She remained gazing at the now peaceful lake till
the sun had fairly risen, when, feeling more composed, she retired to
rest, and sleep, which had been banished from them during the greater
part of the night, now fell upon her lovely eyelids.
When she awoke, the day was far advanced, but still old Tristram had
not returned; and with a heavy heart she set about her household
concerns. The thought, however, of her anticipated visit to the castle
speedily dispelled her anxiety, and she began to make preparations for
setting out, attiring herself with unusual care. Bouchier had not
experienced much difficulty in persuading her to obey the king's
behest, and by his artful representations he had likewise induced her
grandfather to give his consent to the visit--the old forester only
stipulating that she should be escorted there and back by a falconer,
named Nicholas Clamp, in whom he could put trust; to which
proposition Bouchier readily assented.
At length five o'clock, the appointed hour, arrived, and with it came
Nicholas Clamp. He was a tall, middle-aged man, with yellow hair,
clipped closely over his brows, and a beard and moustaches to match.
His attire resembled that of a keeper of the forest, and consisted of a
doublet and hose of green cloth; but he did not carry a bugle or hunting-
knife.
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