But before she could give expression to this discovery of hers, the lady spoke.
"Leave us awhile, my woman," she commanded.

But I stayed the hostess as she was withdrawing.
"This lady," said I, "will need an escort of three or four stout knaves upon a journey that she is going.

She will be setting out as soon as may be." "But what of my grooms ?" cried the lady.
"Madonna," I informed her, "they have deserted you.

That is the reason of my presence here.

You shall hear the story of it presently.
Meanwhile, we must arrange to replace them." And I turned again to the hostess.
She was standing in thought, a doubtful expression on her face.