You scarce look eighteen years of age, although, doubtless, you are older." "I am scarce seventeen," Cuthbert said; "but I have had the good fortune to attract the notice of King Richard, and to have received the knighthood from his sword." "None more worthy," said the young knight, "for although King Richard may be fierce and proud, he is the worthiest knight in Christendom, and resembles the heroes of romance rather than a Christian king." "He is my lord and master," Cuthbert said, "and I love him beyond all men, and would give my life for his.

He is the kindest and best of masters; and although it be true that he brooks no opposition, yet is it only because his own bravery and eagerness render hateful to him the indolence and cowardice of others." They now took their seats round the fire.

The archers, by the advice of the guide, rubbed their wounds with snow, and then applied bandages to them.

The wallets were opened, and a hearty supper eaten; and all, wrapping themselves in their fur cloaks, were soon asleep.
For four days the gale continued, keeping the party prisoners in the hut.
On the fifth, the force of the wind abated, and the snow ceased to fall.
They were forced to take the door off its hinges to open it, for the snow had piled up so high that the chimney alone of the hut remained above its surface.

With great difficulty and labour they cleared a way out, and then the guide again placing himself at their head, they proceeded on their way.