MISTRESS PENWICK

BY

DUTTON PAYNE

Contents

CHAPTER ITHE URSULINE LOSES A PUPIL

CHAPTER IITHE LORD OF CRANDLEMAR

CHAPTER IIITHE BALL

CHAPTER IVHIS LORDSHIP'S PROPOSAL

CHAPTER VBACCHUS AND BACCHANTES

CHAPTER VIJANET'S PHILOSOPHY

CHAPTER VIITHE BRANTLE

CHAPTER VIIITHE ANCIENT MONASTERY

CHAPTER IXSIR JULIAN POMPHREY

CHAPTER XWHAT HAPPENED IN THE BUTLERY

CHAPTER XIJACQUES DEMPSY

CHAPTER XIICASTLE AND MONASTERY

CHAPTER XIIIAS NINE TOLLED FROM THE CHAPEL BELFRY

CHAPTER XIVSERMONS NEW AND OLD

CHAPTER XVTHE EDICT OF BUCKINGHAM

CHAPTER XVIBUCKINGHAM'S ADVENTURE

CHAPTER XVIITELLS OF THE DOINGS OF ALL CONCERNED

CHAPTER XVIIIAT MONMOUTH'S VILLA

CHAPTER XIXWHAT HAPPENED IN THE COACH

CHAPTER XXUNPROCLAIMED BANNS

CHAPTER XXITHE ESPOUSAL

CHAPTER XXIICEDRIC IN THE TOILS

CHAPTER XXIIITHE COCOANUTS OF THE KING'S CELLAR

CHAPTER XXIVWHAT HAPPENED IN THE TOWER

CHAPTER XXVTHE GARDEN OF YOUTH

CHAPTER I

THE URSULINE LOSES A PUPIL

"If the ship sails at dawn, then I must hasten to tell my mistress ofthe departure, and--of her father's letter. "

"I am loath to let yonder tide take her away so soon, Janet. "

"But my master's words are a positive command to leave Quebec atonce, " and Janet's eyes fell to the imperative line at the close ofher letter which read: "In God's name, good nurse, take my baby toEngland in all haste. "

"Aye, our noble patron's desire must be carried out!" and the MotherSuperior without further lament went from the small cell. 

When the last echo of her footsteps had died away, Janet Wadhamcautiously opened the inner door and passed to the cell adjoining, andto the low couch upon which lay her mistress in sound slumber. 

Fondly she noted the beauty of her charge; the heavy waving hairgleaming in the fading light a bronze-like amber, the white forehead, the arched brow, the glow of health upon lip and cheek, the slenderneck, the slope of shoulders, and the outline of a perfect form. 

Then the maid stirred and opened her eyes. Her whole body thrilledwith the awakening. 

"Ah, 'twas like the bursting of a bud! How dost feel now, Mistress?"

"I am not ill at all. I am a martyr to thy imagination. Dost rememberthe time, Janet, I drowsed in the chapel and thou didst make me drinkbitterwort for a fortnight?" and the girl's voice rung out in softlaughter. 

"Aye, I have not forgotten, nor why thou wert drowsy either, MistressPenwick. "

"Nay, thou didst not know. "

"I did so. Thou hadst a book of tales and read nights with the candleshaded by thy mother's landskip fan, and I gave thee aloes for thyfolly. "

"Thou dost always find me out, Janet; I shall be glad when I become awoman as big as thou. "

"Thou art a woman to-day, and thou wilt never be as big as I; so, having age and not a hulking servant's body, be content. I have aletter from my master, and in it is much that concerns thee--"

"Isn't there always much that concerns me?"

"But not such important concernings. He has gone on a long journey andproposes one for thee, my lambkin. " Katherine raised herself in bed. "Nay, thou must not stir or I hush my tale! Thy father has providedthee with a guardian and 'tis to him I take thee. We go to Englandby the first boat, --nay, lay back, calm thyself or I take my waggingtongue away; if thou dost so much as stir again, I leave thee. Thouart to go to a great house over there and see grand folks with fineairs and modish dress. Wilt be glad to see outside of convent walls?'Tis nine years since I brought thee here a babe of six, and havenursed thee well to this hour, and thy strength and health and beautyshow the care given thee. " She suddenly arose and went to the windowto hide if possible her agitation; but when she looked forth on thesnow-covered city and on beyond at the long range of forest that laylow and black against the arctic sky, she turned from the gloomy sceneand went again to the couch, quickly suppressing all thoughts savethose that were purely selfish: she would be glad to bid adieu to thisgreat, still northern world and leave behind forever old Quebec, eventhough she must divide her treasure. 

"I have been a mother to thee, child, and now I must divide my rulewith a cantankerous Scot--"

"Nay, a Scot and lives in England?"

"He lives in England and thy father speaks of bending somewhat thyquick temper to the mould of self-control as a safer parry to Scotchthrust; so I conclude the gentleman must be a Scot. "

"Janet, 'tis these awful men that wear skirts like women. I remembermany years ago when I was in Sister Agnes' room, of seeing some ofthose dreadful pictures of skirts and bandy-legs. They are unseemlythings for men to wear; it is as though one were uncivilised. I hatehim already for it!"

"Lambkin, thou must remember thy teachings. Sister Agnes wouldadmonish thee for saying hate. Besides thou dost not know the man, hemay be a second father to thee and cajole and pamper thy whims. Hemay even eschew plaid frocks and don modish garments--that wouldhide bandy-legs still less! Thy father said I must enjoin upon theerespect, for his lordship's age; regard, for his wishes, and thou artto obey his commands, as 'twas not possible for him to direct theeotherwise than good. If at any time he should find thee in fault, bethe matter seemingly beneath notice, acknowledge thy wrongness, for hehath a temper and might goad thee to greater blunder. His blood flowshot and fast, and thou must cool and swage it with thy gentle dignity. Inasmuch as thy moneys and estates are in my Lord Cedric's control, thou art to receive such income from him without question. Thy fatherfurther directs perfect submission to Lord Cedric in matters ofmarriage, as he will bring suitors of high degree for thy choice andthou wilt find among them a lover to thy liking. " The rosy red flewinto the maiden's face and she trembled with a sweet new emotion shedid not understand. 

"This is the first time thou hast ever spoken to me of lovers, Janet. Indeed very strange things seem to be happening to-day. I feel like abird about to fly forth from its cradle-nest, I have forgotten how theworld appears. 'Tis broad and vast; it makes me dizzy to think betweenthese cramped walls that never seemed so narrow heretofore!" Shelay for a moment in deep thought, then, --"Where didst say fatherjourneyed?"

"He said not, but intimated 'twas a place of safety where he washappy to go from political intrigue and war, and where he shall meetfriends. "

"Why did he not inscribe some words to me?"

"He speaks of an epistle of welcome--and farewell to be given theeby Lord Cedric upon thy arrival in England. 'Twill give thee greaterpleasure then. "

"But Janet; a Scot! A blustering, red-faced Scot with petticoats! Hastever seen one outside of pictures?"

"Aye, Lambkin, and 'twas the unseemly kilt that was the better part;for I have met a blustering red-faced Scot as thou sayest; and hewas boisterous and surly, giving vent to a choleric temper by coarseoaths; and 'twas his plaid denoted a gentleman of high rank withal. The long hair that swept his shoulders was as florid as his face, aswas also his flowing whiskers and mustachio, the latter being bittenshort and forming a bristling fringe over a slavering mouth, --what isit, Mistress, thou art pale, has pain taken thee?"

"Nay, 'tis nausea, an awful loathing; I wish to remain here. Send atonce my desires to my father. I will not go to England, Janet!"

"'Tis better thou shouldst think of something else beside my LordCedric, for instance, his great demesne, Crandlemar Castle, the mostbeautiful of his several seats; the splendid horses and equipages;and, thyself, Lambkin, think of thyself bedecked in gorgeous huedbrocades; be-furbelowed in rare lace and costly furs. And thou wilthave a maid to build thy hair, tie shoulder knots and make smartribbons and frills, and furbish bijoux and gems. And thou wilt wearperfume, and carry a nosegay and fan. And thou wilt sweep the mostgraceful courtesy and queen it everywhere with thy sweet graciousness. Thy father says thou shouldst become an idol to the old man's heart, as my lord is without wife or daughter. "

"If his demesne be in England, 'tis but right he should become as faras possible a genuine Anglo-Saxon, and if I can turn him, I will. Howsoon does the boat sail?"

"Within forty-eight hours we shall be upon the sea and thou wilthave begun to whimper and bemoan its awful swell. 'Twill have moreevacuating power than teeth-curtailed mustachios upon thy heretoforestaunch stomach. "

"Nay, I will not believe my Lord Cedric such a man; and yet thou hastdrawn a picture that will be ever before me until I see him. SisterAgnes would say, --'there is a sinfulness in doubt and anxiety, inasmuch as such thoughts lash the soul to uneasiness and draw itfrom celestial contemplations. Think not on it!' neither will I, but rather, I will fancy the morrow's sun glinting upon myriadwhite-capped waves; the bosom of the ocean swelling with emotionand--didst say 'twould make me ill, Janet?"

"I am afraid of it, 'twill be glorious if thou art not; for 'tis awonderful thing to see the rise and fall of sun and moon, and witnessstorms that seldom fail to lend their fearfulness to the voyagers ofso long a journey. "

"Wilt thou be afraid, Janet?"

"Nay, not I; 'twill be the elixir of ambrosia to breathe salt airagain, and the stronger and more mist-laden the better to knock outfoul exhalations sucked in these nine years from musty walls. 'Twillbe sweet to have the wind rap from us the various fungi that comesfrom sunless chambers. Ah, a stiff breeze will rejuvenate thy fifteenyears one month to a lusty, crowing infant and my forty all-seasons toa simpering wench. "

"How splendid, Janet!" Katherine threw out her arms and drew a long, deep breath. "'Twill be glorious to breathe pure, free air!"

"Aye, my Lambkin, and thy chest will broaden and be larger by two goodinches ere we see chalk cliffs and English waters. Thou wilt openlike a rose to the sunshine of the outer world. But, we areanticipating--let us speak of the present. To-night we go to vespersfor the last time, and thou must bid thy friends adieu before I tuckthee in thy cot as we arise and are off before day-dawn. Let thyfarewells be briefly spoken as if thou wert to be gone but a day. 'Twas thy father's wish thou shouldst not grieve at parting with thycompanions, or the Sisters or Mother. 'Tis best to leave them theremembrance of a face happy, rather than one steeped in sorrow. Sayto them what thy heart dictates, but with a quick tongue and brightcountenance; 'twill tend to suppress tears and numb the pain at thyheart. When thou art thus engaged I will prepare us for journeying. Wilt thou wear thy Sunday gown?"

"'Tis none too good! couldst put on a ribbon to relieve its greyness?"

"Ah, Lambkin, thou hast begun already with thy fine lady's notions!thou wilt be crying for high-heeled boots and built-up hair and stays, stays, Mistress, stays wilt be thy first cry--oh, Lambkin, thou artheavy-hearted and I am turning myself into a fool to physic thyrisibles;--I wish we were upon the sea at this moment; if it werepossible I should have taken thee while thou wert in sleep; but nay, I could not; for thou art a maiden grown and art plump and heavy withall. If I had taken thee so, thou wouldst have wept anyway, perhaps;for 'tis thy nature to have thy own way. 'Twould be a cross to thyfather could he see thee now. I doubt not 'twould turn the Scot'sbull-scaring face to ashen hues, 'tis possible--" Katherine's softrippling laugh interrupted her, and at its sound Janet leant andkissed the maid's pink-palmed hands as they lay upon the coverlet, and taking them within her own fondled them, saying, --"And thouwilt surprise my lord and his friends by thy rare playing of theclavichord, and 'tis possible so great and wealthy a man will own apiano-forte of which we have heard so much; and mayhap thou will bepresented at Court, and in great London town thou mayest see manymusicians from France, for 'tis not improbable they are brought overthe channel at the instance of his Majesty. Is it not grand to thinkof all these things, Lambkin?"

"Aye, 'tis glorious! But Janet, let me up and dress me--ah, it seemsan age until the morrow!"

'Twas with greater care than usual Janet made ready her Mistress. Andafter sundry admonitions about cold corridors and draughts, opened thedoor and watched her in silence as she passed through, and down thehall to vespers. And when evening prayer was over and Katherine hadgone to say adieu, Janet began to pack the chests for their earlyflight; her heart exultant, save for the sorrow of not seeing hermaster again as she believed and having some little fear of the newone she was about to encounter. 

CHAPTER II

THE LORD OF CRANDLEMAR

The adieux had been said, the night had come and gone, and with thedawn the tide drew away carrying with it a large vessel upon the deckof which stood Janet and Katherine wrapped in long traveling capes. 

"'Tis the most wondrous sight I ever beheld! Thinkest thou theBethlehem Star could have been more beautiful than yonder Lucifer. Indeed it seems, Janet, we see in all nature the reflection of theChrist; the birth of dawn; the presence of the star; these blackwaters. 'Tis awesome! Listen, Janet, thou must acknowledge thouhearest something more than plaint of ocean. 'Tis something more thansound. It fills me with an exultation I cannot analyze. Dost feel it, Janet?"

"I cannot tell what I feel, Mistress. " And Janet covered her mouthto smother her laughter; first of all because she felt seasick, andsecondly the child's words stirred in her no such youthful enthusiasm. She was not yet rejuvenated. 

"And with all this glory of nature filling me I can less understandSister Phelia's words at parting. Her eyes seemed to burn to my verysoul as she said: 'Dost not feel as thou art leaving these sacredwalls that thou art passing from a retreat where the Blessed Virginever guides thee?' 'I have felt her presence ever, said I. 'But 'tisbetter to renounce the world and have strength to live in seclusion, 'she answered. I made bold and replied that I thought it required muchgreater strength to go on the battlefield of the world and be goodthan live within the impenetrable walls of a cloister where bin cannotcome. 'But, child, thou wilt see beautiful things made by the handof man that will fill thy heart leaving not room for the DivinePresence. ' 'Nay, ' said I, 'I shall see God's work in every beauteousthing and I shall trust Him for the gift of penetration to see throughfilthy rags and distorted body the beauty of the soul. ' 'Twas her wishthat I should write her once a year of my spiritual condition and tothink of her as being happy in her isolation. And with this strangelight about us, the farewell recurs to me and I wonder that humanbeings could shut themselves from so beauteous a thing as Nature intheir fear of contamination by sin!"

"My Lambkin, 'they talk strongest who never felt temptation;' thouart going into a world thou hast not seen, much less, felt itspower. Sister Phelia is right. We acknowledge the Divine Presence iseverywhere; she intimated thou wert leaving a place where sin was not, to go where it abounded. There is one place, however, we may always besure of finding the divine atom whether we be in seclusion or abroad;'tis in our own heart and called before the ages, 'Holy Ghost. ' Manyof us fail to recognize it; others cry 'insolvency'; but the betterpart draw on it with confidence. It honours our call and gives uson demand, conscience, with which we can withstand all sin if we sodesire. "

The second day upon the water Janet fell a victim to _mal-de-mer_, and'twas Katherine who turned nurse; and after four or five daysJanet grew better and was half ashamed, veiling her confusion withself-accusation: "'Tis good enough for me, 'twas wrong to be eatingpork, 'tis positively forbidden us. I lay it to that! I gave myselfover to eating to make up for a fast of nine long years. Thou hadstnot a qualm because thou hast been fed on wine and porridge and beefgruel and whey. The clearness of thy body speaks for a pure stomach. Let the awfulness of my condition warn thee. Thou must never grumblewhen I take from thee weightier food than thou hast been used to. But, Lambkin, we have had a glorious voyage inasmuch as we have had bothcalm and storm; had I been privileged to do the ordering, we could nothave had better weather. "

Janet and her mistress walked the deck when 'twas possible, from riseto set of sun, and Katherine expanded until her convent dress becamestraightened, and she retired to her bed while Janet let out seams, augmenting it to her mistress' further comfort and development. 

It was almost with regret that they espied land; for Janet wasanxious, and Katherine was apprehensive of the Scot, and as the whitecliffs appeared to rise higher they each wished the sea journey hadjust begun. 

At last they stood upon English soil, and so bewildered was Katherineshe could only cling to Janet's dress like a frightened child; therewas such a clamour, 'twas like pandemonium. The poor frightened thingwas inclined to believe that the people were mad and raving, and washardly called to concentration of thought when Lord Cedric's Chaplainstood before them dumbfounded by her beauty. 

He was a pale, little man, who managed with difficulty to collect hissenses and lead them to an equipage of imposing richness that stoodnot far away. And immediately after chests and sundry articles oftravel were placed upon the coach, the rolling wheels carried themthrough the town and on beyond, over plains and hills and lonelymoors, through forests of oak and beech, coloured in the grey ofwinter. Nor did the ponderous vehicle stop save for a hurriedrefreshment or a short night's rest at some wayside inn. 

Lord Cedric's orders were not being strictly carried out. The Chaplainwas to bring back to the castle Janet Wadham and baby. Here was thefirst-named, but where was the child? The little man was fearful hehad made some mistake, and grew exceedingly nervous when they at lastspied the battlements of Crandlemar Castle, and the child for whom hehad gone must be accounted for. 

Night was falling as the equipage bearing Mistress Katherine and herattendants passed between the massive stone pillars of the gateinto the long avenues bordered by leafless trees; and when yet somedistance from the castle, the occupants could catch glimpses of manylighted windows. Katherine lay back on the cushions tired, timid, half-fearful, wondering. Not so Janet; she craned body and neckfearful lest some small detail of the visible grandeur might escapeher. In a moment more they had stopped at the great entrance, andimmediately the ponderous doors were thrown wide by two ugly littledwarfs in magnificent livery. Out trooped other menials of perhapsless age and greater dignity, quickly gathering from the equipage thechests and bags and other articles of less cumbrousness. MistressKatherine, with Janet by her side, was so blinded by the glare oflights and furbished gildings, she saw naught, but followed on upwinding stairs, stepping twice upon each broad step; through corridorsand alcoves and winding halls, and in her ears was the sound of men'sand women's soft laughter, and she breathed the perfume of flowers, and inhaled as they passed some half-open door, the odour of _paudrede rose_ and jasmine. 

A woman older, less comely than Janet, and having the smirk of aperfunctory greeting upon her flabby face, stood within the roomassigned to Mistress Katherine. As her eyes fell upon the maid, shestepped back surprised, and with a confusion she essayed to hide inher coarse voiced acknowledgment of their presence. 

"The child, madam, where's the child? 'is Ludship sent me to takecharge of the hinfant and 'er nurse. "

Janet's voice rang like steel as she said, --"Thou canst fondle me tothy heart's content, but the 'hinfant his' a maiden grown and wellable to look after her own swathings; 'twould better serve thee and usto get thee below and prepare thine 'hinfant' grown some meat andwine with etceteras, and plenty of them, for she hath a lusty andever-present appetite. But stay, where wilt thou cradle thy babe'snurse, in this room beyond the closet?" With a superhuman effort, asit were, --the woman, confident of the importance of her position, and the forbearance such an one should have in dealing with the lessconsequential, --suppressed her choler and raised her eyebrows, andspoke with the coldness of her betters. 

"Thou wilt sleep there for a time, at least until 'is Ludship's guests'ave gone; the nurseries 'ave been turned into guests' rooms, --'isLudship 'as Royalty beneath 'is roof and bade me take the--the childto the furth'rest room and keep hits squawking 'ushed!" With adeprecating gesture, she shuffled from the room. 

'Twas a great square apartment, with low ceiling, a small hearthstoneand an immense bedstead with tester and outer coverings of floweredchintz. The light from the two small candles upon the highmantel-shelf were dimmed by the greater light from the hearth. 

With a long, heavy sigh, which ended in a quiet half-hearted laugh, Katherine flung herself back in a huge chair and said, --

"Art not afraid to lash tongues with a trusted servant of my LordCedric? She may give thee an ill name. "

"Nay, rather, if I had boxed' er hears' 'twould have been better. Indeed, if thou hadst been absent I should have brawled it with her. 'Ludship'--'tis the cant of a pot house wench, --'is Ludship' to me, who has been consorting with Sister Agnes and Phelia and Drusah andthe Mother Superior of the Ursuline. Wilt let me dress thee now?"

"Nay, Janet, I will cleanse my face and hands, have my supper--for I'mnearly famished, and jump into yonder bed that hath a lid--"

"Why, Lambkin, that is a tester, 'tis the first thou hast seen! But, Lambkin, I would have thee don thy pretty white dress and go down tomore cheerful surroundings. "

"Nay, Janet, I could not raise courage. Have my supper brought up!"

"My blessed Lambkin, I will take thee down and see that they give theeproper food for thy coach-jostled stomach. Thou shalt have a room andtable to thyself. I'll see to it. I thought upon it coming up to thissky-begotten chamber. The toddy would freeze stiff and the pheasantsgrow to clamminess on so long and frigid a journey. I will dress theeand then will find my way down and make things ready for thy comfortand privacy. "

'Twas a soft, white, clinging gown, high-necked and long-sleeved, withthe perfume of incense in its folds, Janet vested her mistress in. Thethick rolls of hair framing her face glinted with bronze and ambersheen. Her warm youthful blood coloured her countenance with the tintsof the peach blossom. Thus she stood gloriously beautiful; ready forconquest. 

Janet went below, nor was she gone long ere she came again to hermistress' side. 

"Didst see any signs of petticoats. Janet?"

"Nay, mistress, " and her voice was sober and intense. "I tried to finda servants' stairway, but it seemed all were grand and confusing. Andevery moment lackeys rushed by me bearing trays of smoking viands, and not even so much as looking my way. At last I found one I thoughtwould take the time to answer a question and I asked him the waybelow. He answered me civilly and conducted me saying the while, that'twas a grand party his Lord Cedric was having; members of the Royalfamily being present; he even mentioned the Dukes of Buckingham andMonmouth. The boy was so filled with good sense I am sure, Mistress, he spoke truly and that we are within a very great man's house. Ifound old flabby, and she took me to a cosy little room with a tableready spread. So come, my Lambkin, when his Lordship finds not a babybut a rare gem for his costly setting, his heart will bound withpleasure and he will regret he did not prepare for a great ladyinstead of an infant. "

Timorously the maid followed Janet through intricate windings to thebroad stairway. 

"Janet, take me through the servants' passage for this once!"

"Nay, thou art a lady, and as such must keep to the grand aisles. " Soon they went traversing lofty corridors. In one of these they suddenlycame upon a young gallant of youthful beauty; a mould of elegance andstrength; his countenance was flushed and shaded by curling black hairthat fell loose upon his shoulders. In his shapely, white, bejewelledfingers he held a blood-red rose, and as his eyes fell upon the mostbeautiful face he had ever beheld, he caught his breath and held therose to his face to hide his devouring glances as she swept by himunder the soft light cast by the sconces above her head. In a momenthe was upon the stairway, breathless and panting, and leaning over, dropped the rose at her feet. Her face grew as rosy as the thingitself, but passing on made none other sign. 

"'Tis a conquest thou hast made the first hour, and thou acknowledgedthy victory with naught but a modest maiden blush. But, Lambkin, hisbody was not a match for thine; 'twas inclined to be too slender. Ishall pick for thee a beau like Sir Williams's Romeo. "

They had now come to where the table awaited Katherine, and Janetbustled about handing things for her mistress' convenience; thenhurried out to send in the warm food from the oven. 

"Janet, didst say the bird was a pheasant?--'Tis grand tasting!"

"Aye, Mistress, and there was a score of other things that I would notlet thee eat; 'twould make pimples on thy snowy neck and shoulders. "

"Dost think perchance the young man upon the stairway was the Dukeof Monmouth? He was very handsome, Janet, I think he was very, veryhandsome. "

"Thou dost have the names of the great upon thy tongue as commonlyas thou sayest Janet; 'tis more than probable he is a country squireand--"

"Dear Janet, go get thy supper and get back to me, for I would ratherremain here alone than in yonder chamber. 'Tis grand to live in sogreat a house, 'tis better than--than the convent. How soon shallI have fine frocks and jewels and--a beau like yonder one on thestairway?"

"Thou art becoming exercised prematurely; his Lordship may notcondescend to visit his puling babe before his guests depart. In suchcase, thou wilt have time to cool thy haste. I will go now. Do not eattoo much, Lambkin. " Janet looked back admiringly as she left the room;her eyes upon her mistress' daintily ruddy face, smiling at her frombetween two tall candles. 

Every appointment of room and table was essentially English, andMistress Katherine cast her eye about wondering if 'twas so, or, werethey Scotch? She inclined to the former, and a sigh of relief andhappiness escaped her. 

Suddenly there was a sound of hurrying footsteps with an accompanyingone of broad Scotch oaths in no low key. A lackey carrying a bag-piperushed into the room and out again without noticing its occupant. At his very heels was a big Scotchman of large and ridiculousproportions; red hair, red face, red whiskers, red mustachios, andbandy-legs, petticoats and all; and a tongue ripping out hot oaths. In a moment Katherine was upon her feet, her eyes flashed forthindignation. The keen eyes of the Scot saw her at a glance. He looked, stared, then bent almost to the floor before her and waited thus forher to speak. She, not accustomed to the masculine courtesies ofpolite breeding, thought his attitude was too prolonged for either abow of homage or humiliation; and she straightway in a voice that wastremulous with emotion, said:

"Has the bitterness of thy tongue taken root in thy stomach?" Quicklyhe raised himself at her first word and gazed with enamoured looks atthe amber folds of hair, her glowing face; and with panting breath hiseyes rested upon the round fulness of her form as it palpitated withrightful perturbance. 

"Betake thyself before I inform Lord Cedric of thy presence!" Andshe rapped smartly her knife-handle upon the table. "Betake thyself, begone!" He did not stir nor find breath until she stood forth fromthe table and he saw her beauteous being from head to dainty toe ofconvent sandal. Then he found voice, and in broad Scotch begged herclemency, advancing toward her the while and almost kneeling in hishumility. 

"If I did not know the queen--"

"'Tis presuming for thee to speak of knowing her; thou dishonourestthe noble plaid thou wearest. Begone from me, sir, instantly. Begone, I say!"

"Nay, I shall not begone. Tell me who thou art, I know thee not!"

"Tell thee? Nay, 'twould displease my lord if he knew I held conversewith thee thus. He would no doubt send thee from the castle. "

"But who is thy lord, pray?"

"Lord Cedric of Crandlemar!"

"Ah, ah, --but it does not displease him. Lord Cedric says thou shalttalk to him the balance of his days. " The maid shrunk further from himin sheer loathing. At the moment Janet entered, and the rough Scotturned upon her, and in a voice of command, said, --

"Who is this maid, woman?" Janet scanned him for a moment and a bit oftruth flashed upon her. 

"'Tis the honoured daughter of Sir John Penwick, " and she bowed to thefloor. 

"Ah! ah!!" He retreated in dismay and for a moment was silent, encumbered with emotions of surprise, admiration, wonderment anddoubt. "Then thou art my ward and thou hatest me already--"

"Thou, thou Lord Cedric, the master of this great house?" AndKatherine in the confidence of Janet's presence, laughed in scorn andswept from the room disdaining his commands to remain longer. For amoment he stood stunned as it were; then started toward the door andlooked after their retreating forms, exclaiming the while, --

"Ah!--ah!! Thou a convent baggage ordering the lord of the castle fromthy presence. Never have I been so talked to before. Damn me, I lovethy gorgeous self, thy beauteous body; thou my ward to have and tohold. I may if I choose say to thee, thou shalt, or thou shalt not. Hey, hey, there, Christopher!" He knocked loudly upon the panellingof the door. A lackey entered trepidated. "Go and bring in haste fromWasson the letter written by Sir John Penwick. Haste thee, mind!" Heturned to the table as if the shadow of her being still rested thereand spoke the continuation of his thought. "'Tis a bit of paper, Mistress Katherine, that has become of more worth than a king'sransom. The last will and testament of Sir John Penwick bequeathing tomy father a priceless property, --Thou wert slow, Christopher, but Iforgive thee. " He tore the letter from the lackey's hands and sat uponthe chair drawing the candle to his convenience and read aloud:

"'Cedric: When we parted twenty odd years ago 'twas in anger. I hopethou hast forgotten it as I have. ' My poor father had forgotten andyearned to tell him so. 'I'm upon my death-bed and my consolation isthe remembrance of our mutual faith plighted to each other a shorttime before our quarrel. 'Twas the bit of Scotch blood in thee thatbrought us to contentious wrangle. I 'minded thee at the time thouwouldst grieve for thy hot words, and 'tis a balm I send thee for thygrieved heart; 'tis my baby Kate'--Baby, baby of course I thoughther so and sent her to a nurse's nookery at the top of the towersto silence the wench's squawkings, and gave Stephen the care of thefreshest young heifer, that the youngster might not lack for properfood, 'now under her nurse's care in the Ursuline Convent at Quebec. The child has been environed with all that is pure and good, and willcome to thee with the sweet incense of the cloister clinging abouther. I have heard but once of thee, and 'twas that thy young wife diedleaving thee without heirs. If such be so, thou wilt find a solace inmy baby. Guard her as thine own. I have only enough gold to send herwith her nurse to thy protection. ' She will be obliged to come to mefor all things, and I will spoil my own pleasure by giving her beforeshe asks. 'In my epistle to Janet Wadham I spoke of moneys and estatesbeing in thy hands. 'Tis a lie that will bring to thy mind morevividly than aught else my personality--_suppressio veri_; but if thoufindest a like propensity in my babe, thou wilt deal gently but firmlywith her for its correction. I give into thy keeping more than house, lands or titles. I would direct clemency toward my beloved servant;she has proven most faithful. My wife truly loved her and at herchild's birth was constantly tended by the vigilant Janet; and 'twasher desire she should remain always with the babe. Enclosed thou willfind a letter to be given to my daughter upon her arrival to thy care;'tis a letter of both welcome and farewell. Some day thou must tellher I am gone on my last journey, tell her when she is surrounded bypleasant distractions that she may not grieve. She knows naught oftrouble, neither would I have her know. 'Tis possible she may havesome religious ideas that are not identical with thine. She may beladen with all sorts of shrines, picture-books, candles, crosses andbeads; these religion's playthings thou of sterner mould wilt hardlyconsider. My last wish and the one of greatest import to my child isthat thou find for her a spouse of rank and fortune; 'tis my desirethat she marry early to such an one. Ah, Cedric, if thou had hadst ason, their union would have been our delight; for when thou seest myKate thou wilt see the most beautiful thing in life. '

"Aye, she is the most beautiful thing in life. She is mine, my veryown, her father gives her to me for marriage--marriage, and 'tis aspeedy one he asks, and she shall have it. I love her, love her, mywhole being throbs with mad desire. She is the sweetest maid on earth, and I drink from the cup upon which her rich, red lips have rested;ah, 'tis sweet!" He poured a bumper and drank, then flung from theroom with great strides. 

CHAPTER III

THE BALL

Meanwhile Mistress Katherine sat before the fire in the tower nookerywhile Janet unpacked the luggage. 

"'Twould not be fitting for Lord Cedric to have such a man within hishouse as guest!"

"Neither has he, Lambkin; 'tis his Lordship himself. " Her voice rangtruth and Katherine turned dismayed, --

"Nay, Janet, the man was a drunken fool! Surely, surely thou dost notmean thy sayings. He is not a fit person to be in so great a castle. Thou art shamming!"

"I mean every word; 'tis my Lord _en masque_, for to-night there is tobe a great and magnificent spectacle. "

"And what does that mean, Janet?"

"It means there is to be a masque ball, and my Lord Cedric is in hiscostume, and he does not look like that at all. We may be sure heappears quite the opposite when apparelled in his usual dress. "

"But his tongue, he cannot change that!"

"Thou wilt have to wait and see for thyself, and fortune favours, fornow thou wilt not have long to wait. I saw his wicked young eyes--tooyoung for so old a man, as it appeared--directing enamoured darts uponthee. "

"But art thou not afraid of so oath-beladen tongue? He is dreadfullyprofane!"

"He has already seen his peril and will drop his oaths like jetsam andwilt come to thee with flotsamy oglings and tender nothings and bowand smirk; and thou wilt find thyself an old man's sweetheart. "

"Janet, can we not find some point of observation where we may lookupon the maskers unseen?"

"Thou art speaking my own mind. I will look about and find someseclusion that thou mayest look and sate thine eyes upon Royalty; andthou wilt gaze and gaze and make mental annotations, and to-morrowthou wilt begin to preen thy feathers preparatory to flying forth; butfirst thou must lie down and sleep three full hours, 'tis then theball will be at its height, and thou wilt feel refreshed and ready toamuse me with thy observations. 'Twill be the grandest sight for thee. I have seen many but none so gorgeous as this is to be. "

Janet went upon a tour of exploration and finding what she desired inthe way of a quiet corner returned for Katherine. They passed downflights of steps, through halls, and came to a large corridor thatopened upon a gallery which encircled the ballroom, save where it wascleft by a great stairway. As they stood looking over the railing, 'twas like looking down upon an immense concave opal, peopled by thegorgeously apparelled. Myriad tints seeming to assimulate and focuswherever the eyes rested. Gilt bewreathed pillars, mouldings, shimmering satin, lights, jewels, flowers, ceiling, gallery andparquetry appeared like a homogeneous mass of opal. Mistress Katherinecould not speak, her perturbed spirit was silent, she held to Janetand the curtain that hung at the arch, and breathed in the perfume. 

"Canst see thy lord yonder?"

"Nay, I see all collectively, but nothing individually; my eyes failto separate this from that. "

"Perhaps if thou couldst whip them to his ugly frame, 'twould prove anantidote. "

"'Twill come in time, --I can now discern that 'tis the folk that artmoving and not the flowers and lights. I see a red figure seemingto hurry among the dancers, looking this way and that, peering andpeeping; he has lost something. "

"'Tis more probable he is looking for what he has found; 'tis thystairway-beau with the rose; he has retrieved it and is hot upon thechase again. He is looking for thee. --'Tis vain my lord-devil, thouhadst better use the time to swathe thy feet in asbestos-flax. "

The music of the passacaglia floated up and Katherine drank in itsminor sweetness. Presently the dance changed into the chaconne withits prominent bass theme, again turning to the poetic and statelysarabande. 

"Now I do see the Scot; he is by far the most homely figure anywhere, and yet, he is graceful, and it must be a very great beauty with him. How could the master of so great a house look so?" The music changedinto a sprightly gavotte, Katherine's ears fairly tingled with theconfusion of sound. She lay her head upon Janet's bosom as if drunkwith the surfeit of music. 

"'Tis more than I could have dreamed. Didst ever see anything sobeautiful before? It seems years ago since we were within conventwalls!"

"'Twill bring thy seeming nearer if thy lord proposes a speedy returnto the cloister. "

"Nay, I would not go. "

"Ah, then, enjoy the present and think of moments and not cycles. Herethou shalt sit on this low divan, behind this tripod of roses; there, thou canst hear what they whisper when the music ceases. " They satensconced in flowers and drapings of satin brocade, looking downupon splendidly and wonderfully dressed princes and dukes, lordsand counts, with their ladies dancing the gavotte. There was theperfection of beauty and stateliness and romance. The few unmaskedfaces were smiling and bright with powder and rouge; dainty handsflourished fans; and there was the low click of high heels uponthe parquetry. Jewels flashed and brocades gleamed; a shimmeringaccompaniment completing the symmetry of the brilliant dance. It wasnot long before Janet called her companion's attention to the lord ofthe castle. He was dancing now with a very beautiful woman, even moreso than the one before. 

"He steps lightly, being so bandied. Now I think on it, 'twerepossible his legs were cushioned thus to hide a senile thinness!'Tis human nature when badgered by excess of limit to flounder intolimitless excess. Look upon the Burgomaster at thy feet with a surfeitof good round legs, he is unfortunate for being in excess, he cannotwhittle down. 'Tis a queer being with whom he dances, --here comes aqueen, see, she stops beneath thee, --sh--'Constance, ' my lord devilcalls her, 'Constance'; what thinkest thou, is she not beautiful?"

"See the bones in her neck, Janet, they protrude like pulpy blisters, and she looks flat of chest for a waist so abbreviated. "

"I see thine eyes are ever upon nature, and 'tis best if thy gaze canpenetrate the heart as well. "

"Surely we have intuition, and I like not Constance. "

"How about my lord with the rose?"

"I like him. "

"Oh, impressionable youth! 'thou art the gilded sand from which thekiss of a wave washes every impress. ' Tune thy myriad atoms to imitatethe rock, and gird thyself with strength to meet the battery ofonrushing breakers that grind against thee! Be careful, my Lambkin, fall not in love with the first handsome face thou seest. " The musicceased; there was naught of sound, but a babble of voice and soft, gaylaughter. The guests passed up the grand stairway, and between thepillars that guarded the entrance to the vaulted gallery beyond. Immediately beneath, where Katherine and her nurse sat, were Constanceand her Mephistophelian consort. The former was saying:

"And thou dost say she is extremely beautiful? In what particular isthis queen of thine so entrancing, is it in face or form?"

"Her face is divine, and her form ravishes one with delight. "

"She is indeed fortunate to be such a goddess. If she is alady-in-waiting to the Royal suite she will depart to-morrow!" andthere was relief in the supposition. Constance continued: "I saw mykinsman's list of invitation, and among them all there was not onefitting thy description of this paragon, Adrian!"

"She had the bearing of a princess; she must be a person of note!"

"Adrian, "--and she grasped his arm tightly, --"dost think, thou knowingthe ways of men, Cedric could have some bright being here to keephim from the dumps, and when guests are present, hides her in someremoteness?" There was more in Constance' meaning than what she said. 

"Nay, nay, any man would be proud to--yet, if Cedric loved he would bevery jealous!"

"Thinkest thou so?"

"I am positive. To-morrow, Constance, I will watch the departure ofthe guests, and, if I find not the maid, I will let thee know, and wewill pounce upon my Lord Cedric and have him bring her to our notice. "

"Nay, Adrian, I'll tell thee a better way. If she departs not with thecompany to-morrow, I will search the castle and find her; for I knowevery cranny. I will bring about a meeting, so thou mayest beau herprivately and win her love before Cedric knows aught; 'twill be agrand joke to play upon him, and 'twill pay him back for trying tohide from us the gem of his castle. " They looked into each other'seyes but an instant, and they each understood the other. 

"'Tis a compact, Constance. 'Twill be sweet to meet her in secret. God grant she may be a member of my lord's household!" Like a prayerConstance uttered after him, as they traversed the room to the greatstairway, --"God grant it may not be so!"

"Unlike Hamlet's prayer, their words and thoughts both fly up, and tosuch a prayer they will undoubtedly receive an answer; but whether'twill be satisfactory to the one or the other, remains to be seen, as the destination of their supplications was a long way this side ofheaven--" said Janet, as she wrapped her mistress in her grey conventcape and led her without the gallery. 

"Is it possible I was the object of discussion, Janet?"

"'Tis probable. The first trophy thou hast gained without appearingupon the field. "

"And what is that?"

"A woman's hate; thy rival hast given thee the first token ofsuccess. " They had reached the tower chamber and Janet began toprepare her mistress for bed. 

"I cannot understand thee, I cannot grasp thy meaning. "

"Neither would I have thee understand; for if I took from thee thyinnocent mind, I would deprive thee of thy best weapon. Thou hadstbetter chatter of thy poor, grey frock thou wilt don on the morrow. "

Katherine stood before a small mirror divested of her outer garments. The soft white thing that bound her graceful, sloping shoulders, hadfallen loose displaying her glorious white neck and bosom. Janetcaught the mirrored reflection and understood and answered, --

"Nay, thou hast no pulpy blisters, neither shalt have while I feedthee on pap and rub thee with oil; nor yet a flat chest for thyshoulders are sunk from prominence by its fulness. "

"Shall I wear a low bodice thus, Janet?"

"Aye, Lambkin. "

"And high-heeled boots and stays, --I must have stays before I appearat my lord's table. "

"Thou shalt not have that 'twould squeeze thy beauteous mould. " Thefaithful Janet unbound her nursling as if she had been a tiny babe andswathed her in a soft, warm thing, and bade her get to bed. Katherinejumped to the middle and lay panting, with happy eyes that had naughtof sleep in them, until on a sudden Janet's voice rung like a menaceon her ears. 

"Thou hast forgotten thy rosary; thou hast neither said an _Ave Maria_or a _Pater Noster_ since our arrival. Thou wouldst neglect thyreligion, and 'tis thy own, sweet precious self that will pay thepenalty. "

"Nay, nay, Janet, I will say them ten times to make up for myforgetfulness. " She sprung from her bed. 

"To bed, to bed; thou shalt not kneel upon the floor in this ice-boundchamber. Here, take thy beads and say them once and close thy azureeyes. " Janet watched until the wax-like lids drooped, then softly madefast the doors. She flung herself into a great chintz-covered chairand fell asleep before the bright fire. 

CHAPTER IV

HIS LORDSHIP'S PROPOSAL

She did not waken until aroused by the grinding of wheels upon thegravel beneath the window. A servant brought coals and wood andbuilt a roaring fire that warmed her chilled bones. She ordered hermistress' breakfast for eleven o'clock, and locking the door upon theretreating lackey, settled herself in the chair again and fell asleep. She was next awakened by a smart rap upon the door. The servant stoodupon the threshold gazing at the vision of beauty that had raised uponher elbow in the bed, and was looking with inquiring eyes. 

"His Lordship begs Mistress Penwick to step to the library after herbreakfast. "

"Step, to be sure, thou hadst better bring a chariot to cart herthere, and 'twould be out of the question for her to go before gettinganything into her stomach to strengthen her for the journey. "

"Shall I tell him so, mum?" said the servant, with a look of rogueryin his eyes. 

"'Twould become thee better to tell him without asking if thoushouldst. Avaunt, get thee gone on thy mission. " Then turning toKatherine, --"'Twould have to come sooner or later and 'tis best soonerI'm thinking, " and Janet stepped to draw the curtains to let in but asickly grey light. "Ah, there is a great snowstorm! and there seems tobe a large party about to set forth a hunting. " And indeed there aroseto their ears a great noise of baying hounds and the tramping ofhorses in the courtyard, and voices were raised high and merry. Therewas a rattle of spurs and champing of bits; and as the two womenlooked from the window the party set forth. 

"Thou wilt go with me, Janet?"

"As far as the library door. I will listen and peep through thekeyhole when no one is passing. "

A lackey came to conduct Mistress Katherine below. He looked surprisedat Janet as she followed them, neither was his curiosity appeased whenMistress Penwick passed through the library door, and the severe-facedJanet sat down upon a ponderous chair in the corridor just outside. 

'Twas a great room with enormous fireplaces, and in front of one ofthem stood Lord Cedric. There was a smile on his face as he notedhis ward's surprise. She looked upon him with interest and finallyspoke, --

"Lord Cedric sent for me; he is not here, " and she retreated as if toleave the room. 

"Nay, do not leave until thou hast become acquainted with Cedric ofCrandlemar. " He held out his hand to her longingly, pleadingly, andstood thus before her; his figure of an Adonis silhouetted by theflames that reached above his head in the great chimney behind him. His face and form was a match for her own. A hunting-coat wrapped hisbroad shoulders; his beauteous limbs were encased in high-field boots, showing well his fine masculine mould. 

"How many lords of Crandlemar are there?" she asked, almostcontemptuously. 

"One, only, " and he still held out his hand with a gesture ofentreaty. "I was the ill-humoured, boisterous man in Scotch attirelast night. I beg thee to forgive and forget it. Come--come--thou artmy ward. "

"But my Lord Cedric is an old man, as old as my father, and isScotch. "

"Thou art speaking of my father; he has been dead five years. Thyfather did not know of his death when he sent thee to England. Andmy mother"--his voice trembled--"died when I was born. I was rearedwithout a woman's love. Angel was too old to teach me tenderness. Shehas tried to guide me; but Kate--thy father calls thee so--I have hadno one to love me like thee. I have lived a wild, boisterous life inScotland most of the time, and after father died I went to France. I have lived wickedly, Kate; I have given myself over to oaths, and--and--and--drink;--'twas so last night when I saw for the firsttime the woman I loved; who was as fair in face, form and soul, as allI had ever pictured or dreamed. Wilt thou forget my course tongue andtry--try--to--to--to love me, Kate. Thou wilt say 'tis soon to speakso to thee; but why keep back that 'tis best for me to say and thou toknow?" She could not mistake the ring of truth in his voice that wasnow so pleading. 

"Come, come, "--and as if a happy thought occurred, reached into hispocket and drew forth a letter;--"here is thy proof that I am LordCedric; thy father's letter, " he held it toward her. She came andreached her hand for it, timidly. His Lordship was one of the mostpassionate of youths, nor could he restrain his ardour. He caught herhand and drew her to him, meeting her graceful body with his own; hishot breath was upon her hair, and he panted forth;--"Kate, Kate, Ilove thee, " his arm was reaching about her, when she called Janetstoutly. The door was flung open and the nurse's face looked upon theyouth like an ominous thing of strength, --then surprise broke over itand she spoke forth, --

"Who art thou, perfidious youth?"

"I am Cedric of Crandlemar, and I was saluting my ward. " Janet tookher mistress from him as he half supported her, and sat down, drawingher into her lap. Katherine fell to weeping. 

"What has happened to thee, Lambkin?"

"I don't know, " sobbed Katherine, "assure me if 'tis Lord Cedric. "

"We will accept him, anyway, for 'tis a better subject than my LordScot of last night. " Thereupon Cedric fell upon one knee at Janet'sfeet, and bent his handsome head to Katherine's hand and kissed it. 

