One of his retainers has been here, two hours ago, with a confidential message from the earl, to inquire whether you had said anything about leaving, and to bid me send a message to him, secretly, should you do so." "I thank you warmly, my good host," Oswald replied.

"I have had no quarrel with the earl, but we have differed as to the value of the goods he requires.

He would fain have them at last year's prices; but wool has gone up, and we could not sell them, save at a loss.

It may be that he thinks I shall go away, and that if he finds I am about to do so he will send for me, and agree to my terms, which indeed are so low that they leave but little profit.

However, it were well that you should let me know how much I owe you, and I will pay that, at once.