In the little nave were all the people of the manor and with them those that dwelt around, every one of them intently watching the pair before the altar.
The priest perceived them at first just as the last word of the blessing passed his lips.
"Why do armed strangers disturb God's house ?" he asked in a warning voice.
The knight at the altar rails sprang up and turned round.

Hugh saw that it was Acour, but even then he noted that the woman at his side, she who wore Eve's garment, never stirred from her knees.
Sir John Clavering glared down the chapel, and all the other people turned to look at them.

Now Hugh and his company halted in the open space where the nave joined the chancel, and said, answering the priest: "I come hither with my companions bearing the warrant of the King to seize Edmund Acour, Count de Noyon, and convey him to London, there to stand his trial on a charge of high treason toward his liege lord, Edward of England.

Yield you, Sir Edmund Acour." At these bold words the French knights and squires drew their swords and ringed themselves round their captain, whereon Hugh and his party also drew their swords.
"Stay," cried old Sir Andrew in his ringing voice.

"Let no blood be shed in the holy house of God.