Lacy narrated briefly the incident of the attack
upon Sir John, but detailed at length the conduct of the Abbot of
Kirkstall. The Duke, however, seemed more interested in the assault
than in the priest, and asked particularly concerning the assailants.
But on learning that neither De Bury nor the veteran Royk had
recognized any of them, he dropped the matter with the remark:

"You have profited by your experience on the Continent. Not many would
have thought to investigate these seeming outlaws."

De Lacy thanked the Duke for his words, and after being informed that
he was to lodge at the inn with the rest of the suite, and that the
march would be resumed an hour after daybreak, he withdrew, and having
dismissed the squire with the horses went in search of Dacre or De
Wilton.

It was a brave array that passed out of