Fulk watched the little black figures jerking round the fires.
“Some day they shall discover the why and the wherefore,” he said.
“As for me, has my pride turned against them already? I tell you that one day has been sufficient, with the sweat and the smell of these cattle.”
“So fickle—and so soon!”
“Sometimes one sees the truth very suddenly; these unclean beasts were made for the yoke and the goad.”
His eyes were ironical.
“And yet, Isoult, you were sent to tempt me.”
“It is true. And I was ready to tell you the truth. I—in my turn—have been tempted.”
“By Merlin?”
“Yes, and no. I’ll not tell you my story. No man yet has earned a right to that. But this much I will breathe to you. I was driven like a bird over the sea, and the hate and wrath in my heart were bitter against all those who called themselves of gentle blood, and whose pride was a mere ruffian’s castle. Who succoured and saved me in those evil days? A burner of charcoal, a cook’s boy, and a harlot! They were chivalrous when the great ones were lustful and treacherous. So I swore a feud against all men who carried a device upon their shields, all those who wore gilded spurs. Hence, many adventures and a voice that has sung to the poor.”