and issued his commands to the men-at-arms who

stood near—"On your life, suffer not that fellow to escape."

The yeoman stood the angry glance of the Prince with the same unvaried steadiness which had marked his former deportment, saying, with a smile, "I have no intention to leave Ashby until the day after to-morrow—I must see how Staffordshire and Leicestershire can draw their bows—Needwood and Charnwood must rear good archers."

"I," said Prince John to his attendants, but not in direct reply, "I will see how he can draw his own; and woe betide him unless his skill should prove some apology for his insolence."

"It is full time," said Bracy, "that the outrecuidance of these peasants should be restrained by some striking example."

Waldemar Fitzurse, who probably thought his patron was not taking the readiest road to popularity, shrugged up his shoulders and was silent. Prince John resumed his retreat from the lists, and the dispersion of the multitude became general.