And it is as well that we can compose our differences honorably, for Sir Nigel had been out at the first clash of steel; and he hath sworn that if there be quarrelling in the garrison he would smite the right hand from the broilers.

You know him of old, and that he is like to be as good as his word." "Mort-Dieu! yes.

But there are ale, mead, and wine in the buttery, and the steward a merry rogue, who will not haggle over a quart or two.
Buvons, mon gar., for it is not every day that two old friends come together." The old soldiers and Hordle John strode off together in all good fellowship.

Alleyne had turned to follow them, when he felt a touch upon his shoulder, and found a young page by his side.
"The Lord Loring commands," said the boy, "that you will follow me to the great chamber, and await him there." "But my comrades ?" "His commands were for you alone." Alleyne followed the messenger to the east end of the courtyard, where a broad flight of steps led up to the doorway of the main hall, the outer wall of which is washed by the waters of the Avon.

As designed at first, no dwelling had been allotted to the lord of the castle and his family but the dark and dismal basement story of the keep.