"And yet, Benedict, I do tell thee that all things must wait awhile, methinks, or better—do you attend them for me—"
"Nay—I am no Duke!" quoth Sir Benedict hastily.
"Yet thou art my chiefest counsellor and lord Seneschal of Pentavalon.
So to thy wise judgment I do entrust all matters soever—"
"But I have no warranty, thou cunning boy, and—"
"Shalt have my bond, my ducal ring, nay, the very crown itself, howbeit this day—"
"Wilt ride for Mortain, O lover?" said Sir Benedict, smiling his wry smile.
"Aye, verily, dear Benedict, nor shall aught under heaven let or stay me—yet how knew ye this, Benedict?"
"For that 'tis so my heart would have prompted had I been so blessed as thou art, dear my Beltane. And knowing thou needs must to thy beauteous Helen, I have a meal prepared within my chamber, come your ways and let us eat together."
So came they to a handsome chamber hard by where was spread a goodly repast whereto they did full justice, though talking much the while, until one tapped lightly upon the door, and Roger entered bearing Beltane's new-burnished mail.
"Nay, good Roger," said Beltane, smiling, "need for that is done methinks; we ride light to-day!" But Sir Benedict shook wise head.