"Methought you would be with the Duke," he observed, drawing aside to
let his men pass.

"And methought you were by now in London," De Lacy returned.

Darby smiled at the evasion. "Are you not for the Coronation?" he
asked bluntly.

De Lacy nodded. "Indeed, yes--unless I am untowardly prevented."

"If you fare further to-day," said Darby, "I will wait and we can ride
together to Doncaster--a short delay will be well repaid by your
company."

It was but a play to know if De Lacy intended to stay the night at
Pontefract, and it got its answer instantly.

"Your Lordship tempts me sorely," said Sir Aymer, "but I am obliged to
remain here until the morrow." Then he smiled blandly at him; "it is
unfortunate you have already started," he added.

Darby's black eyes brightened.

"Yes," said he, "it is."

He glanced quickly toward his escort, which was now at the foot of the
hill, and laid his hand upon his bugle, as though to sound the
recall--then he gave a mocking laugh.