But, as I said, let him only bring in two or three with him." Ralph hurried out, and found the captain and his men forming a picturesque group about the stone steps; and as soon as he appeared, the former swung himself round, and threw his cloak over his shoulder, with a swaggering gesture.
"Hallo, my young eagle," he cried.

"What saith the parent bird, the gallant lord of the castle ?" "My father will see you, sir," replied Ralph.

"This way." "Aha! I knew he would," cried the man, giving his steel cap a cock over on one side, and displaying a large pink patch of his bald head.

"Come on, brave boys." "Stop!" cried Ralph quickly.

"Three of you, only, are to accompany your leader." "Eh?
What ?" cried the captain fiercely, as a low murmur arose.
"That is what my father said, sir." "What does this mean ?" cried the man theatrically.