As bold and dominant as any ruffler of them all where men and perils were concerned, young Everard was timid, bashful and without assertiveness with women.

He had withdrawn from the contest ere it was well lost, leaving an easy victory to his friend.
And how had that friend used it?
Most foully, as you shall learn.
Leaving Rotherby in Normandy, Everard had returned to Paris.

The affairs of his king gave him cause to cross at once to Ireland.

For three years he abode there, working secretly in his master's interest, to little purpose be it confessed.

At the end of that time he returned to Paris.
Rotherby was gone.