"Nay, nay, thy lips burn me, and I hate thee for it!" She wiped herhand upon her dress, and turned her head from Janet's bosom and cast ascornful glance through her tears. 

"I love her, Janet, and she hates me. Her father gave her to me tolove and guard and--marry, 'tis in the letter so; and she shall--"

"Thou talkest too strong to so young a maid; thou must remember thatshe is but fifteen, and never used to beaux. Thou art the first manbeside her father to so much as touch her hand. "

"She fifteen, 'tis not possible!" and his enamoured glance swept herform, --"'tis not possible. " Mistress Katherine's colour blenched andheightened, for the ardent masculine eyes made her like and hatein turn; his countenance glowed with warm youthfulness which bothattracted and repulsed her; and she hid her face again upon Janet'sshoulder. 

"'Tis rather young to become wife, but I cannot live away from her, Imust have her. "

"Nay, thou must wait until she is past sixteen, and knows her ownmind. "

"I cannot wait, Janet, I am too inflammable, she consumes me with herbeauty. "

"Then I had better take her where thou canst not see her. "

"Nay, nay, she shall not leave me for a day nor hour. She is mineabsolutely, and I'll have her. I have found what is more preciousthan all else to me. " As Katherine's eyes were hid, Janet placed herfingers upon her lips, enjoining silence upon the passionate manbefore her. 'Twas a simple thing, but Cedric knew from that momenthe had gained a powerful ally. He rose to his feet, and, in softenedtones, continued, --"'Tis the first time I have ever loved, and 'tisnatural I should be impetuous;" then in a tone that was full ofmagnanimity, --"I will give thee time to rest from thy long journeybefore we buy the wedding garments, I will give thee a whole week. "Then 'twas that Katherine spoke, --

"A whole week, indeed, I shall not marry thee at all, never, I hatethee. Thou wilt give me my heritage and I will go from thy house; myfather gave it and me into thy father's care not thine, I will writeto him at once and tell him of this terrible mistake. "

"Thy father is--" he caught himself in time. 

"Thy father is--what?" And she looked at him closely. 

"Is too far away over seas, and--might be hard to find. "

"Then I will go to him. "

"Thou wilt remain where thou art. "

"Thou talkest like foolish children. 'Twould better become thee toprattle of frocks and fixings for my Lady Penwick. Your Lordship willsee to it at once?" It was a happy suggestion. Cedric leant overKatherine. 

"Come, tell me what thou wilt have from London town? thou shalt haveall thy heart asks for. "

"Thou art generous with my belongings. " 'Twas an unfriendly cut. 

"Come, Mistress, what will thou have, make out a list and I will sendit by a courier. "

"I prefer to go myself. "

"I have guests and cannot go with thee at the present, --and thou canstnot go without me; but thou shalt have the more for this very cause. Come, tell me thy heart's desire. Be good to me Kate, I love thee so;I must tell thee, it cuts me to the quick to have thee so set againstme. Thou wilt espouse me some day, sweet one?" Katherine stood up andshot a withering glance full upon him. 

"Nay, nay, nay, --thou wilt let me go from thee!"

"I beg thy pardon, Mistress Penwick, I will urge thee no more now; buttell me thy wishes. Thou will have first of all, a beautiful hat withfeathers reaching to thy shoulder-tips, and dainty brocade gowns withboots of the same hue, and jewelled fans, and ribbons and laces andall kinds of furbelows, and I will give thee to-day some jewels, rings, and--"

"And a necklace like Constance has?" put in Katherine, unthinkingly. 

"Constance--where didst thou see her?" His voice and manner showedannoyance. "Where didst see her, Kate?" There was a blush on her faceas she answered, "At the ball. "

"Thou wert not there, " he said, incredulously. 

"Janet and I looked on from the gallery, and Constance stood beneathus. 'Twas a beautiful thing that encircled her throat. "

"Aye, they were pearls; but thou shalt have a circlet that wilt not sohide thy pink hued neck. To-day, Kate, I will give thee some gemsand thou shalt go with me to the great chests and see the laces theycontain;--and thy colours, Kate, what are thy favourite colours?"

"I love white and violet. " A happy smile covered Cedric's face. 

"'Tis my mother's choice and by that I hit upon thy fancy as thoushalt soon see. " Cedric racked his brain for more pleasant things tosay. "And thou shalt have a horse and learn to ride. "

"Oh, Janet, to have a horse all my own! 'tis too good to be true; 'tisa thing I have dreamt of. " And the delighted girl flung herself atJanet's feet and embraced her knees from sheer ecstasy. It seemedpeace had come to stay; and for a moment Cedric looked upon her witheyes full of admiration and, yes, heart full of love; then, --

"Art sure thou hast thought of all thou wouldst have, is the listcomplete, Janet; canst thou not suggest something more? I will sendit to one of the court mantua-makers and if thou sendest the propermeasurements our lady will soon be a modish butterfly. " At the wordmodish a sudden thought came to Katherine and she leant over andwhispered in Janet's ear; then Janet said:

"She must have a pair of stays with each frock. "

"Nay, nay, she shall not have stays to pinch so fair a mould; sheshall not have stays, nay, nay, sweet Kate. " 'Twas then MistressPenwick flew into a passion. She clinched her fists and her face grewscarlet; she shook her head and threw glances like sword-thrusts atCedric, and said not a word but stamped her foot. As she did so, shesaw that in Cedric's eyes that made her calm her passion on a sudden. 'Twas steel against steel. It was Janet's voice that drew Katherine'sattention; for it had in it something it never had heretofore; it wasfull of reproach. 

"Lambkin, thou art too young for either stays or such a show ofpassion. I beg thee to quench thy evil spirit, it does not becomethee. " Katherine bent her head and turned from them toward the door. Cedric called, "Do not leave until we have all things settled! Kate, dost hear mespeaking?" She pretended deaf ears. "Kate, " he said, with emphasis, "dost hear me? Mistress Pen wick, hear me, heed, heed!" he thundered, and stamped his foot, the spurs rattling upon the hearthstone. Sheturned about reluctantly and rested her hand upon the great oakentable, looking at Janet as if it had been she that had spoken. Cedricdrew himself up proudly, and spoke in a firm, full voice, "I am thy father, brother, guardian, anything that love could be tothee, and all that I have is thine, and when thou art with me thoumayest do as thy heart dictates, but when thou shalt cross yonderthreshold thou shalt conduct thyself as becomes a daughter andmistress of the castle. I have beneath my roof guests--my kinswoman, Lady Constance, whom I have bidden to remain indefinitely, she beingso near of kin has been mistress here; but, from the moment thoudidst enter the portal of Cedric's house, 'twas thou became mistress, thou--thou mistress of my home, and heart as well; thou wilt acceptthe former mission, and I will fight with all of cupid's weapons untilthou dost accept the latter. 'Tis a pragmatic duty to follow my wordsand understand them and demean thyself accordingly. To-night thouwilt come to the drawing-room at the prandium hour, and 'twill be mypleasure to seat thee at table, and 'twould be best if I acknowledgedour espousal. "

"Nay, nay, I will not come then. "

"Thou shalt come if thou art in the castle, " Janet's scowlingface under cover of the high-backed chair stopped his lordship'simpetuosity, "hast a frock, Kate? thou shalt go to the chest and findfor thee some bright thing and I will send from Crandlemar a woman tohelp thee with thy attire. Angel will come to take thee to see thejewels, and thou shalt have those thou carest to take. I would seethy choice, Kate. I can almost guess it now. So come, Kate, the stormwithout should insure good cheer within; and with thy bright face thecastle will be aglow. Come, say _au revoir_, Kate. " She held out herhand and faltered forth _au revoir_. There was the language of theconvent in that one word and it rung sweet upon her ear. He took herhand between his own and bent and kissed it tenderly, "_au revoir, aurevoir_" he said, then turned quickly from her. 

Outside stood old flabby-face, as Janet pleased to call her, whenalone with Katherine, but designated by the servants as Sophia. 

"His Ludship ordered Mistress Penwick's room changed. "

"Thou dost mean, rather, he advised a change of room; 'twould bedifficult to convey the tower chamber elsewhere. "

It was a beautiful room into which Sophia led them and beyond wereothers belonging to the same suite, all in white and gold, withmirrors and painted walls garlanded with cupids and floral wreaths, and silken curtains at bed and windows; and cushions and beautifulvenuses and rare potpourri. And when they were quite alone Janetstrutted up and down the rooms enjoying the fulness of her cup. 

"'Tis more than thou dreamed again, eh, Lady Pen wick? Thou hastfallen heir to a queen's portion without the ennui of satiety. "

"Truly 'tis a wondrous castle; but Janet can Lord Cedric espouse mebecause he is my guardian?"

"Nay, child, but he loves thee, and he means to win thee if 'tispossible. He is young and self-willed and passionful, and he will havehis own way. Dost like him, Lambkin?"

"Somewhat, but I hate him most. "

"Thou wilt impeach thy sweet tongue by that viscid 'hate'; thou hadstbetter indulge in less of devil's warfare and leave room for digestionof gentle peace. Thou hast bloomed into a beauteous maid, but thytemper hath blown also. My lord hast seen many beauties that he couldhave for the asking, and they are doubtless meek and gentle creatureswith soft and ready answer; but if thy cantankerous untowardnesscontinues he will set thee down as a shrewish wench and will heartilydislike thee. "

"Nay, I would not have any one dislike me. "

"Then cease thy uprisings. " There came a low knock, and an oldgrey-haired woman stepped into the room with that in her face Janetstood up to honour. She advanced to Katherine and in a trembling voicesaid, "Thou art my lord's ward, --ah, I remember thy father well; thou art aPenwick over and over again, I could see it with half an eye. I knewthy father when he was a mere lad, so high; he had as bonny a face asone cared to see. They tell me thou didst expect to see here my poormaster; is't so? Aye, --well thou hast found his son, the blessedst manthat walks the earth. He has a wicked, bad tongue at times, but hemeans nothing. I nursed him and his father, and am longing for a wifefor his lordship. " Then: "I am Angel Bodkin, and have come to conductthee to the vaults. " She led them forth, talking all the while. 

CHAPTER V

BACCHUS AND BACCHANTES

Lady Constance had exhausted every means of procuring the desiredinformation concerning the strange beauty in her kinsman's castle; andshe became fretted and annoyed and was about to give up all hope, whenshe came suddenly upon the object of her search in the corridor; andthe beauteous maid, grey-gowned and sandal-shoon, flitted by withoutdeigning so much as a look. And my Lady Constance swept by with hateof this formidable creature in her evil heart. She felt it was almostunderstood that Lord Cedric would espouse her; she, Lady ConstanceClarmot. To be sure, she was somewhat of riper years than he, but thatcounted for naught since they had always loved each other. She wasof a great family and proud and had of her own, titles and estatesand--yes, beauty. She fell to thinking of the many ways in whichCedric had shown his love for her. He had consulted her on alloccasions upon the most trivial matters until the present instance. "Could it be possible she is some soft-natured wench that hath fallenbeneath his eye and charmed him, and he has brought her here? Nay, nay, he would not bring such an one beneath his roof while I remained, and yet I have but just come and he hath kept her hid; 'tis possiblehe will send her away at once. " She soliloquized thus until thecandles were brought, and the curtains drawn to shut out the storm, and she sat beneath her maid's hands heeding naught save her bitterthoughts. "What had become of Adrian? Why had he not been in to seeher; surely by this time he had learned something being out thewhole afternoon hunting, perhaps side by side with Cedric. " Thusshe fretted, and scolded her maid until it was time to go to thedrawing-room. It was a picturesque scene; the ancient castle withits crenellated tower, from which now pointed a tall flag-pole, the British Royal Ensign bound closely about it, its colours beingdistinctly visible through its casing of ice; for an immensequadruple-faced light was placed high up in the fork of a treeopposite the great window of the vaulted saloon, casting its beam tothe very pinnacle of the ensign-staff; lighting the castle from end toend upon its northern side, where the great avenues converged. A shaftreluctantly and gloomily effused the near density of the forest;another ray gladdening the expectant eyes of the guest from Londonway;while yet another broad gleam sped the departing traveler over thethreshold of the forest into the gloom-environed pathway beyond. Uponevery shelving projection of the unhewn stone structure was ice. Theentire walls scintillated with a fairy brilliancy, and the trees asthey swayed back and forth propelled by the unceasing wind caused sucha coruscation of sparkles it fairly blinded the spectator. Beneaththe spreading branches were a host of men, horses and dogs. The gaycostumes of the huntsmen showing resplendent in the ice-bespangledlight. The horns were lowered, and there was a confusion of tonguesbetween groomsmen and lackeys; and there were shouts of welcome fromthe wide-open doorway of the servants' hall; for 'twas here the gamewas brought and laid upon the stone floor or hung upon pegs on thewall for the inspection of the guests. Lord Cedric leapt from hishorse, throwing the reins to a waiting groom; strode into the hallwith rattling spurs and flung through the rooms and up the stairway tohis Lady Katherine's bower, and rapped smartly upon the panelling ofthe door. The vision that met his amorous eyes sent him hot and cold;and 'twas with difficulty he restrained himself from encircling herfull, glowing body. 

"The hours I have been from thee have seemed weeks, and I was of nouse in the field; my gun would entangle in the low-hanging boughs;and on the wold my steed's feet were caught in the dry gorse, until Icould not get near enough to shoot anything. On the other hand, Cupidhas arrowed me to the death, and I come, --a shade for thee to put lifeinto; and the sight of thee is a life-giving thing. " Katherine's faceflamed with his warm words, and the consciousness of the beauty of hernew adornment; for she stood before him in an amber shimmering stuffthat clung to her lithe limbs, hiding not her slender ankle and herarched satin shoe, as her dress caught about a stool that held it. Theshort round waist betrayed the fulness of her form, and Cedric turnedhis eyes away from sheer giddiness, drunk with love. He spoke toJanet with quick breath:--"Bring her down to see the game. "--Then, suddenly, --"Where are thy jewels, Kate?" He espied a casket, andhastening to it took from it rings, fitting them upon MistressPenwick's tapering fingers, until her hand was heavy. Of other jewelsshe'd have none. "But thou must have a shoulder knot, " said Cedric, and he took from the casket a glittering shoulder brooch of opals andclasped it in the satin of her frock, and drew from a tripod of whiteand gold a flaming jacqueminot and gave it into her hand and led herforth, followed closely by Janet. Down the great stairway he ledher proudly, through corridor and passage, until they reached theservants' hall, where the clamour of voices and baying hounds was likepandemonium; and at the sound Mistress Penwick drew back with fear. For a moment Cedric was sorely tried to keep from bending to thoserose-bowed lips. She saw him hesitate, and stammered forth:

"Lead on, my lord!"

He swung open the door and instantly all eyes were set upon his fairward. First his Lordship's face was exultant, then seeing MistressPenwick's glances that pierced every masculine heart, and her dazzlingbeauty drunk in by all; his face grew dark, and jealousy possessedhim, and fear crept in, and he vowed to wed her at the earliestmoment. 

"'Tis Sir John Penwick's daughter, Mistress Katherine Penwick, myfather's ward, " and he led her to their midst. 

"She is a wondrous beauty, " many murmured as they saw her. 

"Dazzling, by God!" whispered some of the masculines that stood apart, and there were others that spoke not a word, but stood spell-boundat her majestic mien. A gorgeously apparelled figure swept to hisLordship's side, and a little hand crept into his and black flashingeyes looked up, and a soft voice whispered, --

"Thou didst never speak of--this, the most charming of thypossessions, heretofore, Cedric. I knew not thou didst inherit sobeauteous a being from thy father. But Sir John, --England has notheard of his death--"

"Sh! sh! she does not know, " Cedric answered. 

"Not know--ah!" and Lady Constance drew from him and looked atKatherine with malice and thought evil; "'tis not Sir John's daughter, 'tis some trick Cedric plays upon his guests and me; it goes to showthat his relations to her are ill, and his intentions are to raise herto our level. Nay, nay, Cedric, I will lift thee beyond such a thing. When he has time alone, I will gain his ear and taunt him with adebauched youth; free from heart or conscience; a rake to betray; andI will win him from beauteous, youthful Bacchante. 'Tis his pleasureto swear and swagger; but at twenty-three he should not begin tocarouse with female beauty. 'Tis time, and I will tell him so, for himto bring a lady as wife to the castle. I will speak to him at once. Hehas gone too far. "

Lord Cedric drew Katherine to inspect the trophies of the chase, andexplained their kind and the mode of capture. She with others followedhim; the gentler folk raising frocks from pools and streams of blood, thereby displaying high-heeled shoe and slender ankle and ruffles ofrare lace; and they gathered close about Mistress Penwick, drinking inher simple convent ways of glance and gesture and fresh, young spirit. 

Then his Lordship led them to the grand saloon. It was the gloryof the castle, this great room of forty feet in width and sixty inlength. The ceiling supported upon either side by slender Corinthianpillars, was panelled and exquisitely frescoed with nude femalefigures that were reflected in the highly polished floor of marquetrywoods. The walls were covered with old tapestries and rare pictures. There were two immense windows; the one at the south end of the roomwas quite twenty feet square of Egyptian style. The one to the northreached from floor to ceiling and from side to side. It was draped bya single ruby-coloured velvet curtain that was so artistically caughtby rope-like cords of silk that, by a draw, could be lifted upwardand to either side in luxurious folds, exposing the entire window. Atpresent the great saloon was lighted by seven immense lustres of fiftycandles each, and with twenty sconces each bearing fifteen candles. The effulgent gleam cast from these myriad flames upon polished woods, busts, statues, unique bric-a-brac, gildings, glass and ruby velvetproduced the perfection of old-time splendour. And now, as the gallantbeaux led in fair maidens, it gave the picture life. The greatnorth window disclosed the ice-bound trees in all their primitiveruggedness. The snow and sleet were vigorously driven by the wind thathowled continuously. The light from the forked-tree cast throughthe window rays that resembled moonlight, as they mingled with theradiance within, while outside it twinkled with the sprightliness ofold-fashioned humour. 

Cedric of Crandlemar was noted among beaux old and young of hisintimate acquaintance for the spicy diversions with which heentertained his friends, when they were so fortunate as to be presentat his stag parties. Arriving home after a long absence, he openedhis castle upon St. Valentine's eve with a ball, wherein his guestsappeared in full court costume, in honour of the Royal guests. Theweeks following had been filled with stately entertainment; and nowhis Royal and formal guests had departed, and the throng that passedinto the great saloon were youths and maidens of neighbouringcounties; some college friends and kinsmen. They entered with gayabandon. The beaux were whetted to great curiosity, for 'twaswhispered among them that after a short evening with the ladies, therewere to appear a bevy of London-town dancing girls, who would givethem a highly flavoured entertainment; and, as if Bacchus hadprematurely begun to disport himself in brain and leg of each beau, heset about to ogle and sigh and wish and--pull a stray curl upon somemaiden's forehead or touch her glowing cheek with cold fingers, andsome began to illustrate the _modus operandi_ of taking certain game, while another danced a clog or contra-dance or Sir Roger de Coverley. The maidens caught the spirit and answered back glance for glance, andbeing equipped for conquest let go the full battery of their woman'switchery. It made a charming spectacle of young and noble bloodindulging in the abandon of the hour. There were dames that set thepace for modest maidenhood, that ogled with the younger beaux, --(asthey do to this day). Lady Bettie Payne swept her fingers over thekeys of an Italian spinet, that was ornamented with precious stones, and sat upon a table of coral-veined wood; she sung soft and tenderlyof the amours of Corydon, and neither her voice nor the low tinklingof the spinet reached to the further end of the room where AdrianCantemir played upon the grand harpsichord a dashing piece that wasintended to charm at least, the beauteous Katherine, who stood near. Lord Cedric leant over and begged the Russian count to change the tuneto a gavotte. He did so, and Cedric brought forth Katherine and placedher fair to watch his step till she might catch the changes. Thus hetrained her carefully and with precision, and when Cantemir saw thetrap that held him where he was and gave Lord Cedric the upper-hand, he fell into the spleen and played out of time, and Cedric flungaround and caught his spur in Dame Seymour's petticoats, and he sworebeneath his breath, and Katherine smiled at his discomfiture and herown untutored grace, and she made bold and took a step or two on herown dependence. Then there chimed eight from the old French clock ofblack boule that sat upon a cabinet of tortoise-shell, and it stirredthe swains to think of donning 'broidered waist-coats and high-heeledshoon preparatory to the prandial hour, when fresh game and old winewould strengthen stomach and head; and they bowed low over taperingfingers and cast a parting dart at female hearts, and climbed thegreat oaken stairway to don their fine beaux' dress. 

'Twas eleven o' the clock when the gay company again entered thesaloon; gentlemen in fresh curled periwigs and marvels of laces and'broiderings. They were gay with post-prandium cheer and flushed withwine. 

Lord Cedric clapped his hands and immediately from some curtainedpassage or gallery there was music; each instrument seeming to leadin contrapuntal skill. His Lordship led forth Katherine and othersfollowed in the movement of the passacaille. Mistress Penwick wasbeneath a great lustre that shone down and set her shoulder knotablaze with brilliancy, when Lady Constance passed and noted it. She bit her lip from sheer pain, for 'twas Cedric's mother's prizedbrooch, and through her heart fell a thunderbolt of fear; for now sheknew he would not allow a baggage to wear a thing so valued by themother whose memory he so loved. She began to fear this beauteousthing could not be ousted so easily from her kinsman's castle; and herheart rebelled at thought of losing him for spouse. She raged within, reproaching herself for not hastening in woman's way his avowal; thenshe trembled and grew sick at heart, as she saw his glances that wereso full of love; glances for which she would give the world to win. She, on a sudden, was famishing for this love she had heretofore heldaloof from and yet would rather die than loose, aye, die a thousanddeaths. In her heart she vowed vengeance on that 'twould come betweenthem, and the thought strengthened her for battle, and when again shesaw Cedric's eyes gazing with ardent desire upon Katherine, it waswith comparative calmness. There appeared also a strange thing to her, that this beauty did not appear to notice Cedric--that is, with thenotice due so handsome, rich and titled beau. There was not anotherin the room with so elegant and fine shape; of so great vigour andstrength; none that could be so shaken and yet tender with passion;none that could so command with a look; none that had such pure, nobleblood. And strange to say, for the first time she saw his weaker side;she saw he was both jealous and selfish; she could find a thousandmatters pertaining to his lands and estates that she could find faultwith. He was exacting and heartless with his tenants; not providingfor their welfare as he should, being so great a lord. He hardlyallowed them religious privileges. The church was attached to thecastle by a passage leading from the landing of the stairway in thelibrary, and he had complained that the singing and preaching annoyedhim, and had frequently closed the chapel for this cause, and yeta woman that held sway over such a man's heart could mould him toanything. Why, why had she not married him ere this? She would setabout it at once and bring all these matters concerning his estatesto his notice; 'twould look so noble; 'twas time the castle had amistress, and who would better grace it than the fair Lady Constanceof Cleed Hall? And in Adrian Cantemir she had an ally, for he wasmadly and desperately in love with Lord Cedric's ward. "I should likeher for cousin; she would make Adrian a fine wife, indeed I think Ishould become quite proud of her, " said Constance, as if the matterwas already quite settled. 

After dancing the stately gavotte, it appeared that the whole companybecame heavy and wished for retirement; it might have been a ruse onthe part of beaux, and the fair ones fell into the trap; be it as itmay, the ladies retired. Janet had been waiting at the top of thestairs for her mistress; but her smile of welcome turned to one ofdisgust as she saw her appear with Lady Constance' arm about her. 

"Thou art commencing early, Lady Judas; I have not preened my eyesfor nothing, and this I well know, thou art hot in pursuit of my LordCedric, and thou shalt not have him. 'Tis Mistress Penwick that willqueen it here and make a noble consort for his Lordship, " said Janet. 

"May I come in a minute? Thou hast learnt I am Cedric's cousin, and Ifeel as though I must know thee at once for his sake. "

"Aye, thou art most welcome, Lady Constance, " replied Katharine. And they sat over the fire laughing and chatting. Katherine was allexcitement and full of clatter, for 'twas her first "company, " and shewas a young lady and could now boast of tender looks and words frombeaux. And her volubleness led her to tell of her convent life, of hersudden surprise and pleasure of coming to England; and on and on; andblushing, she thought with Constance that Adrian Cantemir was indeedvery charming, and having become better acquainted with him, she feltsure she admired him quite as much, or more than, any one else; andshe was so fond of music he fairly entranced her when he played. 

"To-morrow he is to teach me battledore and shuttlecock in thelibrary. "

"'Tis great sport and a game that requires some skill, " saidConstance. And thus they talked for one good hour, and in theadjoining room Janet fumed and fretted; for 'twas far past her child'sbedtime. 

"Such late hours are not conducive to youthful roundness and a clearcolour, " she grumbled. Constance yawned and declared she must retire;but she was thirsty and must have a drink, and yet she supposed shemust do without, for all the maids and lackeys were abed. 

"But the more I think of it, the more I want it. I will get itmyself. "

"And I will accompany thee, for I would like not to go alone in sogreat a house, when there is no one astir, " said Katherine. 

They started forth adown the stairs; and following silent, noiselesslike a wraith was Janet, expectant, eager; for she felt she was tosee the opening of a great battle. Constance led the way, carrying ataper. As they traversed some passage, their ears caught the sound ofmusic. They listened a moment, then Constance proposed they snuff thecandle and draw near the sound; "for very like the beaux were havingan orgy, " she said. And Katherine, full of adventure and deeming it afine, young lady's trick--she had heard talk of such things among theolder girls at the convent--opined "'twas the thing to do. " Andthey followed the passage until an arched and curtained doorway butscreened them from that 'twas within the grand saloon, and Constancemade bold to draw aside a finger-breadth of the sweeping curtain andpeep within. 

"Ah! ah! 'tis a beauteous sight!" and she turned from what she sawand drew the curtain to a generous opening; and the two with headstogether looked through. 

Every candle had been snuffed and through the great north window camethe rays from the light in the forked tree that fell like moonlightathwart the saloon. In the centre of the broad gleam was a sylph-likeform, keeping time to the music in a sort of phantom style ofmovement; twisting, shimmering folds that appeared to effuse ascintillation of opal shades. 'Twas the chaconne; slow, graceful andfull of romance, the full major lifting and seeming to float, at lastdying imperceptibly into the minor passacaille. About were seated, carelessly and after the manner of men who had pulled at the bottlefor hours in the hunting field and were now somewhat overcome bywarmth and _ennui_, beaux old and young, 'suaging their appetite ofmouth and eye by wine and women. 

"'Tis the King sets the pace!" said one, close to the curtain. 

"Egad!" said another. "He not only sets it, but carries it along. Hehas fine wenches at his beck and call. " 'Twas evident 'twas but thebeginning of revelry; a sort of bacchanalian prelude to what mightcome later. No sooner was this dance finished than another began. Some lithe creature came forth to dance, in bright scarlet, thepassacaglia. The glasses were refilled and the noise became moreboisterous; and the scandal more flagrant. The candles were set aglowagain and tables were brought for those wishing to gamble. And onerichly dressed and full of wine sprung upon a table and held aloft aglass and called forth:

"Here, here is to his Lordship of Crandlemar and to a long life offree and easy celibacy. " Now 'twas said Lord Cedric could drink morewithout becoming undignified than any other man of his company, but itseemed he gave himself to the spirit of the moment and had drunk deep. When the young blood upon the table offered the toast, Cedric sprungas if shot to the table, where he staggered and would have fallen, hadit not been for the youth who bore him up. Holtcolm, in his drunkenanxiety for his neighbour's steadiness, stood near him and withtender, maudlin solicitude began to flick the grains of bergamotscented snuff from the lace of Lord Cedric's steenkirk. At the sametime from the glass he held there spilled on his Lordship's brocadedcoat of blue and silver a good half-pint of wine. Cedric upon beingbalanced had forgotten what he wanted to say, and turned to hissupporter. 

"What was it Holt-colm--I was goin' to shay?" Neither could remember, so his Lordship continued with what seemed to weigh upon his mind:

"'Tis thish: 'tis my deshire thish should be made a memorable--a nightworthy of remembrance. I'm about to espoushe my fair ward--and this ispositively my lasht appearance _en bout_--I know and am fully aware_abondance de bien ne nuit_ until a better comes. To-night will be myfinale de-bauch--sho; tell the red beauty to come here. " He sat downupon the table and gazed with heavy, drooping lids upon the dancinggirl that came toward him. "Thou art a saucy baggage; but--hic--thouart false of colour and--hic--flesh. Thy lips and cheeks are stainedwith rouge--hic--and thy flesh--is--hic--pushed to prominence by highstays--by God, it turns my stomach to--nausea. " And he turned over andlay flat upon the table. "Bring on another--shay--we must have themoonlight beauty again. " Katherine was well frightened and madeseveral efforts to persuade her companion to go away. It was part ofConstance' programme to cause Katherine's disgust at sight of Cedric'swantonness. She felt it had been accomplished, and as there were othermatters to be about, she turned with her and together they groped backup the stairs in the darkness, and found Janet feigning sleep in achair before the fire, Constance yawned and declared herself to betired out, and bade Katherine _adieu_. Janet closed the door after herand in haste began putting her mistress to bed. And after giving her abath and rubbing, she snuffed the candles and went to her own room toslip out again and go below stairs and find the curtained doorway, there to watch and wait for that which was to come. She had seen asmuch as Constance and Katherine, and she determined to see even more. She would know how Lord Cedric appeared in his cups. There was nothinganomalous in what was before her; 'twas as she had often seen in thegrand house in which she had served as maid; the same licentiousness, wild riot and debaucheries that have been since the world stood. Shesaw 'twas Cedric that drank as deep as any, and could rip out oathsas trippingly as his swollen tongue would allow; but he was neithervulgar nor lewd. Janet looked with pride at his clear flushed face, so handsomely featured; his jewelled hands and fine round legs thattapered to slender ankles. 'Twould be a fine pair when he espoused hermistress, and she would help him to it as soon as he liked. Her heartwent out to him the more when she saw he cared not for the favoursoffered him by the dancing wenches as they touched his flowing blackcurls with caressing hands. He turned upon his stomach on the tableand hid his face in his hands and remained thus until the candles wereagain snuffed and a maid came out into the improvised moonlight ingipsy dress and a fortune-teller's cup and wand. She wore a masque andveil tight wrapped about her head. She danced with less skill thanany that had come before. She lisped forth 'twas her trade to tellfortunes, and thereupon a fop reached forth and pulled her to him, andshe began a startling story that had somewhat of truth in it; and toeach one her assertions or predictions had so much of truth in them itprovoked interest among them all. Lord Cedric called from the table:

"The wench tells ear-splitting truths; send her here, she shall givemy pasht, present--and future. " If they had not been so blinded bywine, they might have noticed her haste to go to his bidding. Shelooked closely at his hand and the sediment of his wine-cup. 

"Thou art madly and blindly in love!" said she, lispingly. 

"Good! good!" was sent forth from those about; and Cedric struck hisfist upon the table, --

"'Madly'--yes; but by God not 'blindly'! haste on, wench. "

"She loves admiration--"

"She would not be half a woman if she--"

"She is in love with one of Russian birth, " went on the gipsy. Cedricfrowned and held quiet. "There is one who hast loved thee from earlychildhood--a--a kinswoman--she would make thee a noble spouse and lovethee well with a warm nature to match thine own. "

"Thou tellest false, for I know not such an one. I have loved manykinswomen since childhood, and they have loved me, but not toespousal!"

"'Tis here--her name--'tis--C-o-n-s--"

"Constance, by God! but there thy lisping tongue prattles ill, for sheloves me as a brother, and I love her as if she were my sister. " Nowthe gipsy drew back as if the man before her had stricken her, thenhastened to cover her emotion with a sudden look into the cup and anexclamation of--

"Ah! ah!"

"What seest thou?" said Cedric. 

"A thing that means more to thee than aught else; 'tis an awful thingif thou shouldst choose wrong!"

"Haste, wench, what is it?" Cedric was growing impatient. 

"Thy kinswoman will bring thee a fine heir--"

"By God, the other will bring me a dozen then!"

"Nay, 'tis not so, she--" She stepped close to his ear and whispered. 

"Thousand devils, thou infernal, lying pot-house brawler--" and Cedricglared fiercely upon her and bent forward, his hand falling upon hissword-hilt; then he grew red at his hot action, and looked about tosee if 'twas noticed. "Get thee gone, thou saucy, lisping minx. " Thepoor thing was well-nigh distraught with fear of this man whose angercame like a thunderbolt, and she fell heavy upon the lackey whoconducted her forth. She slipped through the corridors like a fastfleeting shadow, and Janet followed her close and saw her enter acertain chamber apart where she was met by one of the dancers; and'twas Lady Constance that threw from her the gipsy attire and put abag of gold in the celebrated Babbet's waiting fingers; and with awarning pressure of finger-on-lip, she came forth and fled to her owngrand apartments, and Janet watched until the latch clicked upon thisgreat mistress of beauty, title, wealth and virtue. 

CHAPTER VI

JANET'S PHILOSOPHY

"This world of ours hangs midway 'twixt zenith and nadir: the superiorand inferior: the positive and negative; and 'tis a pertinent thoughtthat susceptible human nature takes on the characteristic of the oneor the other. One is away up in zenithdom or away down in nadirdom, one is not content to go along the halfway place and see the good thatlies ever before them. But, again, there are natures that are notsusceptible to extremes; as a simile: a maid whose soul is evervibrant with the ineffable joys of the world to come, walks by theseashore and mayhap beholds the full moon rise from the water and castto her very feet a pathway of gold, and she will quickly join herselfto those who see like visions, and pathway will lie against pathwayand produce a sea of gold; on the other hand, if she be a foolishvirgin and looks not before her, but tosses high head in pride orwalks with downcast eyes and smiles and blushes and smirks and flingsaside thoughts of deity, until she becomes submerged; on a suddenGabriel will blow and the world will cease revolving, and then--wherewilt thou be, oh, maid that hath fluttered from sweet to sweet andforgotten thy prayers?" There came a great happy sigh from thetestered bed--

"Thou hast powerful breath, Janet, and 'twas an immense bitterwortbush thou were beating about. I am sorry I forgot my prayers. I willsay them twenty times to-day, to make up. "

"And it's the heathen that repeateth a prayer oft; thou hadst bettersay 'God, have mercy upon my untowardness!' once, from thy heart, thanto say thy rosary from now until doom with thy mind upon a bumptiousRussian. "

"What is the day, Janet?"

"'Tis as bleak and stormy as one could wish. "

"What is the hour?"

"Eleven. "

"Eleven? and I was to meet Count Adrian at this very hour. He is toteach me battledore and shuttlecock. "

"'Tis a fussy game, played more with the heart than hand; canst giveit up; let me rub thee to sleep again?"

"Nay, for I would not disappoint him or--myself. "

An hour later she stood opposite the count in the great library, swinging the battledore with grace. There was much soft laughter andgay repartee; and Adrian followed the movements of Katherine's litheform, clad in the soft, clinging grey of the convent. She becameremiss; for Adrian's glances were confusing, and intentional lacheswere made by him, that he might come near her, almost touching herhair in bending to recover the ball. She was flushed and eager, triumphant of a fine return, when the door flew open and in came anumber of gallants, among whom was Lord Cedric. His face flushed awarm red and he shot a glance of jealousy at Adrian as he bent lowover Katherine's hand. After a few commonplace remarks, they passed onup the stairway to the broad landing, on which was an arched door thatled to the passage opening into the organ loft of the chapel. In a fewmoments there came the sound of the organ. Katherine swung low herbattledore and breathed forth:

"Let us listen; 'tis sweet, who plays, dost know?"

"'Tis St. Mar, a fine fellow; a soldier, duelist and gallant. "

"'Thou dost flank duelist by two words that should scorn being soseparated!'"

"'Twas a happy wording; for if thou shouldst meet him, thou wiltfall but two-thirds in love, whereas, if otherwise worded 'twould bealtogether. "

"Thou art giving my heart an evil reputation; for after all 'tis notso easy won. "

"'Tis true, as I know, more than any one else, for my heart misgaveme from the moment I first set eyes on thy beauteous countenance; andsince I have been in wild despair, not knowing if thou hast a heartfor any save thy nurse and my Lord Cedric; for 'tis to them thy heartseems bent. " There was neither shadow nor movement of fair expressionon Mistress Penwick's face, as she answered calmly, --

"Thou sayest well. I love my nurse--she has been mother too, and Ihonour Lord Cedric as a good man should be honoured, and one whom myfather chose to be his daughter's guardian and holder in trust of herestates. "

"Estates"--'twas a grand word and went straight to Cantemir's heart;for 'twas something to espouse so beautiful a maiden that had demesneas well. 

Katherine was listening to the chords of the organ, and she bentforward eagerly. Her thoughts flew back to the convent where she hadenjoyed a pure religious life undisturbed by the trammels of the greatouter world. 

"Let us go, " said she, "I would see who 'tis that plays!"

She led the way up the broad stairs and through the passage into theorgan loft, and at first sight of her Cedric was well-nigh besidehimself with delight; for he took it, she had come to be with him. There was a young fop at the organ in rich and modish attire, butotherwise of unattractive and common appearance. 

Katherine cast upon him her entire attention, and there came thatin her face that drew the glance of every eye. 'Twas as if she wasentranced with the player, as well as the sounds he brought forth fromthe organ. Cedric be-thought him 'twas an unfortunate oversight tohave learnt not to thrum upon some sort of thing wherewith to draw theattention if not admiration of such a maid as this. And he straightwaymade avowal to send at once for tutor and instrument; a violin, whenplayed as he might learn to, would perhaps be as successful in itslodestone requirements as any other thrumming machine. "'Twas aninstrument could be handled to such an effect. A man could so wellshow white, jewelled fingers; display a rare steenkirk to pillow itupon; and withal, a man could stand free and sway his body gracefullythis way and that; yes, 'tis the thing to do; she may yet look at meas she now looks at St. Mar!" so thought Cedric. The piece was softand gentle, with a pathetic motif running through it. Katherine becameso rapt she drew closer and closer, until at last she stood beside St. Mar. He became confused and halted, and finally left off altogetherand turned to read the admiration in the azure blue of her eyes. 

"Thou art from France, and dost thou know many of the greatmusicians?"

"Aye, a great many--"

"Hast thou met the great Alessandro Scarlatti? I understand he createda _furore_ as he passed through Paris from London. "

"'Tis true, and I was most fortunate to hear him play portions of'_L'Onesta nell Amore. _' Queen Christina herself accompanied him toParis, and wherever he played she was not far away. "

"We used much of his sacred music at the convent; 'tis such warm, tender and sympathetic harmony. He must be a very great man!"

"He hath a son, Domenico, not two years old, who already shows a greatear for his father's music; and they say he will even be a greatermusician than his father. It is possible Alessandro will visitLondon. "

"'Twould be wondrous fine! I will go and hear him play, surely"--Cedric interrupted their musical converse, --

"'Tis cold for thee, I fear, in this damp place; I beg thee to allowme to lead thee to the library. " And without further words he led heraway, through the library and on beyond to the saloon, where he beggedher to favour him with songs he was quite sure she could sing, namingthose he most wished to hear. 

Then in came Lady Bettie Payne with three or four others, and theybabbled and chattered, and as Lord Cedric stood near he heard themspeak of Lady Constance' indisposition. 

"Ah, poor Constance, I was not aware she was ill!" said he, and hewent forth to inquire of her condition and find if aught could be donefor her enlivenment to health and spirits. When he returned andsaw Katherine so surrounded, and his guests engaged at cards andbattledore and music, and some in converse as to whether they shouldride forth to the chase, he was somehow stirred to think of Constancelying alone in her chamber; and there recurred to him the tale of thenight before; 'twas she that loved him. He felt sorry for her if sucha thing were true; but 'twas not possible, and to convince himself hewould go to her and give her the brotherly kiss as heretofore, andtake notice if there was aught in her manner to denote verification ofthe miserable gipsy's story. He would put an end to such feeling, if'twere there. He sent word if he might see her for himself, and beassured her illness was not feigned, in order she might shirk theduty--like a wicked sister--of presenting her fair face for theenlightenment of the gloom that seemed about to penetrate, fromwithout, the castle walls. 

Constance lay propped amongst pillows, in a gorgeous _peignoir_ oflace, arranged for the moment to display advantageously her plump armsand a slender white neck encircled with pearls. Her brow was high andnarrow; her dark hair was carefully arranged in wavy folds uponthe pillow; her eyes, under drooping lids, glittered coldly andimperiously. The nose was straight, and too thin for beauty. Her lips, touched with rouge, were also thin and full of arrogance. There shelay, impatient for the love of this one man, who was e'en now at thedoor. 

When Constance was a baby, she had watched Cedric upon his nurse'sknee taking his pap, and a little later amused him with her dolls. Shehad played with him at bat and ball; had ridden astride behind himupon a frisking pony; had learned and used the same oaths when nonewere by to note her language but grooms and stable-boys--always whenAngel, the head nurse, was not about. She would outswear the young ladand then tease him because he could not find words to equal hers. They had played at "Lord and Lady, " and rode about the terraces ina miniature sedan chair, and cooks and scullions winked and nodded, wisely and predictively. And when they came to man's and woman'sestate, Cedric's regard for her was as a brother's; but hers forhim, alas! was deep love. It seemed to her as if the world was justbeginning; a bright, glorious world full of untold wealth of love, when she thought perhaps she might yet win him for her own; and indeedshe thought, as already possessing him. On his part there wasbeing born in his heart a great joy: that of a new and first love. Heretofore he and Constance had known all things in common, and nowsuddenly he was satiate of her. But Katherine, he had thought, wasso young and bright and beautiful; a child that had lived within thecloister and had grown to maidenhood in sweet innocence. 'Twas likefinding in some tropic clime, embowered and shaded by thick, waxyleaves, a glorious, ripe pomegranate, which he would grasp and drinkfrom its rich, red pulp, a portion that would cool and 'suage aburning thirst; while Constance, by the side of Katherine, was like arusset apple, into whose heart the worm of worldly knowledge had eatenits surfeit and taken all sweetness away, and the poor thing hung low, all dried and spiritless upon a broken bough to the convenience of anypassing hand. "Nay, nay; give me only the rich, ripe pomegranate; myKatherine, Kate! Kate!" and blinded thus by the fever of desire topossess only his sweet Kate, he swung wide the door of Constance'sroom and passed to the bedside and leant over and kissed her. 

She flushed red as she met his eyes--now cold andunimpassioned--looking into the very depths of her own. He saw thesudden scarlet that mantled her face, and knew--knew she loved him. And his heart went out to her, for he was attached to the russetthing, an attachment heretofore unnamed, but now--now suddenlychristened with that parsimonious appellation--pity; the objectof which is never satisfied. But he had naught else to give, forKatherine had suddenly impoverished him. 

"'Tis generous of thee, Cedric, to break from thy gay company; whatare they engaged in?"

"Various, --some at cards, others at music--"

"And what was thy pastime that thou couldst sever thyself soagreeably?"

"I was listening to Bettie, and she on a sudden remarked of thyindisposition. I straightway came to note thy ailing. I have talkednot with thee in private since thy arrival, and there is much news. Hast seen her, Constance, to talk with her?"

"Whom meanest thou? There are many 'hers' in the house!"

"The beauty that flew to me over seas, of course; whom else could Imean?"

"Oh! oh! to be sure; the maid from Quebec. Aye, I talked with hersome. Thou sayest she is Sir John Penwick's daughter?"

"Aye, and she's a glorious beauty, eh, Constance?"

"But how camest thou by her?"

Cedric reached to that nearest his heart and drew forth Sir John'sletter and gave it opened into Constance's hand. She read it withblazing eyes and great eagerness; for 'twas a bundle of weapons shewas examining and would take therefrom her choice. She flashed forthqueries as to the probability of this or that with a semblance ofinterest that disarmed Cedric and made him wonder if this womanloved to such an extent, she could fling aside her own interestsand submerge all jealousy, all self-love into the purest of allsacrifices, abnegation?

"What! no estates? That looks ill, for at one time Sir John wasaffluent, for Aunt Hettie has told me of him many a time. "

"But he lost it all, as I've heard ofttime from father; he has spokennot infrequent of Sir John's high living; he had great demesne, agreat heart and great temper; and 'tis the last named that has fallenclear and uncumbered to his daughter; and the heart will be found bycareful probing, no doubt; and the demesne she will have when shecondescends to take me as spouse. "

"Thou, thou espouse her?" and Constance feigned surprise, as if 'twerea new thing to her, when in reality she had suffered agony from itsrepetition. 

"Aye, and why not, pray? Am I not of ripe years and know my mind?"

"And why so?--because thou shouldst wed one of high degree and fortuneand worldly wisdom. "

"Nay, thou art wrong. 'Tis enough that she is of noble blood fromfather and mother; and I have fortune for us both; and worldlywisdom--bah! Constance, dost thou expect her to know all the intriguesof court, when she is but lightly past fifteen?"

"Fifteen?--Now by heaven, Cedric, thou wouldst not lie to me?"

"Nay, Con, I would not--I have no object in this case, 'tis a truth. "

"Fifteen, and indeed she is well-formed for such youth!"

"And what a beautiful and innocent face she has, too?"

"Beauteous, admitted; but innocent of what?"

