The bearing of the King's officer was haughty and arrogant, as became a manof birth when dealing with a low born knave.

"His Majesty has deigned to address you, sirrah," he exclaimed, withdrawing aparchment from his breast. "And, as you doubtless cannot read, I will readthe King's commands to you."

"I can read," said in reply Norman of Torn, "whatever the King can write. Unlessit be," he added, "that the King writes no better than he rules."

The messenger scowled angrily, crying:

"It ill becomes such a low fellow to speak thus disrespectfully of ourgracious King. If he were less generous, he would have sent you a halterrather than this message which I bear."

"A bridle for thy tongue, my friend," said in reply Norman of Torn, "were inmuch better taste than a halter for my neck. But come, let us look at what the Kingwrites to his friend, the 0utlaw of Torn."

Taking the parchment from the messenger, Norman of Torn read:

Henry, by Grace of God, King of England, Lord of Ireland, Duke ofAquitaine; to Norman of Torn: