I had heard that the knight and his lady with their retinue were absent at Windsor.

It needed no great skill to slip in unseen and gain the longed-for hiding place.

I had some food in my wallet.

I fondly hoped it would prove enough; but the sounds of hunting day by day all around have told me too well that I must not venture forth; and as this room was slept in by night, I feared to sally forth after food, lest I should be found and betrayed.

I had heard of the merciful nature of the master of Chad; but in his absence I knew not what his servants might say or do.