and three of the men-at-arms rode ahead to espy the way.

So it befell that they had not ridden two hours ere back came
the fore-riders with the tidings that the pass next below them
was thick with the Strong-thieves.

The fellowship were as then in such a place, that they were riding a high
bare ridge, and could not be assailed to the advantage of the thieves if they
abode where they were; whereas if they went forward, they must needs go
down with the road into the dale that was beset by the wild men. Now they
were three-score and two all told, but of these but a score of men-at-arms
besides Ralph, and Clement, who was a stout fighter when need was.
Of the others, some were but lads, and of the Chapmen were three old men,
and more than one blencher besides. However, all men were armed, and they
had many bows, and some of the chapmen's knaves were fell archers.

So they took counsel together, and to some it seemed
better to abide the onset on their vantage ground.
But to Clement and the older men-at-arms this seemed of no avail.
For though they could see the plain country down below,
they would have no succour of it; and Clement bade them think
how the night would come at last, and that the longer they abode,
the greater would be the gathering of the Strong-thieves;
so that, all things considered, it were better to fall
on at once and to try the adventure of the valley.
And this after some talk they yea-said all, save a few who held
their skins so dear that their wits wandered somewhat.

So these timorous ones they bade guard the sumpter beasts and their loads;
and even so they did, and abode a little, while the men-at-arms and the bowmen