On this occasion neither knight saw fit to take his squire with him, and in consequence Geoffrey, Oswald, and young Walter Talbot, together with five or six other squires were holding a feast in one of the rooms of Sir Oliver's quarters; it being the anniversary of Oswald's birthday.
In the midst of the festivities a mounted messenger pulled up at the door, and knocking with the hilt of his dagger, demanded to be shown into Sir Oliver's presence.
"He is not here," replied Oswald. "He hath gone to the lodging of Sir Brocas Scorton."
"Then bear this letter to Sir Oliver, young sir. Methinks thy revelries are apt to be rudely disturbed," replied the horseman, whom Geoffrey recognized as one of the King's own heralds. "But I must away, since I have three cartels to deliver within an hour."
Evidently the missive was one of the greatest importance; and consumed with impatience Geoffrey and Oswald made ready to ride across to the lodgings of the brave old Yorkshire knight, Sir Brocas Scorton.
"By St. Wilfred of Ripon, thou art most fortunate," exclaimed Sir Brocas, as Sir Oliver read the King's order and passed it to the other two knights.
"To our trusty and well-beloved Oliver Lysle, knight, Lord of the Castle of Warblington, in the county of Southampton, and at present serving with our forces before Rouen. Greeting.
"Whereas it hath come to our knowledge that our rebellious subject Denis, Lord of Malevereux, hath caused us much trouble by his ill-conduct; it is our pleasure that thou shouldst proceed to the before-mentioned Castle of Malevereux with such forces as thou mayst deem necessary and carry it by assault and hang the said Sir Denis upon the battlements of his castle.
"(Signed) Henricus Quintus, Rex.
"Ang: et Franc."