"Innocent of all we know; she knows naught of this great world. Janetkeeps all evil from her. We cannot conceive of such innocence in anyone. The child has eaten the simplest things all her life; milk andgruel and beef-whey; 'tis no great wonder she is so pink and strong;Janet says in hand-to-hand battle in their convent chamber, the childhath thrown her oft in fair wit of strength;--such rough sport was notindulged in openly and Janet taught her thrusts and flings to broadenher chest and strengthen hip and back; she is stout and strong, andyet she makes one think of a beautiful flower until she falls inanger; then she shows a stout temper as well, and is wilful to allsave Janet, who governs her by some strange method I ne'er saw before;for 'tis odd to see servant lead mistress. But, 'twas an awful thinghappened me; I knew not, or had forgotten rather, the arrival of thebabe Sir John speaks of. As thou knowest, I came home unexpectedly, and I found the letter here. It had arrived some time before, andI read it hastily, told Wasson my duty and passed the letter to aconvenient pocket, and thence until the night of the _masque_ forgotall about the arrival of the infant. I was masqued, mad and raving atChristopher for not mending my bag-pipe, and I rushed swearing afterhim and Mistress Penwick heard my oaths, my broad Scotch ones thouknowest I love to use when in anger. She hates me for it, and I cando naught to win the confidence due me as her rightful guardian. So Ihave settled upon an immediate espousal--"

"Immediate? Thou marry a child, --'tis unseemly--"

"Nay, 'tis not unseemly; 'tis the most proper thing to do. Janetsays so, too, and will urge her to accept me as soon as I wish towed--which shall be at the earliest moment. "

"Janet, indeed! What right has a servant to forward the doings ofmaster and mistress? Thou hadst best wait and have her Grace ofEllswold present her at Court and give the child at least one seasonin London to improve her convent ways. "

"Nay, Constance, if she were to grow one whit more beautiful, 'twouldkill me dead. "

"I am afraid thou art easily slain; indeed, I never knew beauty was somurderous before. Thou art surely beside thyself; she here alone inthis great castle without a mother's love to guide! No one to whom shecan tell her troubles! How must the poor child feel to be forced intoa marriage she most like--hates;"--and her ladyship's voice tookon such a tone of pity one would think she was about to break intotears, --"'tis a barbarous act for thee to talk of marriage so soon toa helpless being. "

"There is nothing helpless about Kate, she can take her own part. Shehath wit and temper for a half dozen. "

"But thou wilt acknowledge if she will have _her_ way she must leavethe castle; for thou art bent upon _thy_ way--thou wilt not listen toreason; so, see to it, and wed her straightway if--if thou canst. " Hewas about to answer her with an oath, when suddenly Katherine stood inthe half-open door smiling over the top of a great bunch of roses. On Constance' face was a look of triumph, as she noted Cedric'sconfusion; but Katherine's words put Cedric at ease. 

"I was told thou wert ill and that Lord Cedric was uneasy and had cometo thee; and I reproached myself for not coming earlier to see if thouwert in need of aught. " She placed the vase of roses on a table close. Constance thanked her and took the tapering fingers and hugged thembetween her own. Katherine looked down upon her thin, arrogant lips;and as there always comes to the innocent--when dealing with those ofother mould--a warning, a feeling of repulsion, took possession of herand she withdrew her hand, and, in a moment, her presence. 

"'Tis a vision of loveliness more refreshing than the nosegay shebrought, thinkest thou not so, Constance?"

"Thou dost see with lover's eyes. How soon wilt thou espouse her;thy house is somewhat taken up by company, who are to remain forthe summer, and how wilt thou get through the irksomeness of grandceremonies without great preparation, for much will be expected of thywealth and rank?"

"Damme, I'll have no pranks and ceremonies and entertainments; Ihave not time. I must wed her at once. Canst thou not see, under thecircumstances, scandal-mongers will make eyes and prate of wrong forme thus to have a young maid here alone?" Now indeed this thought hadnot occurred to Constance in just this way; but now it struck her witha mighty force, and she shot at him a piercing glance through thehalf-closed imperious eyes. 

"I had thought of it, but determined mine should not be the firstbreath to breathe forth scandal, even in private converse with thee;'twas an awful thing for her to come here knowing of thy youth. "

"But she did not know, as that letter and thou thyself can testify. "

"But the world--the Court where thou wilt go to hold sway--they knownot the circumstances. "

"Now, by God, Constance, one would think thou wert an alien to KingCharles' Court. If Charles knew I had here this maid and had not yettaken her to wife--why--why, he would take her away himself and laughme to scorn for my slothfulness. But all London knows by now, as Ihave sent a message to my solicitors. "

"But if she be set upon not marrying thee. What wilt thou do?" LordCedric hung his head, as if in profound meditation; then, withoutraising it, but remaining in a hopeless attitude, said:

"I will guard her from all evil. I will stand between her and harm andwait. And thou must help me, Constance. Wilt thou persuade her?"

"Have I not always taken thy part, even--when thou wert in the wrong?"

When Cedric left Lady Constance, he sought Janet and poured into herwilling ears his woes. He feared lest some gallant should win hisKate's love, and Janet must tell him of some way to win it forhimself. 

Janet now loved Lord Cedric as if he were already Katherine's lord;and she, knowing 'twould be one of the best matches in all England, vowed 'twas best for them to marry at once; beside, Kate, being wilfuland having a tendency for men of foreign birth, with nothing in theirfavour but a small share of good looks and some musical ability, mightsee fit to plant her affections with such, and 'twas plain mischancewould kill Cedric outright, for he was passionate to self-destruction;so when he said: "'Twould be instant death to me, Janet. What wouldstthou advise me to do--thou dost so fully understand her?" she answeredhim:

"'Tis somewhat the way with maidens to sigh for that not easilyattained, and it might serve thee to put forth an indifferent air andincline thy attentions toward another and act a mighty cold lord andcoddle not her desires. "

"That would take so long a time; I cannot wait. I will speak to heronce more, then I will be cold and indifferent as thou sayest. Whenshall I have an opportunity to speak with her?"

"How soon dost expect the chests with my lady's raiment, my lord?"

"On the morrow they should be here. "

"'Tis then she will think of thy goodness, and I will put in a wordfor thee, and perchance thou wilt come to see if all things came, and'twill give thee opportunity to speak of other things. She is wantingmany things for the Chapel; she wishes to reopen it; and 'tis inmatters of religion thy hot tempers will clash, for Mistress Penwickis a Roman Catholic, and thou art of the English Church. "

"Thou art a wise Janet! I will turn the people, and they shall becomeCatholics. "

"Nay, if thou dost undertake it, thy people will rise in arms againstthee. "

"So be it, let her have her way. I'll bother her not in her simpleideas of religion. "

"Not so simple, my lord. Thou hast not seen the teachings of nineyears take root and spread and grow as I have. Dost think she wouldallow thy Chaplain to bind thee to her? Nay, she will be wed by nonebut a priest. But she is kindly intentioned and feels sorry for thypoor Chaplain, who hath so hard a time to keep his flock together. I look any day for her to carry in a cross and hang it behind hispulpit, then--then he will faint away from fright of her. "

"Nay, Janet, he will fall down and worship it, and--her. "

CHAPTER VII

THE BRANTLE

Mistress Penwick sat in her chamber, trying to calm herself to reason;for the chest had come from London-town laden with splendid raiment;all had been unpacked and examined, and 'twas enough to cure allgrievances, the very sight of such adornings; but her ladyshipwas disappointed that there were no stays. Janet for the time wasdistraught and said:

"I would that had been sent that would mend thy untowardness and bringthy temper to a comelier mould. 'Tis past time for thee to clothethyself in that in which thy noble lord hath seen fit to purchase forthee; I heard some moments since the arrival of the hunters and it'stime--" There was a sounding rap and 'twas his Lordship's lackeybegging the admittance of his master. Janet bade Lord Cedric enter. Hecame forth in riding-coat and field boots and rattling spurs. MistressPenwick vouchsafed a nod of recognition and turned her eyes away. Thehot blood mounted Cedric's face and at a look at Janet understood allwas not well; he essayed to speak with coolness:

"Art not happy with the contents of thy chest, Kate?"

"'Tis more than one could expect, but--sadly it lacked that I wishedfor most--a thing that marks one as lady and not child in grown-uppeople's clothes. "

"And what might that be, Kate?" for indeed he had forgotten about herorder that stays be sent. 

"Simple, modest, commonplace stays, my lord, " and she said it slowlyand with a mighty air. 

"Nay, nay--stays they did forget?" and he stamped his foot in seemingwrath and broke forth:--"I'll thrash that damned lackey blue forso forgetting!" and he turned as if to quit the room, but MistressPenwick ran to stay his hurry. 

"Nay, thou wilt not hurt him, 'twas not his fault, 'twas not by hishand the order was writ. " And Cedric feigned further show of temper, and Katherine's tapering fingers ventured upon either lapel of hislordship's velvet coat, and he turned red and white and could hardlycontain himself with delight. Janet, fearing a confusion of hermaster's words, put forth her arms and drew away Katherine's hands andsaid, softly:

"His Lordship will not thrash the lad, if thou wilt don thy mostbeautiful frock and forget the stays. "

"That will I, if 'tis his desire; and--" she looked up into hisLordship's face with a look that was almost tender--"thou wilt say noword to the boy?" His voice was soft and pleading as he answered:

"Anything thou wouldst ask of me thus, thou couldst have it withoutthe asking. "

"Then, my lord, when there is aught I would have, I may take itwithout thy spoken yea?"

"Nay, not so; that would be highway robbery; for thou wouldst takefrom me the dearest thing that has yet happened to me; 'tis thy sweetpleading for that 'tis already thine. "

"'Tis a generous thing for thee to say, but if I might have perfectfreedom to do all things as I desire--"

"And what are the 'all things' that thou wouldst desire?"

"I should like to have many changes made in the Chapel, and bring onewho is well able to play on the great organ. And 'twould be a wondrousgood thing to bring from the village of Crandlemar youths for thetraining of a choir, such as I have heard are of much repute among thepoor lads for strength and sweetness of voice; and after all thingsare made ready, have the Chapel opened again with pomp of priest andsolemn ceremony. "

"If such are thy desires, I will put forward the work at once. " Nowindeed Katherine forgot the sad lack of stays and for the momentforgot all else save that the handsome Cedric stood before her flushedand eager to gratify her every whim. He, one of the richest noblemenin Great Britain, whom she could have for a look; the stretching outof the hand. And she quite well knew that he was ready at the firstopportunity to renew the subject of marriage, and for this very thingshe turned from him thinking that some time she would consider hisproposal. So again he went from her presence with a throbbing in hisbreast that was half-hope, half-despair and knew not what to do. 

'Twas the last ball at Crandlemar Castle, for the hunting season wasover. A goodly company gathered from neighbouring shires, and MistressPen wick was the mark of all eyes in a sweeping robe of fawn thatshimmered somewhat of its brocadings of blue and pink and broideringsof silver. She had decorously plaited a flounce of old and rare laceand brought it close about her shoulders and twined her mother'sstring of pearls about her white throat, the longer strands reachingbelow her waistband and caught low again upon the shoulder with a knotof fresh spring violets. Cedric stood apart with his kinsman, hisGrace of Ellswold, who enjoyed the freedom of speech of all Charles'Court; indeed it appeared that not only looseness of tongue but moralsalso held sway in the most remote as well as the best known portionsof the kingdom. And at his Grace's first sight of Katherine he utteredan oath and some other expression that savoured of common hackney; forCedric had been telling him of the soothsayer's words. 

"The soothsayer spoke false and I'll wager thee the East Forest thouhast coveted against thy Welsh demesne. I tell thee, Cedric, a jewelhast thou found. Never have I seen her equal. And that is JohnPenwick's daughter!" and he took a great pinch of snuff and lookedat Cedric. "She will make thee a fine wife, --but who is the man thatdangles after her now? Indeed, I would say thou hadst better watch outfor him. I do not like the look in his eyes; he is--"

"Egad, uncle! I would as soon think of being jealous of--of thee. Heis Constance' cousin from Russia, and as she is staying here for sometime, at her request I asked him also. Bah! I could never imagine himas a rival!"

"Well, so be it; but how about the wager of the East Forest?"

"Thou art on the winning side. So thou couldst not wager without anopponent, and 'twill be futile to find one, lest thou dost charge uponsome landless bumpkin. "

"And how soon wilt thou espouse her?"

"At the first moment of her consent--"

"Consent 'tis thou art waiting for? Thou hadst better keep her close;for if his Majesty gains inkling of such fresh, young beauty and findsher out of bans, 'twill go hard with thee to sword thy way to a ladyin waiting or--perhaps----"

"'Sdeath, by God! I had not thought of that! 'Twould be too boldand out of place, she being under my guardianship, to press her toespousal without fair consent;--but I know best; 'twould be for herown safety, is it not so, uncle?"

"If she knows naught of the frailties of all mankind and the Court inparticular, I should say as thou art her rightful guardian and thesuitor chosen of her father, and 'twas thy wish for her immediateespousal, 'twould best serve thee to use all manner of means to gainher consent, and if this prove abortive, I would abduct the maid andhave thy Chaplain ready to marry thee to her; and after he pronouncesthee man and wife, what can she do but love thee straightway for thystrong handling; 'tis the way of women. I would marry such a beauty inhaste, ere another takes the vantage. "

Lord Cedric chose Mistress Penwick for the brantle and led her forth. They moved with such majestic grace, they attracted all eyes. Itseemed Cedric could not contain himself for love of Kate, and he vowedto gain her ear this very night and know for a certainty if she wouldever marry with him. 

It pleased Mistress Penwick to dance with Cedric, for she was more atease with him than any other, and she was hardly pleased when he badeher rest and took her to another room, where they were quite alone. But she would not sit down, and stood fanning and smiling up into hisface, saying half pettishly:

"Thou art soon tired; the brantle has just begun. "

"Kate, hast thou patience?"

"Aye, but 'tis of dwarfish mould. "

"Kate, dost love any human being?"

"Aye, 'tis a poor thing that loves not. "

"Dost love me, Kate?"

"As a father or brother and as one should love her father's bestfriend. "

"Then--give me a--kiss as thou wouldst give thy brother. " The hotblood suffused her face. At sight of it, Cedric's heart leapt with amighty gladness. 

"Not having had a brother, I know not how to give that thouaskest;--and 'tis unseemly of thee to ask for that that makes oneblush for very shame to be questioned of. "

"Blushes are not always for shame--'tis for love, sometimes. Kate, 'tis time I knew thy heart, for thou knowest I am about to die forlove of thee. Dost not understand that thy father wished thee to marryat an early age and to marry the son of his bosom friend to whom hegave his daughter's keeping?"

"Nay, he said naught of my marriage with thee, as he knew not thouwert in existence. "

"Aye, of a truth he hath done so; it is here next my heart, " and hedrew forth Sir John's letter. "Wilt read but the lines I show thee;for there are secrets belonging to thy father and me alone?" He markedthe lines with his jewelled finger, his love locks falling against hercheek as she read: "My last wish and the one of greatest import to mychild is that thou find for her a spouse of rank and fortune. 'Tis mydesire she marry early to such an one. --Ah! Cedric, if thou had hadsta son, their union would have been our delight--"

"Ah! ah!" and Katherine's eyes grew wide. "Thou hast said naught ofthis--as it appears here before me now; and it might have been toolate. "

"Too late! What meanest thou?"

"The noble--nay, now I cannot tell thee, for 'tis a secret but halfmine. "

"My God! who dares have secrets with thee save thy nurse and guardian;whose damned heart hath played the lover to thee?" His hand fell uponhis sword and he drew it half way. "What guest hath so dishonouredname as to make profit of that I have already made known as myespoused? Tell me, Kate!" Seeing her frightened eyes, that were justlyso, he pushed back the jewelled hilt and threw his arm about her anddrew her close, so close she was well-nigh crushed by his warm andpassionate embrace and choked by pulverulent civet as her face waspressed against the folds of his steenkirk. She felt the tumultuousbeating of his heart, and 'twas a great, new feeling came to her andshe trembled and swayed, and loved and hated both, in one brief momentand drew from him and looked with angry eyes. "Kate, Kate, what saidstthe false lover; tell me every word. Did he ask thee for espousal?"Now Mistress Penwick faltered and flushed, for she dare not tell himwho her suitor was and thought if she told him well what was said, he would not press her for name, and 'twas meet she should tell himtruthfully. She feared his hot temper not a little, for she had heardthat one time he locked Lady Constance in the tower for two whole daysfor telling him a falsehood. 

"Aye, he asked me to espouse him. "

"And what didst thou say?"

"I said him nay, 'twas too soon to wed, 'twould be wiser to speak ayear hence. "

"And what answer did he make thee?"

"He said the king's sister, Princess Mary, when but ten marriedWilliam, Prince of Orange, and--"

"And what?" said Cedric, leaning forward his hand upon his sword, acurse between his white teeth and a line of light from betweenhis half-closed lids like the flashing of a two-edged sword. "What--'sdeath?" And Kate trembled forth--

"And fifteen was none too soon to wed. "

"And did he say naught else appertaining thereto?"

"Nay, I know naught else he could say!" and the innocence of herinquiring face proved his evil imagining a perjury. He caught hisbreath in a flutter of sheer heart's-ease. 

"Now who is this swain who hath taken advantage of my invitation andcome up from among the rustics yonder to make love to thee? I willrun him through the first time I meet his insolence. Who is he, Kate;what's his name?" She vouchsafing no answer, aroused his suspicion. 

"'Sdeath! what ails thy tongue? Haste thee, what is his name?" and heglared at her, furiously, 'til she was well nigh cold with fright. 

"Sooth, thou art strong with temper for the very meagre cause a maidenwill not bewray a poor man's name. "

"Poor, indeed, when such as thou bestoweth upon him the pricelessgift of thy heart as a locker for his secrets; by God! give his name, quick, ere I slay a dozen for one paltry fool that would rob me!"She read aright the steely light 'neath his half-closed lids and wasdistraught, for she dared not give him the name of one of his guests;for the noble Russian Adrian Cantemir had pressed his suit and wasupheld by Lady Constance, who told him of Katherine's vast demesne, knowing well he could not marry one without estates, as his were ingreat depletion. And the noble Cantemir had well nigh won her heart byhis voice and music, and now that he was in danger of Lord Cedric'sanger, he became an object of commiseration, and not for her lifewould she give his name to this raging man with murder in his heart. 

"Nay, nay, my lord; give me grace. I have told thee truly all else, and now I beg--"

"Dost thou say thou wilt not give his name? Then, by God, I will cutmy way to his black heart!" He drew his sword and strode forth toslash the curtain that barred his way, and Katherine caught hisupstretched arm and fell upon her knees, bursting into tears. At sightof tears and touch of fingers he dropped his sword and raised herquickly, saying:

"Nay, nay, not tears. Dry them, Sweet, they wring my heart to greaterpain than all thy secrets, and for this one thou boldest I will takethy shoulder-knot instead. " She looked up surprised at the suddensurcease of storm, and seeing his handsome face becalmed, shewondered at the magic that had caused it, and her heart smote her forwithholding aught from one that loved her so. She hastily drew fromher shoulder the knot of violets that were still humid with freshness;and as she drew the fastenings the lace fell from her shoulder, disclosing her too-low cut bodice, and Cedric's quick eye saw why thescreen of lace was used, and with trembling fingers caught up the laceand drew from his steenkirk a rare jewel and pinned it safe as deftlyas her maid. He touched her hand with his warm red lips, saying ina voice resonant as music: "God bless thee, Kate, for thy sweetmodesty!" He thought if the modish beauties in yonder rooms couldboast of such perfect charm, 'twould not be hid by a fall of lace anda shoulder knot of violets. And he pressed the nosegay to his heartand left them there, folded within her father's letter. A calmnesssettled upon him, such as had not come to him heretofore, andtrembling with happiness he led Katherine forth in the brantle; shefeeling quite like an heroine for being able to hold her secret fromthis passionate man. 

For all the convent had environed Mistress Pen wick with sacredinfluences, and she had absorbed its most potent authority, religion, yet even that was not efficacious to the annihilating that 'twasborn within; and one can but excuse the caprice and wantonness of acoquette, when 'tis an inheritance. She adhered pertinaciously to therequirements of a lady of title, and loved opulence and luxury andadmiration. She foresaw--young as she was and reared as she had beenwith all simpleness--an opportunity, being a noblewoman and the wardof a wealthy titled gentleman, to become a favourite at Court. Thisidea, however, was not altogether original; for Lady Constancehad given her a graphic description of her presentation, and therequirements due to all ladies of note. And while Katherine fullyintended to carry out her father's wishes for an early and noblemarriage; yet she felt there was no haste; she was sure it would behis desire for her to enjoy one of those seasons at Court she hadheard so much converse of. 'Tis not much wonder, having been so shorta time in the great world and having won the hearts of two noblemen, she should wish for fresh fields to conquer. But now was not the timefor a trip to London, for spring was upon them and there was much tolook after in Crandlemar. His Lordship had sadly neglected his dutiesin keeping up the village and looking after the poor. The churchmust be built up. It had not occurred to her that there were otherreligions beside the Catholic; and when Lord Cedric's chaplain madeknown to her the difficulties of arranging Catholic orders in aProtestant Church, she could not understand. Janet explained to herwhat she would be compelled to surmount to bring her religion to bethe accepted one in Crandlemar. Again her mind was turned to CountAdrian, and she thought 'twould be well to wed with one of herown faith, and he was as warm a Catholic as herself. Cedric was aProtestant and a very poor one, indeed it seemed he had no religion. And yet he had told her that he petitioned not to God for aught;but 'twas his diurnal duty to thank Him for His benevolence andchastening; ever deeming chastisement the surety of his alien thoughtor action, and he speedily mended his ways or made an effort to; butwhat great sin he had committed that her love should not be given himwas more than he could tell, and he should keep on trying to find outwhat his faults were, that he might receive that he wished for most. He wrangled not of religion, but ever kept the divine spark in his ownheart alive, if not fanned to flame. Indeed so indifferent was hisLordship to the great questions of the times, he thought not of theancient monastery in the depths of the vast forest upon his estate, where still resided recluses. 'Twas seldom he thought of these simplemonks. They lived in seeming quiet, enjoying the freehold of theircastle. But there was a storm brewing, and in its midst his Lordshipwas to be severely reminded of their presence. 

CHAPTER VIII

THE ANCIENT MONASTERY

Lord Cedric's guests all departed after the Saxon dance, save theirGraces of Ellswold, Lady Constance, Lady Bettie Payne and CountCantemir. And with their exit spring seemed to burst forth in sward, bourgeon and bud, and the clinging tendrils upon the castle walls grewheavy and pink with their greedy absorption of carbon dioxide from thewarm atmosphere. It seemed the unfolding of nature brought ten timesmore pain and uneasiness and mad love to Lord Cedric's heart. He hadnot yet learned who had been talking to Katherine of love. Janethad mentioned Adrian Cantemir; he had laughed at her. Constancehad pointed to Lord Droylsden, a man of distinction and strongpersonality, whose estates joined his own. This appeared moreplausible than the suit of Cantemir, and his Lordship watchedKatherine when she was with these two and soon found, so he thought, it was for the latter she cared; indeed 'twas hard for him to followthe trend of her vacillating mind. 

'Twas a glorious, warm spring morning. Mistress Penwick had riddenforth, attended by a groom, to the village. She spent the entiremorning in visiting the poor and sick and did not fail to note thedilapidated state of the cottages. She rode home flushed and eagerwith plans. She made known to Lord Cedric her desires to build upthese poor cottages. Without question he doubled the amount of moneyshe asked for, and paid her a large sum for immediate use among thepoor. Katherine's heart was touched by his goodness to her, and spokewith more warmth than 'twas her wont and opined 'twould be a gloriousafternoon for their ride in the forest! He had kept his eyessteadily from her; for 'twas his mood to play the disinterested andunconcerned; but at this innovation on her part he raised his eyes andspoke indifferently:

"Aye, if this weather continues, we will have roses in a fortnight. "

"Speaking of roses reminds me; as I started forth this morning I sawa gardener upon the upper terrace trimming about some bushes ofwonderful grace and beauty, and as I stepped among them I saw anancient sundial; 'tis the first I've yet seen, and I made bold to askhim to plant some rare rose near it, that its leaves and blossomsmight enfold its cold marble whiteness and warm it to greater beauty. "

"And didst not thou suggest some choice?"

"Nay; just so 'twas healthy and prolific of bloom. "

"Then as thou hast named a rose, I will name its kind!"

He smiled significantly, and the hot blood flushed his cheek. She camea step nearer and bent toward the table before him, her riding dresswrapping her perfect mould. 

"One thing more I would ask thee; 'tis that I might have a boldersteed, the one thou gavest me is not near spiritful enough for one whowishes to ride well and gayly. I would have one that shakes his headand rattles his bit and stamps about uneasily. " This was more than hisLordship could stand, and he broke forth in a mirthful laugh, --

"Thou shalt have the most buoyant palfrey can be found; he shall havea wicked black eye, and--an honest heart for his mistress. " Cedricarose and bent gracefully to the fingers of Katherine as she heldthem out to him, then turned quickly to the fire and crushed ahalf-famished ember beneath his heel as he heard her cross thethreshold. A moment after he strode out upon the upper terrace to thegardener, who stood with bared head as his Lordship gave command toplant by the dial a bridal rose. 

The afternoon was glorious with the scent of a million shootingsprouts, and delicate with the perfume of violets. But the sunshineof the day was not to stay, for the party from the castle were scarcethree miles within the confines of the forest when the sun becameovercast. But they rode on, however, taking delight in the fine air, and caring naught of cloud and threatening weather. 

They soon came to intricate windings of the forest path, where twomight not ride side by side, and as the Duke of Ellswold rode inbehind his wife, he suddenly reeled and would have fallen had it notbeen for his groom. They all turned quickly save Mistress Penwick andAdrian, who had made the sharp turn and were galloping forward. Cedricbade a lackey ride with all speed to the castle for a coach; and asthe anxious group waited, they wondered somewhat that Katherine andCantemir did not return. And Cedric's heart, while well-nigh taken upby his uncle's state, had still room for jealousy, and he grew hotwith anger that for once he kept hid under the semblance of anxiety. 

His Grace was tenderly lifted and taken to the conveyance that waitedupon the broader road some distance away. The little caravan movedslowly, and before it reached the castle the wind began to blowfuriously, bringing heavy showers. 

The physician from Crandlemar had been summoned, and after a hurriedexamination gave them encouragement, saying that the duke had probablybeen riding too fast and his condition was not dangerous. 

A courier had been despatched for his Grace's physicians and allthings done for his comfort; and Cedric for the time relieved from theanxiety of actual and impending danger concerning his kinsman, nowfelt the full force of his disappointment in Mistress Penwick'sabsence with Cantemir. He determined to ride forth in quest; and witha groom laden with all sorts of cloaks for her protection from thestorm, that now raged furiously, started, feeling naught but the painat his heart. 

The Catholics and Protestants being at variance throughout thekingdom, and there were passing constantly under cover of forests andunfrequented highways groups of riotous men of both parties; for thelife of him Cedric could not tell with which party he would rather hisKatherine would come in contact--she unattended save by a modish fop. 

After reaching the depths of the forest, 'twas no easy matter to findthe exact paths they had traversed in the afternoon. The groom carrieda lantern, but 'twas Lord Cedric's order not to light it. There wereshooting lodges and forester's cabins, other abodes there were nonesave the old monastery, and to which of these places to go was leftaltogether to the toss of a penny. Beside, they were not sure offinding a shooting lodge, should they start for it; the night was soblack and the paths so numerous and winding. Very often Cedric wouldstop and listen for the tramp of horses' feet; but there was naughtsave the occasional cracking of twigs as some wild thing jumped fromthe roadside frightened, or the stir of the high wind in the gianttrees. On they rode, and Cedric's heart was first sorry for hiskinsman's ills, then--he would rant because Katherine had taken nonotice of his importunities, and he swore under his breath in good, round Scotch oaths for his allowing her to go thus long withoutespousal; and again he looked at the matter dispassionately. She was avery young maid, without the protection of womankind of her own rankor an aged guardian. Then began to find fault, and on a sudden saw sheloved admiration, and this sin became unpardonable and he becameso wrought upon, he swore he would lock her in the tower until sheconsented to their espousal. Then he thought of Janet's words as heleft her but a short time before: "I would vouch for her innocencewith my life! Be not harsh with her, my lord!" and he ground his teethin rage for his _espionage_ of her. Then he thought of the king andwhat if she came under his eye, --"Ah, 'sdeath! 'twould make me mad!"and he laid spur to his horse and galloped on with hot curses in histhroat. 

How long or how far they had ridden 'twas impossible to tell, untilsuddenly they saw a light and at once Lord Cedric knew they were atthe monastery. He halted instantly and dismounted. Throwing the reinsto the groom, he crept cautiously forward alone. To his astonishmenthe beheld a great number of horses about the enclosure, and he becamestill more cautious. "'Tis a Catholic _rendezvous_, by God!" said he. 

He followed close to the wall, and was about to reach the window whenthe door was thrown wide open and a group of three stood upon thethreshold. Two of them, Cedric saw, as the light from within fell upontheir faces, were noted leaders of the Catholic party, the other was amonk, and 'twas he that was speaking. His voice was low and intense:

"If his Majesty has but one glimpse, he will pitch the Castlemaineoverboard. This one is a religionist of no common order and will domuch for the cause; and when she has done this thing, I shall do all Ican to withdraw her from further communication with Charles. She shallnot become one of his household, she is too good for that. "

"'Twas rare luck that brought her to thine abode this afternoon, forour case was well-nigh hopeless, and soon it would have been too late, for once Sir John gets to this country--sh! Didst hear something stirhereabout?"

"Nay, 'twas naught but the wind; but when thou dost speak of Penwick, thou hadst better whisper. "

"'Twas a pity we came not earlier according to agreement, and weshould have feasted our eyes upon the beauty. "

"If thou hadst been one-half hour sooner, thou wouldst have seen herwith the gay youth that will give her little peace 'til she doth saythe word. I tell thee both, the Virgin Mary doth plead our cause, andno doubt 'twas through her agency the rain came upon the maid anddrove her here. We offered special prayer to Holy Mary this morning. And the youth with her is also of the only religion. Mistress Penwickwas greatly frightened of my Lord Cedric; for she would go forth inthe heart of the storm, fearing a longer stay would bring uneasinessto the castle; so I gave her protection, a guide and a promise toreceive her in a few days for the confessional and some religiousdirection; and I feel sure she will visit me within the week. "

"'Tis an easy way to reach the king's heart; he doth so love a prettyface and fine parts; and we may be able to use the youth as well--eh?"They said a good-night and passed on to their steeds, mounting andriding away. 

The monk returned to those within, and Cedric hurried away, anxiousonly to see Katherine once more, --to behold her once again with hisown eyes and never, never again would he allow her to leave him. Hewould not be turned aside again from his purpose, she must come to histerms at once. Then he fretted and fumed, fearing she had fallen underthe stormy blast and had taken cold, and perhaps would have a fever. Then he grew hot and angry with her for riding so fast and beyondear-shot of the company. And jealousy and all evil passions tookpossession of him. 

Meanwhile Mistress Penwick had arrived at the castle, and was grievedwhen she heard of his Grace's condition, and sorry she had riddenahead and was so late getting home. 

Janet had hurried her to her chamber and disrobed her of wet garments, and bathed her in hot and cold baths, and was rubbing her withperfumed olive oil when Lord Cedric arrived. 

He went to his uncle's bedside, and finding him resting, quietlyhastened to his own apartments and sent to inquire of MistressPenwick. 

'Twas Janet's pleasure to answer her lord's inquiry in person, andafter swathing her lady in fine flannels, she hastened to LordCedric's presence. 

She found him standing in satin breeches, silk hose and buckledhigh-heeled shoes, and shirt of sheer white lawn and rare lace. Heraised his drooping eyelids lazily, and looked at Janet as he liftedfrom the dressing-table before him rings--rare jewelled--and adjustedthem on his white fingers. At his side was a valet, placing freshsachets filled with civet within false pockets of the satin lining ofhis lord's waistcoat. The cold, proud gleam from Cedric's dark orbsdaunted not Janet. She courtesied with grave respect. There was thatin her eyes, as she raised them, that called for the dismissal of thelackeys. As they passed beyond to the ante-chamber, she approached andspoke low in tones vibrant with suppressed emotion. 

"My lord, as I am with thee in the chiefest thought of thine heart, Imake bold to inform thee of a virulent action that is about to be madeagainst thee; one flagrant of state intrigue and court duplicity. "

"Damme, what now?" and his Lordship leaned heavily upon the table;the conversation at the monastery recurring to his mind with force asJanet proceeded. 

"Not being able to contain my anxiety for Mistress Penwick, I wraptmyself and went forth in the storm to watch and listen for aught ofher return. I passed some little distance within the confines of theforest, and was soon put upon my guard by the approaching tramp ofhorses' feet, and then, low-keyed voices, and in very truth I thoughtmy lady was come; instead, three horsemen came within a few feet of myhiding and one said, --'We are even now hard by the Castle courtyard;'tis possible the lackeys are waiting for the beauty who is perchancenow started from the monastery. Didst ever see such beauty?' Theyhalted and dismounted some distance from the open road. Then onesaid, --''Twill send his Majesty to madness when he sees before himsuch perfect mould, suing for his most gracious clemency toward ourcause. ' ''Tis a wonder my lord of Crandlemar does not take such beautyto wife, ' said another. 'He may bid her farewell when once her famereaches the Court; and 'twill be there in less than two days from thishour. Who will remain with the despatches while we find that rascalChristopher?' ''Twill best serve for one to go, and two guard thehorses and bags. Thou hadst best go, Twinkham, thou art as subtle asthe wind. Prod the villain Christopher to haste and enjoin upon himsecrecy in the name of His Most Catholic Majesty, the Pope, --and donot thou be hindered by some scullion wench. ' These things I heard, well-seasoned with imprecation against the king. I hastened from the_rendezvous_ to my chamber and thought upon it, and--and there isnaught can be done, unless thou wed Mistress Penwick straightway. "

His Lordship fell into furious rage, and vowed he would severChristopher's head from his rotting body with a cleaver, and honourhim not with a thought of Tyburn Hill. He would burn yonder monasteryand all within to ashes for the wind to carry away; and he would lockKatherine in the tower with his own hands; and he started toward thedoor, half-dressed as he was, and flung it wide open. 

Her Grace of Ellswold stood upon the threshold with a warning fingerraised. 

"Thou hast a clamourous tongue, Cedric; the doctor hath enjoinedsilence, as holding for the moment the greatest good for his Grace. "

"Now God forgive me! I was so wrought upon by foul communication I amwell nigh distraught. --How is his Grace?"

"He is resting quietly; but I thought but now, as I heard thyvoice--indistinctly, 'tis true, --his pulse did flutter extraly. "

"Dear aunt, forgive; thou shalt not be thus annoyed again. " He turnedand strode up and down the room with bent head. 

Janet watched him narrowly, wondering the while that any female, ofwhatsoever age, could withstand such fine mould, masculine grace andhandsome features; such strong heart and hot blood. What maid besideher Lambkin would not be overjoyed to see him so mad with love of her?Who could resist kneeling before him and pleading, and watch his angertake flight; and feel his strong arms raise her and fold the maidenbosom to his heart, where 'twould throb and flutter as he held itclose pressed--ah! 'twas not his anger that would kill, nay! nay!'twas his tender passion. 

"Janet, these are troublous times come upon us. They have come withinthese walls. We have traitors about us. That knave Christopher shalldie by the hand of the lowest scullion in the kitchen; for 'twoulddishonour a better to mix with blood of swine. And thou wilt take thymistress to the tower and there be bolted in, and 'twill be given outthat her ladyship is ill and must needs have quiet--"

"If my lord values her health, 'twould be best to put her in a lesswindy chamber; the room is large and ill-heated for damp, springdays. "

"Canst keep her safe where she is?"

"Aye, leave it to me, my lord. "

"And thou shalt allow of no communication with those outside, saveher Grace, and Angel thou canst rely upon--stay--thou mayest allowConstance to keep my lady company. "

"Nay, my lord, I would refute the idea of safety in my LadyConstance. "

"'Sdeath, what meanest thou; art thou also turned from serving me?"

"My lord, dost remember the night thou didst have dancers from London?Lady Constance sat late with Mistress Penwick, and at last complainedof thirst and they two stole below stair and I followed, and as if byaccident Lady Constance brought Mistress Katherine to the curtainedarchway, and she saw thee swaying in thy cups, and after a while mylady led mistress to her room while she hastened away to a room apartand donned the garb of one of the dancing maids and came to thee as agipsy, and she told thee false things concerning Mistress Penwick--"

"Is what thou sayest true, or is't thou art going mad?"

"'Tis true, my lord, as Mistress Penwick will tell thee if thou carestto ask. "

"And Constance would do such an act?--" he spoke half aloud andincredulously, --"Nay, I cannot and do not believe it! Thou must havedreamt it, Janet, --and yet, --I did have like visions!--Thou art right;no one shall see thy mistress, no one, mind, but Angel and her Grace. 'Tis possible the king may send for me within a few days; and if so, Imust go and leave thee to fight the battle alone. Art able, Janet?"

"Trust me, my lord. "

"I can trust thee, good Janet. Look after her health; keep the windowsopen for fine air, but let her not go from her chamber. How thinkestthou she will take such imprisonment?"

"She will be angry, but so proud she will not petition for freedom;she may even brag 'tis to her liking to be so rid of thee. "

"'Sdeath, Janet, thy tongue can cut! Dost believe she cares a jot formy anger?"

"Nay, not a jot, for 'tis the outcome of love, and 'tis my noble ladyInnocence that is well aware that thy anger will fall to spray whenshe hath a notion to turn the tide. "

"Nay, not again shall she win from me aught but cold looks 'til shehath a mind to espouse me;--and yet my mind was made up to marry, whether she consented or not; for the time has come when the one whowaits will wait still, and the one who rushes on, will take the prize, whether by foul or fair means;--but nothing can be done to-night. Inthe meantime I will steel my heart to harsh deeds, and, by God! I willbear out my course. Janet, go now to thy mistress, and should I bedespatched for before I see thee again, there will be no one hereto defend her as thou canst do. Thou must not allow the servants toattend upon her; thou must do it all thyself--a sweet duty! so, 'tisleft thee to defend with thy quick wit. "

'Twas near noon the next day that Mistress Penwick arose and wouldprepare her for a ride to the village, when Janet told her of theimprisonment imposed upon her for safety. She at once became angry andaccused her nurse of being a traitor and tool for Lord Cedric. 

"Nay, Lambkin, in truth, there are dark deeds abroad. Those monasterycelibates, who are well equipped to bandy with their equals, are merebraying bumpkins when they have to do with embroidered waistcoatsand amorous hearts. They have surreptitiously corrupted one of LordCedric's lackeys and the fellow is condemned to die. "

"Condemned to die! and who hath done the condemning, pray?"

"His master, to be sure!"

"Ah! if he should put forth the accomplishment of such a deed, 'twouldbe the act of a barbarian. What are the charges against him?"

"Just what it is I know not; but my lord deems the charge most graveand--he may be even now dead. "

"Janet, thou dost so frighten me. Does the matter concern my lord'sperson, --is his life in danger?"

"Not his life but his love; 'tis for thy sake he does it. "

"For my sake!--then it shall not be done; I will see to it. Let me goto Lord Cedric straightway. "

"His orders would not permit it. "

"For shame, Janet; to save a man's life? Let me go; I am not afraid ofhis anger. "

"'Tis impossible; he would send me away if I disobeyed him. "

"Then thou must bring him here, Janet. "

"'Twill do no good to see him; he will not come. He is thoroughly outof all patience with thy perverseness, --thou wilt never find anothersuch a noble lord and one 'twill love thee with such love;--and for aface and figure--well, thou art surely blind to masculine beauty;--andshould his Grace go hence, my lord will be his Grace of Ellswold, andsecond to none in the realm; he will become as much to the king as theDuke of Buckingham, and will far outshine Monmouth and Shaftesbury. "

"Nay, Janet, he will ne'er become great when he doth so confusejustice with viciousness;--but, nurse, I would have thee haste. Tellmy lord that I beg his presence, if for a moment only; he surely wouldnot refuse so trifling a request. "

"But it is not trifling, as he well knows thou art upon the keen edgeof want before thou wilt so much as smile upon him. " At the momentthere struck upon Mistress Penwick's ears the tramp of horses' feet, and straightway she ran to the window and leant out and saw Cedricabout to ride forth. 

"My lord, my lord!" she cried, and dropped a rose to attract him. Hishorse sprung aside and trod upon it; but Cedric looked up and sawthe anxious face embrazured by ivy-clad sill; and with involuntarycourtesy he speedily uncovered and waited thus her pleasure. 

"May I have a word with thee, my lord?"

"Indeed, Mistress, it doth rack me with pleasure to accord thee soslight a service, " and he dismounted quickly and strode into the greathall and bounded up the oaken stairway. It seemed to Mistress Penwick, as she heard his rattling spurs, that 'twas a sound of strength, andshe felt a happy, exultant tremour, knowing her cause already won. But for once there was not wisdom in her conceit. She made a sweepingcourtesy as he entered. He bent low before her, waiting her firstwords. 

"My lord, wilt thou permit me to inquire somewhat of thy mercy?"

"Thou dost make me insolvent of such a quality when thy keenpenetration doth not discover, without inquiry, its existence. " Shewas not daunted by his severe answer, but flushed slightly at hisimperturbance. 

"Then, if thou dost acknowledge thyself so pampered, I beg thou wiltconjoin to justice its semblance and forgive thy poor servant thepenalty of death. "

"Ah! ah! and 'tis Christopher's cause thou art pleading. HappyChristopher!" he sighed deeply. "If the King would thus condemn me, Mistress Penwick wouldst thou thus care for me?"

"The query is of that so premature 'twould be impossible to frame areply, --hence I beg to continue converse upon an affair thoroughlyelaborated and arranged. "

"'Twould grieve me to say at once 'nay'; for that would end at oncefor me these supreme moments in thy presence; however, I will repeatthe adverb of negation with a rising inflection that thou maystcontinue with amplification. "

"Dost thou mean to discontinue converse with me?"

"Nay, I beg not. "

"Then thou meanest thou wilt not forgive thy poor servant, and wiltimpose such extreme penalty; and further importunities would beuseless?"

"I forgive the dead all things. "

"My lord, he is not already dead?" and she fell from him aghast. 

"Nay, but soon will be. "

Mistress Penwick saw no softening in Cedric's manner, and she becamealarmed and threw some tenderness in her voice and spoke softly, thatshe might lead or manage her lord by gentleness and tact. 

"My lord, do not look so cold and hard. " She drew nearer and her voicebecame more pleading. "'Tis a little thing for thee to grant me thisone desire. I beg with all my heart for thy servant's life. "

"Nay, I have given order for his despatch before sunset. "

"Nay, nay, my lord, I beg. " She came close to him and laid one handcaressingly upon the silver fastenings of his coat and he turned whiteand trembled and caught her hand within his own and bent down andpressed his lips to her fingers. She saw her advantage and followed itclose. 

"Wilt grant me this one thing, my lord, and I will hold myself--readyto--hear thy suit renewed--if thou so will it?" His voice vibrant andlow with passion he could hardly restrain, broke forth, --

"Kate, Kate, I could not call so base a life worthy of thyconsideration, and I could not grant thee that 'twould sully thy sweettongue to barter for. "

"Thou art most unrelenting, my lord!" The maid was angry for havingoffered her lord the privilege of renewing his suit; which he didn'tseem inclined to do; and finding her pleadings were of no avail, andbeing angry and annoyed, she broke into tears, knowing of a certaintyshe would now have her way, even though her dignity was lowered. Cedric could not stand and see her thus; he turned from herquickly and was about to leave her, when she called to him almostimpatiently, --

"My lord, wilt grant his life until the morrow?" He hesitated, thenturned and bowing low, murmured, "Until the morrow, Kate, " and left the chamber. 

CHAPTER IX

SIR JULIAN POMPHREY

"Now time is something to have gained! Janet, thou must go to yondermonastery and bring a priest to shrive Christopher. "

"And how didst thou know Christopher was shriveable?"

"'Tis unseemly of thee to make jest of divine ordinances. "

"Nay, I would not jest but know where 'twas thou learnt of hisreligion?"

"All of the Catholic faith know one another by intuition; 'tisGod-given. "

"Then thou didst also know him to be a rascal?"

"Neither do I know it now. Wilt thou not find some way to bring apriest hither? Pray, Janet, do; for if I let it go past, 'twill bringme miserable thoughts and wicked dreams. Janet, thou didst once loveme and hadst a fond way of anticipating my desires; but thou hast ona sudden forgotten thine whilom usages. Beshrew thee for falling awayfrom thine old friends and taking up with new ones. Lord Cedric'snurse watches him from morn until eve and deigns not to cajole him orwin his desires from their natural bent. "

"'Tis wisely said; for his desires are inclined in the rightdirection. 'Twas but last night when he was well-nigh distraught withthy absence with the Russian Jew that doth ogle thee, that Angelbrought his riding-cloak and threw it over his shoulders as he tore upand down his chamber; and she said, lowly, --'Go, my lord, 'twill easethy mind to ride, ' and he flew to horse. She is ever helping him tothee. "

"And now I would have thee to help me to my lord's good graces and mydesires; but thou art evil bent. "

"Nay, my precious Lambkin, if I could I would help thee this night tothe nuptial altar; but as to helping thee to thy desires, 'twould behelping thy peace of mind and him to utter ruin; and such calamitywould render thy young life incomplete; for without this noble lordthy perfectness will be unfinished. "

"Cease carving epitaphs, Janet, and help me assist this poorunfortunate. How long will my lord be gone?"

