It shall be the first line in battle, a position which I know you will not be averse to.' 'Gad, they'll have to powder their heads,' said Sir Gervas, with decision.
'You shall have the entire ordering of them,' Saxon answered.

'Let the first company take six paces to the front--so! Now let the pikemen stand out.

Eighty-seven, a serviceable company! Lockarby, do you take these men in hand, and never forget that the German wars have proved that the best of horse has no more chance against steady pikemen than the waves against a crag.

Take the captaincy of the second company, and ride at their head.' 'Faith! If they don't fight better than their captain rides,' whispered Reuben, 'it will be an evil business.

I trust they will be firmer in the field than I am in the saddle.' 'The third company of scythesmen I commit to your charge, Captain Micah Clarke,' continued Saxon.