"But the Bretons have for
some time abstained from night surprises, and De Launey's men may
be keeping a poor watch."
Suddenly there was a loud cry, followed immediately by the Breton
war-shout, and by a confusion of shouts, cries, and the sound of
the clashing of arms.
The lads drew their swords and ran towards the scene of conflict,
when, from some bushes a short distance from them, a number of wild
figures sprung out. It was a party of the enemy who had made their
way through De Launey's sleeping men unobserved, and who now, knowing
that further concealment was useless, were rushing forward towards
the tents. Wulf's first impulse was to turn back, but young de
Burg, shouting his father's battle-cry, ran forward, and without
hesitation Wulf followed him. A moment later they were engaged with
the Bretons.
"Back to back, Guy!" Wulf exclaimed, as he ran his sword through
the first man who attacked him.
He had scarcely spoken when Osgod ran up and joined them, and
wielding the heavy axe he carried as if it had been a featherweight,
struck down several of the Bretons who ventured within its swing.
Wulf defended himself as firmly, but had to shift his ground
continually to avoid the blows of the heavy spiked clubs with which
his assailants were armed. Presently he heard his name shouted, and
an instant later a crash, as Guy de Burg was struck down.
"Stand over him, Osgod!" he shouted, and with a bound was beside
his companion, cutting down a Breton who was about to thrust his
spear into him.
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