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"It was well fought," he said, "and, by my sooth, they will not charge us
twice."
"Sir," said the little archer, "ye have fought right well for York, and
better for yourself. Never hath man in so brief space prevailed so
greatly on the duke's affections. That he should have entrusted such a
post to one he knew not is a marvel. But look to your head, Sir Richard!
If ye be vanquished--ay, if ye give way one foot's breadth--axe or cord
shall punish it; and I am set if ye do aught doubtful, I will tell you
honestly, here to stab you from behind."
Dick looked at the little man in amaze.
"You!" he cried. "And from behind!"
"It is right so," returned the archer; "and because I like not the affair
I tell it you. Ye must make the post good, Sir Richard, at your peril.
O, our Crookback is a bold blade and a good warrior; but, whether in cold
blood or in hot, he will have all things done exact to his commandment.
If any fail or hinder, they shall die the death."
"Now, by the saints!" cried Richard, "is this so? And will men follow
such a leader?"
"Nay, they follow him gleefully," replied the other; "for if he be exact
to punish, he is most open-handed to reward. And if he spare not the
blood and sweat of others, he is ever liberal of his own, still in the
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