Page 97 - A Knight of the White Cross

though he is more skilful than any of us with his sword, or indeed at any of
the military exercises, he is unassuming, and has no particle of pride or

arrogance. It is for all these things that he is liked, and the friendship of
D'Aubusson has naught whatever to do with it. It is not only D'Aubusson

who has prophesied that he will rise to a distinguished rank in the Order.
Boswell and Ricord both said the same, and I for one thoroughly believe it.
Is there one among us under the age of twenty -- and I might go farther -­

who has already won such credit for himself? One who when but sixteen
can make his mark in an Order like ours is certain to rise to high office, and

you and I may, before many years are over, be proud to serve under him."

"That I will never do," Rivers said fiercely. "I would rather go and bury

myself for life in the smallest commandery in England."

"That may be," Harcourt retorted, his temper also roused, "But possibly you
might prefer that to fighting under any other leader."

"That is a reflection on my courage, Sir Ralph Harcourt, I shall lay this
matter before the bailiff."

"You can do as you like," Harcourt said disdainfully, "But I don't think you
will benefit by your pains."

When his temper cooled down Rivers acknowledged to himself the truth of

what Harcourt said. He was not in the favour of the bailiff, while both
Harcourt and Tresham stood at the present moment high in his estimation.
Any complaint would lead to an inquiry into the matter that had led to the

former's words, and even if Harcourt were reprimanded for using them, he
himself would assuredly not gain in the estimation of the knights. Harcourt

himself thought no more of the matter, though he laughingly told Gervaise
that Rivers was by no means gratified at their both attaining the honour of
secular knighthood, which virtually placed them over his head.

"He is not a nice fellow," Gervaise said. "But naturally it must be galling to

him, and to a good many others who have not yet had the chance of
distinguishing themselves. I think it is very good of them that they are all so