"Great sir, we have no flitted ladies here. We are very plain folk." So much reproof of gilded armour and its appurtenances the hermit ventured on. But the knight was positive.
"She would have passed this way," he called out. "I know whither she would go. This hold of yours is dead in her road. So advise, hermit."
"I will call Alice," said the hermit.
"Call the devil if he will help you," the other replied.
Isoult heard Alice go out of the cottage.
"Child," said the hermit, "this gentleman seeks a flitted lady who should have passed by here on her way. Have you seen aught of such an one? Your eyes are better than most."
There followed a pause, which to the trembler in the bed seemed time for a death-warrant. Then the quiet voice of Alice told out—
"I have seen no lady. Wait. I will ask."
Isoult heard her returning step. When Alice came into the room she saw
Isoult standing ready, all of a tremble.
"Oh, Alice," says she, clinging to her and speaking very fast, "I am the girl they are hunting. I am not a boy. I have deceived you. If they find me they will take me away."