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"Welcome, most puissant and noble lord," he cried, doffing his
bonnet to Black Simon. "I have heard of your lordship's valiant
deeds, and in sooth they might be expected from your lordship's
face and bearing. Is there any small matter in which I may
oblige you?"
"Since you ask me," said the man-at-arms, "I would take it kindly
if you could spare a link or two of the chain which hangs round
your neck."
"What, the corporation chain!" cried the other in horror. "The
ancient chain of the township of Lepe! This is but a sorry jest,
Sir Nigel."
"What the plague did you ask me for then?" said Simon. "But if
it is Sir Nigel Loring with whom you would speak, that is he upon
the black horse."
The Mayor of Lepe gazed with amazement on the mild face and
slender frame of the famous warrior.
"Your pardon, my gracious lord," he cried. "You see in me the
mayor and chief magistrate of the ancient and powerful town of
Lepe. I bid you very heartily welcome, and the more so as you
are come at a moment when we are sore put to it for means of
defence.


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