"I was detained in Dame Ursula's room; she needed my help, lady."
"Wherefore?"
"To attend to the wounded of last night's raid."
"Ah, yes, we have heard but few particulars, and would fain learn more. Send and see whether either of the young squires Osric or Alain can come and give us the details."
And shortly Osric entered, dressed in his handsomest tunic—the garb of peace, and properly washed and combed for the presence of ladies.
He bowed reverently to the great dame, of whom he stood in more awe than of her stern husband: he was of that awkward age when lads are always shy before ladies.
But her kind manner cheered him.
"So thou didst ride last night, Osric?"
"I did, my lady."
"Come, tell us all about it."