Edmund selected a weapon which answered nearly in weight and balance that which he was accustomed to wield.

There was feasting again that night in Siegbert's tent; but he did not allow Edmund to join in it, insisting after the meal was over that he should retire to a small hut hard by.
"You will want your head and your nerves in good order to-morrow," he said.

"Feasting is good in its way, and the night before battle I always drink deeply, but for a single combat it were best to be prudent." As Edmund left the tent Freda, who had not appeared at dinner, came up to him.
"I have been crying all day," she said simply.

"I know not why, for I have often seen my father go out to battle without a tear.

I think you must have upset me with your talk this morning.