"No; Jasper will remain with me. I want to talk to him."
Careless rather reluctantly departed.
The king then began to question the page as to his adventures in the forest, but had not learnt all particulars, when Careless came back.
"Oddsfish! thou hast made haste," exclaimed Charles.
"Dame Joan desires to know what it will please your majesty to have for breakfast."
"Didst tell her I have company?"
"I explained that there is a hungry page with your majesty, and she thought he had best come in and render help."
"Willingly," cried Jasper.
"Nay, we will all go in," said Charles.
Active preparations for the morning meal were being made in the hall as the king entered with his attendants.