"
"Let this noble Duke also partake in the friendship of this happy
moment," said Philip; and the Duke approached half-sullenly,
half-willing to enter into some accommodation.
"I think not of fools, nor of their folly," said Richard
carelessly; and the Archduke, turning his back on him, withdrew
from the ground.
Richard looked after him as he retired.
"There is a sort of glow-worm courage," he said, "that shows only
by night. I must not leave this banner unguarded in darkness; by
daylight the look of the Lions will alone defend it. Here,
Thomas of Gilsland, I give thee the charge of the standard--watch
over the honour of England."
"Her safety is yet more dear to me," said De Vaux, "and the life
of Richard is the safety of England. I must have your Highness
back to your tent, and that without further tarriance."
"Thou art a rough and peremptory nurse, De Vaux," said the king,
smiling; and then added, addressing Sir Kenneth, "Valiant Scot, I
owe thee a boon, and I will pay it richly. There stands the
banner of England! Watch it as novice does his armour on the
night before he is dubbed.
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