We took the boy away.

He has lived and thrived." The knight sank on to a chair as though bereft of strength.

He sought to think, but thinking coherently he could not.

At last: "How shall I know that you are not lying?
What proof can you advance ?" he demanded hoarsely.
"I swear that what I have told you is true.

I swear it by the cross of our Redeemer!" he protested, with a solemnity that was not without effect upon Crispin.