compass his ruin, then, between us, I have other ways, of which no man
knows."

"Hush," said Sir Ronald. "That led thee into trouble aforetime. Here
is Lettice coming down the steps."

"That is not Nicholas with her, surely?" exclaimed Edmund.

"No, Nicholas has discarded us and turned monk, I hear, but where
he is I cannot tell. That is John Manners, the nephew of the Earl of
Rutland. He is after my Lucy, I trow."

"Manners, Manners, John Manners," murmured Edmund; "I have heard that
name before. I have met him somewhere I am sure."

"Well, hither he comes," said the knight; "now do you remember him?"

As soon as Edmund caught sight of the young man's face he recognised
him.

"Why," he exclaimed, "that's--I know him well enough: I have seen him
at Haddon."

"At Haddon!"

"Yes, let me hide myself; I would rather not meet him here; it were
better so for both of us. Where shall I go, tell me; quick?"

"Steady, ho! steady, man," said the knight. "Hie thee back again to
the lodge and wait for me there. Wilton shall let you share his supper