`` To be near me , '' said I , for I thought this was truth . ' `` Fool ! '' said De Aquila . `` It is because his Saxons have begged him to rise against thee , and to sweep every Norman out of the valley . No matter how I know . It is truth . Therefore Hugh hath made himself an hostage for thy life , well knowing that if any harm befell thee from his Saxons thy Normans would slay him without remedy . And this his Saxons know . Is it true , Hugh ? '' ' `` In some sort , '' said Hugh shamefacedly ; `` at least , it was true half a year ago . My Saxons would not harm Richard now . I think they know him -- but I judged it best to make sure . '' ` Look , children , what that man had done -- and I had never guessed it ! Night after night had he lain down among my men-at-arms , knowing that if one Saxon had lifted knife against me , his life would have answered for mine . ' `` Yes , '' said De Aquila . `` And he is a swordless man . '' He pointed to Hugh 's belt , for Hugh had put away his sword -- did I tell you ? -- the day after it flew from his hand at Santlache . He carried only the short knife and the long-bow . `` Swordless and landless art thou , Hugh ; and they call thee kin to Earl Godwin . ''
-LRB- Hugh was indeed of XXXXX 's blood . -RRB-
Aquila Godwin Hugh Normans Santlache Saxon Saxons long-bow men-at-arms night