The men-at-arms followed, and Hugo amongst his retainers.
Suddenly they broke into open view of the chase--a man was seen
running before them for his life.
The dogs gave tongue and followed him so swiftly that it was with
difficulty he could escape their fangs by climbing a tree.
It was a poor refuge--dogs and Normans were speedily at the foot.
"Come down, fellow," said Hugo, sternly, "unless thou desirest to
be brought down by an arrow."
"Mercy, mercy," cried the fugitive.
"What dost thou fear? If thou art a true man no harm shall befall
thee. We are not robbers."
The Englishman, for such he was, descended, and was at once secured
and bound to prevent his escape.
"Now, fellow," said Hugo, "who art thou? Whose vassal art thou?"
"My name is Ordgar, son of Haga."
"Haga, formerly a thrall of my estate?"
"The same."
"Where is thy accursed sire?"
"I cannot betray my father."
"This is the very man we want!" said Hugo; "bring him along. The
torture will soon help him to find a tongue. Surely the saints have
heard our prayers and given him to us."
A quaint idea of sanctity, that of Hugo.
They dragged the intended victim forward through the woods. Once or
twice he appeared to make desperate efforts to escape, but we need
not say made them in vain.
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