"Since thou art a stranger 'tis thy place to give thy name first," replied Geoffrey.
"And if I refuse?"
"Then 'tis my duty to bring thee before my master, Sir Thomas Carberry," answered the squire, at the same time beckoning to two men-at-arms who were standing close to one of the camp-fires.
"Nay, use not force, fair sir," replied the cloaked man. "To thy master I can give a good account of myself."
"I trust for thine own weal that thou canst," said Geoffrey as he preceded his prisoner, the two soldiers following to prevent a possible treacherous attack on their young squire.
Sir Thomas Carberry was at that moment conversing with Sir Hugh Talbot of the Salisbury company, and on the approach of the party he turned.
"Whom hast thou here?" demanded the Constable.
"A man whom I found without our lines," replied Geoffrey. "According to mine orders to detain all who might be thus found I have brought him hither."
"Thy squire, Sir John, is to be commended for his action," said the stranger in an altered tone, as he removed the cloak from his head and shoulders, disclosing the familiar features of Henry, King of England.
"Sire!" gasped the astonished knight. "Thy pardon for my squire and for me——"