"
"I will do so," Oswald said, "though I hope there will be no occasion,
such as you say, for its use."
"When do we start, Master Oswald?"
"Tomorrow, at daybreak. We shall ride as far as Roxburgh. I shall go on
my own horse, which, though as good an animal as was ever saddled, has
but a poor appearance. You had best purchase a palfrey, as fat and
sleek as may be found, but with strength enough to carry your weight. I
shall be amply provided with money; and if you find a bargain, let me
know, and I will give you the means. Mind, buy nothing that looks like
a warhorse, but something in keeping with your appearance."
That evening, Oswald had another interview with Percy, and received his
final instructions, and a bag of money.
"Be careful with it, lad," he said; "not so much because of the use
that it may be to you, but because, were you seized and searched by
robbers, and others, the sight of the gold might awake suspicions that
you were not what you seemed, and might lead to a long detention. Keep
your eye on Brother Roger, and see that he does not indulge too much in
the wine cups, and that he comports himself rather in keeping with his
attire, than with his natural disposition; and if you have any
difficulty in restraining him, or if he does not obey your orders, send
him back, at once.
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