Soon after Walter's return from France Dame Vernon returned to her country estate, and a year passed before he again saw her.

During this time the truce which had been established between England and France had remained unbroken.

It was certain, however, that ere long the two powers would again come to blows.

The King of England had honourably observed the terms of the treaty.

Upon his return home he had entirely disbanded his army and had devoted his whole attention to increasing the trade and prosperity of the country.