"Sir Benedict," exclaimed the baron, "thou art somewhat learned in
leechcraft; see if thou canst do aught. Tell us what is amiss."

À Woode stooped down, and after a prolonged examination he gave it as
his opinion that some of his friend's ribs were broken.

Another litter was quickly made up and De la Zouch, who was now
feeling the full effects of the injuries he had received, and who in
reality stood in need of assistance, was placed upon it and carried
off in the wake of Sir John de Lacey.

Leaving them to pursue their way homewards, the hunting party set off
once more to make a fresh attempt at sport ere the day should close.
But now the fortune which had so favoured them during the day deserted
them. Not a bird was seen, and after vainly beating about for some
time the party at last reluctantly determined to wend its way once
more towards Haddon. Sir George sounded his horn again, and in answer
the wanderers returned from all quarters of the wood, all of them
light-hearted and most of them light-handed too.

The route now taken was precisely the same by which they had advanced
during the day, and they soon arrived at the spot where the struggle
had taken place. Dorothy discovered the first signs of the conflict.

"Why, what in the name of faith is this?" she cried, as she pointed
down to the ground. "'Tis a noble, I declare."

"And here is another," added Crowleigh, stooping down and picking up
the glittering coin.