binding a scarf around the injury.

"Yes--and another piece of childishness. I had despatched my squire on
a sudden errand, a short ways back, and had no notion of danger, when
these rogues suddenly set upon me. I made short work of two of them
and would have got through, without difficulty, but for the death of my
horse. They stabbed him, as you see. Then I got my back against the
tree and managed to keep them off for a period. The rest you know.
And to whom am I so heavily indebted?"

"My name is Aymer de Lacy."

"By St. Luke! John de Bury is glad that it is to a De Lacy he owes his
life."

"Are you Sir John de Bury of Craigston Castle?"

"The same--although, but for you I would be of the Kingdom of Spirits
instead."

"It would appear that my coming was very timely for us both," said De
Lacy, "for my mission in these parts is with you."

"With me?" Sir John de Bury exclaimed, struggling to his feet. "Then,
if you will let me have a horse, I will ride beside you to the
castle--it is less than half a league distant."

"One moment, Sir John," said Aymer. "Did you recognize any of your
assailants?"