downright blows. Still, I would gladly see what their tricks are like."




CHAPTER II

A FENCING BOUT


After he had talked for a short time with Mistress De Courcy, Edgar went
to the fencing-room with Sir Ralph, and they there put on helmets and
quilted leather jerkins, with chains sewn on at the shoulders.

"Now, you are to do your best," Sir Ralph said, as he handed a sword to
Edgar, and took one himself.

So long as they played gently Edgar had all the advantage.

"You have learned your tricks well," Sir Ralph said, good-temperedly,
"and, in truth, your quick returns puzzle me greatly, and I admit that
were we both unprotected I should have no chance with you, but let us see
what you could do were we fighting in earnest," and he took down a couple
of suits of complete body armour from the wall.

Albert, who was looking on, fastened the buckles for both of them.

"Ah, you know how the straps go," Sir Ralph said, in a tone of
satisfaction. "Well, it is something to know that, even if you don't know
what to do with it when you have got it on. Now, Master Edgar, have at