ching from the
other side.

We now saw that Stanley had well chosen his ground for the successful
carrying out of his plan; for as the two unequal forces did approach
each other it became evident that they must meet directly in front of
us.

Soon the archers were engaged, and the deadly arrows flew through the
intervening space like hail.

Our force, of seven thousand goodly warriors, was now drawn up in
lines, and the command was given to advance.

Slowly did we march down towards the opposing armies that now were
engaged with the full fury of those that have received their baptism of
arrow's flight. As we drew near there was a temporary lull in the
clamour of the battle. Then we swung around and bore down upon the
Usurper's forces from the Earl of Richmond's side.

Then was the heavy air rent asunder with loud, ringing cheers from
Richmond's men, and foul curses and shouts of defiance from the
Usurper's side.

Now did the battle rage with a redoubled fury. The army of the valiant
Earl fought with the confidence of ultimate success; whilst Richard's
struggled on with desperation. Our archers fought side by side with
Richmond's foreigners.

"God and St. George!" rang forth on every side above the battle's din.

Then came the order which we knights had all been long awaiting.

"Charge, gallant knights of England! A Richmond! A Richmond!
Victorious laurel crowns await us!"

Then the long lances with their fluttering streamers bent all together
as they were laid in rest. How looked they like the full grown field
of grain as it doth bend before the hot blasts of summer.

"Now, Walter, we must find Catesby!" cried Harleston.

"Yea, _I_ must find him," I replied between my set teeth, as forward we
dashed.

Michael gave one great cheer and then leaned forward with his mighty
sword, that took the strength of two good men to wield, held beside his
huge steed's neck.

On we flew, whilst forward dashed a band of knights and squires to meet
us.

"Charge! charge! charge!" rang out on every side.

A crash!--curses,--cheers and groans! and then the sharp swords flashed
over head, and the shields rang out right lustily.

My lance did resist the shock of the first encounter; the knight
against whom I aimed it going down before my furious charge as though
he had been a reed.

Sharply I spurred my steed and dashed forward at another knight, which
bravely came on to meet me. Both lances shivered up to the v