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"
"
"
How many do ye count?" asked Gloucester.
They number not two thousand," Dick replied.
I have seven hundred in the woods behind us," said the duke; "seven
hundred follow from Kettley, and will be here anon; behind these, and
further, are four hundred more; and my Lord Foxham hath five hundred
half
a day from here, at Holywood. Shall we attend their coming, or fall on?"
"My lord," said Dick, "when ye hanged these five poor rogues ye did
decide the question. Churls although they were, in these uneasy, times
they will be lacked and looked for, and the alarm be given. Therefore,
my lord, if ye do count upon the advantage of a surprise, ye have not, in
my poor opinion, one whole hour in front of you."
"I do think so indeed," returned Crookback. "Well, before an hour, ye
shall be in the thick on't, winning spurs. A swift man to Holywood,
carrying Lord Foxham's signet; another along the road to speed my
laggards! Nay, Shelton, by the rood, it may be done!"
Therewith he once more set his trumpet to his lips and blew.
This time he was not long kept waiting. In a moment the open space about
the cross was filled with horse and foot. Richard of Gloucester took his
place upon the steps, and despatched messenger after messenger to hasten
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