Well, it was not to be thought that Upmeads would hold you lords much longer.

Or what is gone with my lords your brethren ?" Said Ralph: "They have departed at all adventure, north, east, and west, each bearing our father's blessing and a bag of pennies.

And to speak the truth, goodman, for I perceive I am no doctor at lying, my father and mother would have me stay at home when my brethren were gone, and that liketh me not; therefore am I come out to seek my luck in the world: for Upmeads is good for a star-gazer, maybe, or a simpler, or a priest, or a worthy good carle of the fields, but not for a king's son with the blood running hot in his veins.

Or what sayest thou, gossip ?" Quoth the dame: "I could weep for thy mother; but for thee nought at all.

It is good that thou shouldest do thy will in the season of youth and the days of thy pleasure.