THE DEFENSE OF THE
CASTLE
CHAPTER I
Among those summoned by Prince Edward of England to go with him in his expedition to the Holy Land, was the lord of a certain castle that stood upon the banks of the river Ouse in Bedfordshire. This lord had been a companion of the Prince during the civil wars against the rebellious barons, and was not only distinguished as a soldier, but was also known to the Prince as a wise counselor.
He had not wished to join the Crusade, and pleaded that he was needed at home, since his only son was not yet eighteen, and there were hardly retainers enough in the castle to make it secure in case of an attack. But the Prince insisted and laughed at the objections.
"Let your son win his spurs," said he. "I will be warrant the young cockerel will be proud
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