"I have been busy, Arthur, and could wish that thou wouldst find some other to take my place. Let the best of those who were tried and passed over take the lance in my stead--each of them was well worthy to represent our squirehood to-day."
"Tush, Edgar, talk not such nonsense! Rather would I hold back our whole band until thou wert ready, though 'twere an hour. Get on thine armour without more ado. Where is thy boy?"
"I have sent him upon an errand of great import to me. Give me a hand and I will soon be ready."
With an angry snort Arthur set spurs to his horse and galloped away through the camp like a whirlwind. In half a minute he was back, and two lads following at top speed proclaimed that he had not been idle.
"Come hither, varlets, and gird on this armour. Quickly, now, unless ye wish the Frenchmen to get the better of us."
Rapidly the pieces of armour were strapped and buckled on until Edgar stood complete, a wall of shining steel.
"Where is thy gage?"
"I have none."
"What? Hast thou no damsel to watch for thine entry into the lists?"
"Nay."