He had thrown off his upper clothing; and the grim
walls soon reddened with the rising glow. So intent was he on an
occupation which he evidently enjoyed, that he was not aware when Oliver
departed, the latter slipping off unobserved to the chapel for the
purpose of informing the dean of this arrival.
In one part of the kitchen was a long low-roofed recess, accessible only
by a ladder, wherein dried meats, consisting of bacon, ham, deers'
tongues, mutton, venison, and other dainties of the like nature, were
stored. To this inviting receptacle was the attention of our guest more
especially directed. Without ceremony or invitation he ascended, and
drawing out a formidable weapon from his belt he commenced a furious
attack.
Oliver, on his return, found this worthy usurping the functions of both
cook and consumer of the victual with great assiduity. He was
accompanied by the dean, who addressed the intruder as follows:--
"How is it that we have none from the noble house of Fitz-Eustace save
thou and thy company?"
The messenger looked askance from his occupation, disposing of a large
mouthful of the viands with sufficient deliberation ere he vouchsafed a
reply.
Pages:
815
816
817
818
819
820
821
822
823
824
825
826
827
828
829
830
831
832
833
834
835
836
837
838
839