They looked astonished—as well they might—to be sent out for rides, of some fifteen miles each, at that hour.
But the ring—like the genii who were the slaves of the Lamp, so were they slaves of the Ring.
"And who will help me with the prisoners?" said Tustain.
"You are permitted to call in such of the men-at-arms as you please."
"Why did he not send men-at-arms? You are sure he said my sons were to go? Why, if we were suddenly called to put any of my lambs to the torture, these men-at-arms would hardly know how to do it."
"You could direct them," said Osric. Then to the sons, "Now, my men, haste speed."
In half an hour they were gone.
"A cup of sack for consolation—the best wine from our lord's own cellar. I have brought thee a flask."
"Wilt thou stay and help me discuss it?"
"For a few minutes only; I have much yet to do."