of two noble ladies and their train, who were each moment expected.

"Be it so," said Eustace; "a truss of hay beside our horses, or a
settle by the fire, is all we need. Here is a taste already of a
warrior's life for you, Arthur."

The boy was delighted, certain that to sleep beside his pony was far
more delightful, as well as more manly, than to rest in his bed, like
a lady at home.

As this was arranged, a sound of horses' feet approached, and a
band of men-at-arms rode up to the door. Arthur started and
seized his uncle's hand as he recognized the Clarenham colours
and badge, uttering an exclamation of dismay. "Never fear,
Arthur," said Eustace, "they come from the way opposite to ours.
It is not pursuit. See, it is an escort--there are ladies among
them."

"Four!" said Arthur. "Uncle, that tall dame in black must be the
Lady Muriel. And surely the white veil tied with rose-colour
belongs to kind Cousin Agnes."

"True! These are no Clarenhams to guard against," said Eustace to
his Squire, who looked ready for action. "Lady Muriel, the step-
mother of the Baron and his sister, is my godmother, and, by birth,
a Lynwood."

Then stepping forward, he assisted the elder lady to dismount; she
returned his courtesy by a slight inclination, as to a stranger,
but her companion, who had lightly sprung to the ground, no sooner