He was known only as that which he was, the ablest captain
of his day,--the only man who could cope with William, the only man whom
all parties in England would alike obey.
And so, with flattery as well as with truth, she persuaded, if not
Hereward, at least Torfrida, that he was the man destined to free England
once more; and that an earldom--anything which he chose to ask--would be
the sure reward of his assistance.
"Torfrida," said Hereward that night, "kiss me well; for you will not kiss
me again for a while."
"What?"
"I am going to England to-morrow."
"Alone?"
"Alone. I and Martin to spy out the land; and a dozen or so of housecarles
to take care of the ship in harbor."
"But you have promised to fight the Viscount of Pinkney."
"I will be back again in time for him. Not a word,--I must go to England,
or go mad."
"But Countess Gyda? Who will squire her to Bruges?"
"You, and the rest of my men. You must tell her all. She has a woman's
heart, and will understand. And tell Baldwin I shall be back within the
month, if I am alive on land or water."
"Hereward, Hereward, the French will kill you!"
"Not while I have your armor on. Peace, little fool! Are you actually
afraid for Hereward at last?"
"O heavens! when am I not afraid for you!" and she cried herself to sleep
upon his bosom.
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