"
"It is Sir Robert Raguenel," said Calverly, whose long spell of
service in Brittany had made him familiar with the people. "It is
said that he can lift a horse upon his back. Beware a full stroke
of that steel mace, for the armor is not made that can abide it.
But here is the good Beaumanoir, and surely it is time that we
came to grips."
The Breton leader had marshaled his men in a line opposite to the
English, and now he strode forward and shook Bambro' by the hand.
"By Saint Cadoc! this is a very joyous meeting, Richard," said
he, "and we have certainly hit upon a very excellent way of
keeping a truce."
"Indeed, Robert," said Bambro', "we owe you much thanks, for I can
see that you have been at great pains to bring a worthy company
against us this day. Surely if all should chance to perish there
will be few noble houses in Brittany who will not mourn."
"Nay, we have none of the highest of Brittany," Beaumanoir
answered. "Neither a Blois, nor a Leon, nor a Rohan, nor a Conan,
fights in our ranks this day. And yet we are all men of blood and
coat-armor, who are ready to venture our persons for the desire of
our ladies and the love of the high order of knighthood. And now,
Richard, what is your sweet will concerning this fight?"
"That we continue until one or other can endure no longer, for
since it is seldom that so many brave men draw together it is
fitting that we see as much as is possible of each other.
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