It meant no less than a "duel to the death"
between the accuser and the accused or their accepted champions,
and, upon the result of the duel hung the lives of those in
dispute. And the Princess Edith's glove lying on the floor of the
Abbey hall was her assertion that she had spoken the truth and
was willing to risk her life in proof of her innocence.
Edgar the Atheling, peace-lover, though he was, would gladly have
accepted the post of champion for his niece, but, as one also
involved in the charge of treason, such action was denied him.
For the moment, the Red King's former admiration for this brave
young princess caused him to waver; but those were days when
suspicion and jealousy rose above all nobler traits. His face
grew stern again.
"Ordgar of Oxford," he said, "take up the glove!" and Edith knew
who was her accuser. Then the King asked: "Who standeth as
champion for Edgar the Atheling and this maid, his niece?"
Almost before the words were spoken young Robert Fitz Godwine had
sprung to Edith's side.
"That would I, lord king, if a young squire might appear against
a belted knight!"
"Ordgar of Oxford fights not with boys!" said the accuser
contemptuously.
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