brought some gravity to the knight's condition. They propped
his head upon a pillow, and presently he sighed and, opening
his eyes, complained of thirst, and was manifestly surprised at
seeing the coxcomb turned leech.

"I came in search of you to pursue our game," Foster explained
when they had ministered to him, "and, 'fore George, I am
vastly grieved to find you in this condition."

"Pish, sir, my condition is none so grievous - a scratch, no
more, and were my heart itself pierced the knowledge that I
have gained - " He stopped short. "But there, sir," he added
presently, "I am grateful beyond words for your timely
ministration, and if to my debt you will add that of leaving me
awhile to rest, I shall appreciate it."

His glance met Cynthia's and he smiled. The host coughed
significantly, and shuffled towards the door. But Master
Foster made no shift to move; but stood instead beside
Galliard, though in apparent hesitation.

"I should like a word with you ere I go," he said at length.
Then turning and perceiving the landlord standing by the door
in an attitude of eloquent waiting: "Take yourself off," he
cried to him. "Crush me, may not one gentleman say a word to
another without being forced to speak into your inquisitive
ears as well? You will forgive my heat, madam, but, God
a"mercy, that greasy rascal tries me sorely."

"Now, sir," he resumed, when the host was gone. "I stand thus: