Was he with you in the Holy Land ?" "Yes," Blondel said, "the youth was also there; and doubtless you may have noticed him, for he is indeed of distinguished and of good family." "Then let him share our repast," the knight said, "if it seems good to you.

In these woods there is no rank, and I myself have long dropped my knightly title, and shall not reassume it until I can pay off my score to the Baron of Rotherheim, and take my place again in my castle." The minstrel and Cuthbert were soon seated at the table with the knight and one or two of his principal companions.

A huge venison pasty formed the staple of the repast, but hares and other small game were also upon the table.

Nor was the generous wine of the country wanting.
The knight had several times glanced at Cuthbert, and at last exclaimed, "I have it now.

This is no attendant, sir minstrel, but that valiant young knight who so often rode near King Richard in battle.