On the fourth day following, and late in the afternoon, we at last found the camp of Lord Stanley.
Once we came near running our heads through the noose, and there ending all our hopes and fears.
It was just as we were nearing the town of Bosworth, in our search for Stanley's force, that we fell in with a straggling body of yeomen and some few men-at-arms. I asked them to direct me to Lord Stanley's camp.
"Straight ahead, sir, until thou comest unto the first turning to the right. Here turn, and that road will take ye unto your destination, which is the Town of Bosworth," replied their leader.
I thanked him and rode on, following his directions.
Soldiers of all ranks and arms were hurrying along by every road.
Presently we drew in sight of Bosworth. The town seemed filled with soldiers, and others were arriving at every moment.
"Ho! sirrah, canst thou inform me whose force it is that occupies yonder town?" I asked of a straggler by my side.
The fellow stared at me in surprise for a breathing space and then answered:—"Why, his Majesty King Richard's, to be sure. Thou didst not think that Richmond had taken it, didst thou?"
"Hill!" ejaculated Michael.