I would change the mode of attack on these Scotch, ere they are even aware their foes are reinforced." "Eventual evil, of a truth, there need not be, my lord," interposed his esquire, "even should no force of arms prevail.

I have heard there are some within the walls who need but a golden bribe to do the work for us." "Peace!" said the nobleman, sternly.

"I loathe the very word betray--spoken or intended.

Shame, shame on thee to speak it, and yet more shame to imagine it needed! Art thou of Norman birth, and deemest a handful of Scotch like these will bid us raise the siege and tamely depart ?--yet better so than gained by treachery." Hugo and the Scottish baron alike shrunk back from the reproving look of Hereford, and both silently followed him to the courtyard.

Already it was a scene of bustling animation: trumpets were sounding and drums rolling; torches flashing through the darkness on the mailed coats of the knights and on gleaming weapons; and the heavy tramp of near two hundred horse, hastily accoutred and led from the stable, mingled with the hoarse winds of winter, howling tempestuously around.