almost daily practised with him in arms, and I should be glad to
have him with me if you see no objection."

"Not at all, Wulf; it is well that a man should have at his side
one in whom he can altogether trust, be he of gentle blood or simple
man-at-arms."

"Then I may take him down with me, my lord?"

"Yes, if it pleases you. Can he ride?"

"Not as yet, my lord, I will see that he is instructed down at
Steyning. He started to walk this morning, understanding that if
you refused him permission to be my man he would at once return.
We shall overtake him on the road."

"Bid one of your escort take him up behind," the earl said, "I like
his spirit. See that he is fittingly apparelled. You shall hear
from me ere long."

Half an hour later Wulf mounted, and with his two followers rode
from Westminster.




CHAPTER II.


COUNTRY LIFE.