"They were not shadows who burnt our farms."
"I wish they had some substance, then we might get hold of them."
"May I appoint men to keep watch?"
"It is not necessary," replied Etienne, quite wilfully, for he had determined not to be advised.
The meal was now prepared, and the whole party gathered round the fire, arranging the logs so as to form seats. They were soon eating with the zest of men who have had the advantage of forest air, when they were disturbed by another growl from the older dog.
Ralph looked uneasily round.
"He smells another boar, but one is enough for our dinner," said Etienne, and they turned again to their meal.
Suddenly one of their number, a woodman named Gilbert, leapt up with a wild cry, and then fell down in their midst dead.
An arrow had pierced his heart.
The Normans rose aghast at this sudden intrusion of death, and gazed wildly around.