Then he motioned them to a seat opposite to his chair of state, which he resumed.
"Saxon," said he, addressing Oswald, "thou hast come, I understand, to make oath of fealty to me, and to swear in presence of myself and my chamberlain to be my faithful liegeman unto death."
"I have come with that purpose, sire, if it be your royal pleasure."
"If thou art minded to be both hypocrite and knave, first swearing fealty to me, and then proceeding straightway to stir up my subjects to rebellion, thou wilt have many illustrious examples before thee, truly. How long hast thou been of thy present mind? 'Tis a late-found repentance, I warrant me! Didst thou oppose me at Hastings?"
"I did oppose Your Majesty at Hastings, I confess."
"At York, also, I doubt not, if thou art minded to confess it, Saxon!"
"I opposed Your Majesty at York, too," said Oswald fearlessly.
"Tut, tut, dog!" said William, grinding his teeth vehemently, and grasping the hilt of his sword. "A very promising liegeman, truly, De Montfort!" turning savagely to the Count. Then addressing Oswald, he said, "Thou art to the fore, I perceive, when half a chance offers to overthrow my authority, and to kill my men, Saxon dog! How comes this whining for peace now? Thou hast had the Norman grip upon thy throat, I opine. 'Tis that has changed thy mind."
"I fear not the Norman, sire, for, if needs be, I am prepared to die for my country; but I have duly weighed the whole matter, and I recognise the futility of further resistance. I have also steadily, and for some time, counselled peace in our witan. If Your Majesty is pleased to extend your royal clemency to me, you will find me a loyal subject."
The frank and fearless tone and bearing of the Saxon chieftain evidently impressed the king, for he surveyed Oswald steadily for a minute or two, measuring him from head to foot, and studying his face as though he would read him through and through. Then addressing De Montfort, said,—