"Go, if you will.

I am master of my actions, and of this castle." Without a word, Sir Hubert and two others of the knights present turned, and briefly ordering their men-at-arms to follow them, descended the staircase to the courtyard below.

Their horses were brought out, the men fell into rank, and the gates of the castle were thrown open.
"Stand to arms!" Sir Cuthbert shouted to the archers.

"They are going to attempt a sortie." And hastily he retired to the main body of his men..