"Nathless, the question was embarrassing and I would not care to answer it before a Stanley," Aymer reflected, as he ascended the stairs to the presence chamber. Baynard Castle, though large and roomy for a nobleman's town residence, was not suited to the needs of a monarch, and as the Court was about to move from Westminster to Windsor, Richard had brought only a few of his favorite Knights and personal attendants with him for the short time he intended to tarry in London. When De Lacy entered the Hall, Richard was not in presence, and lounging at ease on the numerous bancals were some of the minor officers of the Household. He made his way by them to join a group that was gathered about the Duke of Norfolk, when immediately there was a touch upon his arm, and a page summoned him to the King. Richard was standing at an open window that overlooked the courtyard. He turned as De Lacy entered and demanded abruptly: "What said Buckingham and Stanley yonder?" Aymer was too used, by this time, to Richard's ways to be surprised, and he repeated the conversation as accurately as his memory held it and without comment. The King listened with half-closed eyes, an inscrutable smile upon his lips. "It may happen, De Lacy," he said, "that there will come a time when you must choose between Henry Stafford and Richard Plantagenet." "Not so, Sire," Aymer replied. "As against Your Majesty there can never be a choice for me." Richard looked him straight in the eyes. "I believe it," he said. "I would there were more De Lacys." Aymer bowed low. "Your Majesty is very gracious; and it encourages me to prefer a request." "Say on, sir," the King said kindly. "I would ask a few weeks' leave from Court." "Wherefore?" "To accompany Sir John de Bury to Craigston; and to stop at my own castle of Gaillard on my return." Richard laughed lightly. "It is granted, and may success attend you," he said. "And by St. Paul! if you win the Countess you shall wed her, else I am not King of England." De Lacy blushed like a girl, and the King laughed more heartily. "Methinks Sir John is friendly to you," he added, "and in that you are very fortunate. But you have rivals in plenty, so watch them carefully. Remember, I do not make the match, but should you two wish it, none shall make it otherwise." "Perchance some day I may remind Your Majesty of those words," said De Lacy. "And shall find me ready to fulfill them, though I bring an army at my back. . . If need be, you are now excused from attendance until you return, but report to me to-morrow night; I may have some service for you on the journey. . . Announce me." Swinging back the door, Aymer lifted the arras. "The King!" he heralded. Instantly quiet reigned and every one sprang to his feet and uncovered. "Be seated, gentlemen," said the King. . . "Ah! Norfolk, a word with you," he said, and led the way to a large window in a far corner of the apartment.