Page:Tudor Jenks--The defense of the castle.djvu/33

Rh "I give you my word," said the baron, holding out his hand. "For I know what you would say. I will not be reckless. You forget, old Hugh, that I am no longer the headstrong young soldier of years ago. I go with the young Prince because it is his command, not that I love adventure or believe that we English should risk our lives to redeem the Holy Sepulcher. Seven crusades have shown that there can be no lasting conquest of that land, and there is enough work for all our soldiers here at home, so long as we have not come to a settlement with your countrymen on the west, and the wild Highlanders of the north."

"And, uncle," said Amabel, "would it not be better if I were to seek shelter with some of my kindred? I can be of no use in case of a siege, and what would fill my trencher might feed a stout serving-man."

"No," said the baron, "it would not be better, nor even as well. I have ever believed that the brain and the heart often serve better than mere strength. I hope there will be no trouble, and, save for prudence, I would not make so much talk. But your father's daughter will never be one to cower shrinking behind stone walls so long as there is a wounded soldier to be cared for, or a dangerous post that needs keen eyes to keep a lookout. There! All is said. Now we will