Happy is the man who, like my worthy son, has means of obtaining
his living otherwise than by the point of the sword which he makes.
Preach peace to him as much as thou wilt, I will never be he will
say thee nay; but as for bidding the first armourer in Scotland
forego the forging of swords, curtal axes, and harness, it is enough
to drive patience itself mad. Out from my sight! and next morning
I prithee remember that, shouldst thou have the luck to see Henry
the Smith, which is more than thy usage of him has deserved, you
see a man who has not his match in Scotland at the use of broadsword
and battle axe, and who can work for five hundred marks a year
without breaking a holyday."

The daughter, on hearing her father speak thus peremptorily, made
a low obeisance, and, without further goodnight, withdrew to the
chamber which was her usual sleeping apartment.



CHAPTER III.

Whence cometh Smith, be he knight, lord, or squire,
But from the smith that forged in the fire?

VERSTEGAN.


The armourer's heart swelled big with various and contending
sensations, so that it seemed as if it would burst the leathern
doublet under which it was shrouded. He arose, turned away his
head, and extended his hand towards the glover, while he averted