"It was held too small a fray, lord," said the secretary. "Could I tell my Lady Valentine one gate was more to you than another? I besought her to send to you—I besought them all—could I tell them why?"
Even as he spoke De Lana rode up resolutely.
"More men are needed at the western gate," he said; "the Germans have returned. I will lead them."
"No!" cried Visconti; "I, De Lana."
The soldier looked surprised.
"You, lord? There is no need——"
"It is my will," Visconti answered fiercely. "At once, to the western gate!"
At his cry the soldiers flung themselves again into the saddle, and those who still sat their horses gathered up their reins.
"Your helmet, lord," cried the startled squire; but Visconti swept him aside and rushed bareheaded forward, De Lana and his troop of horsemen after him in a wild riot of sound and light.