face, doubtless, in sunny France fairer far than hers; yet is she very
dear to me and winning to my old eyes. Should you see her as you pass
Pontefract--if you return that way--say to her that I am here, and that
a short visit from her would be very welcome."

"It may be that the Duchess has left the castle," replied Aymer, "but
your message shall reach the Countess."

"Best deliver it in person," said Sir John, kindly.

"Trust me for that," De Lacy answered--"and now farewell."

"A most gallant youth," said De Bury, when Sir Aymer was gone, "and of
the right fighting stock; yet, if I mistake not, that sweet niece of
mine is likely to make trouble for him."

The shorter route to London was by Sheffield, but De Lacy chose to go
by way of Pontefract. It would, of course, bring him upon the main
highway between York and London further North than by the Sheffield
road; yet he took the chance of the Duke being delayed an extra day at
York, in which event he would be able to await him at Doncaster, and
join him at that place instead of at Nottingham.

It was still wanting something of noon when the low white walls of
Kirkstall glinted before them. De Lacy rode steadily on, however,
nodding pleasantly to the porter, who was standing in the gateway, but
declining his invitation to enter. It was better, he thought, that
Abbot Aldam should have no opportunity to question his men as to their
destination of yesterday. When they reached the banks of Aire, he
ordered a short halt; then swinging again into saddle, they splashed