If it be possible, pray send us word presently of your welfare by this English fellow." Thus that maiden left Dunluce; and still the days passed and no tidings of Ludar.
But one evening, as I watched at the gate, a haggard figure crossed the bridge, scarce dragging one foot after another for weariness.
"Ludar!" said I, as I admitted him.

"What news ?" "No news!" said he between his teeth, and he flung his sword with what little strength was left him to the earth.

Then he himself fell beside it; and, when we carried him within, he was in a fever and raving..