"He has only gone to the village to meet the workmen who were torenovate the nurseries and ride home with Lady Constance, who rodeaway early this morning when thou were dreaming of Russia. "

"Then I will write him my petition, and thou shalt give it to Angelto give my lord, immediately upon his return. " She sat down withparchment and quill and wrote rapidly; and as Janet noticed not, shewrote two letters instead of one. The first she folded evenly and putbeneath a book, the other she gave to Janet, who took it and left thechamber to seek Angel. Mistress Penwick, thus left alone, wondered howshe should convey her other letter to Count Adrian. She approached thewindow, and lo! upon the upper terrace paced her Grace of Ellswold andCantemir. 'Twas not the first hour that day the latter had so paradedthe sward, ever and anon casting glances toward Mistress Penwick'swindows. Again he glanced up and saw her wave a white paper andimmediately leave the window. He guessed at once 'twas something morethan indisposition that held her to her room. Again she looked; theyhad turned from the window. She flung forth the paper and it floateddown as Janet came into the room. 

'Twas late that evening Katherine sat in _peignoir_ and unbound hair, ready for retiring, when there came a soft rap and a pleading voiceasking for admission. Now Janet was not one whit afraid of doubledealing when she was present, and being proud of Mistress Penwick andnot wishing it to appear that she was a prisoner, she opened the doorand in came Lady Constance smiling and shy, a hollow-hearted creatureof the world. Now it so happened that Lady Constance had kept herselffrom Katherine for some little time, wishing not to be disturbed bythe maid's beauty; as it usually stirred her to frenzy and she wantedperfect quiet for calm reasoning. It took some time to plan hercampaign that was already full started, and she now came forth fromher chamber refreshed, the course of her slothful blood hastened; hereyes gleamed with impatience for action; her whole being changed, rejuvenated, filled with a new life. She came also with a fullknowledge of all that had taken place in the _interim_ of her absencefrom Katherine. She came well prepared for a bout, and blushed not atthe subterfuges and mean, paltry artifices, aye, a full battery ofchicaneries that awaited her use, as she crossed the maid's chamberthreshold. "'All is fair in love and war, '" she quoted--"'Tis anegregious platitude adopted alike by king and fool!"

"I could not sleep without first seeing thee and knowing thycondition. It must be more than hard for thee to keep thy chamber?"said Constance. 

"Nay, thou art wrong; the convent doth inure one to quiet andsolitude. "

"Dost think thy ailments will allow thee to go abroad on the morrow?"

"I know not, I am at Janet's mercy and I cannot leave my seclusionwithout her permission. I feel quite well, but Janet says I am ill. "

"Oh! that I had a nurse to so fondle me; indeed, she has kept alllooks of illness from thee; thy face is as clear as if thou hadst beenfed on wild honey all thy days;--and such hair! Dost leave it thus forthe night?"

"The tangles would never submit, should I so leave it. "

"'Tis my delight to fuss with hair and thine is so beauteous--" shearose and went to Katherine and smoothed the amber threads--"See, whenI turn it thus, 'tis like rare bronze, and when I place it to thelight, 'tis a glorious amber. May I plait it for thee, --I should loveso much to do it?"

"If 'twill give thee pleasure thou mayest assuredly plait it, " repliedKatherine. Janet now watched for a whispered word or some sign ofintercourse; but her vigilance was of no avail, for Lady Constancedeftly placed a tiny paper in Mistress Penwick's hair and plaitedtightly over it. 

"'Tis such a pleasure to fuss with hair--and such fine threads, too;indeed, I have half a mind to become a _peruquier_, --there, 'tisfinished!"

"How is his Grace, Lady Constance?"

"He bids fair to pass a comfortable night, --'tis too bad hisphysicians cannot arrive before the day after the morrow. They havealso sent for Sir Julian Pomphrey--a favourite of the duke and anintimate and college fellow of Lord Cedric. Sir Julian is a mostwonderful man. When but nine years of age, he entered Eton school, and having pursued his studies there with great success for one ofsuch light years, he was sent to travel upon the continent, where hestudied in Geneva for some time; thence he went to Florence, remainingthere many months, --afterward visiting Rome and Geneva and othercontinental cities of note. He returned to England a scholar, asoldier, a gallant, a conqueror of female hearts, --in brief, he holdsall the requirements of a charming cavalier of King Charles' Court. He has modish habits that so completely masque his strong will anddetermination that before one is aware they are caught and wound inthe meshes of his duplicity. He is a literate, poet and musician. "

"Thou dost indeed stir me to great interest, Lady Constance; he mustbe a wonderful man. It seems we seldom have so many great qualities inone human being. He must be quite along in years?"

"Nay, not at all! His very youthfulness is what makes him such awonder. If I remember rightly, he is but two years senior of Cedric, and I will venture there is not ten pounds' difference in theirweight. They are very much the same mould, and their voices blend asone, but Cedric has the handsomer face. Sir Julian, however, has acountenance of no common order; 'tis like a rock of strength alreadywell lined and marked by the passions that have swayed him to battleand death or--perchance a lover's intrigue. He is in great repute forhis smile that is transcendent in its beauty, but one can never tellwhat note it rings, whether true or false; its condiment may be ofmalice, hate, reserve, flippancy, deception. And one looks on andfears to take part in his mirth, for the reason one knows not whatlies beneath in Sir Julian's heart. "

"Indeed, and he is to arrive soon?--Sir Julian Pomphrey--I like thename!"

"It is one of the best names in England. I shall be very glad to seehim, and hope he will come soon. When he gets word his Grace is soill, he will probably come as fast as the ship and post-horses cantravel. He is at present a special emissary to France. He did writeCedric some time since that he was about to return to England, thathis work there was nearly finished. "

"He will doubtless be playing fine French airs, and have much gossipof the composers and will perchance bring music with him that willstir us to greater study of execution. "

"It may be, and it mayhap so move thee; but I am foreign from therudiments of counterpoint and technique and such lollipops ofharmony. "

"Then it must be wearisome to hear me prate of the divine art, andmuch more to hear my poor drummings on the harpsichord, I am sorry--"

"Nay, be not so. I am more content when thou art at practice than atall other time, save when I am with thee thus, alone. " And there was acovert meaning in her flattery. "Now, my dear Katherine, if thou artthus beset on the morrow, I will engage to come at thy retiring hourand dress thy hair; 'twill give me such pleasure. "

As Lady Constance retired from the chamber, Mistress Penwick stretchedher lithe body and yawned and expressed a desire for the bed. Soonshe was left alone, and she stole from her couch and knelt at thehearthstone and read the missive eagerly and flushed not a littleat Count Cantemir's warm words of love that were a prelude to theweightier matters appertaining. She crept back noiselessly and laypondering of many things. It seemed to her as if all earth breathed oflove; that she was the nucleus around which all flowers and perfumeand everything beautiful revolved. And now she was about to open amystic shrine, into which she would step and see and know and feelwith youth's ecstasy a strange development of essential existence. Andafter wondering and speculating upon the affairs of love, she enteredinto prayerful thought of Lord Cedric's servant, and soon fell intosound slumber. 

CHAPTER X

WHAT HAPPENED IN THE BUTLERY

"'Behold thou art fair, my love; behold thou art fair; thou hastdove's eyes within thy locks; thy hair is as a flock of goats, thatappear from Mount Gilead. 

"'Thy teeth are like a flock of sheep that are even shorn, which comeup from the washing; whereof every one bear twins, and none is barrenamong them. 

"'Thy lips are like a thread of scarlet, and thy speech is comely; thytemples are like a piece of pomegranate within thy locks. 

"'Thy neck is like the tower of David builded for an armory, whereonthere hang a thousand buckles--'"

"Nay, nay, Janet, thou must not idolize me thus, 'tis--"

"Beshrew thy conceit. 'Tis Solomon I repeat. Thou were not thought ofwhen 'twas writ. "

Katherine raised upon her elbow and looked surprised at Janet, whoknelt by the bed. 

"Thy tongue is sharp, Janet, for a day yet in its swaddling hours. "

"Aye, 'twill be whetted two-edged e'er the day waxes old. 'Toeverything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under theheaven; a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and atime to pluck up that which is planted; a time to kill, and a time toheal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time toget, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; atime to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love and a timeto hate; a time for evil communication to be thrown from young maid'swindow, a time to look for answer to a pleading letter sent to ajustly angered lord; a time when his Lordship deigns not to giveanswer; a time when a young lord to a tender parchment pregnantwith importunities says: 'Damme, she would set one thief to shriveanother;' a time when his Lordship slams with a bang the outside coverto a book _blasé_ of many turned leaves. "

"Dear, dear sweet Janet; where is Lord Cedric? And has he said nothingof Christopher?" The nurse averred that his Lordship had ridden forthearly, without giving his destination, and had left no word concerningthe servant. 

"Perhaps my lord's better nature hath prevailed, and he will keep thepoor fellow in durance yet for a time, " said Katherine, hopefully. 

"Nay, his decision is irrevocable. He is not dealing in hearts now, Lambkin. "

There was no doubt in Mistress Penwick's mind but that his Lordshipwould kill, or cause to be killed, the condemned lackey, and Janetknowing, 'twas his Lordship's temper and not his heart that vowed thedeath, dissembled and impressed upon her mistress that the deed was asgood as done. 

Katherine's wit was sharpened by the exigency, and she managed to usethe window again as a post, only fearing--from Janet's anomaly ofSolomon's words--that some one waited below to capture the flyingmissive. This issue was accomplished as the nurse was listening to theDuke of Ellswold's message; when, late in the morning, the duke afterswallowing a stimulant declared he must have the more substantialrefreshment of Mistress Penwick's beauteous countenance. 

The duke was too ill to remain up long; and though Katherine was lessthan an hour from her chamber, the day was much shortened by thediversion. As night approached she became more and more anxious aboutChristopher. Indeed, it seemed to her as if the moments were hoursafter candle-light. And she moved restlessly about her chamber andlistened and sighed for the return of his Lordship. Surely the silencewas more pronounced than usual; it became ominous to her, and shespoke out quickly in a voice that was peevish:

"The castle is very quiet to-night. His Grace is not suffering again, I hope? Wilt see, Janet? I'm in a perfect fever of impatience!"

"Nay, he is very comfortable. Her Grace is with him. Lady Constance, Lady Bettie and the Russian are at cards. "

"Will my lord arrive soon, dost think, Janet?"

"I know not. Why art thou so solicitous on a sudden of his outgoingsand incomings?"

"I would make another effort to save Christopher, if I could butconverse with my lord. "

"And what wouldst thou give him in exchange for the fool's life?"

"Everything, Janet, --all that I have to give should be his. "

"Then that includes thy heart, Lambkin?"

"Nay, dear nurse, my heart is already given. "

"Of all the powers that be! And what knave hath attempted to stealthat that thou wert born without?"

"'Tis unjust of thee to speak thus. I have a mind not to tell thee!"

"Thou wilt tell me straightway, for thou wilt turn all colours when Isay Adrian Cantemir, " and quickly Mistress Penwick turned her back, "Iam aggrieved at thy folly. What hath he said to thee? Tell me everyword, Lambkin. "

"He hath said more than I could tell thee, Janet, in a whole hour. "

"It is impossible! And what were all of these hour sayings, --lovepratings?"

"If I told thee, thou wouldst then know as much as both of us, andthere are but two in a marriage contract; so I will have to beginbarring secrets from thee. "

"And did he tell thee what marriage meant to two people knowing nottheir own minds?"

"He said 'twas a most perfect life. All was sunshine and flowers andgreat happiness. First of all, he will take me to Russia, as 'tis hispleasure to hasten home with me. Then we will visit the French andEnglish courts, and we will see all the beauties of this life. I shallbecome known among the musicians and meet--"

"And said he naught of home-life, and the extent of his riches?"

"Nay, we are to live at Court always, free and happy, consorting everwith kings and queens--"

"Did his High-mightiness ever consider that court dignitaries consortnot with a rogue who hath entrapt an angel for spouse?"

"I will not listen to thy rough tongue, Janet, " and she straightwayclosed her ears with her tapering fingers and walked up and down as aspoilt child would do. 

The prandium hour was past, and the evening far spent when MistressPenwick desired to retire. 

"'Tis most likely his Lordship will not return to-night, Janet?"

"He has gone on a journey of some import, as Angel hath just said; soI could not say when to look for his return. "

Janet had been asleep some time when she was aroused by some subtlething that brought her upright and from thence to the floor and fromthe floor to the closet that connected her apartment with that of hermistress. The door was locked; this was an innovation that startledJanet to a keen alertness. She rattled the knob and knocked upon thepanelling. Stooping, she saw the key was turned in the door. Shehurried from the place to her own room and into the hall, and from thehall to a small corridor, and from thence to the grand corridor, whereopened the door of her mistress' ante-chamber. In she flew, and triedthe inner door. 'Twas fast locked, and the key gone. It seemed shesped on wings as she descended the oaken stairway in her trailinggown. She reached Lord Cedric's bed-chamber with trepidation and not alittle daunted; for should his Lordship be within 'twas possible hisanger would know no bounds; and while she loved his good hot temper, she feared it when so justly aroused. Within the ante-chamber wasa steward and two or three lackeys, all asleep; she passed themsilently, and without hesitation opened the door. Lord Cedric satbefore the table in riding boots and spurs, divested of coat andwaistcoat; writing, and looked up surprised and amazed at onewho dared to so enter his presence; but he read that in Janet'scountenance that brooked not at delay. 

"My lord, Mistress Penwick hath deserted her chamber, and I know notwhere to find her, nor can think of where she may be gone. " LordCedric stood before her still and white as marble, his face glistenedwith the cold sweat of fear. 

"By God, Janet, thy tale doth take from me all strength!" Even as hespoke he sunk down upon his chair. Janet brought from a stool hard bya posset-pot and pressed it to his lips. He drank gurglingly, as ifhis throat was paralyzed. 

"Janet, " he breathed forth, "call the lackeys. " He had somewhatrecovered, and stood upright while his valet buckled on his sword. Hetook from the table a polished dagger and placed it in his belt; hecalled for candles and bade the lackeys lead on. Janet was well-nighdistraught at this awful cloud of anger that was about to break forthin the thunder of his tongue and stroke of sword. The steward of thehousehold was aroused, and keys were brought to unfasten MistressPenwick's door, that they might ascertain if she had fled afar. Her hoods and hats were all in place upon the shelves of thedressing-closet, but there was gone a white camelot cloak. The footmannear the outer entrance said none had passed since Lord Cedric'sarrival. 

"But, my God! I have just arrived; who passed before?"

"Not one soul since nightfall, save the village doctor, yourLordship. "

Lord Cedric had enjoined perfect silence, fearing lest some noisemight disturb his Grace of Ellswold. 

The lackeys bearing lighted tapers--behind them the young lord of thecastle, with the attendant Janet--moved solemnly like a procession. 

They passed thus from room to corridor, from hall to gallery, andthrough passages; examining secret exits and closets. They traversedthe long banquet-hall and were upon the threshold of a carved andlofty doorway, when Janet espied upon the parquetry a cobweb bit oflace protruding from beneath the tapestry of a chair. Lord Cedric'skeen eyes marked her movement as she essayed to reach it without hisnotice. He turned quickly and fierce upon her, knocking his sword witha loud noise upon the chair's carving. 

"Give me thy treasure, Janet!" She gave it to him with something likea sob; for 'twas her mistress' handkerchief, and she feared mightilyher lord's anger. 

"Your Lordship! If it so turned out that she be holding some_rendezvous_ with thy Russian guest--"

"Ah, 'sdeath!" he interrupted. 

"I beg thou wilt forgive much, she being of such slender age andknowing not the great wrong of clandestine--"

"Ah! ah! she holdeth court here in the chief butlery. "

The door before them had been thrown open by the lackeys. They stoodupon either side for his Lordship to pass through. Beyond, framed inthe dark embrasure of the archway, stood Mistress Penwick in gleamingwhite. Her hands behind her rested upon a table from which long leavesdepended to the floor, upon either side, her camelot cloak was throwncarelessly upon the further end, its long fulness draping to thefloor, and in the centre of the polished top of the table rested atall, silver candlestick with lighted taper. Upon the hearthstonethere shot up a cheerful blaze, for the night was damp and chilly, andthe flickering light sent Mistress Penwick's hair first amber, thenbronze. Her face was still and white, and her eyes flashed wide andboldly. Her heart beat high and her breath came fast and hard. 

For a moment only his Lordship's glance fell upon her, then it sweptthe room from end to end, and from ceiling to parquetry. Then occurreda strange thing to them all; for 'twas ever Cedric's way to swearand curse, using holy names and blasphemous phrases; and it startledKatherine more than all, as he spoke low and calmly, holding out hisjewelled hand to her:

"Come, Mistress Penwick, I will escort thee to thy chamber; 'tis achildish trick of thine to seek bread and butter at such unseemlyhours. "

"But, my lord, I am not yet begun. "

"Ah!--with one pair of shapely hands unused to spreading butter, itdoth take long in preparation. " The snowy whiteness of his Lordship'swaist reflected upon his face, where now came and went its wontedcolour, as doubt and certainty fought for supremacy. He stepped nearerand glanced behind her upon the table. 

"Thou hast not even brought forth bread. I will aid thee, " and he wentto 'the cupboards that lined the room, and opened and looked withineach large door, until he was satisfied of his search, and those aboutstood watching and trembling, fearing lest some one should be found inhiding. 

"I find naught here of bread or butter, Mistress Penwick; we will haveto seek elsewhere!"

"And thou wilt not have far to seek, my lord; my whey sits freshlymade upon the cellaret in yonder closet adjoining; if thou wilt be sokind as to bring it hither, Janet will provide me with bread, " andKatherine looked triumphant. 

"I would first learn whom I follow. Who hath so cavalierly concoctedit for thee at this late hour? Where is the person, my lady?"

"One who is in the habit of following thy orders; but at mine he hathmade it; 'twas Tompkins. " Her voice rung with so much of truth, hisLordship was satisfied and looked at her with a lighter heart; then, as she pointed toward the door--a mute command for him to bring thewhey--he frowned and drew back and spoke, --

"Hiary will bring it thee, for 'tis said a hand put forth by an angryheart doth curdle that it toucheth and--I am of no mind to be eitherkind or courteous. " At these words, the colour that had come intoKatherine's face a moment before, left it. 

As Hiary turned to do his lord's bidding, a door opened and Tompkinsentered with a lighted candle and large basket. Seeing the unexpected, coughed to hide his confusion; indeed he knew not which way to turn, when his Lordship walked to his side and raised the cover of thebasket and looked within. 

"It appears that 'twas a feast thou wert preparing;--everythingsuitable for a full meal. Here is fowl and cheese and mutton tarsaland bread and ale, --Egad! we shall not want now, shall we, MistressPenwick? Set the table, Tompkins!"

"Ah!" came in an asperate tone from the now trembling and frightenedmaid. His Lordship heard it and saw her turn white and tremble. Slowlyhe walked to the hearthstone, eyeing her askance, then he swept hisbrow where the cold perspiration lay in beads;--then turned to heragain with a world of love for her in his eyes and a great crushingself-pity; and the menials looked away from the abject misery theybeheld in their lord's face; Tompkins fumbled nervously with hisburden, daring not to look up; Janet leant forward, intent, pained, sorrowing, scanning the two countenances she loved best on earth. HisLordship stretched forth his arms and with a great sob that broke uponthat one word "Kate, " he took a step forward and essayed again tospeak, but the words would not come. Then with a great effort heseemed to fling all tenderness from him and spoke most harshly, --

"Where hast thou hid thy lover, Mistress Penwick, tell me where heis!" She drew herself up quickly to her full height and smiled, forthis was one thing and she had thought another, and the reality wasbetter than her fancy. And she said, as she drew a long, relievedbreath, --

"He is safe, my lord!"

"Nay, nay, by God! he is not nor ever will be again. He hath so dealtwith me and my honour, even though I stand within mine own threshold'twould be heinous to allow him to leave it with life in his accursedbody. I tell thee now, there is nothing of hell or heaven that cantake thee from me. Dost hear--dost hear, maid?" He again wiped hisbrow and looked about him. "It does somewhat appear as if my brainwere turning!--Janet--bring thy maid here to me! Janet made a stepforward, but was checked by Katherine's warning look. 

"Mistress Penwick, remove thyself from the table; Tompkins, set it, set it, set it quickly I say!" Tompkins put the basket upon the tableand turned to a linen closet and brought therefrom a cloth and madeas if to spread it upon a small table near him. His Lordship saw hismove, and broke forth in angry tones, --"The table of honour, there, there Tompkins!" As he shook his fingers toward it, his hand fell backupon the hilt of his sword. 

"Nay, I forbid him to do it, " said Katherine. 

"By all the foul fiends! raise the leaves or I smite thee down, " saidLord Cedric to the frightened Tompkins. And he drew and leaned forwardhis body well nigh to the floor. His eyes were wild and bloodshot. AsTompkins raised the leaves Mistress Penwick threw herself between hisLordship and the table. With one bound Cedric swayed aside and likeone frenzied, gazed beneath the table, and there looked out to him thewhite face of Christopher. 

His Lordship broke forth into such a wild laugh, even the affrightedand condemned servant crept from his hiding and looked on amazed. Finally, when his laughing had well-nigh ceased, his Lordship drewfrom his belt the dagger and threw it across the room at Hiary, saying, --"There; stick him as thou wouldst a wild boar--no probing, mind; but death!"

"Nay, nay, my lord! my lord!" broke from Mistress Pen wick, and Janetran to her crying, --"My lord, not so harsh a deed before my lady'seyes!"

"Ah! ah! and she hath carved my heart to pieces! Commit thy office, Hiary!" The lithe lackey sprang upon Christopher and drove the knife, it appeared, to the hilt, and with a gurgling cry the lad fell. 

Mistress Penwick looked on wild-eyed with terror. His Lordship camenear and leant close to her ear and said, --

"Thou hast turned thy charms to ill account, thou stirrest me to evildeeds. Didst thy love help thee to this _rendezvous_, and was hesatisfied to leave thee when he heard my sword flap upon the chairwithout to fight thy battles alone, or did he sate his desire on thyinnocent face and fled aforetime to prepare for a greater sating? Nowby God, none shall wrest thee from me again. Arouse the chaplain!Come, Mistress, thou shalt have a husband who loves thee within thehour, and the morrow's sun will look in on a sweet young wife with alight heart. "

He laid hold on her without violence, she drew from him even morefrightened than heretofore. 

"Come, we will wed straightway and before dawn thou wilt haveforgotten my haste and stout urging, " and he started forth drawing herwith him by force. She struggled wildly and cried, --

"Nay, nay; I'll not marry with one who would strike down and kill theunfortunate; nay, nay!" and she screamed again and again. 

From the doorway came a voice of thunder, its power seemed to crushout all other presence. 'Twas but one word, but it rung and vibratedand stirred each breast with its vehemence. 

"Cedric!"

His Lordship let go the maid and turned and sprang to the open arms ofhim who called. The awful tension of his nerves relaxed and he utteredin rapid succession, --

"Julian, Julian, Julian!" and fell to sobbing, his form trembling withhis emotion. 

"Hath gore of _canaille_ sapped thy noble blood and impregnated inthy veins vile clots to turn thee purple with choler?" and he pushedCedric from him. "What doeth this _couchant_ dog here?" He turned andstirred the prostrate form of Christopher. "'Tis ill to so fall uponthe seething caldron of thy passion, the noxious fumes of whichpenetrate yonder to our kinsman's couch of suffering--and at the sametime thou dost pound to pomace the heart of yonder Junoesque figure. "

"Julian, thy tongue hath an awful strength, it doth goad me tosomething like reason. I was indeed rough, but I was looking aftermine own. The maiden there is plighted to me for espousal and I wastaking her to the chaplain. "

"It may be thou dost take her rightfully; but if 'twere me I wouldbring her to it by soft and gentle words, not by handling. It dothtake away the sweetness. "

"Indeed, Julian, I have used all things worth using to gain her. Ihave played all parts and have asked and sued and prayed, aye, begged. I have honoured and loved and pampered her every whim; I have coercedand threatened, --all to no avail; indeed, I have gone mad for veryeffort to please. "

"Hast thou tried cold indifference and haughtiness? It oft haps that amaid is won by a lofty and arrogant mien. " Sir Julian Pomphrey glancedaskance at Mistress Penwick, who lay with her face buried upon Janet'sample bosom. "Methinks 'twould be a good beginning, if thou wouldstrenew thy suit by sending the maid to her chamber and let her espouseMorpheus and 'suage her grief upon a bosom thou needst not be jealousof. " Janet arose and led forth Katherine. Lord Cedric stepped afterthem and held out his hands and sobbed, --

"Kate, Kate, forgive, forgive!" She deigned not a backward look. 

As they passed from sight, he fell upon his knees and shook with hisgreat emotion and groaned aloud in his misery. 

Sir Julian Pomphrey dressed as a gentleman of France in ridingapparel; his overhanging top-boots displaying a leg of strengthand fine proportions; the curls of his periwig sweeping his broadshoulders; his hands, half-hid by rare lace, gleaming white andbe-jewelled; a mustachio so flattened with pomade it lay like a blackline over his parted lips, through which shone strong white teeth, was veritably a man of noble character and distinction. He was thecounterpart of Lord Cedric in all save visage and temperament. 

Gracefully he strode across the room with the confidence of onewho had already mastered the situation; planned for his Lordship acomplete victory, and there was naught left to do but carry out themethodical arrangements thus quickly formulated. He placed his handlightly upon Cedric's shoulder. His touch was like magic, for hisLordship started. 

"Cedric, I have rid hard and would seek my bed. Come with me and calmthyself. Yonder maid thou shalt have, so sure as thou dost do mybidding; and she will sigh and draw quick breath and preen herselfto gain from thee one amorous glance; and will do penance for heruntowardness and offer hecatombs as high as zenith will allow. "

"Dost think so, Julian? It gives me hope to hear thee thus speak. "

"Indeed, I may say--'tis done--even though 'twere precipitatelyavowed;--but oft, 'tis the premature babe that doth become the mostprecocious child, and 'tis well to foster that 'tis fecund. "

"But, Julian, she hath another lover, --and now that I think on't, didst thou meet a knave upon horse, perhaps, attended by a swaggeringgroom as thou cam'st through the village or thereabouts?"

"Thou hast said it. A half-league beyond Crandlemar there past me atfurious speed a devil-upon-horse. I hallowed once and again to noavail, so I prodded the fellow with my sword to assist his respiratoryorgans, as he flew by. 'Twas a kindly act, for he immediately foundhis breath and--swore. "

"And didst notice his livery?"

"Nay, for the trees were too ostentatious and flaunted their new, green finery impudently and hid Neptune's satellite or--'twas cloudy, I could not see. Come, come, I must and thou, too, have sleep ifthe God thereof doth not wantonly spend too much time with thymistress;--but thou shalt soon offset him and I may have, for onenight at least, his undivided attention. "

"Ah, heaven, that thy words may prove true. 'Tis hard to bide thetime. Come, let us begone from this foul nest that reeks of blood. "

CHAPTER XI

JACQUES DEMPSY

To Katherine's untutored vision of social and religious matters, all appeared like a placid sea; but beneath, political dissensioncomplicated by religious wrangling produced a vigorous under-currentinto which she was to be drawn. 

The exegencies of poverty and exile through which King Charles hadpassed made him resolve not to "go again upon his travels, " and forthis cause he tolerated the Episcopal religion, of which system thecavaliers were votaries; and they supported the royal prerogative. Being an alien to honour, truth and virtue, he was not stirred toa wholesome interest of importunities, save when a voluptuouslybeautiful female solicited his attention. Now 'twas Lady Constance'plan to forward Count Cantemir's suit with Mistress Penwick and hastena marriage that could only be clandestine, owing to Lord Cedric'svigilance. If this scheme should prove abortive, it was her intentionto bring the maid to the king's notice. Here were two lines of battle, each surrounded by skirmishing detachments. She was subtle in theextreme, and arranged warily these side issues, which had more ofdeath and utter destruction in them than an open onset. 

Rigidly she had kept from Cantemir the knowledge of Mistress Penwick'sinsolvency, likewise the death of her father; knowing the condition ofthe count's fortunes, she feared he would retreat; his love for themaid might be of such a nature 'twas possible he would not takepart in the ugly skirmish against her. So Constance had setabout systematically to bring Mistress Penwick and Adrian to anunderstanding of each other. 

He believed Katherine to be a wealthy heiress of Sir John Penwick, whowas being held as hostage at some point in America. At her marriageher estates would be placed in her own hands. All these things LadyConstance could vouch for, as she had read the letter herself that SirJohn had written Lord Cedric. Mistress Penwick was at a marriageableage, and her father being ill and hopelessly bound by ties of warnever expected to see her again and had made provision for her futurehappiness. Knowing these things, and being in love beside with sobeautiful and youthful creature, Cantemir was well-nigh mad to winher, without any urging from Constance. 

On the other hand, Mistress Penwick never forgot his slender grace andpale, patrician features, as she beheld him first upon the stairwaythe evening of her arrival. He had ingratiated himself into all herthoughts of music and court life and religious duties. Being like hera Catholic, he sat by the hour and spoke of their ill usage by thenobles of England, and insinuated that the cavaliers (Lord Cedricbeing one, of course) were combined to rout out the Catholics andconfiscate all their properties, both public and private. 

At one time Lady Constance said to Katherine that her father, SirJohn, was an Episcopalian and she had made answer, --"'Twould be absurdto suppose him anything else than a Catholic. " Upon this, Constancespoke to Adrian, and he, casually as it were, asked Mistress Penwickif she were not afraid her demesne would be seized by the Protestants. Thus she had come gradually to know of the chasm between the two greatreligious orders, and had even written her father of the dangers inwhich she believed she was placed. These letters of course were keptby Janet. The seals remained unbroken and the missives were carefullylaid aside until Mistress Penwick should know the truth. And neithershe nor Janet receiving news from him, stirred her to confide herfears to Cantemir, who questioned her of the letter which her fatherwrote, bidding her to depart for England. She became startled anduneasy, when she remembered that Janet had refused to show her theletter and having promised herself to Cantemir in marriage, she spokeof the matter to him. But her love of and confidence in Janet wasdeeper than she thought, and at his first words against her, she fellfrom him. He said 'twas possible Janet, being so great a Protestant, she would undoubtedly take his Lordship's part against her, should anyserious trouble arise. He even went so far as to suggest that perhapsthere was a-foot a ruse to get from her those possessions her fatherhad written of. Katherine rebelled at these insinuations and thoughtthat "dear, good, sweet Janet would never take a pin from her Lambkinto save Church or State. And Lord Cedric, too, even though he wouldcondemn his servant, he would never take her property, he loved hertoo well for that; beside, he was a gentleman of honour, even thoughhis evil temper did goad him to fearful deeds. " She tried to makeherself believe that she truly loved Cantemir, and 'twas her religiousduty to marry him; but when he spoke either against Cedric or Janet, she was quite sure she hated him. 

In pursuance of Lady Constance' diplomacy, she had assisted Cantemirin arranging the _rendezvous_ for himself first, and finally forChristopher, who was to escape with provision for a long journey, as'twas not certain what Lord Cedric would do if he found him at themonastery. And Katherine had this night pledged to wed the count inthree days' time. Even as they were arranging their plans Cantemir'svalet had rushed to him saying that his Lordship's page had come tohis apartments, and finding him gone his master had vowed death to anywho would intrigue at such hours with his promised wife. Cantemir, apolished, hollow-hearted, selfish sycophant and coward, made more soperhaps by Constance' influence over him, at Katherine's command, asit were, had taken flight. 

Constance listened eagerly the next morning, as she sat 'neath hermaid's hands, to every detail of the evening's adventure; but herdisappointment at such mischance was greatly allayed by the unexpectedpresence of Sir Julian Pomphrey. He was second only to Lord Cedric inher affections. Her greatest desire was to gain his Lordship's love;if she could not have that, then she would try for the king's favourwhereby she would be able to live at court and be ever near SirJulian, whose mistress she had been and might be again. 

She had begun well to bombard for the accomplishment of her firstdesire. 

As soon as possible she rode forth, passing beyond Crandlemar village, where a short way from its confines she came upon a certain innocentlooking tree that had some six feet above its broad trunk a loosenedknot, which could be removed at will. She plucked it forth and lookedwithin. It was empty and barren of even a bird's nest. Constance hadno compassion for its loneliness when she laid therein a small, whitepiece of paper and filled the orifice with the rough knot. She rodeaway content and doubting not that Count Cantemir would soon have herletter. 

He had halted some five leagues beyond Crandlemar at an inn remotefrom the highway, the landlord of which was a monk, dissembling hisname to Jacques Dempsy of the Cow and Horn, and his religion toanything that was the king's pleasure. 

The two sat in the deserted drinking-room; their heads bent togetherand speaking in subdued tones. Cantemir's hand rested upon his leg, that had been freshly washed and bound by the landlord. 

Sir Julian's sword-prick had goaded Cantemir to an anger that was'suaged neither by good old wine nor the council of the monk. He fretted for an opportunity to thrust his assailant in theback--anywhere. "Surely, " said he, "the day is not far when I shallkill that devil Pomphrey, " His groom had seen Sir Julian full in theface at a small opening in the trees. 

"Sh!" said Dempsy, "there is other work for thee now. 'Tis best forthee to bide here awhile, at least until a courier shall return fromthe tree, where thou sayest thy cousin will place the billet. And ifeverything is well, then there will be found for thee a guide to leadthee through the forest to the monastery, where thou shalt first signthyself for the strict carrying out of our plans; then thou shalt bewed, if there is no remissness, and carried safely to London, wherethou shalt remain until thy lady has audience, and gains that we seekof the King. Ah! there are times when we sigh and almost weep forthose good old _pro_-Reformation days, when such ecclesiastical bodiesas ours took their grievances to--Rome. Bah! to have to bribe aprofligate king for--the signing of his name. What does he know aboutbequests and inheritances--" The count started and Dempsy all alertbroke in with, --"and freeholds. Thou dost know, count, the monasteryis a freehold in the very centre of Lord Cedric's lands; but--I amtelling secrets; forget what I said. " The count fell back listlessly, a gap made in his thoughts by the sudden disappearance of a clue. 

"Charles treats us as mendicants; but if he should chance to see thecoffers of our order, he would know we had received something elsebeside a crust for shriving. " The count looked up again so quickly, Dempsy caught himself and wondered what he had been saying, and whathis last words were; for he had been thinking aloud, as it were. 

"Aye, aye, I was saying if Charles could see the riches of ourcoffers, he would know the sale of Indulgences had not been a little. Thou seest, count, we have here at the monastery great treasure, ourcoffers are filled with priceless articles of virtue that will, nodoubt, be carried to Rome and be laid in the reliquary of Santa MariaMaggiore or St. Andrew Corsini or St. Peters. We have some pricelessbones--" Adrian shuddered and relaxed his attention--"they have broughtus great, good fortune; we have bits of clothing--thou dost well knowmost of the saints were plainly attired--that some day will be worthmuch, perhaps not in my day nor thine, but when age comes, when wegrow a little further from the saints. Ah! I see, thou hast not muchinterest in my converse--treasure is nothing to thy love-sick heart, eh! count?"

"Nay, not dead men's bones, indeed thou hast rare wine for suchcumbrous relics that can be turned to naught! And didst thou shrivethe saint for the use of his bones a hundred years hence?"

"Thou art growing facetious, count. Dost think of no virtue but thymaid's? And art thou sure she will not fall back from her promise tothee?"

Cantemir, filled with his own ideas, gave perfunctory acquiescence andcontinued in his own line of thought. And what with a busy brain thatwas not over-strong, and a ride of some length and dampness, with asore leg, he became feverish and the monk took him to bed in greathaste, where he remained for the best part of a week; the seriousnessof his disease not a little augmented by the desire for immediateaction. 

CHAPTER XII

CASTLE AND MONASTERY

The next morning after Christopher's sudden disaster, the castleseemed to have awakened from a long apathy. The servants clatteredunder breath of their wounded fellow. The arrival of his Grace ofEllswold's physicians held gossip in the castle in abeyance, as allwere anxious of their decision; but the presence of Sir Julian seemedto fill the sails of the becalmed household with a stiff breeze, whichat a favourable moment would raise anchor and fly forth on a joyoussea. 

The physicians gave out that there was no immediate danger, but hisillness was serious and there must neither be noise nor excitement. Itwas out of the question to move his Grace either to his own estates orelsewhere for baths or sea air. 

Lord Cedric and Sir Julian sat with him an hour after the doctor'sexamination, Sir Julian, conversing of the freshest gossip at court, without the usual condiment of inflammables which would be apt torouse his Grace not a little. 

There being now no traitor--unless perchance Constance might be termedone--in the house, and no danger of Mistress Pen wick being leftwithout the close surveillance of Janet, she was no longer keptprisoner. And, while she was greatly wrought upon by the sad havoc ofthe previous night, her youth and gay spirits and Janet's exhortationsupon the age, giving license to all sorts of uprisings and display oftemper and unwarranted vengeance, somewhat quieted her, and she aroseas sprightly as ever, all the more determined to free herself fromLord Cedric. If she had stopped for self-analysis, she would havefound that she was bent on gaining her independence at no matterwhat cost; regardless of consequences. That her desire was more ofadventure than ambition. And she also would have found that she carednaught for Cantemir and a very great deal for Lord Cedric. She hadnever given thought to a separation from her beloved Janet; while evenclassing her as antagonistic to her desires, she never ceased to loveher; for this woman had made herself a mother in every respect, aye, even more watchful and exacting. While acting in a servant's capacity, doing the most menial of service, she developed in the maid thoseseemingly trifling motives of mind and soul which in the end make upthe character of a life; and very few mothers ever have the tact toso understand these very minute details that so develop a child'spassion. Janet had ever developed in her charge an inclination for allbeauty; not failing, however, to show wherein weakness crept; wheregrace of countenance oft screened defect of character. Indeed thismaid was one of Janet's own creation, save in flesh and blood, and noone knew any better than she, herself, the vanity to rout the faultsand frailties inherited. She strove the harder to overthrow suchimperfections by perfecting and cultivating the maid's receptive mood. She was ever fencing with her in words, working out in detail exchangeof thought wherein Katherine might, if 'twere in her, make a cleverreply. At times Mistress Penwick would pick up such threads of Janet'steaching as would bring her to a semblance of conscience of presentenvironment, and she would see in a vague way the right and wrong ofthings. For the moment she would read all in Cantemir's handsomeface that it masqued and would turn from it only to become lost incontemplation of what life would be if she were free from Cedric'sguardianship, never thinking of the greater bondage of espousing aknave. Ever and anon her eyes sought the young lord of the castle, forgetting she was his ward--and there would come to her such afeeling of overwhelming conviction she was for the moment submergedin ecstasy, and with the hot blush still upon her face she would fleefrom him as if he were an evil tempter. He brought her near to thatgreat unknown, upon whose threshold she stood trembling and expectant, eager to know what was before her. And so, not understanding her ownmind, and being of such tender years, drifted along with the tide thatwas carrying her to destruction. Her mind was set upon her own way, and sheer perversity deigned not to let her see the hands stretchedtoward her. 

The afternoon sun fell aslant the black oak parquetry where sat herGrace of Ellswold, Lady Constance and Mistress Penwick, engaged withlimning and embroidery. Lord Cedric and Sir Julian entered, attiredin the most modish foppery of the time. The latter was saying, as hesoundly rapped his pouncet-box, --

"His demeanour is too provincial, too provincial--ah!"--and he bentlow with grave formality to Mistress Penwick as Cedric presented him;then turning to the duchess continued, --"I was saying, your Grace, that Dryden is provincial in his demeanour, when compared to his Graceof Buckingham. "

"Indeed, Julian, thou dost speak lightly of such gigantic genius;beside, 'twould not be fair to compare sun and moon; and how could wedo without either the one or the other?"

"To which dost thou comparison his Grace?"

"The moon, of course!" said the Duchess. 

"And to what planet is my lord a satellite?"

"Nay, I know not; thou dost question of one who knows little ofastronomy; but I think perhaps Mars, as the planet doth resemble earthmore closely than any other. "

"Bravo, 'tis a rare simile; and I take it thou didst speak inderogation;--no matter how true the _inuendo_, it is ever the materialwe most appreciate and enjoy, and the sun being nearly ninety-threemillion miles from the earth, 'tis too remote to be interesting. "

"Indeed, Julian, Dryden in five minutes' converse will stir one toseriousness by his fancy, to tears by his pathos, and to thoughts ofdeity by his sublimity. "

"'Tis only a great, good, noble nature like thine that could be sostirred; believe me, your Grace, thou didst dissemble these emotionsfrom pure charity. "

"Well, well, we must all admit that 'tis not his character thatcommands our respect and esteem, but his prose and poesy. We all loveBuckingham, but in our appreciation of him we must not exclude reasonand put him before all others, "--and her Grace turned abruptly toMistress Penwick. "Here is an admirer of Dryden's compositions, sheclings pertinaciously and with all the ardour of strong youth to hissatire of 'Absalom and Achitophel, ' although 'tis a bitter lampoon onMonmouth and Shaftesbury; two men she heartily admires. " Sir Julianleant over the Duchess and spoke softly, --

"I was not aware Mistress Penwick had been presented?" And his keeneyes scanned every lineament of her face and mould. Lord Cedric waswatching askance, and his face grew red with a stroke of passion ashe noted Sir Julian's look of evident admiration, and jealousy fora moment swept the young lord's heart, and he cursed in thoughtthe wicked feeling that in connection with his noble friend couldpredicate of naught but the foul fiends. Indeed, so open were SirJulian's glances that the maid herself became confused and said, withsome embarrassment, --

"My imagination is ofttime profligate, and I indulge--in fancy--inexchange of word and thought with those great and exalted personageswhose noble compeers I have the good fortune to consort with daily. "And she laid her hand caressingly upon the Duchess' arm. 

"Then 'twould serve thee greatly to place thee within the shadow ofWhitehall, aye, Mistress?"

"'Twould be a great happiness, Sir Julian. "

"Dost know of any greater, my lady?" It seemed his eyes would pierceher very soul. 

"I must admit it; I have a great desire, " and her face grew rose-huedand her heart fluttered with the bold words she was about to utter--

"Ah, thou dost wish for, or have a desire to enter the--"

"The distinguished service of a Lady of Honour. " As one looked uponher great beauty, 'twas a wonder she was not born a queen. 

Upon hearing the maid's words, Constance in jealous rage fell toinordinate laughter and shook her work to the floor, and as LordCedric stooped to regain it he whipped out, --

"And why, pray, art thou so amused; 'tis most like Julian to promotethis idea, and she will straightway wish to leave us. I am sure oneglimpse of her would set the whole court on fire. "

"Such startling metaphor, unless indeed thou dost allude to the colourof her hair!" She spoke with so much malice and hate Lord Cedric wasstirred to amazement, and for the first time his eyes were opened toConstance' hate of one whom he loved beyond all else on earth. He hadthought her merely jealous of the maid, but now he saw 'twas hatred. 

Sir Julian paid no heed to aught save Mistress Penwick's brave colouras it came and went, and the fervour of her eyes as they looked intohis. He came nearer to being shaken than ever before in his twenty oddyears of slow and fast living. 

"If I might be so honoured by the privilege, I would present thydesire straightway to the Duchess here, who would no doubt place theeat once at court. " Mistress Penwick arose, unable to contain herperturbed spirit, and said, --

"Sir Julian, how can I ever--" and she stopped, so stirred was shewith her emotion; very much as a child is wrought to wonderment by thesight of a marvelous toy. Julian offered his arm, and they saunteredup and down the room, Sir Julian boldly playing his part. If Katherinehad been less innocent, she might have seen that he was not sincere. He said:

"I see no reason why thou shouldst not begin preparation at oncefor thy journey. The Duke is progressing finely and her Grace couldperhaps accompany thee as well now as at another time. Wilt thouprepare at once, Mistress Penwick?" If the king had already sent forher, he could not have talked with more confidence; but there wassomething he must know. As he insisted on an immediate journey, sheturned scarlet, and bit her lip, and frowned. 

"There are a few matters I must see to; I could hardly leave within aweek;--there is no hurry!"

"On the contrary there is a great hurry, for I must leave at once, and I would escort thee. I think I shall leave by dawn to-morrow. "Katherine's brow puckered still more as she stood upon the seesaw ofduty and ambition, perplexed to know which way to turn. It appearedthe better quality was innate and her brow cleared, as she said, --

"'Twould be impossible to go so soon. I could not ask her Grace toleave when the Duke is so ill; for, beside a long journey, much timemight be required ere I should be presented. I must have time--a ladyshould have a great number to attend her--"

"Thou hast a host in thy nurse, Janet; she is quite enough for thejourney, and at London there will be a matron for each finger of thyhand. I can see no reason why thou shouldst not start at once, if theDuchess so decides. " They were quite alone now, and Katherine, being well cornered and being young and given to confiding, felt soirresistibly drawn toward this man at her side, she looked up into hisface and said, --

"Canst thou not guess, after all thou didst see last night, why I amkept from going?"

"I cannot; methinks 'twould be a happy moment to say _adieu_ to suchscenes. "

"Then thou dost not know I am to wed Count Cantemir, Lady Constance'cousin?"

