succession, ten were fixed in the target, and the others ranged
so near it, that, considering the distance of the mark, it was
accounted good archery. Of the ten shafts which hit the target,
two within the inner ring were shot by Hubert, a forester in the
service of Malvoisin, who was accordingly pronounced victorious.

"Now, Locksley," said Prince John to the bold yeoman, with a
bitter smile, "wilt thou try conclusions with Hubert, or wilt
thou yield up bow, baldric, and quiver, to the Provost of the
sports?"

"Sith it be no better," said Locksley, "I am content to try my
fortune; on condition that when I have shot two shafts at yonder
mark of Hubert's, he shall be bound to shoot one at that which I
shall propose."

"That is but fair," answered Prince John, "and it shall not be
refused thee.---If thou dost beat this braggart, Hubert, I will
fill the bugle with silver-pennies for thee."

"A man can do but his best," answered Hubert; "but my grandsire
drew a good long bow at Hastings, and I trust not to dishonour
his memory."

The former target was now removed, and a fresh one of the same
size placed in its room. Hubert, who, as victor in the first
trial of skill, had the right to shoot first, took his aim with
great deliberation, long measuring the distance with his eye,
while he held in his hand his bended bow, with the arrow placed
on the string. At length he made a step forward, and raising the