"Martin, where is my husband? Where shall I find Sir Hugh?"
"My lady," said Martin, "I saw him last in the armoury."
"The armoury?" she questioned.
"A chamber opening out of the great hall, facing toward the west, with steps leading down into the garden."
"Even as my chamber?"
"The armoury door faces the door of your chamber, Countess. The width of the hall lies between."
"Can I reach my chamber without entering the hall, or passing the armoury windows? I would rid me of my travel-stains, before I make my presence known to Sir Hugh."
"Pass round to the right, and through the buttery; then you reach the garden and the steps up to your chamber from the side beyond the armoury."
"Good. Tell no one of my presence, Martin. I have here the key of my chamber. Has Sir Hugh asked for it?"
"Nay, my lady; nor guessed how often we rode hither. We reached the castle scarce two hours ago. The Knight bathed, and changed his dusty garments; then dined alone. After which he went into the armoury."