"Well, I have a curiosity to test the fact, moreover the hill commands a view unrivalled in extent in our country; I shall ride thither."
"In search of ghosts and night scenery, the view will be limited in darkness."
"But beacon fires will show best in the dark."
"I comprehend; shall I share thy ride?"
"Nay, my friend, my mind is ill at rest, I want solitude. Return with the hunting train and await my arrival at the castle; and the Baron beckoned to his handsome young page Alain, to lead the horse to him.
"Well, Alain, what didst thou think of the young Englishman? He confronted death gallantly enough."
"He is only half an Englishman; I am sure he has Norman blood, noblesse oblige," replied the boy, who was a spoiled pet of his stern lord, stern to others.
"Well, the old man feared the cord as little."
"He has not much life left to beg for: one foot in the grave already."
"How wouldst thou like that boy for a fellow-page?"