So when spring came it was set about, but it was five years adoing,
and before it was all finished the war-dukes entered into it, and
dwelt there with their wives and their friends in all honour. And a
little thereafter, whether they would or no, the men of Utterhay had
to handle weapons and fare afield to meet the foe with the valiant
men of the crafts, and what of waged men they might get. And well
and valiantly were they led by their dukes, and they came to their
above, and gained both wealth and honour thereby; and from that time
forward began the increase of Utterhay under those two captains, who
were unto them as in old time the consuls had been unto the Roman
folk, save that they changed them not year by year as the Romans were
wont.
So wore the days, and all those friends dwelt together in harmony and
joy; though the wearing of time wrought changes amongst them. For
Robert Gerardson began in no long while to look on Aurea with eyes of
love; and at last he came to Birdalone and craved her leave to woo
the said lady, and she granted it with a good will, and was fain
thereof, whereas she saw that Aurea sorely lacked a mate; and scarce
might she have a better than was Robert; so in process of time they
two were wedded and dwelt together happily.
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