The knights thronged around him, questioning and congratulating; but Matteo was first to clutch his hand.
"Ah, Hugh," said the jongleur earnestly. "God knows that I am glad of your great joy this day, and if ever knight won to honour, then have you."
"But you, Matteo? What I did, you did—and more!"
Matteo shook his head.
"We are at odds on that point, comrade, and so shall ever be. But I quarrel not with you now. I ask a boon."
"A boon to you! All that I have is yours!"
The tears came in Matteo's eyes.
"It is like you to say so! But all I would crave is that you take me for esquire of your body."
"You my esquire?"
Hugh laughed.