"
Humphrey seemed to ruminate a short time. Then he put on a look of
stupid wisdom. "Let us have breakfast now," he said.
Hugo looked at him impatiently, and wondered how he could ever have
found such favor with Lady De Aldithely. But in silence he took the
brawn and oat-cake Humphrey gave him. The horses were already feeding,
and, despatching his own breakfast with great celerity, Humphrey soon
had them ready for the day's journey. Still in silence Hugo mounted,
for a glance at the stubborn Humphrey's face told him he might as well
hold his peace.
Straight toward the river-bank rode Humphrey, while Hugo and Fleetfoot
followed.
"There!" said Humphrey, when they had reached the river's brink. "Seest
thou that thick across the stream? Swim thy horse and thy dog across,
and bide there in that thick for me. I go to the town to buy supplies.
Last night I did have two dreams. I had but gone to sleep when I
dreamed I was going up a ladder. Knowest thou what that meaneth?"
"Nay," replied Hugo. "I am not skilled in old woman's lore."
Humphrey frowned. "Thou mayest call it what thou likest," he said, "but
dreams be dreams; and this one signifieth honor.
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