asked the other . `` And yet ye threw yourself head first into this unequal battle . '' `` I saw one man valiantly contending against many , '' replied Dick , `` and I had thought myself dishonoured not to bear him aid . '' A singular sneer played about the young nobleman 's mouth as he made answer : `` These are very brave words . But to the more essential -- are ye Lancaster or York ? '' `` My lord , I make no secret ; I am clear for York , '' Dick answered . `` By the mass ! '' replied the other , `` it is well for you . '' And so saying , he turned towards one of his followers . `` Let me see , '' he continued , in the same sneering and cruel tones -- `` let me see a clean end of these brave gentlemen . Truss me them up . '' There were but five survivors of the attacking party . Archers seized them by the arms ; they were hurried to the borders of the wood , and each placed below a tree of suitable dimension ; the rope was adjusted ; an archer , carrying the end of it , hastily clambered overhead ; and before a minute was over , and without a word passing upon either hand , the five men were swinging by the neck . `` And now , '' cried the deformed leader , `` back to your posts , and when I summon you next , be readier to attend . '' `` My lord duke , '' said one man , `` beseech you , tarry not here alone . Keep but a handful of lances at your hand . '' `` Fellow , '' said the duke , `` I have forborne to chide you for your slowness . Cross me not , therefore . I trust my hand and arm , for all that I be crooked . Ye were backward when the trumpet sounded ; and ye are now too forward with your counsels .
But it is ever so ; last with the lance and XXXXX with tongue .
Archers Dick Lancaster archer duke first minute nobleman posts trumpet