"I think thy heart an alien to love; for if thou wouldst sooner becomea Lady of Honour than wed one to whom thou hast 'trothed thyself, 'tissure thou hast no love; 'tis caprice or--what one wills to call it, and thou hadst better fly from a marriage that has not love in it. "

"But I know not what to do. I have given my promise to wed, and I wantto go to London. "

"Then I beg to assist thee to thy heart's desire as soon as thouhast found what its desire is; and I insist thou dost examine theweather-vane of thy mind and discern its bent. I am by thy side, groping in darkness for that thou wouldst have. I am bound to servethee. "

"Sir Julian, thou dost nonplus my understanding of myself absurdly. I agree I have more minds than one, and 'tis disconcerting to try inhaste to ascertain which is the best. Indeed, I do not wish to make afalse step and do that 'twould make me sorry ever after. "

"'Twould be well to have one to guide thee in thine uncertainty. Ishould aspire to such an office with alacrity, if thou wouldst butgive me one encouraging glance. " For a moment they looked into eachother's eyes, then Katherine's lids dropped and she became as clayin his hands. And before she was aware, she had told him all things. These matters were not altogether new to Sir Julian, for Lord Cedrichad discoursed at length upon them, but the nucleus he sought wasfound, and he listened perfunctorily to all else, feasting his eyesupon her face and listening only to the music of her voice. 

"Then why, may I ask, didst thou discard Cedric's suit?"

"He is tyrannical and cruel, and even though my heart should inclinetoward him, 'twould not be meet for me to wed with one of anotherfaith. "

"'Tis possible thou couldst win him to thy way of thinking. "

"Nay, I should not try it; for I have cast all thought of him aside. "

"Then thou dost acknowledge having had a tenderness for him? 'Tis wellthou dost so fling him aside, he is unworthy of thy consideration. "

"Not so; he is most noble, but--but--I know not what, --he is haughtyand full of temper and given to harsh language--"

"Yet he is not a fit companion for thee, sayest thou?"

"Thou dost greatly misunderstand me; he is on the contrary a mostdelightful person to converse with and every whit fit to be aKing;--but we are not suited to each other. "

"Was it not thy father's desire for thee to soon wed and to this man?"

"Even so; but he knew not my Lord Cedric but his father; beside--"

"Well--"

"I am expecting to hear from my father in the near future--"

"Ah!"

"--and 'tis possible he will come to me or send and make some change. I have asked him to appoint another guardian for me and my estates. "

"'Twould be a wise thing to do, no doubt; but 'tis possible Cedric hasused already thine inheritance. " Mistress Penwick flushed hotly. 

"Nay, thou dost judge him ill; he is above such a thing. " And SirJulian knew what the poor maid knew not herself, and he felt 'twas asafe thing to carry through his adventure. 

"Then there are two things that weigh upon thee. Thou knowest notwhether to wed or become a Lady of Honour. I will warn thee that thoumust not dwell long upon them, for 'tis possible if thou dostnot decide very early, I will be able to help thee to nothingbut--myself. "

Mistress Penwick flushed warmly and smiled back at him; and her desirefor admiration drove her on and on, and she soon forgot all else savethe man by her side, and it appeared that no matter how he tried tobreak the spell of her witchery, he could not leave her for a moment. 

It fell out that before three days had passed, they were deep inadmiration of each other. Cedric was racked by doubt and fear, yetnever for an instant letting go his faith in Julian. Constance washappy that Katherine was so diverted, keeping thereby Cedric from anyrash moves, and giving herself time to visit the tree that often heldso much of importance. And she managed to outwit the ubiquitous Janetand hailed with joy the day of the great battle when Mistress Penwickwas to be removed from her pathway forever. 

The disappearance of Adrian Cantemir was not spoken of--as if 'twerea matter of too small import;--and yet he hovered ominously in theirminds; and Katherine most of all desired to forget her promise andevery word she had spoken to him, and Constance understood and wouldnot let her forget, planning night and day to bring them togetheragain. .. . 

To look back from the lower terrace at the castle was to see agorgeous display of blossom. The ivy-clad walls stood a richbackground to the splendour of tinted flower. Indeed, the sceneappeared not unlike an enormous nosegay lying upon a hill of moss. Thenight had brought showers, and from every minute projection of twig, leaf or petal glistened limpid drops, some swelling with honeyand falling like dew upon the young sward. The birds twitteredceaselessly, and some young thing preening upon a light blossomy twigscattered down, anon, perfume upon some shy young fawn, and he leaptaway frightened by so dainty a bath and plunged knee-deep in crystalpools and sent the stately swans skimming hurriedly to a quiet andsheltered cove. 

From the Chapel came indistinctly the sound of the organ in a prelude, it would seem, to the day. 'Twas Sir Julian's wont to rise early anddraw--it may be--inspiration from the full vibrant chords of sweetharmony. 

From an upper casement leant forth Mistress Penwick with a face asdelicately tinted as the blossoms of the peach that flaunted theirbeauty at some distance. She appeared to be arranging violets--thatstill sparkled with rain--in an oblong porcelain box that lay flatupon the casement. Her white jewelled fingers flitted in and out ofthe blue depths. Her small white teeth were but half eclipsed andthere fluttered forth from her parted lips a low humming that keyedand blended with the organ. Her soft white dress enveloped her mouldloosely; her long flowing sleeves, prefaced by rare lace, displayingher pink, round arm. She wore not the look of care; for she had thrownall such evil weight upon one who played in yonder sacred shrineso tranquilly, as if nothing but his own sins rested--and they butfeather-weight--upon his soul. On he played, and she arranged herflowers, and up the avenue came horses' feet and Lady Constanceunattended came riding near the castle and called up to the vision ofbeauty that leant from the window, --

"'Tis a glorious morning for riding forth. I have had a fine jaunt andmet nothing but the post-boy, "--and here she showed a billet and rodeclose to the wall and hid it neath the ivy--"and a famous adventurewhich I've half a mind to pursue, after--I've 'suaged my hunger. If Iride thus every morning, I shall soon have an arm as pink and roundand perfect in mould as thine own. Hast thou broken fast?"

"I have had my simple allotment, and have been down on the lowerterraces and gathered these violets, and am now hungry again andJanet has gone for a wing of fowl and some wine. " At these words LadyConstance looked about her cautiously and spoke in low tones, --

"Everything is ready for thy flight. I saw Adrian this morning. He ishandsomer than ever and eager to see thee, and counts the hours 'tilnightfall. If 'tis possible thou art to escape unnoticed to themonastery, where the nuptials will be performed at once, then thou artto depart immediately for Whitehall, where thou wilt be made much ofby the King and he will more like detain thy husband under pretext, and mayhap offer him some honour for the sake of keeping thy beautyin England. "--With a wave of the hand Mistress Penwick bade LadyConstance depart as Janet stood within the door. 

The castle was astir early, as if there was naught but a glorious daybefore them, and they would make it of much length. It seemed as if agreat peace had settled upon those ivy-clad walls, or it might be thecalm that is the solemn presage of storm, and Sir Julian himself quietbeyond his wont seemed to portend the calamities that were to ensue;and after his breakfast stood at a window watching the dripping treesand whistling so softly one could not tell whether 'twere he or thebirds chirping without. Cedric and Lady Constance played at battledoreand shuttlecock. Mistress Penwick sat apart, busy with thought andneedle. His Grace of Ellswold sat up that morning, his wife andphysicians by his side, and all were happy with the great improvement. 

Meanwhile, at the monastery all was commotion. The day there would befar too short to accomplish all that was to be done. Three couriershad arrived since dawn with important dispatches. In the midst ofthe monks, who sat upon long benches that flanked either side of aspacious gallery, sat Adrian Cantemir, reading the last message. Opposite, at the table, were three monks apparently engaged upon theirown affairs, but subtly watching the puzzled countenance of theirguest. Finally their patience seemed to have run out and Constantine, the monk directly _vis-a-vis_ to Cantemir, coughed, cleared his throatand in low gutterals said, --

"Thy countenance is unfair; 'tis a perjury on thy happy heart. " Adrianlooked up with a start, so lost was he in contemplation. His letterwas prophetic of evil, and he was afraid. 

"'Tis ill news, and thou wert not far wrong to bring forth thinearms. The secrets to be intrusted to my wife it seems have alreadyreached--"

"The King?" and with the words it appeared each Abbé was upon his feetand leaning forward intent. 

"Nay, but the arch-fiends Buckingham and Monmouth. And with the King'sconsent they leave for a hunting bout and they ride hither. It saysthat the former in masque saw my meeting this morning with LadyConstance, and he followed and made love to her. " The Abbés stood inutter dismay and dejection. At last, Dempsy of the Cow and Horn beganin deep, full tones the first movement of the "Kyrie eleison, ChristeEleison, Kyrie eleison, " and one by one every voice leapt up in aGod-have-mercy, and the walls echoed and without the birds seemed totake it up, and it was carried to a listening ear not far from theshadow of the wall. Then the prayer ceased and La Fosse--half soldier, half priest--spoke in ringing tones. 

"And what else does thy billet say? Why are we to be attacked; are wenot upon our own ground?"

"It is mooted that should my wife gain the King's ear, she willinfluence him to consent not only on this thy matter but others ofgreat importance that now pend. It is said that Buckingham has boastedof rare sport in routing a full score of knaves; taking treasure--"Cantemir's eyes swept keenly the visage of Constantine--of greatvalue, beside the beauteous maid that is to arrive; for he says 'tissure she will be worth as much to them as the King. He refers tohimself and Monmouth, who mean to take my wife prisoner this verynight. "

"'Tis enough, " said La Fosse, with a deprecating gesture. "We must puton the armour of strength and gird ourselves for battle. We have allto fight for that that is honourable: home, virtue and religion. Whatmore could we ask for to strengthen us?"

"'Tis well said, " quoth Constantine. "Judging from thy billet, we arenot to be attacked until the maid hath arrived. Is it known, also, atwhat hour she is to come?"

"If they know so much, they perhaps know even all. "

"Then we must hasten the hour by two, and 'twill incur no disadvantagesave to bring the maid to a greater discretion and show of wit; for'twill be harder for her to escape at nine than eleven. "

"Methinks 'twill be a greater task to warn the maid of the settingforth of the hour. " Adrian looked up hopefully; for he was of nomind to meet his wife upon the threshold of a battle, and two hoursearlier, 'twould be time and to spare, and he spoke out bravely, --

"I'll see to the message, " and he was guilty of a low-bred wink atDempsy. 

"Then 'twill serve to set aside this matter for the next, " and LaFosse looking at Cantemir and speaking softly and deferentially badehim leave them for the present. 

Adrian left the room by the door he had entered it, and passingthrough a hall reentered the chamber that had been assigned him. 

The Russian, though a coward, was wary at times and allowed it tocarry him into danger, and as an example he changed his riding garbfor his cavalier costume, discarding his spurred boots for high-heeledslippers and deigning not to don coat or waistcoat started forth insearch of--he must think what? He was without servant, as 'twas saferto leave him at the Cow and Horn;--especially one who has corners onhis conscience. He must search for--the kitchen. This place was belowstairs, and he stole this way and that to find a flight of steps. Treading softly, listening intently and looking ravenously foropportunity to plunder, for there was treasure somewhere about themonastery, this was certain, and he might as well have part of it asBuckingham and Monmouth to have it all. And in case of any mischanceand Mistress Penwick be lost to him, he must have something to liveupon. Constance would never forgive him for allowing the maid toescape him, and consequently would not give him large loans asheretofore. But if he should gain the fair prize, some day he wouldgive back to his church even more than he had taken. As he thusthought, he forgot for a moment his present surroundings and wassuddenly reminded by a touch on the shoulder, CHAPTER XIII

AS NINE TOLLED FROM THE CHAPEL BELFRY

He started quickly and looked up shuddering, and saw a tall, slendermonk with cowl so drawn not a feature could be seen. The Abbé spokelow and hoarsely, as though a cold prevented better utterance, --

"What seekest thou?"

"The kitchen, " Cantemir answered, with a great show of bravery. 

"And what there to find, my young man?"

"Pen and paper. I must write to Mistress Penwick. "

"Ah yes, ah yes, my son. I had forgotten. Curve thy sentences to thepoint, without being so broad in assertion another might understand. Thou hadst better put it this way--"

"Indeed I thought I had my meaning well covered. I had proposed tosay--"

"Ah, we are not alone; step this way. " The monk turned to a panellingthat gave way by a touch, and to Cantemir's surprise they were alonein a dark and vaulted passage; indeed they were unable to discernaught. Quickly the Abbé drew his companion from the panelling throughwhich they had passed; and 'twas hardly done when three monks followedwith lighted candles. The foremost was Constantine, carrying anenormous bunch of keys. Their long robes swept Cantemir's feet. Hedrew a quick breath, and before it sounded his companion placed hishand over his mouth. Now this hand smacked not of holy mould ormonastic incense, but rather of rare perfume; but Cantemir wasfrightened and did not notice the worldliness of the admonishing hand. The monks proceeded down the passage; stopping near the centre theylifted from the floor a trapdoor. A ladder was brought and swung downthe opening and the three descended. 

"Now, my son, thou hadst better write thy billet, and if thou dost notfind one to carry it, I will be along directly and do the service forthee. I must visit the village and the tree, my son. Now I'll givethee a bit of advice. Never again go about looking for anything where'tis supposed there is treasure. If it had not been for my timelyinterruption, my brothers there would have found thee and notso easily forgiven thy inclination for discovery. Go, go inpeace--remember always, that discretion is the wit of safety. "

Cantemir was frightened, and glad to get away, for he feared theAbbé's smooth tones masqued treachery, and he slid through thepanelling and in very earnest sought the kitchen. 

The deceitful monk hastened toward the open trap and kneeling gazedfor a moment below. There came up a foul odour that made him flinchand draw back; he drew his handkerchief and placed it to his nose andleant again and looked. There was a faint glimmer that showed in whichdirection the lights were. He lay flat and putting his head beneaththe opening, saw the priests leaning over a chest. Quickly he preparedto descend and was upon the second rung of the ladder, when thepanelling again opened and a half-dozen faces looked through; angerand indignation upon all but one, and that was the Russian's, whichbore joy of a discovery. He had gone to the refectory with good intentto write his letter; but finding a small company of monks gatheredthere and they appearing much perturbed, he asked the cause. Onesaid there was a strange Abbé in the monastery, whose hands were asbejewelled as any fop's, and that a number had gone in search of him. The false monk's hand had betrayed him, as 'twas seen from a window ashe uncovered it to open the door. Now Cantemir thought it a good, safemoment to become a hero and straightway told of his encounter; sayinghe was in search of the refectory and had lost his way; making aplausible story. He was carried forth with the party in search andnow came toward the opening in the passage with drawn sword, his facewearing the masque of bravery. 

The man upon the ladder was the same that had listened to the "Kyrieeleison" from without, and before it concluded had made his wayinside: the Duke of Buckingham. 

He jumped like a cat under cover of his pursuer's noisy entrance andslipped away from the opening. Quickly he drew from him the robe andcowl and flung them down upon the ladder and drawing his sword stoodwaiting and almost eager for a fight. He did not forget, however, that there is often a practiced and keen thrust from the folds of apriest's habit. But they were confident the false Abbé was beneath, and with less noise and more subtleness moved toward the opening. Asthey did so, his Grace swung round and cautiously approached the wallwhere the panelling was. "Aye, aye, " he heard, as the foremost manfound the robe. Straightway they all rushed below stair, and asthe head of the last man disappeared, his Grace went through thepanelling, and within five minutes stood safe in the forest, happywith the knowledge he had gained. 

It was near the hour of five when Lady Constance rode forth alone. Sheleft the courtyard unnoticed and hurried to the village and through itand on beyond toward the tree and passed it and galloped some distancebeyond, then seeing she was not followed made a quick turn andretraced, But there came from a bend in the road a horseman that rodewarily. She again turned to see if any came, and seeing no one stoppedat the tree and brought from its cavity a letter. As she replaced theknot, there was such a sudden sound of horses' feet behind her shedropped the billet and her unknown squire leapt from his horse torecover it, and stood uncovered before her with such a long, low bowof homage he had most time to read the missive. Lady Constance wasflattered and felt surely that one with such courtly dress and bearingcould be nothing less than a Duke and his wearing of a full masquemade her doubly sure of it. She flushed and reached out her hand forthe letter and spoke in her most seductive tones, --

"My lord, "--he looked up and saw on her pretty, though characterlessface a smile that warranted a further acquaintance. He placed theletter in her hand slowly, then caught her hand and held it firmly;indeed their hands touched and lingered together with such intentionit conveyed much more meaning than words. Constance had all theoutward show of a great lady, but at soul she was putrescent. Therecame such a heartrending sigh from her cavalier she spoke in a mosttender tone, --

"And why such sighing?"

"Is it not enough, sweet lady?"

"I am at a loss?"

"Nay, rather 'tis I that am at loss; for I had sought to gain thyfavour undivided, and I meet with thee only to give into thy hands atrysting billet that lifts thy glorious orbs above me. " He bowed lowin mock humility. Constance' heart fluttered at his ardent words. 

"I would fain know who thus sues for a woman's love; 'tis possible--"He lowered his masque. "Ah, his Grace of Monmouth!" She well-nighprostrated herself upon the saddle, in lieu of the fine courtesyshe would have swept had her position been more favourable. Hiswords--such gloriously sweet words when uttered by the lips of aDuke--fed her vanity. Her face flushed as she thought of what hislove must be. He saw his vantage and drew nearer--it may be a hair'sbreadth over the line of respect--indeed 'twould have been aninnovation had he not done so, as the time warranted nothing else buta show at virtue. 

"Your Grace finds a maid that is heart whole; but I would aid othersto their desire. I but act as post-boy 'twixt tree and castle. "

"Thou art cold and cruel. I can see well thou dost hold tightly to thybosom thy billet; thou art afraid 'twill betray thee. Thou art themaid herself that doth own it?" Constance had a burning curiosity toknow why Monmouth was in the neighbourhood of Crandlemar, and thoughhe insinuated he had come purposely to see her, yet she was not blindand wondered what diplomacy she could use to gain from him the desiredknowledge. Could it be possible he had come on behalf of the King, and if so, for what business? The Catholics surely had not been soindiscreet as to allow their affairs to reach the King's ears? And ifso, why should he send to them? It was not at all likely any one knewof the monastery so hidden away in a dense forest. Could it be thatthe beauty of Mistress Penwick had become notorious at Whitehall andthat the Duke was hunting for her? These thoughts passed speedilythrough her brain, while the ogling Monmouth waited for her answer tohis accusation. She spoke with a shy little twist of her head, vainlytrying to blush like little innocence. 

"How can I hold out against thee, Duke? Thou dost steal my secret;here, then, read it for thyself. " With a lightening glance he finishedreading what he had begun before. 

"I was right, sweet Katherine; 'tis a trysting letter, and thou artto go to him to-night at nine? Thou shalt not; I'll have thee formyself. " Now they had made a great mistake. Constance thought toconvince the Duke she had no lover. He misunderstood and believedher to be the Katherine he had come after. She, thinking to gain hissecret, allowed him to think so, and quickly took up her new part. 

"Thou dost embarrass me, Duke!"

"In very truth, " said he, "we have heard of thy great beauty atWhitehall, and have come hither to claim thee for ourselves. Thoushalt be my very own, sweet Katherine. The King was about to sendforth to Crandlemar to enquire of his Grace of Ellswold. We asked forthe service, that we might gain sight of thy rare beauty. We are aboutto pay our respects to the Duke who lies yonder, and at the King'sorder bring him important news. We have heard, however, his conditionis most critical, and we cannot see him until high noon to-morrow, asthe midday finds him stronger. And I must see thee, sweet one, againbefore the night is over. I cannot wait for the morrow's noon. " Hecaught her hand and pressed his lips to it, resting himself againstthe horse, his arm thrown carelessly across Constance' knee. Shedeemed it an honour to be in such close proximity to the royal Duke, and grew red with his amorous glances and soft-spoken words and thefamiliarity of his arm upon her. 

"Indeed, it doth seem to me also like a very long time to wait, " andshe sighed heavily. At this Monmouth drew her down and kissed her uponher thin, arrogant lips. She, well-nigh beside herself, exclaimed in athin, high voice, --

"Ah, ah, Duke, thou dost kill me--I must hasten away from thee. I mustgo. " She spurred her horse; but the Duke caught the rein and held itfast. 

"Nay, nay, thou shalt not yet be gone. Wouldst thou be so cruel toleave me now at Love's first onset? I will not have it!"

"But I must hasten, --I am riding alone, and some one will be sent forme if I do not soon return to the castle. "

"Thou must give me promise first, sweet one!"

"Promise, --promise of what?" and she listened eagerly to his nextwords. 

"Dost thou not covet a Prince's favour?" Constance' heart flutteredmightily, and she thought--"A fig for Cedric's love of me. He lovesnot at all, compared with this man's warm passion. Cedric loves me notat all, anyway. I will be a Prince's favourite, " and she answered, --

"I never covet that which is beyond my reach. " 'Tis often a true thingthat when we sit within our dark and dismal chamber without comfort, hope or happy retrospection, there stands upon the threshold a joyousphenomenon of which we have never so much as dreamt as being inexistence; and this had come to Constance. If the Duke loved her, whatwould it matter if Cedric did love Katherine? She could not compel himto love her. 

"Ah, sweet Katherine, how can one covet that they already possess? Iwould teach thee to enjoy all that such beauty as thine is heir to. Thou wilt come to me to-night?"

"To-night!" and Lady Constance fairly gasped. 

"To-night, fair one, on the stroke of nine thou wilt pass through thepostern door of the castle and fall into my arms, --here, take this, sweet, to pledge thyself. " He slipped from his finger a ring ofmarvellous beauty and essayed to place it upon her hand. 

"Nay, I cannot. I should be seen to go forth at so early an hour, --andI know thee not!"

"Thou art not afraid of me? Nay, I am one of the most gentle andtender--"

"But where wilt thou take me, your Grace?"

"I will take thee to my heart, and if thou art unhappy, thou mayestreturn when thou desirest; but 'twill be my pleasure to keep thee withme alway; we will go to London. " Constance, having read the letter, knew it would not do for her to leave the drawing-room at the samehour with Katherine, and she hardly knew what to do. 

"Indeed, I have no wish to see a duel upon my Lord Cedric's grounds, thou must come later. My love will perhaps wait an hour, --thou mayestcome at twelve. "

"And allow him to come first and steal thee; nay, I protest. "Constance felt somewhat dubious. The Duke saw it, and hastened toreassure her. 

"If thou wilt sit near the window on the stroke of nine, I will letthy lover go; but if thou dost pass from my sight, I will run thefellow through; and thou mayest come to me at twelve!"

To this Constance agreed, and allowed him to place the ring; and hekissing her again with fervour, let her go, exultant. 

'Twas a glorious, clear, warm night. The castle was aglow and merry. Lady Bettie Payne and Sir Rodger Mac Veigh and Sir Jasper Kenworthyand sundry other shire folk had come to while away a spring night. Thegentlemen were playing at cup and ball; Lady Constance and Lady Bettiewere gossiping of Court scandal, when in swept her Grace of Ellswoldwith Mistress Penwick, the latter such a vision of loveliness the gamewas suspended for a moment, and Constance and Bettie looked up to seewhy all eyes were turned from them. 

The maid wore a pale-hued brocade gown of sweeping length of skirt, and short, round bodice and low-neck and long sleeves that tightlyencased her plump, pink arms. Her mother's pearls lay glistening abouther slender neck, and falling low was caught again by some capriceof mode high where met sleeve and waist, and here a rare bunch offragrant violets shone bravely as a shoulder knot. 

Lord Cedric saw her first, and was well-nigh drunk with her beauty, and he advanced and bent low, kissing her hand that trembled in hisown. He raised his eyes to hers, she looking fairly at him with aready smile. 

"Kate, Kate--" Such a flood of emotion came upon him he was bereft ofspeech. She looked at him surprised, and wondered if he knew aught. Could it be that Sir Julian had found out anything and had spoken toCedric? She was sure she had kept this last secret safe from all saveConstance, and had not been with Sir Julian for a whole day, fearinghe would find out by looking at her. Nay, he knew nothing, --beside, ifhe did, he would shield her from Cedric's anger by keeping so greata secret. And yet it almost seemed as if the young lord knew of herdesperate act; 'twas written on his face, she saw the pain upon it;and yet, how could it be? These thoughts flashed through Katherine'sbrain, and she tried to move from him, but an inscrutable presenceheld her, and she felt she must not leave him, perhaps forever, withthat face so full of pain, and she spoke out a word she had neverused before and one which touched his Lordship as nothing else could, 'twas:

"Cedric. " He caught his breath with sheer excess of joy, and bentagain and whispered, --

"What, Kate; what is it?" 'Twas enough, she laughed quietly and turnedto Sir Julian, who had come to her side. Lady Constance was not longin finding an opportunity to speak alone with her. 

"Oh, sweet, " she said. "I haven't had a chance to talk with thee of myadventure, " and she drew the maid aside and began volubly to speakof her encounter of the early morning. "He was most certainly of theCourt. I cannot possibly mistake his manner. Indeed, I am certainhe is a noble lord, and no doubt is here to bear Cantemirescort--perhaps--" and she leant close to Katherine--"it might be theKing himself, who knows?" Her listener flushed and thought--

"Was it possible she was to receive such honour, and why not?" She hadheard from Constance and Cantemir himself that his house was a verywealthy and important one in Russia and that the English royalty andnobles made much of him. She, with her poor knowledge of the world, thought Constance spoke truth. 

"I'll tell thee why I thought he was the King. He was the form, graceand elegance of his Royal Highness and kept his masque securely tied. I'm sure it was he. And this evening, --ah, ah, how can I ever tellthee, Katherine, the honour I felt! Indeed we do not know howimportant Adrian is until we see those with whom he consorts. To-nightI met--who dost guess it was, Katherine?"

"Nay, I could never guess, for I know not whom Adrian's friends are;but if thy friend of the morning was the King, 'tis certain thesetting sun brings thee one less titled. "

"'Tis so, but one who may be a King. Thou wilt never tell, Katherine?"

"Nay, never. "

"'Twas the King's son, his Grace the Duke of Monmouth. "

"Ah, ah, a Prince! Thou art indeed favoured. And how came it about? Iam very curious. " Lady Constance related part of her interview withthe Duke, embellished and with many deviations--

"He said they were to be at the monastery as witnesses and intimatedthat the King had heard of thy wonderful beauty and grew so impatientto see thee he must either come himself or send some one he couldtrust. Monmouth said thy request was already granted in the King'smind, and he only waited to see thee to give it utterance. Thou dostknow what a good Catholic he is, and hearing they were to send thee toask certain things of his clemency, he has sent the Duke with otherspecial guard to render speed and safety to thy journey to Whitehall, where great honour will be shown Adrian's fair bride. " Constance soentered into the very soul of her lies, she half believed them as shegave them utterance. 

The young maid was well-nigh beside herself with pleasure at thehonours that were to attend her, and she gave up all idea of abackward step. And when Constance proclaimed she was to accompany her, her heart leapt up with joy. She gave no place to doubt now, 'twas anunknown quantity, and her voice trembled as she said--"It makes meperfectly content, if thou art to accompany me. Thou wilt go withme to the monastery, Constance?" For once her ladyship answeredtruthfully, but she did not know it:

"Nay, I am to join thee some time after twelve; I know not just whenor where; but we are to be together. I owe this especial favour to theDuke. I am so glad thou art espoused, or will be in a short while, orI should be insanely jealous. Look, Katherine!" and Constance undercover of her handkerchief showed the ring. 

"Isn't it beautiful?" said Katherine. 

Mistress Penwick, like many another of her beauty and age, wasinclined to be of ill-spirit when another of her sex seemed to be infavour; and at Constance' sudden acquaintance with the King's son, and able to wear his ring, she was piqued, and almost wished it washerself instead; for in such intimacy there could be nothing else buta very near and exalted position at Court. The poor child--innocentof all evil seeing naught in the gaining of Royal favour but theachievement of all that was high, holy, beautiful and perfect--nowfor a brief moment scorned her own poor estate and fell to envyingConstance, and was of a notion not to go at all to the monastery;--butif she didn't, then her religion would suffer; for who could go to theKing in her place? She knew she was beautiful, and knew its influence, and was sure the King would not refuse her. Now if Lord Cedric had notforbidden her going to the monastery for confession, she could haveknown what they wished and gone openly with Lady Constance or SirJulian, or perhaps just with Janet to his Majesty and gained hisfavour and at once have become a Lady of Honour. But no, 'twas notthus, and things were as they were, and she could not change them orretrace. 

She would not engage in any game, but played upon the harpsichord andsung some of her sweetest songs; Lord Cedric ever coming to her sideto turn her music or offer some little service. He was aflame withhope, for had she not called him "Cedric"?

How dear it sounded; if he might only hear her say it again. He cameto her side and whispered, --

"'Twas sweet of thee to call me Cedric!"--His hand for a moment restedupon the violets at her shoulder, --"Kate, why didst thou not wear theopal shoulder-knot instead of these violets?"

"Because--I value it more than aught else, and I would not wear it onall occasions, for 'twas thy mother's choicest brooch. "

"Indeed, I love it, also, Kate, for the same reason; but I wouldrather see thee wear it, for I love thee, Kate, thee, thee, thee. " Hisvoice was like a sob stirring her to a pity that made her sick andweak, and she turned from him hastily and began singing softly, --

 "When love with unconfined wings hovers within my gates; And my divine Althea brings to whisper at the grates; When I lie tangled in her hair and fetter'd to her eye; The gods that wanton in the air, know no such liberty. 

 "'Stone walls do not a prison make, nor iron bars a cage; Minds innocent and quiet take that for an hermitage; If I have freedom in my love, and in my soul am free; Angels alone that soar above enjoy such liberty!'"

"Thou dost sing the words of the beautiful and amiable RichardLovelace; I have heard my father speak of him with great affection. The lines to Althea--his sweetheart--were written in prison. Shethought him dead and married some one else. He loved her more thanlife, --dost believe in such love, Kate?"

"Aye, why not?--Ah, Sir Julian, hast finished, --who was victor?"

"I am modest, my Lady. "

"But never too modest to hold thine own. " As she spoke thus to SirJulian, the sands of the hour-glass ran out and nine tolled from theChapel belfry. Before the bell had ceased, Constance had drawn Cedricand Julian into a game of cards, she placing herself opposite thewindow, and Katherine had stepped into an adjoining passage, andtaking up her camelot cloak, with flying feet and beating hearthastened to the postern-door and slipped bolts and bars and stoodwithout in the calm, warm night. 

CHAPTER XIV

SERMONS NEW AND OLD

"The reign of Charles the Second seemed to be impregnated with a freeand easy moral atmosphere that engendered lewdness in human product. It is said by a great historian that Thomas Hobbes had, in languagemore precise and luminous than has ever been employed by any othermetaphysical writer, maintained that the will of the prince was thestandard of right and wrong, and that every subject ought to be readyto profess Popery, Mahometanism, or Paganism, at the royal command. Thousands who were incompetent to appreciate what was really valuablein his speculations eagerly welcomed a theory which, while it exaltedthe kingly office, relaxed the obligations of morality and degradedreligion into a mere affair of state. Hobbism soon became an almostessential part of the character of the fine gentleman. All thelighter kinds of literature were deeply tainted by the prevailinglicentiousness. Poetry stooped to be the pander of every low desire. Ridicule, instead of putting guilt and error to the blush, turned herformidable shafts against innocence and truth. The restored Churchcontended indeed against the prevailing immorality, but contendedfeebly, and with half a heart. It was necessary to the decorum ofher character that she should admonish her erring children, but heradmonitions were given in a somewhat perfunctory manner. Her attentionwas elsewhere engaged. Little as the men of mirth and fashion weredisposed to shape their lives according to her precepts, they were yetready to fight for her cathedrals and places, for every line of herrubric and every thread of her vestments. If the debauchedcavalier haunted brothels and gambling houses, he at least avoidedconventicles. If he never spoke without uttering ribaldry andblasphemy, he made some amends by his eagerness to send Baxter andHowe to gaol for preaching and praying. Thus the clergy, for a time, made war on schism with so much vigour that they had little leisure tomake war on vice. "

"Charles the Second wished merely to be a King who could draw withoutlimit on the treasury for the gratification of his private tastes, whocould hire with wealth and honours persons capable of assisting himto kill the time, and who, even when the state was brought bymaladministration to the depths of humiliation and to the brink ofruin, could still exclude unwelcome truth from the purlieus of hisown seraglio, and refuse to see and hear whatever might disturb hisluxurious repose. Later in life, the ill-bred familiarity of theScottish divines had given him a distaste for Presbyterian discipline, while the heats and animosities between the members of the EstablishedChurch and the Nonconformists, with which his reign commenced, madehim think indifferently of both. His religion was that of a youngprince in his warm blood, whose inquiries were applied more todiscover arguments against belief than in its favour. "

"The wits about the Court, who found employment in laughing atScripture, delighted in turning to ridicule what the preachers said intheir sermons before him, and in this way induced him to look upon theclergy as a body of men who had compounded a religion for their ownadvantage. So strongly did this feeling take root in him that he atlength resigned himself to sleep at sermon-time--not even South orBarrow having the art to keep him awake. In one of these half-hoursof sleep, when in Chapel, he is known to have missed, doubtless withregret, the gentle reproof of South to Lauderdale during a generalsomnolency:--'My lord, my lord, you snore so loud you will wake theKing. '"

"He was altogether in favour of extempore preaching, and was unwillingto listen to the delivery of a written sermon. " (Indeed, if we hadmore people like him in this day, we would hear far more of the gospeland far less of politics and jokes which so demoralize the pulpit andtake away all sacredness. The King was right, as all mankind willagree, in his idea of preaching. ) "Patrick excused himself from achaplaincy, 'finding it very difficult to get a sermon without book. 'On one occasion the King asked the famous Stillingfleet 'how it wasthat he always reads his sermons before him, when he was informed thathe always preached without book elsewhere?' Stillingfleet answeredsomething about the awe of so noble a congregation, the presence ofso great and wise a prince, with which the King himself was very wellcontented, --'But, pray, ' continued Stillingfleet, 'will your Majestygive me leave to ask you a question? Why do you read your speecheswhen you can have none of the same reasons?' 'Why truly, doctor, 'replied the King, 'your question is a very pertinent one, and so willbe my answer. I have asked the two Houses so often and for so muchmoney, that I am ashamed to look them in the face. '"

"This 'slothful way of preaching, ' for so the King called it, hadarisen during the civil wars; and Monmouth, when Chancellor of theUniversity of Cambridge, in compliance with the order of the King, directed a letter to the University that the practice of readingsermons should be wholly laid aside. "

There was much ignorance in the seventeenth century; but 'twas of thepeople's own choosing; 'twas not of necessity. Lewdness was preferableto purity; it was easier had. And when the King led the pace, why notthey of lesser rank and fortunes? But was there ever a thing createdin all the world without its right and wrong sides? It seemed therewas no room in Charles' time for aught but evil. "The ribaldry ofEtherege and Wycherley was, in the presence and under the specialsanction of the head of the church, while the author of the Pilgrim'sProgress languished in a dungeon for the crime of proclaiming thegospel to the poor. "

As time waxed, even the vigilant persecutors became passive, relaxedthemselves into indifference; but before immorality was aware thestill, small voice was heard. The seed that was twelve years inplanting had taken root and Pilgrim's Progress became known and JohnBunyan stood without the prison gates to preach and pray at will, tokeep on extending that influence that lives to-day. And for once theKing did not go to sleep when, through caprice or curiosity, he wentto hear him preach. 

"When Bunyan went to preach in London, if there was but one day'snotice, the meeting house was crowded to overflowing. Twelve hundredpeople would be found collected before seven o'clock on a darkwinter's morning to hear a lecture from him. In Zoar St. Southwark, his church was sometimes so crowded that he had to be lifted to thepulpit stairs over the congregation's heads. " He strove not forpopularity, as could be seen in the one little circumstance when "afriend complimented him, after service, on 'the sweet sermon' which hehad delivered. 'You need not remind me of that, ' he said. 'The deviltold me of it before I was out of the pulpit. '"

"Charles Doe, a distinguished nonconformist, visited him in hisconfinement. 'When I was there, ' he writes, 'there were about sixtydissenters besides himself, taken but a little before at a religiousmeeting at Kaistor, in the county of Bedford, besides two eminentdissenting ministers, Mr. Wheeler and Mr. Dun, by which means theprison was much crowded. Yet, in the midst of all that hurry, I heardMr. Bunyan both preach and pray with that mighty spirit of faith andplerophory of Divine assistance, that he made me stand and wonder. '"

The sweet spirit of a minister is treasured and kept green in thememory of his flock, no matter how recalcitrant they may be. This isshown by the reading once a year in Bedford Church of John Gifford'sletter to his parish people, written over two hundred years ago. Itsays: "Let no respect of persons be in your comings together. When youare met as a church, there's neither rich nor poor, bond nor free, inJesus Christ. 'Tis not a good practice to be offering places or seatswhen those who are rich come in; especially it is a great evil to takenotice of such in time of prayer or the word; then are bowings andcivil observances at such times not of God. " It was the "holy Mr. Gifford" that was often in conference with John Bunyan; "the latter asthe seeking pilgrim, the former the guiding evangelist. " With suchmen as these the sweet spirit was kept aflame and eventually changedEngland and made her the great country she is. But in those licentiousdays this sweet spirit shone from its impure surroundings like the_ignis fatuus_, and 'twas a great, wicked world that Mistress Penwickstood all alone in that early summer night. 

A nightingale sung afar in some bowery of blossom, and for a momentshe listened. 

"'Tis an ode to the night he sings, 'tis too clear and high and fullof cadence for a nuptial mass, --nay, nay, I shall not marry to-night, I will go and see what dear father Constantine wishes and return tothis home that has never seemed so fair to me before;--and my lord ishandsome and so, too, is Sir Julian and I'm fond of their Graces ofElls wold and Janet, --Janet, I love her best of all. Nay, nay, I'llnot be married. I will go and see and return. Janet will not look forme above stair before eleven at least. I shall be home again ere I'mmissed. " She thought thus as she hurried on through the courtyard andbeyond, where waited Father Dempsy. 

In a second, it seemed, they were galloping away, Mistress Penwickthrowing back a long, sweeping glance at the great, stone pile behindher. The train of her brocade skirt hung almost to the ground; herfair, sloping shoulders, her exquisite face framed in a high roll ofamber beauty, made a picture, --a rare gem encircled by a gorgeous Junenight. 

On they rode without converse; Dempsy was a brave man, yet he fearedand justly, too, that Mistress Pen wick might be taken from him beforethey reached the monastery, therefore he enjoined silence, and thebest speed of their horses, and kept a hand upon his sword. 

He drew a sigh of relief when he beheld the dark outline of thecloister that appeared quiet and undisturbed. 

As they approached, Cantemir came from the open door and liftedMistress Penwick from her horse in a most tender fashion, and wouldhave held her close and imprinted a kiss upon her forehead had she notdrawn from him and raised her hand to his lips. 

"'Tis a cold greeting, Katherine, after these long, weary days ofseparation. "

"Nay, not so. 'Tis thy warmth that is premature. " And without deigningfurther opportunity for converse, she swept over the threshold of themonastery. 

There was much business to be attended to before the ceremony couldtake place, and the time was limited; for in one hour it was believedthe cloister would be attacked by the Duke of Buckingham and hisparty, and the maid must be far on her way before the attack. 

There was none but Mistress Penwick, herself, that thought else thanthat a marriage contract was to be sealed. She on a sudden felt agreat repulsion for Adrian Cantemir, and she resolved not to wed him. 

As she stood in the large hall that served as council chamber andfor all functions of importance, she cast her eye about for thoseanswering to the description of his Grace of Monmouth and thatother--was it the King? She felt sure she would know him; but upon thelong benches there were none but sombre cowled figures with crucifixand--aye, swords gleamed from beneath the folds of their long gownsand touched the floor. Her eyes flashed wide with surprise, and shefelt proud and loved the bravery of her religion. But to what itportended she thought on for a moment seriously and concluded Royalpersonages must be present, or why else such precaution?

As the business had to do with Mistress Penwick only, Cantemir wasasked to withdraw. As soon as the business was entered upon, themaid's doubts of the surrounding company were dispelled and she knewnone of the Royal party would dare be even an unknown guest at such ameeting. 

At the conclusion of the council she held an important secret, moreimportant to herself than she dreamt. It made her bold, and shestraightway arose and spoke out clearly, --

"If the reverend fathers would agree upon a certain matter, I willstart at once upon my journey. I feel my mission to the King tobe more important than all else to me, and for the success of myundertaking I deem it best I should go as maid and not wife to hismost Royal presence. " This was a startling but most acceptableassertion. It had been much spoken on by the Abbés but by commonconsent they agreed if the maid wished to marry the Russian, why--theywould offer no objections; so they had left the matter. 

"Dost think, Mistress Penwick, thou canst settle readily the case withthe Count?"

"'Twill be easy and quickly done. Call him hither!" said she. TheRussian came with eagerness and some impatience, for he feared a delaymight plunge him into a lively skirmish. 

Katherine went to his side, and placing her fingers upon his arm, said, --

"Thou wilt escort me to the King?"

"Most gladly, and where else in life thou shalt choose to go. "

"'Tis the present that indicates the future, --wilt come at oncewithout ceremony?"

"Nay, nay, I protest. I must have thee as wife, first, MistressPenwick!"

Constantine leant toward them from the table and looked with purpose, a frown emphasizing his shrewd glance, --

"We have not time for further controversy, and if the maid will saythe word, the ceremony will be performed now. " The Abbé knew the maidwould give in to circumstances sooner than the determined Count, andthus hastened her. All eyes were upon the two, and Katherine hearingin the priest's voice a tone of insistence, stood for a momentmotionless and evidently debating her course. 

As she opened her lips, there was a sudden sound of horses' feet. 

In a moment a thundering knock upon the door's panelling demandedadmittance. 

"Who seeks an opening so roughly?" thundered La Fosse. 

"Cedric of Crandlemar!"

"The devil!" cried Cantemir, as he fell back in consternation andfear. Indeed he would rather meet the King of devils than thishot-headed Cedric. Katherine was not at a loss to read Count Adrian'scountenance, and straightway bade them open the door. La Fosse spokeas his hand rested on the locker, --

"Art alone, my lord?"

"Aye, quite alone!" came in a voice so shaken Katherine fell totrembling in very fear. Cedric threw wide the door and stood within, facing them all. His face gleamed like marble, so colourless and stillit seemed. His body swayed by love and anger, knew not which way toturn, but appeared to sway from side to side. His breath camein quick, sharp pants. His hair, damp as if from fine rain, wasdishevelled. His dark eyes shot forth sparks of angry fire that burntall who fell beneath their glance. 

"Who brought hither the maid? Did yonder pandering fool? Aye, 'twasthou. I see it plain. Come, come, draw fool; draw ere I run theethrough and dishonour sword by attacking thee, unarmed; draw, I say, fool!"

Count Adrian's face was ghastly. Lord Cedric raised his sword and madea lunge at him. La Fosse was too quick for Cedric. He sprang betweenand parried the pass with astounding dexterity. The monk intended itfor a finale stroke; but not so Cedric. He began a fight that was notto be so easily ended, and he drove his sword in fury. The good monkonly wished to parry; but alas! he caught the spirit of battle andfought. Constantine made as if to draw the maid from the scene, whileothers sought to interfere with the combatants. 'Twas of no avail. Katherine could not be moved from where she stood, white and stillas a statue; neither could they interpose between the Abbé and hisLordship. Sorrow and dismay were written on every face, for 'twas sureone or the other must fall of those two masters of the sword. Alreadythere fell at La Fosse's feet drops of blood. When Katherine saw them, she sprang forward and cried, --

"Stop, stop in God's name, stop!" As she was about to fling herselfbetween them, Cedric fell heavily to the floor, a stream of bloodflowing from his breast. With a wild scream Katherine fell upon herknees at his side and pressed her dainty handkerchief to the wound, and began to fondle him and speak in his ear that she loved him. Aye, she was sure now, there could be no doubt, and as she pressed her lipsto his cold, white face she saw his eyelids flutter. She looked upquickly into the priest's face; he answered her look with wholesomewords. 

"The wound is slight, my child; he will recover. " She fell back, blushing with shame for her bold avowals, and knew not which way toturn to hide her confusion; for she was sure all present had markedher warm words and actions. 

Immediately Lord Cedric was carried to an inner room, and Katherineturned about to look for Cantemir, as did a half-dozen others; he haddisappeared and where he stood were a score of masqued figures. Whenthey saw they had the attention of the company, one lifted high hissword and cried, --

"Hail, merry monarchs of the Sylvan Chapel! We have come to escortthe maid to the King!" While this avowal struck the Abbés withconsternation, they had expected a different mode of attack, andthey were not displeased that it had taken another course. They hadexpected the treasure would be demanded of them with all their papers. These they would fight for. The secret for which Mistress Penwick wasto visit the King, the Abbés were now sure the Royal party knew not. The papers she carried could give them no clue even though they gainedpossession of them, and the maid would never divulge what she was tosay to his Majesty. 

"Her escort is provided, " said La Fosse, who stood nearly exhausted, leaning upon the table, his sword still in his hand. 

