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 "Two resolute men, well acquainted with these northern wilds, and skilful in tracking the tread of man and horse."

"And thou hast fitted him?"

"Let your Grace never trust me else," answered the master of the spies. "One is from Hexhamshire; he is wont to trace the Tynedale and Teviotdale thieves, as a blood-hound follows the slot of a hurt deer. The other is Yorkshire bred, and has twanged his bow-string right oft in merry Sherwood; he knows each glade and dingle, copse and high-wood, betwixt this and Richmond."

"'Tis well," said the Prince. "Goes Waldemar forth with them?"

"Instantly," said Bardon.

"With what attendance?" replied John carelessly.

"Broad Thorsby goes with him, and Wetheral, whom they call, for his cruelty, Stephen Steel-heart; and three northern men-at-arms that belonged to Ralph Middleton's gang—they are called the Spears of Spyinglaw."

"'Tis well," said Prince John; then added,