my territory will be treated as a prisoner of war, if not as a spy. If he betaken in any ill circumstances, his life may be forfeit, and even if on nowrong errand, his liberty. It is not a matter of his intent alone. Even a manso pledged, and true enough to his pledge, might take back with him knowledgeof castles and garrisons that would stand the enemy in good stead later. Also,and above all, it is my duty to combat the king’s enemies and reduce theirforces wherever chance offers, and if I can pluck away a good knight from themI will do it. No affront to Sir Laurence d’Angers, whose reputation, as far asI know it, is honorable enough, but he shall not have hissafe-conduct, and if he ventures without it, let him look to his head. No doubthe did not come home from Palestine to rot in a prison. If he risks it, it ishis own choice.”

“But the girl Ermina,” began Herward in dismayed appeal, “and her brother, amere child—are they to be left unsought?”

“Have I said so? Sought they shall be, to the best I can provide, but by myown men. And if found, they shall be delivered safely to their uncle’s care. Iwill send out orders to all my castellans and officers, to look out for such acompany of three, and make due inquiries after them. But I will not admit theempress’s knight to the lands I administer for the king.”

It was all they would get from him, and they knew it by voice and face, andmade the best of it.

“It would help,” suggested Radulfus mildly, “if Brother Herward gives yousome description of the three. Though I do not know if he is well acquaintedwith the girl, or the nun, her tutor…”

“They came several times to visit the boy,” said Herward. “I can picturethem all three. Your officers should inquire after these—Yves Hugonin, thirteenyears old, heir to a considerable portion of his father, is not over-tall forhis age, but sturdy and well-set-up, with a round, rosy face, and both hair and