Thus would a great and traitorous plot be brought to nothing, to your own glory and the discomfiture of your foes in France, who hope to lay their murderous hands upon the throne of England.

"Your humble servant and subject, "Andrew Arnold." "What's this ?" exclaimed the King starting from his seat.

"To lay hands upon the throne of England! Quick with the other letter, man!" "I was charged that it is for your Grace's eye alone," said Hugh as he unfolded the paper.

"Is it your pleasure that I read it aloud, if I can, for it is writ in French ?" "Give it me," said the King.

"Philippa, come help me with this crabbed stuff." Then they withdrew to the side of the dais, and, standing under a lantern, spelled out Sir Edmund Acour's letter to the Duke of Normandy, word by word.
The King finished the letter, and, still holding it in his hand, stood for a minute silent.