58 THE BOY CRUSADERS.

terrible, that the boldest and hardiest of the sea-
faring men felt that an attempt could only end in
the destruction of those making it, and shook their
heads with a significance there was no misunder-

standing. ae
‘It seems,’ said the knight, mournfully, ‘ that th
business is desperate; and yet ——-’

‘And yet,’ said Walter, taking up the word as the
knight hesitated and paused, ‘it shall never be told
that a woman perished before my eyes, and that I
stood looking on, without making an effort to save
her.’.

‘He is mad,’ muttered the fishermen, as they
first eyed the English squire, and then exchanged
glances with each other, and shrugged their shoul-
ders.

But Walter Espec did not ponder or pause.
Throwing his bridle-rein to Guy Muschamp, whose
countenance expressed grave alarm, he quickly
divested himself of his mantle and the belt bearing
his sword, committed himself to the protection of
Hfoly Katherine, the patron saint of his house,
plunged into the water, and next moment was bat-
tling manfully with the waves. But everything was
against him, even the tide; and, in spite of his skill
as @ Swimmer, his efforts were at first abortive. But
it was not his nature to yield easily ; and, as he put
forth all his strength, and made a desperate struggle,
the affair began to wear another face.

‘Good Walter,’ murmured Guy, who stood, pale
as death, watching the swimmer. < Brave Walter!’ |

“Now, may our lady, the Virgin, aid and prosper