As soon as they had left Radnorshire, Roger fastened to his spear a white cloth they had brought from Shrewsbury; then they continued their journey west.
It was not until they had crossed the Wye, here an insignificant stream, that they came upon a native of the country.

They were following a track, between two rough hills covered with brushwood, when a man, evidently of the better class, stepped out before them.
"Sir Knight," he said in English, "'tis a strange sight to see an Englishman, with one esquire, travelling alone by so wild and lonely a road as this; and strange, indeed, that he should bear a flag of truce; for were you here on your king's business, you would surely be attended with a braver show.

I had notice, two hours ago, brought by one who had seen you cross the Wye; and in the bushes round lie fifty men who, did I raise my hand, would let fly their arrows against you.

But if you have reason for your coming this way, assuredly we should not hinder you." Oswald held out his hand.
"This signet ring, sir, was given me by Glendower, who said that any Welshman to whom I might show it would act as my guide and escort to him.

I come on an important mission, not from the king, but from one from whom Glendower may be glad to hear; therefore I pray you take me to him, or at least send a party of your men; for I might, peradventure, fall in with some who would shoot before they questioned." "'Tis assuredly the prince's signet," the man said, after carefully examining it, "and right gladly will I escort you to him.