Page:The Sundering Flood - Morris - 1898.djvu/225

 aspect, as if it would be hard to get a laugh or even a smile out of him; but though he was not goodly there was nought evil-looking in his face. He looked downright and hard at Osberne, and said: If Sir Medard speaketh not by way of jest, thou hast begun early, young man, and I wish thee joy thereof. Osberne reddened and held his peace; but Medard said: There be of our foemen no few, who if ever they jested at the lad have done with it now forever. Osberne reddened yet more if it might be; but the long man took him by the hand and spake kindly to him, and said: Be not troubled at a light word of mine; at the first thou didst seem so young and fair that it was not easy to think of thee grim amongst the edges; but many a man lies hid within himself.

So now they were served of the wine, and Sir Medard spake to Osberne: Well, Dalesman, thou art come amongst us again, grown in manliness, as was like to be. Now if thou be come but to see us and make us merry with thy fellowship, it is well; but if thou have an errand, and would ask something of us, it is better yet, since forsooth we deem that we owe thee somewhat. Said Osberne: Well then, true it is that I have an errand and crave something, and that is soon told; for I would have thee put me in the way of deeds to do, since I have left the Dale and am seeking adventures. That will be the least of things to do for thee, my friend, said Medard; and in good time comest thou hither; for though the good town is