"How now, ye lewd varlets! ye make me blush for my countrymen in the face of day! Are these the sports of merry England,--these your manly contests,--to strive which can best affront a poor maid?
Out on ye, cullions and bezonians! Cling to me, gentle donzel, and fear not.

Whither shall I lead thee ?" The apprentices were not, however, so easily daunted.

Two of them approached to the rescue, flourishing their bludgeons about their heads with formidable gestures.

"Ho, ho!" cried one, "what right hast thou to step between the hunters and the doe?
The young quean is too much honoured by a kiss from a bold 'prentice of London." Marmaduke stepped back, and drew the small dagger which then formed the only habitual weapon of a gentleman.

[Swords were not worn, in peace, at that period.] This movement, discomposing his mantle, brought the silver arrow he had won (which was placed in his girdle) in full view of the assailants.