"Ah, there is Sir Thomas," exclaimed Oswald, pointing to the star and crescent banner that showed bravely amidst a waving forest of silken guidons and pennons.
"Heaven be praised," exclaimed the Constable, "that I see thee safe and sound, Geoffrey. Methought I had lost both my squires. And Oswald, too!"
"Fair lord, I have as yet been spared, though Richard Ratclyffe hath fallen."
"Ay, and right bravely he fought and died; Heaven rest his soul," added the knight gravely. "But what hath gone amiss? I see trouble in thine eyes."
"Sir, thou art like to lose another squire," replied Geoffrey.
"How so? How so?" demanded the Constable anxiously. Then with a smile he added, "Perchance the King hath thought fit to give thee advancement?"
"Advancement of a kind, fair sir," replied Geoffrey gloomily, and in a few words he related the events concerning Sir Raoul's capture and escape from massacre.
"By St. George! What hast thou done?" exclaimed Sir Thomas, aghast at his squire's temerity. "Thou hast flouted the King's authority."
"In this matter I had no choice," replied Geoffrey. "Deeply I regret my error, but I am under a vow to save this French knight."
"'Twill require all my efforts to save thee from the hangman's rope, young sir. But, certes, I'll do my utmost. An I can but get the King's ear when he is in a good mood, so much the better. Above all I must have my say ere the squire in charge of the archers can lay his complaint. Yet think not to get off lightly, Geoffrey. Thou hast erred and must needs pay the penalty."