In figure she seemed strong and shapely, but so slim--she being but seventeen years of age--that, were it not for her sweet girl's voice, and for the beauty of her grey eyes, she might well have passed for a page, her black hair being cut "en ronde," as was and is the fashion among men-at-arms.

Thus much have I written concerning her bodily aspect, because many have asked me what manner of woman was the blessed Maid, and whether she was beautiful.

I gazed at her like one moon-struck, then, remembering my courtesy, I doffed my cap, and louted low; and she bowed, smiling graciously like a great lady, but with such an air as if her mind was far away.
She passed, with her two gentlemen, but the French sentinel barred the way, holding his fauchard thwartwise.
"On what business come you, and by what right ?" he cried, in a rude voice.
"By the Dauphin's gracious command, to see the Dauphin," said one of the gentlemen right courteously.

"Here is his own letter, and you may know the seal, bidding La Pucelle to come before him at this hour." The fellow looked at the seal, and could not but acknowledge the arms of France thereon.

He dropped his fauchard over his shoulder, and stood aside, staring impudently at the Maiden, and muttering foul words.
"So this is the renowned Pucelle," he cried; "by God's name".