The archers doffed caps to them as they passed, for
the boldest and roughest dared not cross that line guarded by the
dire ban and blight which was the one only force in the whole
steel-ridden earth which could stand betwixt the weakling and the
spoiler.
The little army halted at St. Meen and cooked its midday meal. It
had gathered into its ranks again and was about to start, when
Knolles drew Nigel to one side.
"Nigel," said he, "it seems to me that I have seldom set eyes upon
a horse which hath more power and promise of speed than this great
beast of thine."
"It is indeed a noble steed, fair sir," said Nigel. Betwixt him
and his young leader there had sprung up great affection and
respect since the day that they set foot in the Basilisk.
"It will be the better if you stretch his limbs, for he grows
overheavy," said the knight. "Now mark me, Nigel! Yonder betwixt
the ash-tree and the red rock what do you see on the side of the
far hill?"
"There is a white dot upon it. Surely it is a horse."
"I have marked it all morning, Nigel. This horseman has kept ever
upon our flank, spying upon us or waiting to make some attempt
upon us. Now I should be right glad to have a prisoner, for it is
my wish to know something of this country-side, and these peasants
can speak neither French nor English. I would have you linger
here in hiding when we go forward.
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