seemed to have been whitened
in that fiery clime. He was now habited in a rich purple cope or gown,
fitting close, without sleeves or armholes, and embellished with a deep
gold-coloured border, the Anglo-Saxon mantle being now discarded by
persons of distinction. The tunic underneath was of scarlet, bordered
with real ermine, which, together with the low square cap or coronet
that he wore, gave him something of a regal appearance. A leash of
hounds crouched at his feet. Before and below him the heralds and
officers of the household arranged themselves, amongst whom Adam de
Dutton was conspicuous by his ludicrously-solemn attitude and
appearance. The whole scene had the aspect of a military tribunal,
especially when Roger de Lacy (by which name we shall now distinguish
him) ordered that silence should be proclaimed, and that the Dean of
Whalley should be summoned to his presence.

Robert de Whalley immediately presented himself, with arms folded, and
an air of great ceremony in his behaviour.

"Thou hast been prompt to our bidding; the lark, I trow, had but newly
risen from her bed ere thou wast away from thine," said the baron.

"Three weary miles through this grim forest is good speed ere matins;
but I knew the occasion was urgent, and my lord's commands admit not of
delay. The palfrey which you so pleasantly noted yestereen is the sole
companion of my pilgrimages to and fro for the good of this noble house.
I did offer prayers for the soul of the deceased ere matins this
morning, in the chapel."

"Hast heard aught of, or communicated with, the traitor thou didst
denounce to me privily yesterday?"

"Being holden as one of great sanctity, by common report, peradventure
it were dangerous to lay hands on him without an express warranty from
our chief."

"He shall be summoned to our court. Adam de Dutton"--

"Stay, my lord," said the wily dean. "I would, with all due submission,
urge that caution were best in this matter."

"Caution, De Whalley! and to what end? Are not the Lacies able to
execute as well as to command? or is the lax ministration of justice now
complained of throughout the realm prevailing here also? By the beard of
Hugh Lupus, I will be heard, and obeyed too!"

"In good sooth, my lord, I see nor let nor hindrance in this matter,
provided that he whom we seek were of such ordinary capacities that be
common to flesh and blood, and subject to the same laws; but when we
have to cope with the devil,