But the duke also was travelling rapidly, as we learned when we reached the first point of contact.

Should the duke's men see us they would certainly hail.

Four men in armor and two ladies, travelling the road to Peronne would not be allowed to pass unchallenged.

Fortunately, just before the danger point, a clump of trees and underbushes grew between our road and the river.
Max, who was riding a hundred yards in advance, suddenly stopped and held up his hand warningly.

We halted immediately, and Max turned back to us, guiding his horse to the roadside to avoid raising a dust-cloud.
We listened in silence, and I beckoned the squires to our sides.