How like you that ?" "Good, by my faith, good! But here comes my harness, and I must to work, for I cannot slip into it as I was wont when first I set my face to the wars." Meanwhile there had been bustle and preparation in all parts of the great vessel.

The archers stood in groups about the decks, new-stringing their bows, and testing that they were firm at the nocks.

Among them moved Aylward and other of the older soldiers, with a few whispered words of precept here and of warning there.
"Stand to it, my hearts of gold," said the old bowman as he passed from knot to knot.

"By my hilt! we are in luck this journey.

Bear in mind the old saying of the Company." "What is that, Aylward ?" cried several, leaning on their bows and laughing at him.
"'Tis the master-bowyer's rede: 'Every bow well bent.