But they were in earnest and sincere.
They firmly believed that this damsel was arming legions of devils against them.
On Sunday, the 1st of May, my Lord the Bastard went to meet the army from Blois.[981] He knew the country; and, being both energetic and cautious, he was desirous to superintend the entrance of this convoy as he had done that of the other.

He set out with a small escort.

He did not dare to take with him the Saint herself; but, in order, so to speak, to put himself under her protection and tactfully to flatter the piety and affections of the folk of Orleans, he took a member of her suite, her steward, Sire Jean d'Aulon.[982] Thus he grasped the first opportunity of showing his good will to the Maid, feeling that henceforth nothing could be done except with her or under her patronage.
[Footnote 981: _Trial_, vol.iii, p.7._Journal du siege_, p.

79.] [Footnote 982: _Trial_, vol.iii, p.

211.] The fervour of the citizens was not abated.