housings, passmented with gold and gems, and of course his uncle had
the leading of them.

"Who be thine uncle?" demanded a thin, squeaky voice. "I have
brothers likewise in my Lord of York's meime."

"Mine uncle is Captain Harry Randall, of Shirley," quoth Stephen
magnificently, scornfully surveying the small proportions of the
speaker, "What is thy brother?"

"Head turnspit," said a rude voice, provoking a general shout of
laughter; but the boy stood his ground, and said hotly: "He is page
to the comptroller of my lord's household, and waits at the second
table, and I know every one of the captains."

"He'll say next he knows every one of the Seven Worthies," cried
another boy, for Stephen was becoming a popular character.

"And all the paladins to boot. Come on, little Rowley!" was the
cry.

"I tell you my brother is page to the comptroller of the household,
and my mother dwells beside the Gate House, and I know every man of
them," insisted Rowley, waxing hot. "As for that Forest savage
fellow's uncle being captain of the guard, 'tis more like that he is
my lord's fool, Quipsome Hal!"

Whereat there was a cry, in which were blended exultation at the
hit, and vituperation of the hitter. Stephen flew forward to avenge
the insult, but a big bell was beginning to ring, a whole wave of