"Ah, but if we choose to offer her a more honourable one! Indeed theknave of a Russian, who lies without, has but just put the matter inour hands. He was to escort her, but at sight of blood he faints andbegs us take forthwith his promised wife to Whitehall. " One could notmistake the courtly grace and fine figure of his Grace of Buckingham. Behind him was a form equally imposing, and the handsome mouth andchin of the Duke of Monmouth could be seen as he tilted his masque fora better view of the maid, whom he supposed was the same he had met inthe evening. But with half an eye he saw his mistake. Never was he somoved at first sight of a face before. He drank in her loveliness inrapturous drafts, and swayed from side to side examining with criticaleye the outline of her fair mould. She had thrown her cloak from herand stood slightly in front of Constantine, as he, holding a candleat her elbow, leant close to her ear, whispering and holding a smallpaper for her to read. As she read, her eyes flashed, her bosom roseand fell neath the covering of her short, full waist; and Monmouth'seyes seemed ravished by it. It had been his misfortune, he thought, tosee long, modish, tapering stays that bruised his fancy as it didthe wearer's body, and to behold such slender waist crowned by full, unfettered maiden roundness, pedestalled by such broad and shapelyhips was maddening. He had not dreamt of such beauty when his Grace ofBuckingham had suggested the trip into the forest. 

"We will have some sport finding a beauty and a secret. If it pleasesyour Grace, I will have the secret and thou the maid, " said he toMonmouth, and the latter had come all the way from Whitehall, forhe knew the Duke would waste no time looking for aught but a King'sportion. Never was there another such a beauty; she would be the gemof his seraglio. She looked up, her dark orbs casting a sweepingglance upon those about. 

"I will return to Crandlemar for the night; call my escort!" said she. 

Now it was plain this was a ruse of Constantine's own making, and hadwhispered it as she had pretended to read. Buckingham laughed cruellyand scornfully, provoking smothered mirth from behind the masques ofhis followers. 

"Thou hadst better set out directly, if thou wouldst gain audiencewith the King ere he leaves Whitehall. "

"I am in no hurry, to-morrow will do as well. I like not adviceunsought. I'll have none of it. I will go where, when and how as Iplease!"

"And coercion smacks of a power residing not in these parts. I amdelegated, Mistress Penwick, to bring thee straightway to the Royalpresence. "

"And why, may I ask, am I so called to his Majesty?"

"Thou art a hostage!" and Buckingham took a pinch of snuff with asmuch ease and grace as if standing in a crowded drawing-room. 

CHAPTER XV

THE EDICT OF BUCKINGHAM

"I--I, a hostage! and who gave me as such, pray?"

"There is not time for further inquisition; we have a long journeybefore us. Come, Mistress!"

"Nay, nay, I protest; I'll not go with thee--"

"Mistress Penwick, I beg thee in my own behalf, "--and the Duke bowedbefore her so courteously, he half won her good will, then--"and Icommand thee in the name of the King, " and with these words he putforth his hand as it were to take that of Katherine. A sword sweptlightly over the maid's fingers, at which the two Dukes drew back withhaughty indignation, which meant that reparation must be immediate forthis insult to those who came upon his Majesty's affairs; for indeedthey feigned well that they were carrying out the King's orders. LaFosse, having now regained his breath and some strength, essayed todraw Mistress Penwick from the scene that was about to ensue; but ayoung man flung himself between them and drove back the monk at thepoint of his sword, thus beginning the fight. 

Katherine was well-nigh fainting from actual fear and apprehension. If she were a hostage, 'twas her duty to go and it might favour hercause. Doubtless these men were gentlemen, and what matter now whoaccompanied her to the King? Adrian had proven himself a knave. Poor, dear Cedric lay ill of his wound and he could not attend her if hewould. These things flashed through her mind as she watched the flashof steel. Then on a sudden it came to her who these masqued figuresmight be. Her heart gave a great bound, and she sprang into the midstof those fighting and raised her voice, crying forth, --

"Cease, cease, fight no more; I will go with thee. " A priest near herwhispered, --

"'Tis thy honour we fight for now, hold thy peace; 'tis not best forthee to go with them, 'twould be thy utter ruin and the undoing of ouraffairs!" His warning came too late; all had heard Katherine speak;and although two forms already lay upon the floor, there were othermotives stronger than the thirst for blood, which on a sudden seemedquenched, and faces pale and blood-stained turned upon Buckingham ashe coolly and with much dignity lifted Katherine's cloak from thetable and placed it about her shoulders, then had the audacity tooffer his arm. She ignored it, turned to Constantine and fell upon herknees; he blessed her, then whispered hurriedly in her ear. She aroseand passed down the bloody aisle, which was flanked on either side byan array of shining steel. As she approached the door, it was flungwide by a figure that startled her, so like was it to Lord Cedric's, but the light fell aslant his countenance and as she swept by saw'twas Sir Julian Pomphrey. 

A chaise stood some little distance from the cloister, into whichKatherine was placed with great courtesy by his Grace of Buckingham. 

She sunk back among the cushions with half-closed eyes; heeding notthose that rode at either window of the equipage; she was trying tocollect her thoughts and by degrees they shaped themselves and she wasthinking of that that had but transpired. First of all, she consoledherself like the selfish girl she was: Cedric would not die; 'twas asweet consolation, and she smiled; her thoughts dwelling not for amoment on her own conduct that had brought him to suffer such pain. Then she lay back even more luxuriously as she thought that Sir Julianwould not have opened the door for her, had she been going intodanger. To tell the truth, she sighed happily in contemplation offurther exploit. She grew bolder and bolder, fearing naught but someslight mischance that might prevent her being a Maid of Honour; fornever, never could she go back to Cedric after she had made assertionof love in his ear, and his eyelids had trembled. Nay, nay, she couldnot bear to look him in the face again. Alas! she made vow she neverwould. If she was not made a lady of her Majesty's household, shewould seek the patronage of some titled woman, who could help her. Not for a moment did she think of the perils that surrounded and grewcloser about her unprotected self with every turn of the wheels thatcarried her on. 

It appeared now as if all barriers to the King's presence had beenlevelled and Katherine's hopes matured to confidence. She drew hercloak about her with sedulous care, as if in so doing she wrapped andhid from the whole world her own poor cunning. She found in herlonely condition no embarrassment, conceiving that her position asintermediary between her Church and the State was sufficient reasonfor her abrupt leaving of home. Sir Julian would doubtless explainmatters to the Duke and Duchess, whom she believed were more than halfof her faith. They would see she had been highly honoured by beingentrusted with a great secret. 

It appeared as if the chaise would never cease to lung and swaggerover rough, unused roads, and when at last it did mend its way, Katherine had ceased thinking and fallen fast asleep, nor did she wakeduring hours of travel, until the great coach came to a sudden halt. She looked through the window. Dawn streaked the East with uncertainintention, knowing not whether to open the day with rain or sunshine. A little to the left was the dark outline of an inn, nestling upon thethreshold of a forest, from the window of which fell aslant the waya line of light. The door of the equipage was opened, and a statelycavalier stood to assist her down the step. She leapt lightly to theground, taking the proffered arm, as the way was dark and uneven. 

Within the large, cheery room they entered, burnt a crackling fire;for the morning was damp and chilly. Katherine stole a glance at hercompanion and saw the handsome features of Monmouth. He had removedhis masque and now stood uncovered before her. 

"I hope Mistress Penwick has not suffered from her long ride?"

"Nay, sir; on the contrary, I feel refreshed. " Her manner told himplainly his address was not displeasing to her. His eyes restedamorously upon her; for 'twas naught but strong, healthful youthcould predicate such reply and vouch for its assertion by such richcolouring of cheek, such rare sparkling of eyes and such ripeness oflips. 

She sat at the chimney-nook, her satin gown trailing at her side, her cloak thrown over the back of the high chair. Their Graces wereengaged aside with the landlord and servants. 

"We will rest here until noon, anyway, " one said, "and if they havenot arrived we will set out without them. " Katherine heard and thought'twas Constance whom they were expecting; and when a table was drawnclose to the fire and covers laid for four, there being but three tosit down, Katherine looked askance at the vacant place; the Dukesexchanged glances and his Grace of Buckingham turned to her quickly, introducing himself, then Monmouth, and explained that at the lastmoment Lady Constance had been prevailed upon to accompany them toLondon and was expected every moment. 

Mistress Penwick had flushed at the presentation of two such noblenames, but at his following assertion, which corroborated withConstance' own words, made her not a little jealous; for the handsomeyoung Monmouth had already shown his regard (God pity her innocence)for Lady Constance by giving her a valuable ring, and now hadcontrived to make her of their party that he might be constantly withher. 

She straightway became very sober-minded, vouchsafing no remarks andinviting none. Her pique would have given way had she but heard theDuke's conversation a few moments previous. 

"Damme!" said young Monmouth, "I have kidnapped the wrong girl. 'Tis not my fault; thou saidst, Duke, to take any pretty girl fromCrandlemar castle, and I have captured Lady Constance, whom, I tookit, was the girl in question; and I made up my mind thou shouldst notchoose beauty for me. I shall throw her on thy shoulders to disposeof. "

The Dukes, bent on provoking the maid to her former manner, beganwitty tales of wayside inns. Their demeanour was so noble, theirstories so terse and pretty, their converse of such elegant and purewording, she relaxed and fell into their mood and told what fewconvent stories she could boast. Their Graces were charmed byher beauty, her sweet resonant voice and the simple and innocentnarratives, and not a little pleased by the result of their diplomacy. 

 * * * * *

When Mistress Penwick had gone from the grand salon the eveningbefore, Lord Cedric was not long in discovering her absence; for hiseyes and thoughts ever sought her. He had been greatly stirred by someunknown thing, perhaps that we call premonition ('tis God's own gift, if we would but heed its warning), but the game being well under wayand Constance calling his attention to an immediate and imperativemove, he was dissuaded from his inclination to arise and inquire ofthe maid's absence. It was not for long, however, either the game orhis kinswoman's cunning could hold his Lordship from seeking her. Quietly he beckoned a lackey and whispered aside. A few minuteselapsed when the servant stood by his master, while beyond in thedoorway was Janet, who for once in her life was quite pale. SwiftlyLord Cedric strode to her, saying, --

"Hast thou looked for her everywhere, Janet?"

"Aye, my lord, in her own chamber and--"

"But perhaps she has gone to the kitchens or pantries, for hunger dothassail her not infrequent and at unusual hours. "

There was a bit of bitterness and sarcasm in his voice and he groundhis heel as he turned about to give orders. In a moment servantswere hunting in every direction throughout the castle. It was soonascertained she was not within the great house. Cedric grew wild withpassion and tore up and down like one gone mad. Sir Julian could notrestrain him, a thing that had not happened heretofore. Angel, his oldnurse, was called; she bade him ride forth for her. 

At this a horse was made ready, and his lordship mounted and rodeaway. Sir Julian protesting all the while. 

As the clatter of horses' hoofs had fairly died away and Sir Julianstood just where Cedric had left him, debating with his several ideas, a soft touch was laid almost tenderly upon his arm; had it been thesoft, slimy trailing of a serpent, 'twould not have so startledhim. He turned suddenly and caught the slender hand, with no fineaffection, --

"I see it all quite plainly, thou art the cruel spider that hath wovena silken mesh for that innocent child, and thou shalt tell me beforethe sands of the hour-glass mark ten moments of time, where has flownMistress Penwick, --so speak, speak quickly, Constance!"

His voice and manner brooked no delay, and her ladyship thinking thateven now Katherine was Cantemir's wife, spoke out with a semblance ofinjured dignity that melted under Sir Julian's scathing contemptto silly simpering. The noble character of Sir Julian seemed tosilhouette that of her ladyship in all its ugly blackness. 

"She is, I presume, by now, the Countess Cantemir--made so by an Abbéat the monastery. "

Pomphrey was a-road; the clatter of bit and spur brought a smile toConstance' face, and she cried forth with all the venom in her poor, foul being:

"Two mad fools, --both gone crazy over a convent wench, who is now myLady Cantemir--my cousin, --the wife of a fortune hunter!" She fledwithin doors like one pursued and stopped not until she reached herown chamber. 

Midnight approached phantom-like, and as stealthily Lady Constancecrept to the postern door. Behind her fell a shadow athwart the floor, a shadow that was not hers but of one that moved as warily. Shelistened as she held the door ajar, fearing to look back. As shethrust the door wide, a figure from without moved toward her. 

"Who is there?" she whispered. 

"Monmouth!" was the answer; and out she stepped, well pleased tobe free from that shadow she felt was pursuing her. Her hand wasimmediately taken and eager eyes sought the ring. It was hardlyvisible, so dense was the shadow of the trees. 

"Come this way, Lady Penwick, " came in a voice that was not that ofMonmouth's, which had sounded so much like music to her a few, shorthours before, or that had spoken the word "Monmouth" even that moment. She, drawing back in her uncertainty, was captured by strong arms, ahood was thrown over her head, and she was lifted and carried in hothaste to a chaise, and helped therein without much formality. As herescort leapt in behind her, there swept in the other door anotherfigure, also intent upon being accommodated by a seat in a Londonequipage; and before any one was aware of a _de trop_ comrade, thedoors were shut with a bang and horses started at a gallop. Undercover of the noise her ladyship's vizor was lifted and she, halfsmothered, drew breath and stared about her in the darkness. 

"Thou didst bring thy servant with thee, Lady?"

"Who doth dare inveigle me from the protection of my cousin, LordCedric?"

"I, my lady; a simple gentleman of his Grace of Monmouth's suite, --andat his order. "

"Ah--" 'twas long drawn and somewhat smacked of satisfaction. "Who isthis female?"

"Is she not thine?"

"Nay, not mine. She doth play the hocus, " said her ladyship. 

"Who art thou, then, woman; how came yonder door to pamper thy whim?"The surprised guardsman rapped smartly upon the window, then pullingit up leant out and asked for a torch. As there were none a-light, he waited some moments; as he did so, there came an answer from thefigure opposite, --

"I am Mistress Penwick's waiting-woman. " The answer was satisfactoryto the guard. 

"'Tis Janet, as I live, " interrupted Lady Constance. She was not sorryto have a companion of her own sex, and Janet would make herselfgenerally useful, if the ride was long and her ladyship should fallill, as she was certain to do. She knew also Janet's motive forfollowing her. She was interested in nothing but her mistress. 

As the road seemed rough and endless, Constance became anxious of herdestination and began to inquire, as if in great anger, why shewas thus taken and for what purpose. All questions being answeredperfunctorily, she relaxed into silence. At last she asked broadly, --

"Where are we to stop for refreshment, man; I am near dead withfatigue?"

"We stop at Hornby's Inn, my lady, there to meet his Grace. "

Janet sat quiet, nor did she speak again until she stood beforeMistress Penwick at the inn, where she sailed in as if nothing in theworld had happened, but inwardly she fairly wept with joy to find hernurseling happy and unharmed. 

The rain was falling heavily as Lady Constance entered the room wheresat Katherine with the two Dukes. Dawn seemed to have gone back intonight, for 'twas so dark candles twinkled brightly and lighted up themaiden's face as she spun a story of convent ghosts. Hate flung opengates through her ladyship's eyes and fell a battery upon Katherine'sface. 'Twas but a thrust of a glance, but their Graces noted it asthey arose to greet her. Katherine was answering in an undertoneJanet's questions as Monmouth spoke aside to her Ladyship. Constancewas not to be delayed, even by his Grace, and she hastened to thetable and greeted Katherine as Lady Cantemir. 

"Nay, not so!" said the maid; whereupon Constance gasped, coveringher defeat by a great show of wonder and surprise. She fell toquestioning, her inquiries being overthrown by Buckingham, whoadroitly turned the conversation upon another matter. 

Monmouth was wild with delight over the prize he had captured, andas they sat at meat he was pondering upon where he should hide thebeauty, for he feared his father's predilections, and 'twas sure hewould not run the risk of any such mischance and he tossed about inhis mind the advisability of taking her to London. As these thoughtscrowded upon him he grew grave and frowned. Constance, feeling herdisappointment most keenly, saw the tangle upon the Duke's brow. Itarrested the quick pulsing of her own discontent and turned her mindinto a channel of evil even more treacherous than any ideas thathad assailed her heretofore. It meant, in case of defeat, her owndownfall. She would barter, if need be, her own soul away. Of suchcharacter were her ladyship's ambitions. She was impatient for thefinal bout that was to settle all things. 

Even the haughty Duke of Buckingham was moved by Mistress Penwick'syouth, beauty and innocence. And yet he thought 'twas pitiful sheshould go unclaimed by Court. Her secret must be had at whatever cost, and seeing the maid was neither dismayed nor at loss by being thrownwith the king's son and the famous Buckingham, 'twas certain nothingless than extreme measures would draw from her her secret. Whetherthese measures were foul or fair was not of much consequence to him. If the maid was to favour any, he would withdraw, giving place toMonmouth, providing of course 'twas in his power to do so. And that'twould be his power he did not doubt. 

Mistress Penwick saw Monmouth's frown also, and looked up at himsmiling and asked, --

"Thou must not ponder upon ghosts. --When do we journey, your Grace?"

"When thou art well rested and say the word. " His face broke intosunshine and the maid could not fail to see the admiration that fellupon her from his Grace's eyes. She flushed rose red. He caught herhand as they arose from table, and pressed it warmly, and with atenderness that was apparent to Buckingham and Constance. Should hepress his suit upon her now or wait? He thought best to wait, as Janetquickly came to her mistress at a motion of the hand that the Dukereluctantly released. He allowed her to pass to her chamber withouthis escort. Constance passed unnoticed by him from the room, and beingwell-worn by her long ride, also went above stair, where she tumbledupon her bed in tears, most unlike Katherine who was rubbed andswathed in blankets by the faithful Janet. 

 * * * * *

Sir Julian Pomphrey had sent to the castle and procured conveyance andEllswold's physicians for the young lord, who lay very white and weakat the monastery. Owing to his serious wound, they had moved veryslowly, reaching home near three o'clock in the morning. The Duchesswas greatly shocked by Cedric's condition and most indignant withMistress Penwick and Constance. 

The matter was blown about by servants, and before the dismal rainyday was ended, all Crandlemar knew of the goings-on at the castleand were greatly stirred that their lord had been so used by theCatholics. 'Twas inflammable matter that meant the possible uprisingin arms of the whole village. It was said the Protestants wereaggrieved that Lord Cedric had thus long allowed the monks freehold, and now that he was helpless they would take it upon themselves todrive them away at the point of the sword and see if, by so doing, greater fortune would not fall to them, for such bravery wouldcertainly bring them to their lord's notice and mayhap he would buildup many of his houses and do better by them than heretofore. 

Over the ale mugs at the village inn 'twas whispered by the landlordthat the day before two men, wearing masques, had left the placetogether, one bearing under his saddle-bag a monk's robe; and acrucifix had fallen from his pocket as he mounted. 

The men grew more and more excited and fell to pledging themselves toclean out the ancient monastery before another day should close. 

A pale young man in fashionable attire sat apart, drinking deep andlistening with satisfaction to the village swains and their elders'talk; his eye in imagination upon the dark passage in the monasterythat hid the trapdoor and--no doubt the treasures of the cloister thatlay beneath. 

'Twas Cantemir; he had escaped unharmed from the clutches ofBuckingham and Monmouth. The former had caught him hastening from themonastery and seizing compelled him to give the information he soughtand to give up all papers on his person; which he did cheerfully. Finding him a cowardly knave, the Duke flung him from him withdisgust. Buckingham had heard, to be sure, that the maid they soughtwas a hostage; but whether this was true, or would lead to matters ofmore consequence, he had yet to learn. 

Buckingham, after a few hours' sleep, left Hornby's Inn, returningto the village of Crandlemar. He wore no masque this time and boldlyentered the inn to refresh himself and prepare for a visit to thecastle. He took little heed of the slender young man who now lay, verymuch drunken, upon a long bench; but ordered the best wine and satdown before a table that was already accommodating some half-dozenmen. He appeared not to hear their excited whispers, and feignedpreoccupation until he was quite sure his manner had been noted, thenas if modesty held him, he spoke, --

"Is there not in these parts a monastery upon the estates of thenoble Lord Cedric of Crandlemar?" He hardly raised his eyes, soindifferently did he put the question. 

"There is, sir, " one said. 

"Then where hath flown my lord's religion?"

This struck consternation upon the group; for 'twas certain theyloved their patron's good name, even though he did forget theirimportunities, and this sudden thrust struck home. One whisperedaside, --

"Perhaps 'tis one come to spy upon our lord's intentions and take himto the Tower. " At this one honest, brave man arose and leant withrustic grace across the table toward the stranger and said, --

"His lordship lies ill yonder, " pointing over his shoulder toward thecastle, "and we loyal subjects to his Majesty, claim the right todrive from Protestant soil the shackles of Catholic freeholds, and 'tis our intention to come upon them--what say you, fellows, to-night?"

"Aye, aye!" rang from nearly a score of tongues. 

"'Tis well, " said the cavalier, "for to-morrow might have been toolate. "

"What might that mean, sir?"

"It means that Catholic lands and holds are sometimes confiscated andin some cases the boundary lines are not known, and some good Kingmight send some noble lord to the Tower to search for the requiredlimitations of his demesne. "

Every man's hand sought a weapon and eye met eye in mutual concourse. 

"To-night, then, to-night we'll put to rout the enemy!" they cried. 

The cavalier, pleased with the reception of his hint, asked for hishorse. 

He arrived at the castle to be most cordially received by the Duchessand Sir Julian. If Buckingham was ever unbending, it was to SirJulian. 

As they met, Buckingham bent lower than his wont to hide a guilt thatwas not perceptible to any one else but Julian, and the latter was notslow to note it. The Duchess, not knowing who had carried off eitherConstance or Mistress Penwick, was very free in her conversation andspoke at once of Lord Cedric's injury and of the naughty beauty thathad driven him to it. Buckingham's countenance was changed by theassumed expression of either surprise or regret, as was necessary andsuited. 

Upon his arrival he was not allowed to see either the Duke or Cedric, and as his business called for a speedy return to London, he mustleave early after supper, adding that he regretted the importunityof the hour, as it detained the king's business with his Grace ofEllswold. 

This of course changed the physicians' minds, and Buckingham wasallowed to have converse with the Duke and finished that he came to doat the castle. 

But Sir Julian had somewhat to say, and ordered his horse to accompanythe Duke on his return journey. 

This was not unlooked for, and Buckingham, fearing no _imbroglio_, intended to hasten Sir Julian's speech, as there was no time to spare. They started forth 'neath the dripping trees. 

"Where is Mistress Penwick, George?"

"With her nurse, Julian. "

"And where the nurse?"

"At Hornby's. "

"Where is Monmouth's place of hiding her?"

"That is more, I dare say, Julian, than he knows himself. "

"How long will they remain at the inn?"

"Until I return. "

"Then--?"

"Then, London way is my desire, and I doubt not 'tis Monmouth's also. "

"Dost love me, Duke?"

"Aye, as always. What is thy desire?"

"Canst thou keep the maid safe for thirty-six hours?" For a momentthere was no answer; then calmly and cold came the word "No. "

"By God! is it so bad that you, you George, cannot take care of her?"

"'Tis the worst of all!"

"Is she safe then now--now?"

"If the eye of the nurse doth not perjure its owner, I would say shewas safe for all time. "

"Good--"

"But, Pomphrey, one would wonder at thy devotion to Cedric?"

"I loved him, first. "

"That does not say thou lovest thy second love better, eh?"

"By heaven, I love her, there--thou hast it. " Buckingham gave vent tohis natural inclination and laughed boldly. 

"Then, follow her. We may presume she will be safe kept 'til Londongives her rest and wine and finds a locker for her nurse. "

"Then my errand is finished. I will bid thee _adieu_. "

CHAPTER XVI

BUCKINGHAM'S ADVENTURE

Buckingham, returning to the village, where his escort met him, thenwent to a small unused cabin in the thick woods beyond. Here hechanged his attire, making ready for a quick journey and one fraughtwith some adventure. 

As he donned his clothes, ever and anon he paused to hear the lowmurmuring of voices that came up from the village. 'Twas evident themob was gathering. 

An hour he waited impatiently, when his servant entered, saying thatthe mob had started and were hurrying along the high-road at greatspeed. 

The Duke mounted and rode after them, quite far enough in the rearfor them not to hear his horse's step or see as he passed where somecottage light fell aslant the road. 

By the time they came in sight of the monastery, he was exasperatedbeyond measure to be so held behind and was in no mood to wait themob's leisure. He leapt from his horse and threw rein to his man. 

No light was to be seen. It appeared the monks had either desertedtheir dwelling or fortified it by fastening with boards the windowsand doors. The latter was the case. The besiegers with all sorts ofsticks, stones and bludgeons began at once to bombard the buildingthat stood dark and seemingly impregnable. Buckingham stood somedistance from them, as if indeed he were of different mould and couldnot mingle with their steaming, smoking, foul-smelling bodies, thatreeked of gin and poor tobacco. He waited only for an entrance to bemade, that he might pass in without the labour of making an openingfor himself. Indeed, his arm, unused to such rough strength, wouldbecome unfit to handle the sword of a gentleman. 

He was leant upon one knee behind a strip of iris that bordered aforest path, when suddenly he heard the crash of glass and heard atriumphant yell from the mob. He sprang from his hiding and crepttoward the place. A window had been broken in and the fight hadalready begun. The monks were well equipped for battle with weapon, strength and stout hearts and a good stone wall for shelter, but theirnumbers were weak. 

The siege was destined to be a long and bloody one, unless theponderous door could be broken, for the mob could not enter fastenough through the small casement. Should this be done, it was evidentthe monks would be obliged to either take flight, surrender or befoully murdered. 

Buckingham could not enter the window without taking part in thefight, and mayhap run a great risk to his person. 

He was not long in discovering, however, that the doorway was beingbombarded successfully, and soon the massive door must succumb. 

At last there was a thundering crash, and broken oak panels flewthrough the air. 

The men rushed in. Buckingham in a moment was in their midst andfighting his way through them. He flung himself aside and escaped thefighting mass by a small door that led him to a passage, where heregained his breath and looked out for his bearings. 

He found his way through many winding passages to the panel. This heopened and quickly strode through to the trapdoor, which stood agape. From beneath came the sound of voices. He knelt and looked down. Therewas no light to guide him. Cautiously he descended the ladder, findinghis way warily toward the place where he had seen the chest and whencenow came the voices. One was saying:

"It's gone, the damn knaves have secreted it; we must have a light, Anson, or the horde above stair will be upon us, and all the fires ofhell could hardly show us out of this dungeon. " Whereupon the flintwas struck and the forms of three men were dimly outlined. 

They began running about nervously in different directions to find thechest; his Grace keeping from view by following in their shadow. Backthey went again to the spot where it had stood, and as the lightfell full in their faces Buckingham recognized the pale, chiselledcountenance of Cantemir. There were two servants with him, which, judging from their eagerness, evidently expected perquisites. 

The sound above stairs was growing more and more noisome, as if themonks were being pressed back in the direction of the secret passage. 'Twas evident the Abbés intended this move; for unless there wasegress 'twould be a veritable slaughter hole and from the first theyhad kept together, preferring the direction of retreat. 

Suddenly one of the men in front of Buckingham leant down and tracedwith his finger on the dusty stone, --

"They have moved it in this direction, and there is no mistaking it, "and he pointed from the ladder. 

They followed the direction, holding the light low, and came at onceupon what appeared to be a solid stone wall. Inadvertently the manbearing the lighted taper rested his arm for a moment against thestones. Instantly a blaze flared up and showed a very cleverlyconcocted wall. A canvas had been padded in shape of unhewn stone andpainted in imitation; the oil in the paint had ignited and despoiledthe illusion. 

The blaze was quenched in a moment, the canvas door pried open and thethree men passed beyond, carefully closing the door behind them. 

Buckingham was close upon them. 

They fled rapidly along, Cantemir following his servants and everglancing behind with eyes staring with fear. 

Buckingham was not to be caught by fear-staring eyes and kept well inshadow. 

The passage was narrow with many windings and appeared to beinterminable. 

The men began to run, which was very incautious under thecircumstances, for in a moment they were precipitated into a smallchamber occupied by two stalwart monks. The latter had barely time tothrow themselves upon the defensive ere they were attacked. 

Cantemir had the advantage, as the monks were encumbered with theirlong robes. 

Then ensued a short fight, in which Cantemir's men won the day--heremaining well in the background. 

One of the servants was wounded and lay helpless upon the floor, hishead falling against some object that held him in a semi-uprightposture. Cantemir turned with the torch he had taken from the floor, and looked about him, stumbling over the prostrate bodies of the monksas they lay wounded. Noting his injured servant's position, he ran tohim, and seeing the thing upon which his head rested, kicked his bodyfrom the chest, as if the fellow had been his enemy's dog, instead ofhis own serving man. 

With a cudgel he and his comrade opened the chest, after first findingit too heavy to carry at speed and for an indefinite distance. 

Cantemir's eyes waxed big with greed and delight, as he lookedwithin. He spread out his long fingers, as if to grasp all the chestcontained. 

"These small caskets must be filled with jewels. Anson, fasten thetorch somehow and put these in the bags. Here are some rare laces, looted from some dead Croesus, I warrant, --put those in too;--thoseinfernal papers--they can be of no consequence--"

"Then I will take them, my lord, " said the servant. Cantemir eyed himwith no fondness and slipped the papers within his own bag. 

Buckingham, watching them from his little cove in the rocks, caught asound that made him start. It was very distant and indistinct, yet hewas quite certain some one was coming, and without further delay hecried out and drew his sword upon the man nearest him, which happenedto be Anson. 

The fellow used his sword fairly, but no match for his adversary. 

Buckingham run him through before the Russian had regained hispresence of mind. 

As the unfortunate Anson fell, the Duke turned to Cantemir, who wasseparated from him by two prone figures and the chest. The Count heldthe advantage and meant to use it by springing ahead into the opening. There was no opportunity for Buckingham to either reach him or headhim off. Cantemir had caught up the filled bags and was smilinginsolently across at him. Buckingham was exasperated, not by thefellow's triumph, but at his own helplessness to cut him off. Butthere was no time to be lost; those other sounds were growing nearer. 

The Duke made a bound toward the opening. Cantemir, with an exultantlaugh, sprung also toward the opening, but his laugh was turned intoa yell of fear, as his leg was caught in a death-like grip by theservant he had kicked from the chest. 

In an instant Buckingham was upon him and binding his arms tightbehind; the poor, cowardly knave begging at every breath for his life. He was completely undone with fright, his heart melted and his kneesbent. 

"And would it not be thy meed to run thee through also, for servingthy wounded knave with a kick? 'twas inhuman--by God! 'tis a pity ittakes a man with a soul to suffer the tortures of hell, for thou wiltnever get thy deserts!" He looked down and saw the poor servant's eyesraised to his pleadingly. The Duke drew from his pocket a flask ofwine and gave it to him; then gathered the bags that lay filled by thechest and hurriedly looked at their contents. As he did so the woundedknave feebly raised his voice, --

"I will be killed if I am found here. "

"Nay, a gentleman--" and he cast a scornful glance atCantemir, --"would not kick thee when thou art down; say nothing ofour most noble fathers putting to flight what small life thou hast inthee. What is thy name?"

"Christopher, " came in weakened tones from his pallid lips. 

In another moment the Duke was gone with his looted treasures. 

He flew along at a most undignified gait, bearing his pack as alabourer. His shoulders, unused to such burden, grew tired. Hebegan to wonder if the passage would never end. He was growing moreexhausted than he cared to own, and beside, he apprehended he waspursued. 

At last he felt almost compelled to leave one of the bags behind, andstopped to think which, one he should leave. Yet he was a-mind tocarry them all if he broke his back; and beside, it was so dark he wasunable to tell which was the more important. 

As he stood undecided he heard distinctly the fast approach offootsteps. He gathered his strength and bags and flung along, somewhatrefreshed by the change of burdens. As he made a turn, the freshoutside air blew upon him. He grew cautious and moved more slowly, listening now in both directions. He might not be overtaken, but someone might be at the opening of the passage. There was no light orsound beyond, and soon he stood in the deep darkness of the outernight 'neath dripping trees. Warily he stepped, lest some crackingtwig exposed his presence. 

He ascertained his surrounding was a thicket, and was about to makehis way into its labyrinthine density, step by step; for the waywas difficult, when there was a tramping of horses' hoofs upon therain-soaked road that appeared to be in close proximity. 

Under cover of the noise he swept hastily and boldly through thebriery bushes that were thickly entangled, and was able to makeconsiderable headway whence he had come, when the noise ceased and apeculiar whistle rang out; then there were a few moments of quiet, asif those who signalled were listening for an answer. 

There appeared to be a chaise with several outriders, as Buckinghamthought, by the tramp of horses' feet, and a creaking of wheelspulling heavily along. 

As he gazed anxiously in their direction, a torch was suddenly seta-glow and a horseman rode up with it to the mouth of the subterraneanpassage. He leant from his steed and examined the ground closely, noting doubtless the footprints that led away from the road anddirectly to the place where the Duke stood. He turned abruptly back tothe group upon the highway and conversed in low tones. 

Buckingham was not a little perturbed, for a horseman could with lesstrouble than it takes to tell it, track and overtake him in a moment'stime. He fain would have a few minutes to ease his burden, but hisperil was great. There was no doubt but what these men were monks, come to assist their fellows with the chest and convey them to a placeof safety. 

Indeed, the secret of the chest must be royal, but whether in jewelsor papers he did not know, nor was it the time and place to find out. If he only knew in which pack was the bone of contention he wouldcertainly lighten his burden. 

Again he lifted the bags and strode on lightly, for he still could beheard to the highway, if one should listen. 

He had not gone far, however, when there was a shout from thesubterranean opening and much confusion following upon it. 

The Duke was now thoroughly aroused. Doubtless the monks within thepassage had at that moment arrived at its mouth, there to make knownto their comrades the robbery of the chest's contents. They were inpursuit; he could hear the bushes crackling beneath horses' feet. Never before had the wily Duke felt so hard pressed. He could affordto be taken himself, for he was sure of a release sooner or later;but his whole being revolted at the idea of losing the riches of hisburden and above all--the secret, the secret that would make hisfortunes thribble, the secret that would make him more powerful thanheretofore. The King's favour would be boundless. And George Villiersturned abruptly and--fell into a swollen ravine that was throbbingwith its over-filled sides. He straightened himself to his full heightand thanked God for the stream, for truly 'twas life-giving water. 

He waded in and found it hardly came to his waist in the deepest part. After crossing to its farthest bank, he kept the watery path fornearly a league, thereby throwing his pursuers effectually off thetrail. But where his course trended, 'twas impossible to tell, asthere was no moon, and the stars were veiled by thick cloud thatvomited forth rain in gusts. 

The leather bags were very near rain-soaked and had become so heavy'twas impossible for anything less than a beast of burden to carrythem further, so leaving the friendly stream, he walked some littledistance from it, gaining to his surprise an open road. This was notwhat he wished, and was turning from it when he stumbled and fellprone. Being hot with anger and fatigue, he reached for the obstaclethat had so unmanned him to damn it. 'Twas a large, round knot. Itstruck his memory, as he held it, with a thought of the morningbefore. 

"_Eureka_!" he cried, as he felt the very presence of the tall tree bythe public highway that led from Crandlemar, London way. He arose andreached for the aperture. 

"Egad, 'tis there!"

Fortunately the royal tree was not far from the unused cabin that hadafforded him accommodation some hours before. He immediately sat downupon the bags and rested. 

There passed him several horsemen and a chaise; whether they were hiswhilom companions of the thicket or not he did not care. It wassure they were in haste to leave the village as far behind them aspossible. 

When the sound of the horses' hoofs had died away, he again donned hisleathery burden and made for the depths behind him. 

He was not long in reaching the _rendezvous_, and was met by hisanxious servant, who had but just arrived from seeking him. 

The exhausted Duke gave orders for one hour's rest, then fell upon apile of blankets that were spread upon the damp and open floor. 

An hour later saw the Duke astride his horse, that stood with flaringnostrils, caring not a whit for his extra burden of saddle-bags andflew along the wet road, regardless. 

Hours after his master jumped from his back at Hornby's. 

The morning was far advanced and Mistress Penwick was fretting underthe delay. 

Monmouth had plead that the weather was too wet and Lady Constance wastoo ill to proceed until the following day. 

The maid had demurred, saying Janet might remain with her ladyship;but Monmouth was not quite at liberty to take Katherine without firstseeing Buckingham, whom he thought should have arrived early in themorning. 

As Buckingham came into the great room of the inn, Katherine proposedthey set out at once, as she would reach Whitehall, if possible, before Sunday. 

It was not the Duke's wish to proceed further without resting himselfand horse; but being anxious to please Mistress Penwick, he said'twould be his pleasure to start at her convenience; whereupon sherelaxed her ardour, finding no opposition, and asked him if he thoughtthe weather would permit. He answered that the weather must permit, and that they could easily reach their destination without killingmore than three relays. 

"Nay, nay, your Grace, if one horse only were to die, I would notpermit such hurry!"

Suffice it; the Duke had his rest, and being of no mind to remainlonger, at five o'clock in a gale of wind and rain set forth. 

They had but common post-chaises as any squire would have, as thesetravelled about without drawing the attention that a London coachwould. They rattled and slid along at their own convenience on themuddy road, and the postilion were soon reeking with mire thrown fromthe horses' feet. 

For five hours the chaise jostled Constance, until she declared shewould go no farther. Buckingham, who rode with his secret in thechaise that followed, said if they stopped to rest over night, theycould not reach Whitehall before the King should leave. 

This was a ruse planned by himself and Monmouth, as the latter hadsettled where he should take Katherine, and the former, not having hadtime to examine the contents of the bags, was loath she should see theKing ere he had done so. 

Katherine, seeing that Constance' lips were blue and her face pale, and forgetting her ladyship's evil ways, agreed they should stop atthe first inn and there lie until the next morning; Janet havingdeclared privately to her mistress that she should not waste any timewith her ladyship. 

Though the night was black and the road uncertain, yet they maintaineda fair pace over the open downs, having left the shadowy trees behind;but there were no lights ahead and the prospects of getting shelterfor the night were dubitable. 

Constance became more and more impatient, pulling up the window everyfew minutes to inquire if any lights were to be seen, each timeletting in a shower of rain that deluged her dress. This dampness wassoon felt by her ladyship, whose temper could hardly keep her warm, and she called for blankets. There were none. At this knowledge shegrew worse, and cried that she was in a chill and must have aid fromsomewhere. 

For a truth, her teeth were chattering and her hands were cold, butit was nothing but mimosis brought on by the evil caldron that boiledwithin her wicked body. She had heard Buckingham tell Katherine thatthe King would be gone from Whitehall if they were delayed. Her planswere now made, and this sudden illness was a ruse to detain the maid. No, she must not see the King. She must now, first of all, becomeMonmouth's mistress, then Cedric in his wild despair would turn againto her; his playfellow, his old love, Constance. 

Whether the postilion were in their master's confidence or not is notcertain, but just before midnight they plunged into a narrow, miryroad that traversed wastes and low coppices; the plash of the horses'feet showed the tract to be marshy and full of pools. Her ladyshiplooked out across the dreary fen and exclaimed, --

"I'll be damned, they have set us out like ducks!" At her wordsKatherine drew from her with disgust. It was the first she had heardher swear; but she had not yet seen her true nature. 

On a sudden the chaise made a lunge and stopped in a deep rut. Someone plodded laboriously to the door and thrust in a rain-soakedvisage, saying, --

"Their Graces beg your patience, as we cannot move until help comes. There is a light ahead, and we hope to get on directly. "

It was hours, however, before the lumbering equipages were pried outand started on. The light beyond had paled as dawn broke. They wereonce more upon the causeway, and the horses' feet beating with loudand even step upon the wet road. 

Constance had calmed, and with the other occupants slept through thelong delay. Nor did she wake until they had entered a thick wood wherethe branches of the trees swept tumultuously against the window. Thenshe opened her eyes with a start and saw Katherine still sleeping, her head pillowed on Janet's bosom. Her limbs were stiff from theircramped position. Vainly she essayed to stretch, and cried out as arheumatic pain took her. She swore roundly and vowed she would alightat the first hut they should come upon. 

It seemed hours before they came to a long, low stone building, evidently an old-time lodge. It was covered with ivy that trembled andglistened in the wind and rain. 

The chaises stopped at the door, which was thrown open by an outriderwho knocked up the locker with his whip handle. 

The opening disclosed great, high-backed pews and an altar and pulpit. It was indeed a place of refuge to the weary travellers. It was dryand clean and afforded rest. Katherine stepped inside first, andimmediately knelt and crossed herself. Monmouth did the same, knowingthat the maid's eyes were upon him. 

They took seats not far from the altar and settled themselvescomfortably; for the servants had gone to find food and fresh horses. 

Katherine was stirred by the sacredness of the day and place, andtook little part in the conversation that was becoming more and moreanimated, as the Dukes and Constance drank heavily of wine broughtfrom Monmouth's box in the chaise. And when meat, bread and cheesewere brought and more wine was drank, her ladyship became maudlin andcast her eye about for diversion. 

It fell upon the pulpit, and she tripped up to it, passing over thesacred altar in vulgar _insouciance_. 

It pained Katherine to see the place so lightly esteemed, and she gavea little cry of "Oh!" as Constance threw open the Bible and began topreach in mockery of the Methody parson. 

Buckingham's face was as stolid as Janet's; Monmouth's bearing a smilethat was bastard of mirth. 

Hardly was her ladyship started, when a tall form, strong boned andsinewy, strode through the open door. His ruddy face disclosed whatappeared to be a stern and rough temper. His forehead was high; hisnose well set over a mouth moderately large. His habit was plain andmodest. The rain dripped from his red hair and the bit of mustachiothat he wore on his upper lip. His quick, sharp eye noted the men andwomen that sat apart, and then turned like a flash upon the woman inthe pulpit. 

As Constance saw the man full in the face, there was a bathos in herzeal, and she stopped, open-mouthed, and closed the book. 

Neither Buckingham nor Monmouth could see the countenance of him thatentered, so they held quiet and wondered at her ladyship's behaviour. Katherine had bent her head upon the back of the seat. 

The tall man proceeded up the aisle, his eyes upon the titled womanwhose face was now covered with a genuine blush. For the first time inher life she felt ashamed. She felt a presence near her that was notaltogether of this earth's mould. 

At last regaining a semblance of her usual _aplomb_, she stepped fromthe pulpit and made toward the door, where others were entering. Shelooked back when half-way down the aisle and beckoned to the others ofher party to follow. As she did so, there came from the pulpit a voiceso rich and sweet, so penetrating the soul, the woman trembled andlistened. 

It was the "Kyrie Eleison" sung in a new tune with clear, strongEnglish words, and they rung and rung in Constance' ears, as theycontinued to do for the rest of her days. 

"He is a Ranter. Let us stay and hear him?" Monmouth said. 

"Nay, " said Katherine; "I am without covering for my head. Let'sbegone, the meeting is gathering. What a glory is in his countenance, and his voice is like music!"

"The lack of a bonnet need not hinder. Thou art a lady andprivileged. "

"Nay, nay. I would know who he is?" Monmouth plucked the sleeve ofa passer-by and inquired. The man answered with a question put in awhisper, --

"Hast never read 'Pilgrim's Progress'?" The Duke threw back a glanceat the form in the pulpit, then strode forward and jumped into thechaise. 

CHAPTER XXII

TELLS OF THE DOINGS OF ALL CONCERNED

The house stood surrounded by a beautiful lawn that sloped graduallyto the river. Trees in full leaf and woody perennial plants in fullblossom, dotted the sward. The long, low stone building was coveredwith vines that hung in rich purple bloom. All was quiet, refined, subdued--without pomp. Not so was the chief inmate of this charmingabode. She stood gowned in filmy white, waiting for Janet to spreadher repast, but the nurse moved at leisure, resolving to give the maidmeat for thought, as she did for the body. She said:

"When a maid is without father or mother, and away from her rightfulguardians, and has presented her such frocks as thou dost wear, 'tisthe maid's duty to find out whence such gorgeous and unmonasticapparel comes. "

"But, Janet, I do know. The Abbés have made provision for me. Theybade me leave the castle without incumbrance, and the chest was sentfor my necessity. I mean to pay it all back when I return--or when Isend to Lord Cedric. "

"And when will that be, Lambkin?"

"When the King gives me audience. "

"And thou art expecting the Duke of Monmouth to bring the word fromWhitehall?"

"He said 'twas his pleasure so to do. "

"Now God pity me this day; I would I had never seen it!"

"Why wearest thou so sorry a face, Janet?"

"For thy too fat zeal. Is it not enough to make an ingrowing visage?"

"How so?" said Katherine in feigned _insouciance_. 

"A surfeit of good, like a too-full cup, boils over and falls to ill. "

"Then, Janet, surfeit sin 'til it bubbles up, runs over, --perhaps abetter cup to fill. "

"Alack, alas, for youth's philosophy!"

"At what art thou driving, nurse; thou canst neither affectShakespeare nor the Bible!"

"Have I not always loved thee, Lambkin; search thy memory; did I evertell thee lies or use the veil of falsehood to cover from thee thatwhich I would not have thee know?"

"Nay; but thou hast used artifice 'til it is threadbare, and I nowbehold its naked warp. "

"But hast well served, thou canst not deny. It has made thee the sweetinnocent bud thou art, and we will enshrine its shade, though it hathno soul to join it hereafter, and I will resort to vulgar frankness, employed by the truculent commonplace, and say we live in an age ofswaggering, badgering, immoral-begotten, vice-ridden, irreligiousdecrepitude--" Katherine made a hissing noise with her teeth, as ifshe had been suddenly and severely pricked by a pin, then put up herhands and stopped her ears--this day, Mistress Penwick thou shalt knowthe character of thy King--Nay, thou shalt know. I will tell thee that'twill poison thy mind of one of so great station--"

"Wouldst thou assail his morals, Janet?"

