A courier entrusted with this sad intelligence was despatched to the King.

On his way he was joined by another courier, who pressed him for his news.

The first courier knew that if he gave up his news, the other, who was better mounted, would outstrip him, and be the first to carry it to the King.

He told his companion, therefore, an idle tale, very different indeed from the truth, for he changed the defeat into a great victory.

Having gained this wonderful intelligence, the second courier put spurs to his horse, and hurried away to the King's camp, eager to be the bearer of good tidings.