Then the old man softly opened the door and stood smiling before them.
"Thou didst think me false, is it not so?" he said, addressing Humphrey
and casting an affectionate glance as he did so on the small mole near
the end of the Saxon's nose.
Great as was his anxiety, Hugo could but laugh to see how the serving-man
was placed before himself, and all on account of an unfortunate
blemish on his countenance. And his enjoyment was heightened by the
embarrassment and half-concealed irritation it occasioned Humphrey.
But old Bartlemy paid no attention to Hugo and his merry mood. He
proceeded with despatch to set out the morning meal from the hidden
cupboard. "Eat well and heartily," he exhorted both his guests; "for so
shall ye be able to set your enemies at defiance. A full stomach giveth
a man courage and taketh him through many dangers. But why," he
continued, addressing Humphrey solicitously, "why shouldest thou have
many dangers? Why dost thou not let the young lord ride forth alone?"
Humphrey's answer was a look so full of indignation that the old man
ventured to say nothing more, except, "I see that thou art not to be
persuaded, and I will e'en help ye both.
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