"'Tis impossible to assail that a man hath not. "

"Then 'twould be a field for sweet mission to teach him morals. "

"And wouldst thou delegate thyself to such an office?"

"Aye, why not?"

"Because he would steal thy knowledge ere thou hadst found his heart, and thou wouldst find thyself insolvent of virtue. "

"Thou hast overreached artifice, Janet, and gone back to Bible daysand corrupted them by borrowing parabolic speech to waste upondeaf-eared seventeenth century maid. "

"Ah, Lambkin; with closed ears thou dost not becalm sight and wit, they cease not to fructify under suasion of childhood impregnations. I fear not for thee, if thou art forewarned. If thou art taken to theKing, he will straightway be enamoured of thy beauteous face and willwish to have thee near him, and because he is of so great a title, hewill expect to mould thee to his desires, whether 'tis thy will ornot. He may perhaps overawe thee, and thou wilt feel flattered by hisapproaches, which will seem sincere to thy untutored perceptions. 'Twill be thy first meeting with a King. There is one thing most sure, thou wilt not think him handsome; he has not the rich colouring thatso marks Lord Cedric's face, nor yet the clearness of countenance. TheKing is most swarthy, gross featured and unfitted to thy fancy. And how wouldst thou like such to approach thee and fondle thyhand--perhaps imprint thy cheek with a caress, or his long fingers togo a foraging on thy slender neck?"

"Nay, nay, Janet; I should most surely hate such an one. I am sure Ishould hate! hate!"

"But 'tis surely to what thou art coming. "

"But, Janet, the Duke of Monmouth is the King's son, and his Grace ofBuckingham his friend; and with these two at my side, what harm couldcome to me?"

"Should the King propose to keep thee with him, could they lie likeslaves or dogs across thy threshold in the dead hours of night to keepunwelcome visitors from thy door?" Katherine's eyes appeared on asudden to open wide upon a thing she had not dreamed of before. 

"Indeed, Janet, I think I see the trend of thy parables. He is thendebauched and given to entering rooms not his own at any hour hechooses. I will be most careful and avoid spending the night. "

"But he may insist on thy presence, and no one dare gainsay the Royalwill. "

"I am for the time of his dominion, but we can claim at any momentKing Louis' protection, and therefore I may defy him if I wish?"

"'Twill be like jumping from the river into the sea. I understand, Lambkin, thou art bent upon paying well for thy popish idolatry. Ifhis Majesty sets black eyes on thee, thou art undone. If thou artdetermined to go, we must have some way to prevent his falling in lovewith thee. Thou wilt be willing to do this for me and--thyself, Love?"

"Then I might not become that I so much wish--a Lady of Honour!"

"That phrase, my Lambkin, is paradoxical--'Lady of Honour. '"

"Janet, thou dost turn all sweets to bitterness!--Then I will mottlemy face and wear a hump and be spurned outright. 'Twill ill serve me. 'Twill not accord a safe issue. "

"Thou must not forget the King hath a tender heart for distress, andnow I think on it, 'tis possible, if thou didst so disfigure thyself, thou wouldst gain his reply the quicker. We will mottle thy face withleprous spots and cover thee with old woman's clothes, placing a humpupon thy shoulder. And no one shall be privy to our scheme but hisGrace, and my lord of Buckingham, if they are to attend us. " Janetfelt satisfied with the turn affairs had taken. 

"I think I shall enjoy it hugely. 'Twill be fine sport to so puzzlethe King, and when he sees me as I am--" and Mistress Penwick turnedproudly to a mirror--"he will be pleased!"

"We will not think of that now, Lambkin. When dost thou expect herladyship?"

"She did not say, but I think perchance she will come before the Dukeof Monmouth returns. "

"And he will not come before the morrow, didst thou say?"

"When I demurred at not going straight to his Majesty, he said 'twouldbe meet for me to remain here until he should first see him; thenhe should return in a day. Those were his words, Miss Wadham, _verbatim_, --now thou dost know everything I do, but--the churchsecret; and if thou wert not insolvent for ways and means, thouwouldst have had that. " With a sudden step, the maid flung her armsabout Janet, who ever felt hurt when called Miss Wadham. 

Katherine sat to her evening meal with many flutterings of pleasure inher young and guileless heart. Her first thought was of Cedric. He wasgoing to live and doubtless would follow her as soon as he was able, and she would again see his handsome features and hear him admonishher with a tenderness she was sure he would show after being sofrightened by her absence. It did not come to her that she should bein sackcloth and ashes for causing him such woeful pain and misery. She only tried to remember how he looked, as many a love-sick maidenhath done heretofore. She pictured the rich colouring of his cheeksand how his dark eyes had looked into hers; and she remembered howonce he had thus beheld her, his glance sweeping her face, then he hadtaken her hand and pressed his lips to it passionately. Her face grewrose red and she trembled with ecstasy. She, so perfect in mouldand health, was capable of extravagant and overpowering emotion; arapturous exaltation that filled her and took possession of her wholebeing. She tried to turn her thoughts to Sir Julian, and wonderedvaguely why he had not come to London. He had intended leaving thecastle before this; and why had he not found her? He might know shewould like to inquire of those at home, --the Duke of Ellswold and theothers that were ill. The thought seemed to grow upon her, and shewondered more and more why no one had been sent after her, and howvery welcome Sir Julian would be. Could it be that Lord Cedric was tooill for him to leave?

The Dukes had fairly left Constance and Katherine at the very door ofthis villa belonging to one of Monmouth's friends, and proceeded atonce to Whitehall, where they needs must report of their visit to theDuke of Ellswold. The King detained them near his person, much tothe annoyance of Buckingham and serious discomfort to Monmouth. Thelatter, so anxious for the companionship of Mistress Penwick, couldnot help but show his uneasiness and hurry to withdraw, which made hisMajesty still more obstinate. 

Two days Katherine had been thus alone at the villa, little knowingthe idea of bringing her cause to the King's notice was the mostforeign to either Buckingham or Monmouth, the latter wishing topromote his own cause with her until she should become satisfied toremain at his side, without seeking further Court favour. The formergentleman had among his looted treasures certain papers that madenecessary, for his own personal aggrandizement, the strict seclusionof Mistress Penwick. 

Lady Constance had been so thwarted--her mode of battle proving soabortive--she resolved to fight as things came in her way, withoutmethod or forethought. There was only one settled arrangement; thatwas the full and complete destruction of this woman that had comebetween her and Cedric. She had gone, after a few hours of rest at thevilla, to the mercer's for silks and velvets and furbelows to arrayherself for conquest and take--now that she had fair hold on Royaltyitself--some masculine heart; if not the heart, the hand without it;if not Cedric's, be it whose it might, so it were titled and rich. Shealso sought Cantemir and news from Crandlemar. 

As she stood at the polished counter in the mercer's shop, she glancedwithout and saw--or thought as much--Lord Cedric himself, pale, yetstepping in full strength from a chair. She quitted the counter andhastened to the entrance and looked up and down the busy street withlonging eyes. But there was no sign of my lord's handsome figure. After securing her purchase, she repaired at once to Lord Taunton's--akinsman of Cedric's--'twas possible he would be stopping there. But hewas not. 

She rode from place to place, hoping at every turn to see him; but toher chagrin she found him not, even at a certain inn in Covent Garden, where he had been wont to stay. She drove in her cream-hued coach tothe Mall, but he was not to be found. 

Her first act after reaching London had been to dispatch a letterposthaste to the castle, telling of her abduction by the Duke ofMonmouth, who, she believed was determined to bring herself andMistress Penwick to the King's notice, as he avowed Court was notCourt without such faces. She, being so widely known and so wellconnected, had been allowed her freedom, on condition that shereturned promptly and keep their hiding place a secret. Then came thatshe felt would touch Cedric. 

"I overheard some converse about your Lordship, a hint that some knavegave thee a slight wound. Now, if this be true, if thou art hurt atall--which I cannot allow myself to think--tell me, tell me, Cedric, and I will fly from Court and all the world to thee, my sweet cousin, my playfellow, my beloved friend, now. "

This letter fortunately did not reach Cedric in time to give him arelapse, as he was on his way to London when the courier arrived atthe castle. 

He had drawn rein at Tabard Inn, Southwark. It abutted on the Thamesand was opposite the city, and it suited his fancy to stop here, rather than ride into London. His business was private and not farfrom his present quarters. His wound had healed enough to give him notrouble, and action kept his mind easy. He had seen Constance withas fleeting a glimpse as hers had been of him. It was quite enough, however, he wishing never to set eyes upon her again. 

That evening he went to seek Buckingham at the Royal Palace. He had noaustere regard for the pomp and splendour of the Court at best, andnow he was almost unconscious of his surroundings. His azure-huedcostume was magnificent in its profusion of embroidery and preciousstones. There were none more handsome of face or figure. Courtiers andwits abounded, but none more courtly or witty than he, when he wasmoved. None bowed before his Majesty's dais with more grace, appearingmore a king than he who filled the Royal chair. He erred not in themost minute detail of demeanour. There was no one in the realm thatheld more of his Majesty's regard. 

After being detained some moments at the Royal chair, he went to seekBuckingham, whose first words smote him foolishly. 

"It is said, my lord, that Love hath Cupid's wings, and I verilybelieve William was right, or else how couldst thou have flutteredfrom a couch of painful wounds to London either by chaise or a horse?Ah!--Love is nascent; after cycles of time it may become mature enoughto be introduced into Court--eh!--my lord?"

"Contemporary chronicles relate that the mind is capable of greatersuffering than the body, and when both are affected, if we giveprecedence to the employment of the mind, the body is at once cured;hence my sound chest. Hast thou seen Sir Julian?"

"He is with Monmouth in his chamber. They have been drinking deep, orat least the Duke, who is pouring out in Pomphrey's ear confidencesalmost too maudlin to be understood;" and there was a covert sneeron the haughty lips of his Grace. At the name of Monmouth and theknowledge that he was not with Katherine, Cedric's great tensionappeared to snap asunder. For a moment Buckingham gazed at hiscompanion as if in him there were undiscovered mines. Then suddenlyhis mind and eye returned to the tangible, and he run his arm throughthat of Cedric's and drew him away. When they were quite alone, theDuke, without the shadow of compunction, said, --

"You, my lord, are ambitious of nothing but domesticity. Is it notso?" His Lordship looked up with a start. If there was one thing hehated more than another, it was intrigue. And though he was everenvironed by it, yet 'twas not his business now. He had come seekingBuckingham for the purpose of asking his assistance with the Dukeof Monmouth, and at these words, so foreign from his interests, hefrowned slightly and answered, --

"'Twould be difficult to say at what I aspire, seeing the thing Icoveted most is taken from me. If that were mine, it might open up avista of aspirations I had ne'er thought on heretofore I see only onething at the present worth possessing. "

"And to possess that--thou art one of the richest nobles in therealm--eh! Cedric?" His Lordship thought he saw the trend of hisGrace's mind, and felt better. 

"I'm rich to be sure, egad! What's the game, faro, loo, crib, langquement or quinze?" and he tapped his pouncet-box nervously. 

"We have always been good, true friends, my lord. Your father and minehave shared in many and continued vicissitudes, and for this causealone, barring our friendships of more recent years, I would give theea secret of which I am only half owner. "

"And what is this secret, your Grace? I am interested. "

"A secret cut into is only half a secret, and--"

"Ah! ah! how stupid I have grown! By all means, we are dealing infractions, and to get the other half I must either pay or go a-huntingfor it. "

"And thou, being hot-foot after most precious game, methought 'twouldbest serve to give thee a clue, as to the value of the secret, thatthou couldst determine whether 'twas worth the finding;--whether 'twasworth the leaving off pursuit of that thou art after, "--and the Dukethrew open his waistcoat and revealed its lining of rare satin and apocket that contained a paper written upon in a writing that made LordCedric start, for he recognized it as Sir John Penwick's. And thererecurred to him the conversation he overheard at the monastery, whenone said, --"and once Sir John gets to this country. " But nay; hisvery last words in his own waistcoat pocket? So he spoke outdisdainfully, --

"And thou dost embroider thy facings with dead men's autographs?"

"They are the better preserved, my lord, " said the Duke, with a smile. 

"Then I am to understand the secret doth nearly concern Mistress Penwick, and if I should show her favour, I would pay well for a sequelto that thou art about to unfold, eh! Duke?"

"Aye, pay well; for the demand will be more than thou dost imagine, "and he took the paper and gave it into Cedric's hands. 

At a glance Cedric saw that the outside paper only was written on bySir John; the inner document, containing the whole story, being madein a strange hand. And Cedric said to himself, --"Aye, 'tis a ruse. Sir John is dead and I'll wager on't. "

"Thou mayest occupy my chamber, which for the present is here. " TheDuke left the anxious Cedric to read at leisure. 

Lord Cedric knew 'twas not his Grace's way to waste time on things ofno moment, and he therefore apprehended evil and his fingers trembled;his dark eyes grew large as he read; his face changing from redto white as the different emotions were awakened; his white teethcrushing his lips. Sir John Penwick had left England, taking all hisworldly goods--which were of no mean value--with him. He settled hispossessions in the New World. These in time became very great and hewas known as one of the wealthiest men in the locality in which helived. After six years of married life, a great grief came upon him;his wife died, leaving him a baby girl of five. This so unsettledhim--having loved his wife beyond measure--he turned again to warfare, having interest and inclination for naught else. He sent his babydaughter with her nurse, Janet Wadham, to the Ursuline Conventat Quebec, where they remained until coming to England. Sir Johntravelled about from one country to another, engaging in all kinds ofintrigue and war. One Jean La Fosse--a Jesuit priest--had been formany years the tried and true friend of Sir John, having been in hisearly years a suitor to Lady Penwick. This friendship had grown sostout that when they met again in the New World, Sir John put hispossessions, in trust, into La Fosse's keeping. When Sir John wastaken prisoner, a sort of treaty had been entered into between theFrench and English, and hostages were required for prisoners ofimportance. La Fosse was now holding high office in the ranks of hisadopted country--England. Therefore, when hostage was asked by theEnglish for Sir John Penwick, La Fosse saw the chance he had waitedfor for years, and his John was every inch an Englishman, and sincebeing prisoner of the French, determined as far as possible to placehis belongings with his own country. He had thought it all out andwrote his desires to La Fosse. Of course, what belonged to Sir Johnbelonged to England, but his possessions were on French soil and hisdaughter in a French convent. And now Sir John felt 'twould be anopportunity to place his child forever in the hands of his owncountry. La Fosse had so shaped affairs, that Sir John was at hismercy, and at Sir John's proposal that his child should be held ashostage for himself, he had answered that the babe was of too tenderyears to be accepted unless accompanied by lands, tenements andhereditaments. This was a happy thought to Sir John, and his old trustof La Fosse came back. "After all, " he thought, "the French wouldrather give up my child than a man, but my possessions they wouldnever give. " So, not suspecting La Fosse's duplicity, he gave himlegal right to place his property as hostage also. The child was toremain at the convent, unless England preferred to have her undertheir own _régime_. La Fosse was sure Sir John would never again befree and could never, of course, claim his lands. He went so far asto make sure--as sure as was in his power--that Penwick should not bereleased. He, being a man of shrewdness, at once manipulated affairswithout the knowledge of his sovereign or the higher powers about him. In a very short time these possessions were built upon by the Jesuits, who, through La Fosse, claimed all right and title. But La Fosse wasforgetful. He never gave the babe a second thought, it being of noconsequence whatever. It would, no doubt, sicken and die without amother's care. He was aware of its whereabouts, but even that in timewas forgotten, his mind being occupied by more pertinent thoughts. This was a great victory for the Catholics, whose lands had beenconfiscated in England, and La Fosse felt he had dealt a master strokefor his religion. But no mortal man can equal Time as an adept inchicanery. He brings forth truths unheard of or dreamt by poorhumanity. 

Years went by and La Fosse was suspicioned. At the first smell ofsmoke, La Fosse fled. No one knew whither. He escaped, however, tothe monastery upon Lord Cedric's estates. The sudden appearance ofMistress Penwick at the monastery was believed to be a direct answerto their prayers. When, too, it was found without a doubt she was SirJohn's daughter, they felt she belonged to them to do with as theypleased, so all things were accomplished for the benefit of the onlydivine church. Their rights in the New World were now being meddledwith and this God-send was to give them, with her own hand, all rightand title to the property in question. 

Sir John had vaguely heard while in prison of Jean La Fosse'sduplicity, and at once sought to save his daughter from his hands bysending her to his old friend, Lord Cedric of Crandlemar. He, angry athimself for being so duped, and heartbroken at his loss of property, knew of nothing else to do but call upon his Lordship for his child'sprotection; yet he was too proud to tell him why these calamitieshad come upon him. Indeed, any man would take him for a fool for sotrusting another. He had been ill when writing those letters. He neverexpected to arise from bed again and thought 'twas best to say he wasdying; 'twould perhaps touch Cedric's heart as nothing else would!Thus ended a document that was still incomplete, and his Lordship satwondering and thinking. This meant that the Catholics were exposingKatherine to the King's pleasure. She was being sent to him fora title--a title that was to give them all her possessions. AndBuckingham held the clue that would save those lands or--or herfather--if he were alive. Aye, he should have all the money he asked;for the Catholics should not have their way. "They shall not, by God, they shall not!"

"They shall not!" quoted Buckingham behind him. 

CHAPTER XVIII

AT MONMOUTH'S VILLA

Lord Cedric looked about him. He had heard no sound and was surprisedand not well pleased that Buckingham had so caught him off his guard;for he now understood that the Duke was undoubtedly deriving somebenefits from this fiendish plot, and the greater his perturbation theeasier mark for his Grace. 

"The maid proposes at all hazards to see the King. Monmouth is asdetermined she shall not. However, if she escapes the Duke, she willvisit Whitehall and present her plea to his Majesty for his signature. He is--after seeing her--not supposed to refuse her anything. And notknowing the value of these lands will sign the paper, thereby givingthe Catholics the property. Then if he sees fit--which of course hewill--will retain the beauty as a Maid of Honour. If he should refusethe plea, she is to hand him a sealed paper, which will give him theknowledge that he has before him a hostage who wishes his signature tothe willing of her property to her beloved Church. They do not counton his putting two and two together and seeing their scheme. Theythink he will be so infatuated, that 'twill be 'aye, aye, aye, ' to herevery look. She only knows half the contents of the thing she presses'neath the folds of her dress. "

"By God, Buckingham, this is despicable! She to be made the tool ofher religion!"

"There are other complications, my lord. Providing thou art successfulin running the gauntlet with Monmouth first, then the King, thou, thyself, art in danger of the Tower or Tyburn-tree. " With a boundCedric was upon his feet and sprang toward the Duke, --

"A thousand devils, man, I care not for myself, --'tis the maid;beside--what have I done, why am I so threatened?"

"The scheme for thy destruction is already set a-foot. If thoushouldst get the maid in any wise, it appears thou art doomed. Take myadvice, look to thyself and let the--"

"'Sdeath! finish it not!" and there was that in the young lord's eyesthat curtailed the Duke's words, and he stood frowning at Cedric andthinking what next to say. 

"When thou art acquainted with the circumstances, my lord, thou wiltsee thy peril. One Christopher, whom I once befriended with a bottleof wine in a certain close passage, came tottering to me, asking formy patronage, which I accorded him, as he was a sorry spectacle. As areward for my seeming kindness, he told me that the knave Cantemirwas arousing the Protestants by speaking of the monastery being a_rendezvous_ for all good Catholics, naming the lord of Crandlemar asone of them. The knave is working with both factions. He has gainedsome powerful help. These are to come upon the King and demand aconfiscation of thy lands, thou art also to be sent to Tower orTyburn-tree for the murder of thy servant--"

"Enough, enough, my heaven! I did kill the bastard Christopher. "

"Ah! not so. 'The bastard Christopher' is still on his legs and givesCantemir's plans away; for the knave kicked him when he was down. Thouart to have thy head, but--"

"Nay, my friend, tell me no more. Ah!--is there any limit to thisdevil's industry! I have to thank thee to-night, on the morrow--"

"I'm expecting to leave Whitehall early--" Cedric started. 

"Will Monmouth bear thee company?"

"Nay, his Majesty seems on a sudden to have an undue fondness forhim. "

"God strengthen it. "

"'Tis a pity there is such thing, else his Grace would not care togo. "

"And thou and I might not have been brought into this world. "

"And Adam have had eyes only for the serpent, not even coveting theapple. "

"_Adieu_, my lord!"

"_Adieu_, your Grace!"

The candles were just a-light within the villa, where the thickfoliage of tree and vine brought a premature gloaming. Outside fellupon the sward the last rays of the setting sun. In the depths of theshadowy leaves the glow-worms displayed their phosphorescent beauty;the lampyrid beetles plied between gloom and obscurity, impatient forthe mirror of night to flaunt therein their illumined finery. Inthe distance was heard the lusty song of the blowsy yokels, as theyclumsily carted homeward the day's gathering. The erudite nightingalethrew wide the throttle of his throat and taught some nestling kin thesweetness of his lore. 

From the villa doorway passed out Mistress Pen wick in flutteringwhite, with the waxy jasmine upon breast and hair. Down she came, unattended, through aisles bordered by fragrant blossoms, traversingthe way from door to postern-gate with quick, light steps. 

She was not aware Monmouth had left a strong guard and orders to allowno one to enter save those he made provision for. 

As her hand rested upon the gate, a guard stepped from behind a bowerof iris and gently opened it for her. She was somewhat taken aback byhis presence. The stalwart guard strode after her; she, noticing it, turned about and said sweetly for him to hold the gate open 'til shereturned, that she would only be gone a very few minutes. 

"My lady is alone upon the highway, and I could not suffer her to beso, begging permission. "

"Nay, I wish to be alone. Remain at the gate. "

"It may not be, my lady; 'tis his Grace's order to give thee properescort outside the gate. "

"Ah, then--" she turned from him and beckoned to a monk who appearedto be walking aimlessly upon the opposite side of the way, but at herbidding moved with alacrity. When the guard saw her intention, hebegged her to consider the Duke's wish that she should communicatewith no one. 

"I was not aware, sir, that I am held as prisoner. I'm quite sure hisGrace was only kindly intentioned for my safety;--and as for furthervigilance, 'tis beyond his power to use it. " The three now stood atthe gate. The monk looking intently at the guard, said, --

"Where hath flown thy religion, Eustis?"

"'Tis a poor religion that hath not the grace to offer its adherentsan honest living. "

"Ah! then thy faith is hinged upon the _largesse_ of the damned. There!--take for the nonce thy meed in honest coin. " The Abbé gave hima piece of gold and passed within the gate. The sun now dropped fromsight, leaving the villa terraces in sombreness, and brought intoprominence glow worm and firefly and the sheen of Mistress Penwick'sfrock. 

"I have watched for thee ever since thou arrived, hoping to catchthine eye. --Hast guarded the billet to the King, my child?"

"Here it is. " She took from her bosom the letter. The keen eyes of theAbbé saw the seal was intact and quickly put out his hand deprecatingwhat her act implied. 

"'Twas not that, my child; 'twas the fear that thou hadst been robbed, as we have. We trust thee with all our hearts, " and she read nothypocrisy in the feint of benignancy. 

"Thou hast been deceived into thinking that the Duke of Monmouth orBuckingham will arrange a meeting between thee and the King. Theformer Duke is evil-intentioned toward thee. "

"Ah, my Father; thou dost sorely grieve me! If thou didst not say it, 'twould be hard to believe; for surely he has been most kind to me. "

"But 'tis true, nevertheless. He is now with the King and fretting forbeing so detained from thee. He means to offer thee the protection ofhis favour; which means thou art to become an inmate of his seraglio. Dost understand me, my child?"

"Ah!--I understand, " and Mistress Penwick looked up into the face thatthe darkness veiled. 

"And I have heard that the King is sometimes poorly intentioned" Themonk coughed behind his hand and moved uneasily, --"'Tis said of him, as other like things are reported; but 'tis false. He is a goodCatholic at heart, and he will offer thee no insult, else we wouldnot allow thee to approach him. Our first thought is to get thee fromMonmouth's hold and place thee in safety elsewhere. The noble LadyConstance is helping us and hopes that by to-night to have arrangedcertain matters, so with our aid thou mayest be able to see hisMajesty very soon. One of the Brotherhood will accompany thee to hispresence or meet thee there; for we are anxious of the issue. Thouwilt--" The conversation was interrupted by the sound of wheels. Theguard came running to them, crying half aloud, --

"Methinks some one of importance is about to arrive, as there is acoach and outriders and a score of mounted escort. If thou, Father, art found here, I'm doomed. I prithee hide thyself;--and my lady'sgown can be seen for a league. Hide here, behind this bunch of iris, 'til the cavalcade hath passed. "

It was in truth the young Duke of Monmouth, who was hurrying with theimpatience of young, warm blood to his mistress. For all Katherine wasindignant with him for having such wicked intentions toward her, yetshe was moved by the fact that he was a Prince, the son of the King;and susceptible as are all womankind to masculine beauty, she hardlycould withhold her admiration. She did not fear him, on the contraryshe wished to play with firebrands and see how he would appear in hereyes, now that she understood him. On a sudden she wished to see himmore than any one else in the world, Lord Cedric excepted; and in heradventurous heart vowed to torment and give him pangs to remember herby. Her pride was wrought upon. That any one should presume to loveher without thought of espousal! and Janet's words came back to herwith great force, making her see her error in accompanying the Duke. 

There were a few hasty words spoken by the monk as he left her, andpassed through the postern-gate, where none save Eustis saw his tallform. Katherine took her time, as she crossed the lawn to her formerseat, stopping here and there to gather a nosegay; exulting all thetime at his Grace's discomfort when he found her not within doors. Suddenly she thought of Christopher and of what might happen to theservants if the Duke undertook to vent his displeasure upon them. Atthe thought, she leant forward, straining her ear for any signs ofviolence; but she only heard Janet say, --

"My eyes have not been off her, your Grace. I'm just taking her awrap. "

"Give it to me, " the Duke said in a voice surprisingly calm andgentle. It piqued Katherine. It was disappointing not to hear afierce voice like Cedric's was wont to be. She saw the Duke's formsilhouetted by a bush of white blossom and heard from his lips aquaint love ditty. It so set her very susceptible heart to flutteringshe knew not whether to be glad or sorry that he was there. She wasweaving a garland in a peculiar manner learned at the convent. Thefinished strands she placed under the bench upon which she sat, pretending the while neither to see nor hear his Grace as he walkedabout from bush to bush, singing softly. But he soon caught theglimmer of her dress, and he came bounding toward her. 

"Pray what does Mistress Penwick out alone on so dark a night?"

"Ah!"--she started in feigned alarm, dropping her flowers and risinghurriedly--"'tis your Grace of Buckingham. I admit I was startled. "She made a sweeping courtesy. 

"We who love never forget its voice, Mistress. I believed that thouwouldst never be able to find it in Buckingham's tones; for if 'twasthere, thou only could note its tenderness. " He so ignored herfeint--and she knew he understood that she knew not whether to keep upher hypocrisy or recant. 

"Didst see the King, your Grace, upon my affair?" He stooped torecover the flowers she had dropped. She hindered him, fearing lest heshould see her schoolgirl play beneath the bench. 

"Ah! ah! what hast thou hid there?" She exulted. 

"Nothing, your Grace, only--the flowers are not worth the exertion. "

"Aye, they are worth the bended knee of a thousand, when dropped fromsuch fair hands, " and he again essayed to reach them; but she stoodbetween, and holding her hand out to him, said, --

"Nay. I pray thee come. I am going to the villa. 'Tis growing damp. "She timidly made as if to go. He on the instant drew his sword andlunged beneath the bench and drew out upon its point the maid'sflowers. He laughed at his disappointment, for he was certain some onewas beneath. She felt ashamed of her childish pastime and hastenedwithin doors. He followed, carrying the interwoven hearts upon thepoint of his sword. He held them high for inspection as he entered thelighted room, and was transported with delight when he saw the design, and complimented her upon its significance. 

"Thou dost seem to know that two hearts are to be entwined, at anyrate! Even if a voice full of passion doth corrupt thine ears tohearing tones that are vibrantless of love. " He broke into agreat laugh and looked upon Katherine's blushing face with tenderadmiration. "Come, Mistress, I have played thee very uncavalierly, inasmuch as I have not answered thy question. Sit with me and sup. There--his Majesty is indisposed. He will not be able to see thee forat least a week. Then I am to bring the most beautiful woman in theworld to Court. "

"I am very sorry; my business is imperative--"

"Imperative!--imperative! that such words should fall from cherry lipsthat will become irresistible should they turn to pouting;--so takeheed and tempt me not. " He had already swallowed several glasses ofwine and was fast becoming audacious. 

Janet stood behind Mistress Penwick's chair; her face appearingimmutable. The Duke bade the maid drink her wine. She touched her lipsto the glass and set down the cup. He swept it passionately to hisown. Katherine's boldness was fast declining. She began to wish thatsomething would happen to take the Duke's attention from her. EvenConstance' presence would be a relief. If she were only in the gardenagain--free--she would fly to some place of safety. 

He lowered his voice into a passionate whisper and leant over, catching her hand as she would withdraw it. He began to draw hertoward him. Her fear was evident, for Monmouth, drunk as he was, sawit, and fell to coaxing. His voice, not yet maudlin, was sweet andimpassioned. 

"Thou were not afraid when that Russian knave claimed thee and wasabout to carry thee off, and now thou hast the King's son to guard andlove thee--love--dost hear it, my Precious? And I came to claim theethis night, to tell thee all I know, to make the little Convent Maidwise. " He threw his arm about her, almost drawing her from the chair. Katherine was white and trembling, knowing not which way to turn. 

"Indeed, sir, I know not thy meaning. "

"My meaning? Dost not thou know what love is? Of course thou dostnot--if thou didst, it might be I should not care to be thy tutor. Come, I will teach thee this night--now, my Pretty, --now. Come, comewith me. " He arose and essayed to draw her toward the door that ledto an inner chamber. Katherine was well nigh to swooning, and perhapswould have, had not there fell upon her ear the sound of some oneentering the house. "Ah, heaven!" she thought, "if it were only FatherLa Fosse or Sir Julian or even--ah!" She did hear Constance' voice. "Aye, even Constance could think of some way for her to escape. " Sheknew Janet was behind her chair, but she might have lost her usual witand have become incapable of helping at the very moment she was mostneeded. Monmouth drank another glass of wine, then withdrew fromhis chair and leant over that of the maid, drawing her close in hisembrace. He was now so drunk he did not hear the door creak as Janetand Katherine did; the former, seeing the pale, triumphant face ofConstance reflected in a mirror, as she stood half-way inside thedoor. Katherine tried to disengage herself by reaching for anotherglass of wine. The Duke reached it for her and would hold it to herlips; but she, looking up at him with a feint of a smile, said incoaxing tones, --

"I was getting it for thee; your Highness will drink it?"

"Could I refuse--there!--there! Come!--" He put his arms about herand was carrying her forth, when Janet plucked him by the sleeve andwhispered something in his ear. He loosed for a moment her tremblingform and she began to weep. These tears made him forget Janet's words, and he turned again to Katherine. 

"There, there, my wife; thou dost break my heart at each sob. Here, see here what I brought thee, " and he placed on her arm a circlet ofrubies. "There, hush thy tears. I will not teach thee anything but howkind I may be--there, sit thee down. I will let thee wait until thouart accustomed to man's caresses. " Monmouth's heavy drinking trendedto strengthen his good humour, else he might have resented roundly theinterruption of his love-making by the entrance of Lady Constance. Heheld out his hand to her, saying, --

"Come, my lady; see my poor dear. The poor child is affrighted at mylove-making. Thou wouldst not be so frightened, Constance, --eh?"

"I am not a child, your Highness, to fall to weeping if so honourablea gentleman as some should choose to kiss my hand. " The Duke reachedto the table and pressed another cup of wine to his lips, that werealready stiffened by excess. 

"Come, Sweet; give me one kiss--" and he bent over her close. 

"Nay, nay, I'll not suffer thee. " And Katherine drew from him withflashing eyes. 

"Come, silly child; one, just one. " She fled from his reach. He soughtto catch her but was stopped by Constance who whispered somethinghurriedly. The Duke turned upon Janet and frowned, then broke into amocking laugh, and with a sly wink at Constance, said, --

"Thou art a trickster, good nurse; thou didst play upon me foully. Good, good nurse! Come, go quickly. Thou shalt see no morelove-making; I forbid thee; kiss thy nestling and go. I will watchover her. Come, my sweet, come!" His Grace took the maid in his strongarms, and though his legs threatened collapse, bore her toward thedoor. 

Janet saw the look of devilish menace and triumph upon Lady Constance'face and--beyond--what did she see behind the curtain of the windowthat looked upon the garden? Surely 'twas something more than theevening breeze that stirred those hangings. 'Twas a familiar facethat looked from behind the folds; aye, of a truth, 'twas Sir JulianPomphrey's. When Monmouth, half carrying Katherine, reached the doorand stood some little way beyond its deep embrazure, he turned toJanet again, saying, --

"Go, good nurse. I wait for thine exit. Come, begone!"

"I beg your Grace to forgive the lie I told and give pledge of thyforgiveness by taking this. " She handed him a brimming cup. 

"Then, good nurse, I forgive thee. Here is to the maid thou dost letgo and to the woman I shall bring back. " He threw back his head andlifted the cup. As it touched his lips a handkerchief fell about hiseyes and a strong hand covered his mouth and the Duke lay helplessupon the floor. 

Janet carried the half-fainting maid from the room. As she did so, SirJulian and Lord Cedric, who had also come through the window, carriedthe young Duke to another chamber; binding him fast; keeping his eyeswell blindfolded and their own tongues still. Constance was leftstanding in the middle of the floor in dumb surprise and chagrin. In amoment Lord Cedric returned, and his voice rang steel as he faced her, nor was there shadow of pity as he saw her white face grow ghastly infear. 

"Thou, Constance, art the receptacle of all the damned ills flung frommortals, whether of the mind or body. As for soul, that unknown thingto thee--thou canst not recognize in another and therefore canst takeon nothing of it save its punishment hereafter, when thou shalt haveno choice of condiment. Thy heart lies festering in the rheum thatexuviates from its foul surroundings. Conscience thou art bankrupt of, and in its place doth lurk the bawd that envenoms thy senses and turnsthy narrow body into prodigious corruption--"

"Cedric, --my God; stay thy tongue!"

"Nay, nay; my tongue is a well-matched Jehu for thy devil's race. Iwould I might scorch thee with it, to give thee foretaste of that tocome; perchance 'twould seethe thy rottenness to the quick--if thouof that art not also bereft--and turn thee from thy course. Thou dostpander for the King's son and steal an innocent maid of unripe yearsto gratify his lust--ah, 'sdeath! thou art but a pernicious wench, as false as hell. And when the nurse whispered that 'twould save thechild from shame, thy protrusile tang-of-a-serpent didst sibilate inhis ready ear a denial--"

"Cedric, Cedric; cease, I pray!" And Constance fell upon her kneessobbing. But the young lord's storm had not yet spent itself, and hesped on in fury:

"I would thy noxious blood had all run out ere mingling with itsbetter, and I had naught of so foul a taint within. If I held theapothecary's skill, I would open my veins and purge from them thyjaundiced blood and let in slime of snakes and putrid matter tosweeten the vessel thus set free--"

"My lord, we must hasten. The maid is ready to depart with hernurse, " said Sir Julian. As the young lord turned to him, LadyConstance--crushed and broken--said, --

"Couldst thou not see why I have so misused my better self; have thineeyes been blind all these years not to see how I have loved thee, Cedric--thee--thee--with all my heart and soul?"

"I would not hear thee prate of anything so sacred as love, --'tissacrilege. "

"Nay, not so, Cedric! I love thee more than heaven. I love thy scorn, if to be free from it were to deprive me of thy presence. I wouldfollow thee to the end of time, even though thy brow lowered in everthreatening storm--"

"Nay! thou shalt not follow me. Would I draw such as thou to yondermaid? From this moment thou art none of mine, and I fling thee from meas I would a snake. --Thou didst think to take Mistress Katherine fromme; put her beyond my reach, first, by marriage, then by ruin. Thanksto heaven, both of thy infernal schemes miscarried and she is again inmy keeping. And soon I shall fold her to me as my own; pillow her headhere, Constance, here, where thou sayest thou shouldst love to lie. Ishall press her to my heart as wife, wife--ah! I have at last touchedthe quick within thee. We may hope there is some redemption--somepossibility of bringing thee back from thy foulness--"

"Come, Cedric, come; we are late!" cried Sir Julian at the door. LordCedric turned to go, but Constance flew to his side and grasped hishand, --

"Nay, nay; thou shalt not leave me thus. Thou shalt not leave me to goto one who cares not one jot for thee! Cedric, turn not away. Do notleave me here. Cedric, hear me, take me, take me with thee! I will beso good--"

Again Sir Julian came and called hastily, --"Indeed, my lord, there isa chaise upon the highway, and if we mistake not 'tis the King's. "Cedric loosed himself from Constance and hurried from the room. Sheflew after him; but he had passed Sir Julian and flung himself upon ahorse. Pomphrey saw her plight, and, whether from pity, gallantry, orintrigue, lifted her quickly--before she had time to withdraw fromhim--into a coach. Cedric remonstrated with him; but Julian wasconfident of his motive and started the coach at full speed. They flewalong in the opposite direction from whence came the King. 

It was his Majesty, who had heard of his son's hiding with somebeauteous maid and was resolved to play a trick and come upon himunawares. 

It was feared, when he should find Monmouth in such a plight, he wouldpursue the offenders, if for nothing but to see with his own eyes themaid who had so wrought upon his son's affections. 

The coaches bearing Katherine and Constance sped along at a rapidswing. The one bearing Katherine, with Janet by her side, was somedistance ahead; Constance alone in the rear. Cedric and Julian rode ateither side of the first coach, their horses in full gallop. 

They reached Southwark after two hours' hard riding. Katherine wasnot aware of Lord Cedric's presence, and he avoided meeting her orattracting her attention in any way. He was content with the thoughtthat she was near him. 

They proposed to remain at Tabard Inn at least until the next night, when they would set out under cover of the darkness for Crandlemar, where Lord Cedric had given orders to have all things ready forhis immediate espousal. He knew that Katherine loved him, and feltsanguine that after passing through so many vicissitudes she wouldcome to her senses and give up the ideas of churchly duties andreligious requirements. 

Lady Constance feared the worst, now that Cedric was once more withKatherine. What could she do to stave the matter off? She knewCantemir would hardly be able to place Cedric in the Tower beforeanother week. She was tempted to poison or kill in some way the maid. Aye, she would kill her--that would be safest. Then Cedric could nothave her. They would be parted forever. 

CHAPTER XIX

WHAT HAPPENED IN THE COACH

In the meantime his Majesty had entered the villa and found his sonbound and in drunken sleep. Seeing he was uninjured, the King fellto laughing at his plight, his ringing tones awakening Monmouth. TheKing's gentlemen unbound him and brought him to a chair. The youth wasnot long in collecting himself, quickly making a tale for his father'sears. 

"I have caught thee, James, "--said the King, --"but where, oh! where isthe maid? Has she flung thee off and escaped with thy guard, who leftthe gates wide, or didst thou expect us and had them placed so for ourconvenience?"

"'Tis certain, Sire, I have been foully treated. I have been druggedand some valuable papers taken I had got hold on. "

"And who held the papers before thee, a pretty wench, eh?" Monmouthglanced suspiciously at Buckingham, who stood behind the King. 

"Now indeed, Sire, I should like thy opinion upon her, and--she hatha secret, as the Duke there can testify. " Buckingham started, but metthe King's glance with a stolid countenance. 

"And what is this secret, George?"

"'Tis something the Papists have enveigled the maid into bringing tothy notice, your Majesty, " and the Duke cast a contemptuous glance atMonmouth, who had made a wrong move. 

"Then, by God! why was she detained? Why did any one take the papersfrom her?" His Majesty looked not too kind at his son, who was nowfair caught. "We will send for her posthaste. " The lackeys werequestioned of the direction taken by the coaches that had just leftthe grounds, and a courier was sent after them, bearing the Royalcommand to Mistress Penwick to appear before his presence within threedays. 

The courier did not reach the inn until the party were about to setforth, on account of being turned repeatedly from his course bydesigning lackeys left along the way for the purpose. 

Sir Julian, Katherine and Janet were standing at the coach door whenLady Constance came hurrying down the stairs to join them, unasked;for she was of no mind to let Cedric carry off Katherine without her. She felt it would be worse than death. As she opened her mouth to askof Cedric--for she saw he was not with the party--the King's messengerrode into the courtyard. Mistress Penwick received the order from thecourier with her own hand, and was rejoiced at it; Lady Constance flewto her chamber in an ecstasy; Sir Julian roundly disappointed at thenews he must send Cedric, who had gone on toward Crandlemar. Therewas no help for them now. They were under the King's order; but--whatmight not happen in three days?

Sir Julian was as adamant when Constance proposed a trip to London, and would under no circumstances allow her to leave the inn. Janetkept Katherine in complete seclusion, fearing lest some new thingshould come upon them. She did not fail, however, to tell Sir Julianof the monk's visit to the grounds of the villa and of his project toaccompany her to the King, when an audience should be granted. 

"I am glad thou didst apprise me of this, Janet, for it gives me anidea. I have seen lurking about several of the Order and have watchedthem carefully. "

The morning of the eventful day arrived. Mistress Penwick was alreadygowned in a sombre old woman's dress. A hump was fastened to hershoulder; her face was darkened skillfully and leprous blotchespainted thereon. She stepped like a Queen, for all that, and 'twasfeared her falseness would become evident to the King's eye. 

Lady Constance was to remain at the inn, a prisoner, until Sir Juliansaw fit to release her. With curious eyes she watched for Katherine, whom she conceived would be decked in irresistible finery. She evenpictured her beauty, clad in that soft brocade of peach and green thatso became her figure and enhanced the richness of her youthful bloom. 

"Ah! ah!" she cried under her breath, as she saw the maiden's masque, and fairly bit her lips in rage at the clever ruse about to be playedupon the King. Back she flew from the window and pranced up and downher chamber in rage, her brain on fire. She sought in its hot depthssome way--some way. "It must be done. The King must know. It would bethe convent wench's ruin--and what would his Majesty not do for onewho should give him hint?" She was not kept under close guard. Shecould go about the corridors as she chose. Out she flew into one ofthese and saw near by a scullion furbishing a brass knob. 

"Come, fool, hast thou a close mouth?" she said, almost in a whisper. 

"Aye, too close for the comfort of my stomach. "

"Then here--but first, bring me from anywhere thou canst a gentleman'ssuit that will cover me in plenty--not too scant, remember, and bringa horse from where thou likest to the door below. Haste thee, and thoushalt have this. " She jingled a well-filled purse in his face. Off heran in hot haste, soon returning with the desired outfit; no doubtlooted from some gentleman's closet near by. Quickly she donned it;but here and there were slight alterations to be made, and her fingerswere all a-tremble, slackening speed to a meagre haste. She donned ared-hued periwig and cockle hat, then strutted back and forth, proudof her fine appearance, as, indeed, she looked a roguish fop of nomean parts. She flung out into the passage and asked the lad if thehorse was ready. 

"Aye, Sir!" he said, impudently. She flung him a bag of gold with ashow of masculine strength. Out it flew through the open window, downto the pavement, frightening the steed from his groom, who firststopped to pluck the bag before giving chase to the wily horse. Downcame the scullion, followed close by the gay young fop, who waitedimpatiently outside the door. The guard looked on indifferently, his eyes fixed upon the groom, rather than the young man that pacedrestlessly up and down the courtyard. 

At last Lady Constance dashed out upon the highway with a smile ofcunning on her face, a devil's flash from her eyes, a haughty curvingon her lips, and her heart beating faster and faster, the nearer shedrew to the King's palace. "One masque is as fair as another, andmethinks the King's eye will open wider at my boldness than atMistress Penwick's plain dissembling, should he require a fair show ofour feigning. He will love me for my daring and for bringing him theknowledge aforetime of the maid's deception. And when the wench smilesin triumph, he will bring her down upon her knees by one fair blow oftongue. 'Twould be like his Majesty to deprive her of decent covering, if I can only make her designing plain to him. " On she rode in highgood humour with her adventure; for if this move was without laches ormischance, 'twould be a triumph indeed. The maid would be ruined andher own fortunes made. 

The coach arrived at the Royal Palace upon the stroke of four. Mistress Penwick was conducted to the King's ante-chamber. She wasvisibly nervous; trying vainly to calm the fast beating of her heart. When at last she was called, Sir Julian walked beside her to thethreshold of his Majesty's chamber. The King, ever _insouciant_, had never thought to ask Monmouth the maid's name, and when she waspresented as "Mistress Wick, " and he beheld her form and attire, he was amazed. He felt he had been made a dupe; that Monmouth hadpurposely made him believe this girl was beautiful for some subtlecause, perhaps just to gain an audience for her;--then, as he saw thespots upon her face, he recoiled and a horrible thought came. Had shesome loathsome disease and been sent to him that he might--He started, his blood boiling with indignation. "Treason, " he cried in his heart, and before the maid had arisen from her knees, he called for herdismissal. She was taken precipitately from the King's presence beforeshe had time to open her mouth. 

