CHAPTER THE THIRTY-FIRST 

"Oh, fear not, fear not, good Lord John, That I would you betray, Or sue requital for a debt, Which nature cannot pay. Bear witness, all ye sacred powers-- Ye lights that 'gin to shine-- This night shall prove the sacred tie That binds your faith and mine." ANCIENT SCOTTISH BALLAD. 

Left behind by their master, the two dependants of Hugh de Lacy marched on in sullen silence, like men who dislike and distrust each other, though bound to one common service, and partners, therefore, in the same hopes and fears. The dislike, indeed, was chiefly upon Guarine's side; for nothing could be more indifferent to Renault Vidal than was his companion, farther than as he was conscious that Philip loved him not, and was not unlikely, so far as lay in his power, to thwart some plans which he had nearly at heart. He took little notice of his companion, but hummed over to himself, as for the exercise of his memory, romances and songs, many of which were composed in languages which Guarine, who had only an ear for his native Norman, did not understand. 

They had proceeded together in this sullen manner for nearly two hours, when they were met by a groom on horseback, leading a saddled palfrey. "Pilgrims," said the man, after looking at them with some attention, "which of you is called Philip Guarine?" 

"I, for fault of a better," said the esquire, "reply to that name." 

"Thy lord, in that case, commends him to you," said the groom; "and sends you this token, by which you shall know that I am his true messenger." 
Who sent him?
Thy lord, in that case, commends him to you," said the groom; 