bountiful feast which the Lady Maude had provided for them.




CHAPTER IV.

DAME DURDEN'S ORDEAL.

Fear fell on me and I fled.
* * * * *
I took the least frequented road,
But even there arose a hum;
Lights showed in every vile abode,
And far away I heard the drum.
Roused with the city, late so still;
Burghers, half-clad, ran hurrying by,
Old crones came forth, and scolded shrill,
Then shouted challenge and reply.

AYTOUN.


Next morning the Hall was early astir. The news of the murder had
spread far and wide, and had caused a feeling of consternation in the
neighbourhood, which was intensified by the mystery in which it was
enshrouded.

De la Zouch had grown worse during the night, and soon after the break
of day had departed, with Eustace, for Ashby Castle, declaring that