“Edward put his hand upon the old man’s grey hair, and blessed him.
“Then stealing up to his chamber, he braced on his helmet and armour, and, thrice kissing the hilt of his sword, said, with a flushed cheek.
“‘Come, good sword; henceforth be thou my only bride.’
“Then, passing unobserved from the castle he mounted his horse, and galloped away towards London.
“He safely arrived, and offered his services to the king, who was, at that time, engaged in a heavy war with France.
“His behaviour was so noble at court, and so handsome did he appear, that more than one fair maid fell in love with him.
“Temptations were many around him.
“He was courted and feasted on every hand.
“But still he remained true to his purpose, and never forgot his own deep love for Leoline.
“After spending some time at Court among the rich and gay, he started for Dover with a great number of troops.