"Vessels get separated from fleets.

If they happen to be slow ones so much the worse for those on board; if they happen to be fast ones so much the better, seeing that those they carry will arrive long before their comrades, and may be enabled to gain credit and renown while the others are whistling for a wind in mid-ocean.

However, we shall see." The next morning the fleet sailed from the Orwell.

It contained 620 men-at-arms, among whom were many of the noblest and bravest of the country, and 6000 picked archers in the pay of the king.

The whole were commanded by Sir Walter.