De Lacy smiled. "There has naught happened since we crossed the Aire;
and what was discovered between the Castle and the river has already
been communicated to the King."
The Abbot watched Darby pass the gate. "His lordship would have liked
much to know what you found at the Hermit's Cell and in the forest," he
remarked.
"Doubtless, though it was little enough," said Aymer. "However, it is
but a few leagues to Pontefract and there he will learn all the news of
the Court."
"True, my son; yet, to an ardent lover and one not without hope of
acceptance if rumor speak correctly, it would have been a satisfaction
to know if you have anything that gives clue to the Countess or her
captors."