He sat perched on a
high bay horse, and held on to the bridle of a spirited black
palfrey, the hides of both glistening from a long run.
"I have sought you everywhere, dear Lady Maude," said he in a
piping voice, springing down from his horse and holding the
stirrup. "Troubadour galloped as far as Holmhill ere I could
catch him. I trust that you have had no hurt or scath?" He shot
a questioning glance at Alleyne as he spoke.
"No, Bertrand," said she, "thanks to this courteous stranger.
And now, sir," she continued, springing into her saddle, "it is
not fit that I leave you without a word more. Clerk or no, you
have acted this day as becomes a true knight. King Arthur and
all his table could not have done more. It may be that, as some
small return, my father or his kin may have power to advance your
interest. He is not rich, but he is honored and hath great
friends. Tell me what is your purpose, and see if he may not aid
it."
"Alas! lady, I have now no purpose. I have but two friends in
the world, and they have gone to Christchurch, where it is likely
I shall join them.
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