"Harold in Normandy and a prisoner! This is strange news indeed.
We shall surely make him welcome, for he is in all respects a great
man, and save our own duke has a reputation second to none in
Europe."

Wulf thought as he looked at the speaker that at least he had no
second thought in his mind. It was a frank honest face, martial in
its outline, but softened by a pleasant smile.

He had spoken in a genial tone of affection to his son, and Wulf
thought, that although no doubt he was ready to take the field at
the summons of his lord, he preferred a quiet life in this stately
home.

"This is news for you, wife," he went on. "You will have to furbish
up your gayest attire, for we shall be having grand doings in honour
of this great English earl, and our dames will have to look their
best in order that he may carry home a fair report of them to the
Saxon ladies. And how did you manage to escape, young sirs, and
when did you arrive with the news?"

Beorn, who as the elder was specially addressed, shortly related
the story of their escape and journey.

"You have done well," the baron said when he had concluded. "Guy,
you may learn from these young Saxons that even pages may be called
upon to do work of more importance than handing wine-cups and
standing behind their lord on state occasions. Had it not been for
their readiness and courage Harold might have lain weeks in prison,