plot.

De la Zouch critically surveyed the scene, and after lightly covering
the body over with grass and twigs, he turned to depart.

They walked on in silence for some distance before either of them
spoke: the knight deeply wrapped in thought; the page eager and yet
fearful to learn the particulars, yet not daring to question his
master.

At last Sir Henry spoke.

"Mind you, Eustace," said he, "say naught of this affair. I would not
have my name mixed up with it, and if they ask thee, say thou knowest
naught."

Eustace felt mightily relieved, and readily gave the required promise.
He was used to these little deceptions which his master was wont to
use on pressing occasions.

"And see," continued the knight, after a pause, "I am hurt, for
although I have come off victor without a scratch, I have not come out
of the tussle without a bruise or two. I shall tell them I have had a
fall. You understand!"

The page acquiesced, the conversation ceased, and the two walked on in
silence to rejoin their companions.