our way in peace. We cannot hope to resist the Devil of Torn, for we be

but ten lances. If ye must have blood, at least let the women go

unharmed."

"My Lady Mary is an old friend," said the outlaw. "I called at her

father's home but little more than a year since. We are neighbors, and the

lady can tell you that women are safer at the hands of Norman of Torn than

they might be in the King's palace."

"Right he is," spoke up Lady Mary, "Norman of Torn accorded my mother, my

sister, and myself the utmost respect; though I cannot say as much for his

treatment of my father," she added, half smiling.

"I have no quarrel with you, Richard de Tany," said Norman of Torn. "Ride

on."

The next day, a young man hailed the watch upon the walls of the castle of

Richard de Tany, telling him to bear word to Joan de Tany that Roger de

Conde, a friend of her guest Lady Mary de Stutevill, was without.

In a few moments, the great drawbridge sank slowly into place and Norman of

Torn trotted into the courtyard.

He was escorted to an apartment where Mary de Stutevill and Joan de Tany

were waiting to receive him. Mary de Stutevill greeted him as an old

friend, and the daughter of de Tany was no less cordial in welcoming her

friend's friend to the hospitality of her father's castle.

"Are all your old friends and neighbors come after you to Essex," cried

Joan de Tany, laughingly, addressing Mary. "Today it is Roger de Conde,

yesterday it was the Outlaw of Torn. Methinks Derby will soon be

depopulated unless you return quickly to your home."

"I rather think it be for news of another that we owe this visit from Roger

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