It was towards evening that the little cavalcade came within sight of the town where was situated the famous castle which was so much to the liking of Henry; and at this point there was a separation, for young Carrbroke took leave.
“We shall soon meet again,” he said to Denis, as the two lads bade each other farewell. “When does your master go to the Court?”
Denis shook his head.
“I do not know. Ask him.”
“I dare not.”
“It will be soon,” exclaimed Denis, “for I believe that my lord will not remain in England long.”
The King took dinner that night at the hostelry by the side of the ferry and ford they had crossed that day, having previously despatched Denis with the letter which was to bring him face to face with the King of England, the lad shortly returning, having intrusted the missive to a captain of the Royal Guards, by whom it was to be handed to the chamberlain on duty.
But the meal was not concluded when Francis was asked to receive a messenger from the castle.
“Bid him enter,” said the King, and he rose and stood by the wide hearth, as the emissary of the English King entered and bowed low.
“His Majesty,” he said, “wishes to welcome the noble Count de la Seine, and tells me to assure you, sir, that had he known of your coming he would gladly have provided an escort from the coast. He begs that you will honour him this evening with your presence at his Court.”