And he now cast such an expressive glance upon Hugo and gave such a
meaning nod toward Paulinus, that the boy must perforce have
understood, even if he had not added in a tone too low to catch the
somewhat deaf ears of the old man, "Ask him what thou wouldest know."
At once Hugo threw off his drowsiness and, in the most pleasing manner
he could summon, requested to be informed of the surrounding district.
"It is easy to see thou art a stranger," said the gratified old man.
"And thou wouldest know the region round about Lincoln?" he repeated.
"Thou hast come to him who can tell thee of it, for I was born and
brought up in these parts. It is truly a noble region on all sides save
the east, where lieth the fen country. For here cometh the king
frequently to take his pleasure. And that is oft pleasure to him which
would be none to gentler minds."
At this Hugo turned startled eyes on Humphrey, who stood at a little
distance, but who did not appear to notice his look.
"Hast ever seen the king?" inquired Paulinus.
"Nay," replied Hugo.
"Nor need thou wish so to do," returned the aged Paulinus.
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