"He would never knock thus. Come in, friend, whoever thou
art."
At this invitation two persons darkened the doorway. The foremost
was a man of bulky frame and burly demeanour. He was attired in a
buff jerkin, over which he wore a loose great surcoat; had a flat velvet
cap on his head; and carried a stout staff in his hand. His face was
broad and handsome, though his features could scarcely be discerned
in the doubtful light to which they were submitted. A reddish-coloured
beard clothed his chin. His companion, who appeared a trifle the taller
of the two, and equally robust, was wrapped in a cloak of dark green
camlet.
"Give you good e'en, friend," said the foremost stranger to the forester.
"We are belated travellers, on our way from Guildford to Windsor, and,
seeing your cottage, have called to obtain some refreshment before we
cross the great park. We do not ask you to bestow a meal upon us, but
will gladly pay for the best your larder affords."
You shall have it, and welcome, my masters," replied Tristram,"but I am
afraid my humble fare will scarcely suit you."
"Fear nothing," replied the other; "we have good appetites, and are not
over dainty.
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