"I am truly sorry I cannot aid you there," De Lacy answered; "being
neither a merchant nor a robber, I have never reckoned its value."

The other smiled. "Of course, by 'merchant,' your worship has no
reference to my good comrades nor myself."

"None whatever, I assure you."

"Thank you; I did not think you would be so discourteous. . . But
touching money reminds me that doubtless there is some such about
you--perhaps you will permit me to count it for you."

The Knight drew out a handful of coins. "Will you have them one by one
or all together?" he asked.

"All together; on the turf beside you, if you please. . . Thank
you. . . And do you know, Sir Aymer, I am vastly taken with the short
gown of velvet and sable--you brought it from France, I assume; the
fashion smacks of the Continent. I would like much to have your
opinion as to how it looks on me--we are rather of a size, I take
it--though I shall have to forego the pleasure of the opinion until
another day. . . And now that I can see your doublet, I am enamoured
also of it--will you lend it to me for a little while? Truly, my lord,
I mind never to have seen a handsomer, or one that caught my fancy
more."

De Lacy looked again at the archers and their ready bows.

"St. Denis, fellow," he said, "leave me enough clothes to return to the
castle."