It may be, too, that it is a mere ruse to discover if I be in the neighbourhood.

Some rumours thereof may have reached him, and he has taken this course to determine upon their truth.

He has gone too far, and honest men will see in the cartel itself a sign that he misdoubts him that my claims are just; for were I, as he says, a Saxon serf, be sure that he would not condescend to meet me in the lists as he proposes.

I trust that the time will come when I may do so.

But, at present, I will submit to his insult rather than imperil the success of our plans, and, what is of far greater importance, the safety and happiness of the Lady Margaret, who, did aught befall me, would assuredly fall into his hands." After some thought, however, Cuthbert drew up an answer to the knight's proclamation.