"We have had a citizen from Montauban here this very day, who told us such a tale of sack and murder and pillage that it moved our blood; but our wrath was turned upon the man who was in authority over them." "My dear and honored master," cried Nigel, in great anxiety, "I fear me much that in your gentleness of heart you are straining this vow which you have taken.

If there be so much as a shadow of a doubt as to the form of it, it were a thousand times best----" "Peace! peace!" cried the prince impatiently.

"I am very well able to look to my own vows and their performance.

We hope to see you both in the banquet-hall anon.

Meanwhile you will attend upon us with our train." He bowed, and Chandos, plucking Sir Oliver by the sleeve, led them both away to the back of the press of courtiers.
"Why, little coz," he whispered, "you are very eager to have your neck in a noose.