Sir Reginald's breath was failing, as Eustace, relieving Gaston
from his weight, laid his head on his breast, and laved his brow
with water from the river. "You have done gallantly, my brave
brother; I did wrong to doubt your spirit. Thanks be to God that
I can die in peace, sure that Arthur has in you a true and loving
guardian. You are young, Eustace, but my trust in you is firm.
You will train him in all Christian and godly ways--"

"It shall be the most sacred charge of my life," said Eustace,
scarcely able to speak.

"I know it," said Reginald, and making an effort to raise his
voice, he continued, "Bear witness, all of you, that I leave my
son in the wardship of the King, and of my brother, Sir Eustace
Lynwood. And," added he, earnestly, "beware of Fulk Clarenham.
Commend me to my sweet Eleanor; tell her she is the last, as the
first in my thoughts." Then, after a pause, "Is Gaston here?"

"Yes, Sir Reginald," said Gaston, leaning over him, and pressing
the hand which he feebly raised.

"Gaston, farewell, and thanks to you for your true and loving
service. Eustace will find wherewith to recompense you in some
sort, in my chest at Bordeaux, and my brave Lances likewise. And,
Gaston, go not back to the courses and comrades whence I took you.
On the word of a dying man, it will be better for you when you are
in this case. Leonard, strive to be a true and brave man, though
I may not fulfil your father's trust. Eustace--my eyes grow dim--
is this you supporting my head--are these your tears? Weep not
for me, brother. Save for my poor Eleanor, I would not have it