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Beatrix of Clare by John Reed Scott
page 75 of 353 (21%)
himself for the opportunity. So fierce was the conflict that no one
noticed the approach of De Lacy until, with a shout of "_Au secours_!"
he rode down upon them. He had out-stripped all his escort, except his
squire, and even he was several lengths behind. Taken by surprise, the
assailants hesitated a moment, and so lost their only opportunity for
escape. With a sweep of his long sword he shore a head clean from its
shoulders, another man went down before his horse's rush; and then,
swinging in a demi-volte, he split a third through collar-bone and deep
into the breast. Meanwhile, the old Knight had slain one and Giles
Dauvrey had stopped the flight of another. But one escaped, and he, in
the confusion, had darted into the forest and was quickly lost amid its
shadows.

"By St. Luke, sir!" said the old Knight, as he leaned heavily on his
sword, "your coming was most opportune. My strength was almost spent."

"It was a gallant fight," said Aymer. "I feared every instant they
would close ere I could reach you. . . But you are wounded!"

"Nay, they are only scratches and will heal shortly--yet the leg grows
heavy and I would best rest it," and he seated himself on the turf at
the foot of the tree. "This comes of riding in silk instead of
steel--certes, I am old enough to know better."

De Lacy dismounted and aided him to examine his wounds. The only one
of any consequence was in the leg; it had been made by a sword thrust;
and the point having penetrated only the fleshy part of the thigh, no
material damage was inflicted.

"Were you alone when assaulted?" asked De Lacy, the while he was
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