"I am, Sir John Newton, the king's sword-bearer," returned Newton, proudly.
"Then, by St. Nicholas! none shall ride here but Richard and myself. Come down, braggart," and he seized the bridle of Newton's horse.
Richard now rode up, perceiving the peril of his attendant.
"And what would ye have, Wat Tyler?" asked Richard, in a conciliatory tone.
"Sir King, I would first have this knave well whipped for riding in my presence."
"But what would ye have put in your own charter, Wat?" again asked Richard, endeavouring to draw the smith's attention from Newton.
Tyler, however, was more intent on unhorsing the sword-bearer, than listening to the king, for he now grasped Newton by the shoulder, and endeavoured to drag him from his horse.
During this altercation, a small body of archers had advanced from the lines to within bow-shot of the disputants.
Richard observed the movement, and beckoned to Sir John to dismount, who, choking with mortification, surrendered the animal to a man whom Tyler had beckoned to approach.
"And that dagger too, surly knave," said the smith. "How dare ye come here armed. Go to, thou art a knave!"