He told everything, save
only the tale of what Sir Andrew had seen in the House of Murgh in far
Cathay.
When at last he had finished, and though it was long none there grew
weary of that story, the King turned to the clerk, and said:
"Brother Peter, make out a full pardon to Hugh de Cressi of Dunwich and
Richard Archer his servant for all slayings or other deeds wrought by
them contrary to our general peace. Draw it wide, and bring the same to
me for execution ere I sleep to-night. Make out a commission also to
the Mayor of Dunwich--nay, I'll think that matter over and instruct you
further. Hugh de Cressi, you have our thanks, and if you go on as you
have begun you shall have more ere long, for I need such men about me.
You also, strange and death-like man named Grey Dick, shall not lack
our favour if it proves that you can shoot but half as well as you have
boasted, and, unless you lie, both of you, as it seems that you have
done. And now to supper, though in truth this news does not kindle
appetite. Son, see that this gentleman is well served, and that none
mock him more about the fashion of his armour, above all Sir Ambrose,
for I'll not suffer it. Plate and damascene do not make a man, and this,
it seems, was borrowed from as brave, ay, and as learned, a knight as
ever bestrode a horse in war. Come, Lady," and taking the Queen by the
hand, he left the chamber.
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