e Bodegat also with whom I have had more than one bickering--that is
he with the three ermine circles on the scarlet shield. There too is
left-handed Alain de Karanais; bear in mind that his stroke comes on the
side where there is no shield."

"Who is the small stout man"--asked Nigel--"he with the black and silver
shield? By Saint Paul! he seems a very worthy person and one from whom
much might be gained, for he is nigh as broad as he is long."

"It is Sir Robert Raguenel," said Calverly, whose long spell of service
in Brittany had made him familiar with the people. "It is said that he
can lift a horse upon his back. Beware a full stroke of that steel
mace, for the armor is not made that can abide it. But here is the good
Beaumanoir, and surely it is time that we came to grips."

The Breton leader had marshaled his men in a line opposite to the
English, and now he strode forward and shook Bambro' by the hand. "By
Saint Cadoc! this is a very joyous meeting, Richard," said he, "and we
have certainly hit upon a very excellent way of keeping a truce."

"Indeed, Robert," said Bambro', "we owe you much thanks, for I can see
that you have been at great pains to bring a worthy company against us
this day. Surely if all should chance to perish there will be few noble
houses in Brittany who will not mourn."

"Nay, we have none of the highest of Brittany," Beaumanoir answered.
"Neither a Blois, nor a Leon, nor a Rohan, nor a Conan, fights in our
ranks this day. And yet we are all men of blood and coat-armor, who are
ready to venture our persons for the desire of our ladies and the love
of the high order of knighthood. And now, Richard, what is your sweet
will concerning this fight?"

"That we continue until one or other can endure no longer, for since it
is seldom that so many brave men draw together it is fitting that we see
as much as is possible of each other."

"Richard, your words are fair and good. It shall be even as you say. For
the rest, each shall fight as pleases him best from the time that the
herald calls the word. If any man from without shall break in upon us he
shall be hanged on yonder oak."

With a salute he drew down his visor and returned to his own men, who
were kneeling in a twinkling, many colored group whilst the old bishop
gave them his blessing.

The heralds rode round with a warning to the spectators. Then they
halted at the side of the two bands of men who now stood in a long line
facing each