But a
solitary horseman, riding from Worcester, failed to avoid them. Within
sight of my hiding-place he was set upon, made to dismount, stripped
and bidden to return on foot to the place from whence he came. I could
do naught to help him. We were two, to a round dozen. The robbers
took the money from his wallet. Within it they found also a letter,
which they flung away as worthless. I marked where it fell, close to
my hiding-place.
"When the affray was over, their victim having fled and the lawless
band ridden off, I came forth, picked up the letter and slipped it into
mine own wallet. So soon as the sun rose I drew forth the letter,
when, to my amaze, I found it addressed to my brave rescuer, the Knight
of the Silver Shield and Azure Pennant. It appeared to be of
importance as, failing Warwick Castle, six halting places, all on the
northward road, were named on the outside; also it was marked to be
delivered with most urgent haste.
"It seemed to me that now had come my chance, to do this brave Knight
service. Therefore have I ridden from place to place, following; and,
after some delay, I find myself at length at Castle Norelle, only to
hear that he to whom I purposed to hand the letter has ridden south by
another road. Thus is my endeavour to serve him rendered fruitless."
"Nay, Friend," said Mora, much moved by this recital. "Not fruitless.
Give me the letter you have thus rescued and faithfully attempted, to
deliver.
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