Fidelis of the Cross.

But in a while, Beltane perceiving himself thus shunned, found therein a new grievance and fiercely summoned Sir Fidelis beside him.

Then spake Sir Fidelis in voice full low and troubled: "My lord Beltane, 'twas said thou wert a noble knightvery strong and very gentle" "Ha! dost think such report a lie, mayhap?" "Alas!" sighed the young knight; and again "alas!"

"Come, wherefore tarry ye?" Now leapt Sir Fidelis to the saddle of his fallen steed and snatched thence a wallet, whereat Beltane fell a-fuming, for bolts and arrows began to whirr and hum thick and fast.

" "My lord," quoth Sir Fidelis, leaning near, "my lordwhom mean you?" "Whom should I mean but Mortain HelenHelen the Beautiful" Now cried Sir Fidelis as one that feels a blow, and, in the dark, he seized Beltane in sudden griping fingers, and shook him fiercely.

" "O luxurious youth, then will I, and shame thy nice luxuriousness!" quoth Beltane; and off came hauberk and quilted gambeson and away skipped Sir Fidelis into the green.