re was none.

"If he were mortally wounded," said he, "he could not be so well, nor
speak so long without faintness; and it is my opinion that he will soon
recover, if nothing happens to retard the cure."

"Then," said Sir Philip, "keep this opinion from him; for I would
suffer the fear of death to operate on him until he hath performed some
necessary acts of justice. Let it only be known to these noblemen, upon
whose honour I can rely, and I trust they will approve my request to
you, sir."

"I join in it," said Lord Clifford, "from the same motives."

"I insist upon it," said Lord Graham; "and I can answer for my surgeon's
discretion."

"My lords," said the surgeon, "you may depend on my fidelity; and,
after what I have just heard, my conscience is engaged in this noble
gentleman's behalf, and I will do every thing in my power to second your
intentions."

"I thank you, sir," said Sir Philip, "and you may depend on my gratitude
in return. I presume you will sit up with him to-night; if any danger
should arise, I desire to be called immediately; but, otherwise, I would
suffer him to rest quietly, that he may be prepared for the business of
the following day."

"I shall obey your directions, sir; my necessary attendance will give
me a pretence not to leave him, and thus I shall hear all that passes
between him and all that visit him."

"You will oblige me highly," said Sir Philip, "and I shall go to rest
with confidence in your care."

The surgeon returned to the sick man's chamber, Sir Philip and the
Barons to the company below: they supped in the great hall, with all
the gentlemen that were present at the combat. Sir Philip and his Edmund
retired to their repose, being heartily fatigued; and the company staid
to a late hour, commenting upon the action of the day, praising the
courage and generosity of the noble knight, and wishing a good event to
his undertaking.

Most of Lord Lovel's friends went away as soon as they saw him safely
lodged, being ashamed of him, and of their appearance in his behalf;
and the few that stayed were induced by their desire of a further
information of the base action he had committed, and to justify their
own characters and conduct.

The next morning Sir Philip entered into consultation with the two
Barons, on the methods he should take to get Edmund received, and
acknowledged, as heir of the house of Lovel. They were all of opinion,
that the criminal should be kept in fear ti