The lane which Sir Daniel had been following came to an abrupt end.

Before him there was a stretch of rough down, and the noise of the

sea-surf was audible upon one hand. There were no guards in the

neighbourhood, nor any light in that quarter of the town.

Dick and his two outlaws drew a little closer to the object of their

chase, and presently, as they came forth from between the houses and

could see a little farther upon either hand, they were aware of another

torch drawing near from another direction.

Hey," said Dick, "I smell treason."

Meanwhile, Sir Daniel had come to a full halt. The torches were stuck

into the sand, and the men lay down, as if to await the arrival of the

other party.

This drew near at a good rate. It consisted of four men only--a pair of

archers, a varlet with a link, and a cloaked gentleman walking in their

midst.

"Is it you, my lord?" cried Sir Daniel.

"It is I, indeed; and if ever true knight gave proof I am that man,"

replied the leader of the second troop; "for who would not rather face

giants, sorcerers, or pagans, than this pinching cold?"

The Black Arrow