The King was greatly wrought upon, giving Monmouth the blame. Thematter must be sifted. He would write an order for his son's arrest, and--yes, the woman must be taken also. 

Sir Julian saw it all in Katherine's disappointed and half-angry face, but without giving her time to relate her grievances, rushed her tothe coach, putting her into it with very little ceremony. They werefairly flying from the Palace, turning from the sight of a young fopas he came at full gallop through the throng that crowded near theRoyal House. 

The youth made known his desire to see the King, saying the matter wasan imperative one. Even as he spoke, his Majesty came from within andheard the breathless request. 

"What now, my pretty rogue; what is thy wish?"

"May I speak with thee apart?" said the lad, as he knelt and kissedthe King's hand. "'Tis something of import--a trick is about to beplayed upon thee. " The King took alarm. 

"We are about to start forth, my lad. Come, thou mayest walk by ourside, and if thy speech is as neat and comely as thy body, 'tispossible ere we reach the end of yonder corridor thy tongue will havewon for thee the Royal favour. " The King leant upon Constance as theyswaggered along down the passage. 

"May I be so bold as to inquire of your Majesty if there has not cometo thee a woman with swart marks upon her face and a hump on her back, preferring a petition for thy signature to some lands now held by theCatholics?" The King started and looked now with great interest uponthe girlish fop, and speaking slowly as he answered, --

"Why, yes; she hath come and gone. What of her?"

"She hath played foully upon her King. I would give, Sire, half mylife to have seen your Majesty compel her to wash the painted spotsfrom her face and take from her shoulder the false hump, and she--"

"Ah! ah!" came from the thoroughly awaked King. 

"--is the greatest beauty in England. " For the first time Constancegave Katherine her dues. 

"Dost thou speak truth, lad?"

"I fear my King too much to speak otherwise, unless, indeed, it wereto save his life. "

"Then--" said the King, with flashing eyes. --"We shall have her back;we'll send for her at once; and, my pretty lad, thou shalt remain hereto see the fun, with your King. 'Twill be rare sport, eh?" He gaveConstance so sound a smack upon the shoulder, it came near to knockingher flat. It brought the tears and made her bite her tongue. The Kingfairly roared with laughter. 

Buckingham heard the King's order to recall the woman. He also knewthe King's informant, and for reasons of his own sent straightway oneto intercept his Majesty's messenger. 

Lady Constance, believing that Sir Julian, with Katherine, wouldreturn to Tabard Inn, mentioned it. This, of course, allowing theyfollowed Constance' suggestion, gave Sir Julian a good start andBuckingham's messengers time to reach their several destinations. 

The night had come with even greater heat than the day. The sultrygloaming foretold a near-by storm. Clouds were brewing fast and thick, with ominous mutterings. Already every inch of blue sky was overcastwith a blackness that was heavy and lowering. Occasionally the sullenthunder was prefaced by a jaundiced light that swathed the skies fromend to end. The coach bearing Katherine and Janet left the causewayand entered a thick forest. The great trees seemed even larger; theirsilence becoming portentous. There was not a breath of air. Katherinefanned herself with Janet's hat, but hardly did her efforts create abreeze large enough to move the threads of hair that waved above herforehead. 

They had proceeded but a short way into the forest when the postiliongot down to light the lamps. 

Sir Julian rode close to the window and spoke of the approachingstorm. The stillness was ominous; there being no sound save the plashof a muskrat as he skurried through a dismal, dark pool near by. Katherine jumped at the noise and her small hand grasped the arm ofSir Julian, as it lay across the ledge of the window. She gave alittle gasp--just enough to touch Sir Julian tenderly. 

"'Tis nothing but a lusty genet, my dear, " and his hand closed overhers for a moment. There was something about that touch that thrilledthem both; he leant farther toward her as another flash came throughthe trees and was sure he saw a flush upon her face. The lights fromthe lanterns flashed up, then--stood silent and unmoved, the boy'sbreath who stood over them was swallowed in the hot air. Then thecoach began to move and at the same time the giant trees stirred ina peculiar way. They, like a vast army, bent low with a sound as ofheavy artillery rumbling over a bridge that covered vacuous depths. Then they began a deafening noise, their branches sweeping hardagainst the coach windows. 

Katherine lay back languidly against the cushions, still tremblingfrom the gentle pressure of Sir Julian's hand. For a moment only sheenjoyed this sweet dissipation, then turned from it as if duty calledher to think of her visit to the King. She consoled herself that shehad done all she could now. When she reached Crandlemar, she shouldbe better able to collect her thoughts and see what would be the nextbest thing to do. She longed to see Lord Cedric and the Duke andDuchess. She even fell to imagining how the grand, old place wouldlook in midsummer. It seemed like she had been gone months. WouldCedric be changed, she wondered? Would he be pale and fragile looking?

So great was Sir Julian's haste, and so great was the heat, the horseswere soon exhausted and began to lag. Sir Julian thought they werenear an inn, as it soon proved. He flung open the door and almostlifted Katherine from the coach, so great was his haste. Supperwas awaiting them and Katherine for the moment alone, near anopen window, --the room appeared close to suffocation with humidheat--waited for Sir Julian to take his seat at her side. Janet wasarranging a posset. Suddenly Katherine heard a soft voice behind her;it was low and intense. Hardly could she distinguish it from thesoughing of the wind in the trees. She half-turned her head to listenas Sir Julian came toward her. But she caught the words:

"Abbé ---- will be in the coach upon thy return. Enjoin silence uponthy nurse and be not afraid. "

She thought Sir Julian looked at her suspiciously; but was quite surehe had not seen or heard the person behind her. 

Janet, while in the coach had bathed the maid's face and taken fromher the garb of disguise, and Katherine now looked her sweet selfagain, flushed and thoughtful over this new adventure. She was mostlike her father, ever looking for new fields to conquer. Sir Julianasked her if she would be frightened at a severe storm. She answeredit made her somewhat nervous to be abroad. 

"Then I will ride inside with thee--"

"Nay, I could not think of allowing thee. The air is too oppressive. "Sir Julian insisted, but to no avail. As they were about to leave theinn, Katherine whispered to Janet that an Abbé would be in the coachand enjoined silence and deaf ears. 

"I did not catch his name, but I'm quite sure his voice rung like AbbéLa Fosse's. They have doubtless heard I am on my way to the castle, and, knowing 'twould be impossible to see me there, they have takenthis way, being impatient to know how fell my suit with the King. "Janet for once had no answering word, but uttered a groan of seemingdissent and followed her mistress, who leant upon Sir Julian's arm. 

The dim light cast from the lanterns was well-nigh swallowed up in theintense gloom. The rain was already falling rapidly and Sir Julianopined that it was a hopeful sign, as it presaged no sudden gust thatwould tear things to pieces. The door of the coach slammed to and thehorses started at gallop through the windy forest. Mistress Penwick, now for the first time alone, that is without the surveillance ofCantemir or Eustis, with a beloved Father of her church, flung herselfupon her knees at his side, saying:

"Beloved Father, my visit to the King was fruitless; he received memost coldly. " The Abbé lifted her from her knees as she spoke, placingher beside him. Her face was close to his, for the noise of thehorses' hoofs and the rattling of spurs and bits and the ever-rumblingthunder made speech difficult. His face turned toward her was hidin the shadow of his cowl, and he drew the hood even closer as heanswered, --

"We feared it, mightily, " and his voice was barely heard above thenoise. 

"But it grieves me more than I can tell. "

"Nay. Thou must not let it. "

"But it does, I cannot help it; and I see also thy disappointment, forthy hands tremble. "

"We have had much to unnerve us, and I am still under restraint. "

"I would thou hadst sent a better _embassage_!"

"We could not have found a fairer. " At these words Mistress Penwickshrunk from him, remembering her disguise; which, though it was acustom of the time for one to go masqued when and where they pleased, upon whatsoever mission, yet she felt guilty to positive wickednessfor having so cloaked her beauty, and did not the Father's words implythat her charms should have won success? For a moment she remainedsilent. A flash of lightning fell broad through the open window. Shequickly glanced at Janet, who appeared to be asleep in her corner. Katherine bent her face close to the Abbé's and whispered, --

"Father, might I not here make my confessions? I would have come tothee at the monastery if it had been possible. The confessional hasnot been open to me since I left the convent, and I feel I mustconfess. I must now; for I know not when I shall be able again to haveconverse with a priest. May I, Father?"

"'Tis a noisome, stormy night and thy nurse there--"

"I will speak low, beside I care not if she does hear that thatdoth concern myself; for, indeed she understands me better than Iunderstand myself. Then I may speak, Father?"

"I will hear that I deem needful for the peace of thy soul; ifperchance thy soul be wrought upon unhappily; and for sins innocentlydone I absolve thee already. " Mistress Penwick half knelt by thecowled figure and placed her elbows upon his knees, and after sayingthe prayers of contrition leant her face close to his. 

"I have been guilty of what I believe to be a very great sin. Father, I disguised myself to go before the King!" She trembled and bent herhead. The priest's voice was calm and unperturbed. 

"And why didst thou that?"

"I heard 'twas an unsafe thing for a maid boasting of some fairness tovisit the King. "

"Why so?"

"I have heard he keeps them for his own pleasure, allowing not theirreturn. "

"And didst thou think we would have let thee go to him, had it notbeen safe?"

"But I thought, good Father, living as closely as thou dost, thoudidst not know of the matters of the world, and I ventured to use myown judgment, meaning no harm. But I will go to him unmasqued if thoudost appoint it so. I intend to do so. Shall I not?"

"Nay, thou hast done all and more than is expected of thee. "

"How, more?"

"'Twas brave to go at all after hearing of his Majesty's demeanour. "

"But I was not very much afraid; indeed, I became very calm as Ientered his presence. "

"If I understand, thou wert ambitious to become a Maid of Honour. "

"At one time, but having better acquaintance with the Court, I feel myardour has cooled. "

"We have gone somewhat astray, my child. We will finish thyconfessions for I soon must leave thee. Indeed, if this is the weightypart of thy sins, there is no need to confess any more. "

"One thing I am particularly anxious to inquire of thee. Since lovecomes and we cannot help it, 'twould be wrong not to give it place?"

"If the love is love and not masquerading passion, and it comes fromone who is not altogether unworthy of thee?"

"Indeed, he is most worthy, barring his religion, which is Protestant. I would have advice upon this matter, for I believe the love ismutual. "

"My child, if his heart is good and true, and thou lovest him, and hethee, the manner of worshipping God should not be of question, sinceone shows his love one way and another another. The common scullion, who, from year's end to year's end sees not inside the holy sanctuary, may carry in his heart the divine image of God and pay him homageevery breath he draws; while he who walks in sacred robes and abidesever in the shadow of the cross, taking part in all the forms, pomps, vanities and varied monotony, may have Satan within him and breathesout flames of hell as he intones. We can in all things beside religiondiscern punctilio. There is no sect that has the control of the HolySpirit; it is the exclusive property of the individual who gains theright and title of it by the keeping of the ten commandments. So, ifthou art sure thou dost love the youth, and art most sure he lovesthee sincerely, then--"

"Then, indeed, I am most happy; for I am sure he is noble and goodand--loves me. "

"When didst thou learn that he loved thee; for if I mistake not, thouwert recently bent upon marrying one Adrian Cantemir, who, I mustdeclare, is altogether unworthy of a maid who doth possess suchvirtue. "

"I have learned to since--since--I can't tell when--I knew I lovedhim--yesterday--the day before. I know it now. I tremble when I thinkof how well I love him. I have been so uncertain, Father. I thought Iloved this one, and then another, and for a time I was not sure I knewwhat love was. Then it came to me on a sudden that I would rather diethan live all my life without the one I so desired. And yesterday Iknew of a certainty that I loved and that I was loved. "

"Yesterday?"--and the priest winced, and there was pain in the tone ofhis voice as he uttered the word. 

"Aye, yesterday--I was thinking. I thought of his kindness to me--ofthe deference he has shown me, of his great patience toward me; and Isaw how well he loved me. "

"Was it the King's son, my child?"

"Nay, one not nearly so gentle as the Duke. He is more noble at heartand hath a most noble name. He hath a handsome countenance, moreeven than the Duke's, and Janet says he hath the finest mould in allEngland. Indeed, I do not know so much about such things, but I amsure his hands are near as small as mine, but with a grasp like iron. He is wonderfully strong and hath an awful stamp when in rage, and histemper is most violent and bad, and his tongue is vicious;--indeed, Father, I know not what to do with his oaths. They frighten me. "

"Perhaps if thou shouldst go to him and ask in all gentleness, hewould leave off blasphemy. "

"But I have no influence with him. When anger takes him, he isterrible. "

"Then I'm afraid he does not love thee. "

"Aye, he loves me; but wants his own way, and--to be sure, I love himquite as well when he does have his way--which is not often. Janetsays I provoke him to swear. " Again the priest started and his whitehands trembled suspiciously. 

"And how dost thou so provoke him, child?"

"He would marry me straightway and give me not time to know whether Iwanted him or not, and I refused and he fell into an awful fury andswore oaths and I could not stop him, --Father, I said I hated him, andnow he so believes, and I would have him think otherwise; yet I wouldnot tell him for the world. When I meet him, it shall be--with coldlooks. "

"Then how is he to know thy mind?"

"I know not. " Katherine shook her head dolefully. 

"Then when he greets thee, why not smile at him and look thyfeelings?"

"I know not, only 'tis my way. I shall love to hear him plead again. Ihated to hear it once; but now--'twill be like music. "

"What if he is cold to thee?"

"If he is cold, I will go to him and ask him to forgive me for what Ihave done. "

"Then thou art culpable?"

"Aye, I fear I am, for he now suffers for my fault, or rather for hislove of me. "

"But if he greets thee with all love and holds out his arms to thee?"

"Then I shall be most happy, but shall act indifferently. "

"I am afraid thou dost treat a serious matter lightly; for 'tis afickle thing; if he meets thee with open arms, thou wilt be cruel;if he greets thee coldly, thou wilt be indifferent--for fear of thymaiden scruples. What if he takes thee unawares?"

"How, unawares?"

"He might trick thee into a thing thou couldst not recede from. Ifthou didst find thyself so placed, wouldst thou forgive him and lovehim just the same?"

"I must always love him, no matter what trick he plays;--but he willplay me no trick. If he should again threaten to lock me up, as he hasdone heretofore, I would go to him and say, --'Nay, I will marry theenow, Cedric!'"

"God, Kate! Kate!" And the priest threw his arms about her, almostcrushing her in his great embrace. The cowl slipt from his head andhis dark curls swept her face as he bent over her. Instantly she knewhim and straightway fell into a rage. 

"Thou, thou, Lord Cedric, dare to receive confession from one whoselife thou hast no part in. Dost thou know the penalty of suchwickedness? All evil will be visited upon thee for playing the part ofa holy priest. Indeed, of all the sins I had deemed thee capable, Ihad ne'er thought of one so wicked as this!" She fell back inthe corner of the coach in such fury, she could not find furtherutterance. 

CHAPTER XX

UNPROCLAIMED BANNS

"Indeed, Mistress Penwick, I asked not for thy confessions. But nowthat I have heard them, 'tis my meed to be punished by thy sharptongue for that I could not help. Come, Sweet, forgive and love me. Have I not suffered enough?"

"Lambkin, I am out of all humour with thee. Thou art half a termagant, I admit!"

"And thou, too, wert privy to this deception. I am truly withoutfriends!" and the maid began to weep softly behind her handkerchief. Lord Cedric was beside himself with his folly. 

"If I only could have withstood thee; but how could I with thy tenderwords and thy closeness--"

"There is nothing accomplished but mistakes!" Janet ventured, beingimpatient with both Cedric and Kate. 

"--Kate!--Kate! dost not thou know how I have longed for thee; how myheart has ached in thine absence? Those two whole days I lay abed werelike so many years, and when I thought of thy danger, I fell into afever and I arose and leapt upon the fleetest steed and rode until myfever cooled; and then--when I had thee once more, I could not keepfrom thee longer; I resolved upon this plan that I might be with thee, and ride by thy side. And thou dost murder me outright. Thou dost killme, Kate! I was a fool to undertake it, I know; but I thought of twowhole days I should be separated from thee and felt I could not bearto wait. Thy words, Kate, were so sweet. Kate, come to me once moreand see how loving I can be. Let me dry thy tears, --let thy head resthere upon my heart and close thine eyes and dream--dream, Kate, ofwhat we must be to each other, and then wake and find me bending overthee. Come, Sweet, come!" He sought her elusive fingers and tried todraw her to him with a tenderness she could hardly withstand; but shewould not unbend, drawing from him, sinking further into the corner. 

"And did Sir Julian know of this ruse of thine?" she asked, haughtily. 

"Janet, methinks the maid speaks with thee!"

"What is it, Lambkin? I was not listening. "

"I will wait until the storm ceases, perhaps thou wilt find thyhearing by then. " There was a long silence within the coach. The tearsof Mistress Penwick were dried and she sat sullen, deliberately tryingto hate Lord Cedric. There came a sudden burst of thunder that turnedthe tide of her thoughts from him to Sir Julian, who rode by herwindow constantly. At every flash of lightning she saw his spursglisten, saw the foam fly from the bits of his horse's bridle. He rodethere in the storm, heedless of all but her safety and comfort, hethat had wounds on his body that spake of great deeds of nobleness andvalour! Why should he care for her so? Like a flood he swept intoher heart, and she accepted his presence with gladness--shutting outCedric as well as she was able. She inclined her head toward thewindow and watched the handsome figure of Sir Julian with a newinterest. His form, so like that of Cedric, she began to compare withancient warriors she had read about and seen pictures of, --then histender and meaning hand pressure recurred to her, and she flushedmightily. After awhile she fell to thinking of the Duke of Monmouth, the tender thoughts of whom she had not yet resigned, --such were thevacillations of the mind of strong, warm, youthful Mistress Penwick. 

The storm grew furious, and the wind blew such a gale it appeared attimes as if the trees swept the earth. They bended and swung rudely, brushing hard against the windows. In the midst of its severity thecoach came to a stand-still and Lord Cedric threw open the door. Janetleant quickly toward him, --

"I pray thee not to go forth in the storm, my lord; 'tis enough togive thee thy death. "

"Nay, nay, Janet, 'twill not be summer rain that will kill me, butcold looks and threatening mien. " And he stepped out into the night. 

"What, Lambkin, if Lord Cedric should catch cold and die? 'Twould killthee, too; for remorse would give thee no rest. "

"I never so disliked him as I do now. I never want to see him again. How shall I look him in the face after confessing such things? I shalldie of shame. That is all he wanted to hear me say, and--he heardit--and that is all the benefit he will get. " Again she fell toweeping, finding she could wring no sympathy from Janet, who satcoldly listening to her nursling's plaints. 

They reached Crandlemar late the second evening, tired and weary. TheDuchess of Ellswold greeted them with a happy countenance, so pleasedthat she could make known to them that her lord was better and thephysicians had given permission to remove him to his own county seat. Her greeting to Katherine in particular was evidently a forced one;she feeling sorely distressed at her capricious nature. 

Never did the great old seat look so beautiful as it did in itsmidsummer glory. Mistress Penwick had arisen early and walked out uponthe rich greensward. She wandered from place to place, enjoying thegorgeous fullness of leaf and bloom. She felt a strange disquiet, alonging for love and knowing not the meaning of her unrest vainlytried to find comfort in the beauty of the outer world, that onlyinclined her heart the more to its desire. She passed from flower toflower, endeavouring to 'suage the uprisings of Cupid. Suddenly sheheard the organ peal forth, and straightway she entered the libraryto hear those great, soothing chords the better. She, being shaken bylove, fell upon her knees and tried to pray for comfort, for she feltat the moment she had not one to comfort her. Janet had been taciturn, showing not her affection as had been her wont heretofore. The tearscame, and she wept aloud. Then the organ ceased and a moment later SirJulian stood upon the landing of the stairway, looking down upon her. Without noise he descended and stood by her side. His voice, when hespoke, appeared shaken as if a storm of love wrought upon it. 

"Katherine! It pains me to see thee thus. Can I not give thee some bitof comfort?"

"I am comforted already, Sir Julian; thy music did that. "

"Then why dost still remain with bowed head and thy sobs unassuaged?"

"I do not know. I must either laugh or cry and--'tis easier to do thelatter. "

"Come! Mistress Penwick, what can I do for thee? Ask, I pray, anything, for thy happiness--Katherine--" and for the first time inhis life he looked guiltily about him. But no one was near to hearhim, and he continued lowly--"thou dost know, surely, that man cannotlook on thee without loving?" and he raised her from her knees. 

"I am unloved, " she answered, the social lie tinging her cheek to abrighter hue. 

"Not so, for I love thee. "

"Thou, thou, Sir Julian, who art used to spurning woman's heart?"

"Not spurn, nay! I have not found one yet I could do that to, and onthe other hand I have found but one I could love, and--that is thine. "

"Ah, Sir Julian. I wonder if thou dost love me. 'Tis a great thing tobe loved by one who has fought in great battles. "

"And thou dost not know that the battle of hearts is much deadlierthan that of arms?"

"I do not know; but thou seemest like a warrior of olden time. And forthee to love me!"

"Is it enough? Wilt thou give thyself to me?" There was a silence solong and unbroken Katherine was made to realize that her reply wasnot to be lightly uttered, so she answered with all the strength of aplaything of caprice, --

"If thou wilt have it so, Sir Julian, I will be thine. "

She had hardly finished, when he laid his lips, to her astonishment, coldly and with formal grace upon her forehead. 

"I will not ask thee if thou lovest me, but will say instead dostthink thou mayest?"

"But I think I love thee now--"

"Nay, sweet Mistress, thou dost not--" A look of fear came into hereyes. Had Lord Cedric told her confessions? Nay, nay! he would not, she knew. 

"How dost come by so much knowledge?" she said, coquettishly. 

"I have ascertained by subtleness, but--let it pass. Let us talk ofthee now. When wilt thou marry me? If thou art kind, thou wilt say atonce. "

"Nay, I shall not say that--but--whenever thou dost wish it. "

"Of a surety? When I name the hour, wilt thou not gainsay?"

"Nay, my lord. I will not gainsay. "

"Then--at eleven, Katherine. " She caught her breath quickly and criedforth, --

"This day, Sir Julian! Indeed, thou art in haste, I--I--"

"Thou hast given thy word. At eleven, Katherine. "

"By sands or dial?"

"Ah, sweet Katherine, both shall have a bridal favour. We will conferwith each. When the golden sand runs out at the eleventh hour, thedial will be alone and in shadow; for if it please thee, we must bewed secretly and in haste. I noticed but awhile ago how beautiful thedial was. So the sands shall give us the hour, the dial the altar, andthe nightingale the nuptial mass. "

"But the priest, Sir Julian--"

"He shall give us the blessing--"

"Nay, nay; where wilt thou find a priest?" This was not an unexpectedquestion, and Sir Julian was ready for it. 

"Lord Cedric's Chaplain can wed us as securely as one of thy church, and as there is no one else, he will serve, will he not, Katherine?"

"Until we find a better. "

"Then, not to arouse suspicion, to-night at eleven thou wilt come tothe sun-dial and I will meet thee at the foot of the stair that leadsfrom thy chamber to the terrace, and then--'twill be soon over andthou, thou, Katherine, will be--wife. Wilt not regret it, --art sure?"he repeated as she shook her head negatively. 

"But why do all men appear in such haste to wed? I would have time toat least think upon it. "

"Dost forget that at any moment may come a courier from the King torecall thee; and if so, thou wouldst be obliged to go and be separatedfrom us, perhaps forever? Thou dost not know what may befall theeat any moment. Thou dost belong to France, and art hostage toEngland--thou wilt be ready at eleven?"

"Aye, at eleven. "

"We will be cautious and not speak above a whisper. The Chaplain willspeak low, too; but he is a good soul and would make us fast wedwhether we heard him or not. " Again he kissed her forehead; she turnedrose-red and ran from him hastily. She thought not once of Cedric. Hadshe done so, 'tis possible she never would have gone to the dial thatsummer night. She flew to her chamber aflame with this new thing shethought was love. And felt relief that soon Sir Julian, the strong andbrave, would take away all her discomfort. He would fight her battlesfor her, go with her to the King and stand by her side and his Majestywould not dare to offer her insult. It would be a sweet task toconvert Sir Julian to her faith. He would became a great Catholicleader. Her breast fairly swelled with pride in anticipation. 

CHAPTER XXI

THE ESPOUSAL

Night had come richly laden with the perfume of many flowers, that thedarkness seemed to make more pungent, and more distinct to the earthe night sounds. There was no moon, and the thick foliage produced adeep, dark density, mysterious and sweet. The grand terraces about thecastle were still, save for the buzz of summer insects and the low, sleepy twittering of birds. There was not a star to be seen and onlythe glow-worm lent an occasional lilliputian effulgence to the great, dark world. All within the castle appeared to have retired earlierthan usual; perhaps for the purpose of an earlier awakening, as theirGraces of Ellswold were to set out early on the morrow morning, aimingto make some great distance on their journey before the heat ofmidday. At a quarter after the hour of ten Janet had kissed hermistress, leaning over her pillow with even more affection than usual. 

"Good-night, my Lambkin, my child, my precious maid--good-night andGod bless thee!" then snuffed the candles and left her. 

Katherine gave no thought to regret, indeed she went so far as tosmile at Janet's consternation, when she should find out that foronce her "Lambkin" had fooled her. Quickly she leapt from her bed anddressed herself for the first time alone. Though her fingers were deftand skillful at the tapestry frame, and neat and clever at limning, they were slow and bungling when drawing together the laces of hergirdle, indeed 'twas very insecurely done, and when she was dressedshe had forgotten her stays, and but for the lateness of the hourwould have disrobed and donned them. It seemed like an endless task totry and dress again by the poor light of the single candle, screenedby her best sunshade in the far corner of the room. She had donneda pale, shimmering brocade. About her neck she twined her mother'spearls, and took up the opal shoulder knot of Cedric's mother's andwas about to fasten it when some subtle thought stole the desire fromher, and she laid it back in the casket with a sigh. Instead, sheplaced a bunch of jasmine as her shoulder-brooch, and extinguishingthe light went forth to meet her husband by the sun-dial. 

She passed out by the door that led on to a small balcony and a-downthe flight of outside stairs that were covered with vines in purplebloom. Although the darkness was almost impenetrable, she coulddistinguish a form waiting at the foot of the stair. For an instantshe paused and whispered timourously, --

"Who art thou?"

"Julian, " came as softly back, and a white hand was stretched out toher. Down she flew, intrepid. 

"Would I send another to meet thee; didst thou think to turn back, myKatherine?"

"Nay, I should not have turned back; but 'twas assuring to hear thyname. I am not afraid, yet--yet I tremble. "

"And 'tis sweet of thee so to do; 'tis maidenly that thou shouldst;'tis the way of woman. Thou art not afraid, yet thou dost tremble;thou dost try to be brave, yet thou must be assured, and I am here bythy side to assure thee ever, " he whispered in her ear. 

Down they swept across the upper terrace. Slowly they crossed thegreensward, with fairy-like light of firefly to illumine the way;speaking as lovers will, with bated breath. The wind blew gently nowand again, casting a shower of petals upon them as they passed. Whenthe leaves shone white, the cavalier would say:

"We are so blessed, nature herself doth sprinkle the bridal path withflowers;"--or, when there fell a darksome shower, Katherine wouldpress close to her lover's side and say, --

"Indeed, Julian, these are petals from those blood-red roses that havehung in such profusion all summer. It may have some significance. Ibelieve I must return; 'tis not too late to recede. "

Then the cavalier drew her closer than before, and so tenderly didplead with her, she forgot her fears. So step by step they neared thethicket where stood the ancient sun-dial that was well-nigh hid withbridal roses. 

The Chaplain stood ready; his fragile, pale countenance, hid by thedarkness. There was no faltering now. Katherine did not think to turnback; that her heart was not with Sir Julian, that she would everregret this greatest moment in her life, but stood resolute. 

The Chaplain began the ceremony at once, and so softly one couldscarcely hear a yard away. Katherine was agitated with the thoughtthat she was really being wedded, and hardly heeded when the Chaplainraised or lowered his voice; appearing almost like one in a dream, soblinded was she with the glamour of her new estate. 

At last the Chaplain said the final words, pronouncing the twain asone, and gave his blessing in a somewhat stronger voice that carriedin it a note of triumph, and was about to step down from the pedestalof the dial when there flew out from the darkness a young man withdrawn sword, who dashed immediately upon the young husband. Barely hadthe cavalier time to draw aside his wife, and drawing his sword as hedid so, when his _de trop_ guest made a fierce attack upon him. Theyoung husband cried out as he met the thrust, --

"Nay, nay, nay, by God nay!" It appeared his antagonist was becalmedof speech, for he answered not but struggled to do so. Failing to findhis voice, however, he gave a lunge, which was met by a parry thatmade him mad, and for a moment ground his teeth as fiercely as hewielded his sword. The young cavalier threw himself on guard in carte, which sent his opponent to giving such thrusts that quickly betrayedhis lack of skill and also his deadly intentions. These were met byquick parries. Then the mad antagonist made a sweeping bend and thrustat the cavalier's heart. This was met with a disengage. The mad youth, well spent with anger and want of breath, broke out pantingly, --

"Thou wouldst play the honourable as thou playest the part of SirJu--" His last word was cut short by a quick thrust of steel thatfelled him to the sward. Mistress Katherine stood as if frozen, herhands held tightly in those of the Chaplain, who whispered that itmight cost her husband his life should she interfere. He also assuredher, saying that the adversary was no swordsman, as she herself soonsaw. Some one came running from the castle at the same time Katherineknelt beside the fallen man. But her husband whispered quickly, --

"Nay, nay; arise, Sweet; he is unworthy thy solicitude. Come with me. I gave him but a puny thrust. The Chaplain will look after him. " Heput his arm about her and raised her up and drew her away, saying, much out of breath, --"I must not be seen, dost know?" She took fright, fearing her lord's danger. Quickly they traversed the terrace andreached the stair leading to Katherine's chamber. As she laid her handupon the railing, she said timourously, --"I would hear how serious isthe wound before I go inside!"

"But, Katherine, " he whispered, "'twas no more than the prick of apin; beside, dost not thou have anxiety for thy lover's freedom; hastforgotten our lord's temper when he finds I have so disgraced hishouse by fighting 'neath the very windows? And if the fellow can talkand tells of the marriage, why, I'm undone, and they will begin asearch. " All the while he led her further up the stair, she unwitting, until they stood fairly inside the threshold and his foot struckagainst some obstacle. 

"Sh-sh!" she enjoined, "Janet is within yonder room and will hearthee; she may already be awake and prying about to know what is astirupon the terrace!"

"Indeed, I think thou hadst better hide me!"

"Nay, I cannot; I know of no place. Dost thou not know of a safehiding?"

"I am safest here in thy chamber, I am sure. I know of no other place. And if Janet come--which I hardly think possible--thou must fly to herlighted taper and blow it out, and tell some sweet fib, --say the lightpains thine eyes. "

"A ruse holds not good with Janet. I cannot play upon her wit. "

"Then, Sweet, I will lock the door and--"

"Nay, nay, she will hear thee, and will come to see if I have beenawakened. "

"Then I had best keep quiet and wait to see what will happen. "

"There is naught else for thee to do, for surely thou canst not gobelow, thou wouldst be seen, and--"

"--and, what, Sweet?"

"--and be taken prisoner. "

"And wouldst thou be pained, Sweet?" He drew her close, his dark curlsswept her face as he bent his head. Nor did he wait for an answer, butplied her with another question that the moment and the closeness gavelicense to. "Wilt give, Sweet, the nuptial kiss--'tis my due?" Sheraised her head from his shoulder ever so slightly to answer him, butthe words came not, for his lips were upon hers. She was thrilled withhis tenderness; 'twas more than she ever could have thought. And ashe held her close, she, not unwilling, declared separation would beinstant death. She wondered how she ever could have withstood love solong. And he kissed her again and again, saying heaven could not offergreater favour. "Dost feel happy now, Sweet?"

She answered not, but stood, her head leant against the rare andscented lace of his steenkirk, held captive, trembling with an ecstasytoo sweet to be accounted for. 

"Thou dost tremble, Kate; has thy fear not left thee yet?"

"Nay, " came soft and breathless from her full red lips. "I am stillafraid. "

"But what dost thou fear now, so close wrapped?"

"I know not; 'tis a strange fear. If thou shouldst be taken from me, I should die; 'tis this I fear most of all, and even for aseparation--nay, nay, I could not live. "

"Oh, Sweet, 'tis excess of gladness that thou art wife--wife, the wordalone fills me with rapturous exaltation. Wouldst be glad if we hadnever met thus, should separation come?"

"Nay, a thousand times, nay, these moments are worth more than all mylife heretofore. "

"Hast forgotten, I must leave the castle before very long, and an_adieu_ must be said to thee?"

"I have not forgotten, but 'twill only be for a day. 'Twould behazardous for thee to go until everything is quiet about. "

"And until I have quieted thy fears; until I have told thee of astrong man's love--my love for thy glorious, youthful beauty. Thyhair, Kate, is more precious than all the amber and bronze the worldholds; 'tis rich, soft and heavy, with glorious waves. Thy face sofilled with love's blushes warms my breast where it doth lie. Theglory of thy eyes that are ever submerging me in their azure depths. Thy slender, white neck and graceful sloping shoulders. Indeed, Sweet, thou art wonderfully made. There could not be a more perfect being. And thou art mine, Sweet; 'tis a wonder that rough man could be soblest. Thou dost often feign coldness, Kate, and now I wonder wherethou didst find such condition. 'Twas most unnatural, and how thoucouldst so well assume it--but I have found thy true heart. SweetKate, thou hast at last fallen victim to Cupid's darts, and fortunehath played me fair and put me in the way to receive such pricelessgift, whose dividends are to be all my own. " His warm words came sofast and he was so passionate and tender that Katherine took frightand thought 'twas not like Sir Julian to be so, and yet to have himotherwise? nay, she loved him thus, and she remembered the moment hehad pressed her hand as they rode through the forest; aye, he could beas loving and tender as--as--She did not finish the thought, for herlord's jewelled fingers had caught her hand and his arm held herclose, pressing her tenderly; his lips resting upon hers until shegrew faint with his ardour. 

At last night paled into dawn. The cocks began to crow lustily. Aboutthe edges of the great windows in the chamber the light began to peepas if loath to cast one disturbing glance athwart the room. There wasa fluttering sigh from the folds of the maiden's handkerchief as herlover bent over her, saying, --

"_Adieu_, Sweet, _adieu_ once more. Let me kiss thy eyelids closeuntil they pent these tears that parting hath wrung from thee, andyet, were they not, I would be without weapon, void of panoply, equipped not--"

"But thy urgent tongue and tenderness doth armour thee for conquest!"

"Aye, 'tis love's armour; but thy tears make me strong to enter strifewith men. I know 'tis love drives thee, and when that love is for me, I can win all battles. "

"Thou must haste before dawn, or thou wilt be taken; for we do notknow whether the young man still lives; and Lord Cedric will kill theeif he can. "

"There is no doubt but what he lives. His Grace's physicians have nodoubt healed the burden of his pain long ago. But do not thou think ofhim, think only of this sweet night and--dream of our meeting again. And if his lordship keeps thee prisoner, tell Janet thou art fast wedand she will help thee to our _rendezvous_ to-morrow. Pray, Sweet, that the day may be short, for now I see only cycles of time until theset of morrow's sun. "

Dawn broke into a new day. Sunshine bathed old Earth in goldensplendour. The day grew warm, as higher and higher leapt Phoebus, until he rested high and hot upon Zenith's bosom, causing all mankindto pant by his excess. 

Slowly Katherine raised her lazy eyelids until the shining bluebeneath lay in quivering uncertainty. She smiled up at Janet, saying, sleepily, --

"I've a notion not to arise to-day. 'Twill be long and wearisome, andhot. What is the use? There is nothing in the world to get up for!"

"Indeed there is a very great deal to get up for. 'Tis a glorious day. The gardens are aglow with beauty and the air is fine, though warm. "

"I know, Janet, and 'tis thy desire that I arise, but the castle seemsmost empty. Their Graces have departed and--"

"Nay, not so. There has been a great change in the Duke, and thephysicians will not allow his leaving his couch. "

"Ah, I'm sorry! What time did this change take place?" said Katherinewith a feeling of subtleness that for once she had tricked Janet andknew of great things that had happened in the deep night, when herfaithful nurse thought her in dreamland. 

"Her Grace says there was a great change in him yesterday, that shenoticed it as he ate his dinner. "

"And was there no change in the night?" said Katherine sagely. 

"Speak out, Lambkin, that 'tis on thy mind--if thou dost mean, was hedisturbed when the castle was aroused?--why, no, he was not. "

"But how didst thou know there was an arousal?"

"I did play the simpering bride's maid, and stood for witness to thineespousal. "

"Ah! ah! ah! Janet, I can keep no secret from thee!" Quickly shesprang to the floor. Her foot struck her lover's sword. She stoopedand raised it, and there flashed forth from the jewel encrusted handlethe noble armourial bearings, charged upon a gold escutcheon, of LordCedric's house. Wonderingly, she examined it and swept her brow withthe back of her slender hand. Slowly she spoke, and in a voice vibrantwith portent, her eyes now wide open. 

"This--this doth trend to set my brain a-whirl, and doth connive topart sense from understanding and mind from body. To be sure, 'twasdark, --and allowing that I was well-nigh intoxicated with love--mybrain could truly swear 'twas Sir Julian; and yet this he flung asidedoth confute reason, and I must either ponder upon the this and thatin endeavouring to conjoin mental and physical forces to sweet amityor give over that reaching wife's estate hath made of me a sordidfool, as hath it oft made woman heretofore. My senses up until I metone of two at the foot of the stair, I could make affidavit on. Themould of either could well trick the other, providing their heads wereas muddled as mine, and in this matter I am also clear. 'Twas meetto speak lowly and the voice was not betrayed. But--there was somerestraint at first; for his words came slow and with much flaunting ofFrench--indeed 'twas overdone. --And the duel--ah! ah!--'twas Cedric's'Nay, nay, nay!--' with an oath that had no note of Sir Julian in it. And hard he strove not to fight, nor did he until the other cried outto him--I see it all plainly; 'twas Cedric, 'twas Cedric! If I couldmistake all else, I could not mistake his passion; 'twas: 'Kate' this, and 'Kate' that. Sir Julian never called me else than Katherine. Andhis words were over plain, and in truth they became not so slow andstudied, and there was a leaving off of French. 'Twas he! Ah! and hewas so sweet and gentle and near drowned me by his tenderness--'twassuch sweet love--" Quickly she hid her blushing face in the pillow, for she forgot she was speaking aloud. 

"Hast thou then married mind to body? If thou hast them well mated andart sure thou art through espousing, I will straightway wed thee tothy clothes, that thou mayest first pay thy respects to their Graces, then go out into the sunshine and walk thee up and down for the halfof an hour, where, 'tis most like thou wilt find thy lord, who is tooimpatient to remain indoors. "

"Nay, I shall not see him!"

"Tut, Lambkin! thou wouldst not play the shrew to so noble a lord, that soon, no doubt, will be a great Duke?"

"He hath tricked and deceived me. I will punish him for it. Nay; Ihave no mind to see him. I could not bear it, Janet. 'Twas this hemeant, for I wondered when he said he had fought two duels and hadbeen victor in both. Nay; he shall not see me nor I him. " And withthese thoughts came others, and thus she fostered malice, promotingbut a puny aversion that she cherished the more for its frailty. 

"Art thou set upon affecting the manners of an orange girl?"

"Janet, I would not make feint at that I am not. "

"Neither would I, if 'twere me, make feint at that thou art. If thouhast the name of Lady, I would fit my demeanour to the word. And itshould be an easy thing, for thou art born to the manner. "

"But bad nursing doth corrupt good blood!"

"And a froward child doth denote a spared rod!"

"And moral suasion is oft an ethical farce!"

"A votary of non-discipline is impregnable to ethics. "

"Oh, Janet, dear Janet, I am weary. How is the young man that waswounded?"

"The same as ever; save his ardour is somewhat cooled. "

"Thou dost speak as if thou hadst known him. "

"Indeed, any cock of the hackle is essentially commonplace. "

"But he carried the sword of a gentleman?"

"Thou dost mean he carried a gentleman's sword. "

"Dost thou know who he is, Janet?"

"I have not inquired. "

"In other words, thou didst see him. And 'twas--I am sure--AdrianCantemir. "

"'Twas none other. "

"I will go down now and see their Graces. "

"Art sure thou wilt not see thy lord?"

"Aye, quite!"

"Then--here this is for thee. " She handed her a dainty billet, scented with bergamot. Katherine took it in trembling haste, her facerose-hued. It read: "To My Lady of Crandlemar. Greeting to my sweetwife, Kate. I await my reprimand and sword. When I am so honoured, Ishall enlist to serve thee with my presence, which, until then, isheld by thee in abeyance. Thou canst not rob me of my thoughts, which hold naught else but thee; nor yet that dainty girdle that didencompass thy fair and slender mould. I have it on my heart, closepressed; but it doth keep that it lieth on in turmoil by suchproximity. I know thou dost love me, even though I tricked thee. Janetwas to tell thee this morning who thy true lord is, for, Sweet, Iwould have no other image but mine in thy heart, for soon--soon--aye, in a very short time--I may be a prisoner in the Tower. Do not think, Sweet, this is a ruse--but should I be taken where I might not see thyface, 'twould be sweet to know thou didst hold my image, dear. Forgive me, Sweet, and--_au revoir!_--Perhaps thy heart will relentbefore--before the nightingale sings. --Relent, sweetheart, wife. " Katepressed the billet to her lips without thinking, then turned herback quickly to hide the action; but 'twas too late. Janet had beenwatching every movement and was satisfied. 

"I wish I had not opened it; such letters are disturbing. Janet, gobelow and find if I may see her Grace without meeting any one. " Whenalone, she devoured again and again the billet, and as Janet returned, thrust it quickly within the bosom of her gown. 

"His lordship has returned from the terrace and is in the picturegallery. Her Grace wishes to see thee and waits breakfast. "

For an hour Katherine was with the Duchess, who talked very plainly ofthe possible death of her husband and the duties of a great estate andnoble name that would fall to Cedric and his wife to keep up. Nordid she let the young wife go without telling her into what an awfulcondition she might not only lead herself but Cedric, when she allowedher caprice to manage her better self. It did her ladyship much good, and she sauntered out upon the lawn and shyly sought the sun-dial andbrought from it a nosegay of bridal-roses and fled, shamefaced, withthem to her own chamber, there to seat herself by the open window towait and watch for her young lord. 

CHAPTER XXII

CEDRIC IN THE TOILS

In the French colony where lay the valuable lands of Sir John Penwick, there was a lively insurrection of the English. The Papist party, whohad built and lived upon the property for the past ten years, wasstrong, having among the Protestants lively adherents who wereCatholics at heart and wore the Protestant cloak that they might thebetter spy upon them. The English, being so much the weaker, had beenlead by a few men who were bought by the Catholics. La Fosse had hadto do with these few men only, when he had made a show of settlingSir John's affairs. These men had heretofore held the secret of thehostage; but recent events had stirred them to strife and they hadfallen at variance over the spoil. The secret had been let out. TheEnglish rose in arms when the French suggested that such a smallcolonial matter should be settled among themselves; 'twas a shame tobother the Crown. 

Upon the sudden outburst, Sir John made his escape from prison. TheFrench said he had been stolen by the English and immediate reparationmust be made; his person or a ransom must be had. Or, if they wouldgive up all claim to the property and child, --the latter beingproduced at once--the French were willing to call the mattersettled. Indeed, this was all they wished, and if Sir John could beconveniently made away with forever, and it proven that the Englishhad accomplished it, they would certainly be entitled to hishereditaments. 

Buckingham held the key to the situation. He saw a way to pay a ransomfor Sir John; also a way to gain enough gold from the enterprise tomake himself independent for life. He found Sir John in London, but not until after Cantemir had gained the former's confidence. Buckingham took alarm at Cantemir's knowledge and insisted upon SirJohn removing to a place of greater seclusion; it being feared that hewould be murdered. 

Sir John was fond of the Duke, and beside taking his advice, he laidbare his heart and told him of his great distress over Katherine. Cantemir had said that she was being held dishonourably by the oldlord's son, who was profligate and only sought her favour withoutmarriage. 

Buckingham assured him to the contrary, and made him acquainted withthe true circumstances; not failing to tell him of Mistress Penwick'sunsettled disposition; her ambitions, and intractable nature; thatshe was refractory and vexatious; petulant and forever thwarting LordCedric's advances. 

The Duke concluded this friendly visit by insinuating strongly--thatSir John might infer--that the friendship which amounted to nothingless than love, between himself and Lord Cedric, would alone--barringthe question of a beautiful daughter--suffice to bring the latter toa full appreciation of Sir John's case. And if a ransom was decidedupon, as being the surest means for his immediate safety, my LordCedric would pay and not feel its loss. 

"And, " went on the Duke, "when chance or design brings thee together, if thou wouldst not be made to feel utterly unhappy, mention not thematter to him. He is eccentric like the old lord, and would fallinto the spleen, which condition, when entered into by his lordship, becomes of the temperature of that nondescript bourne the other sideof Paradise. "

Buckingham knew that two emissaries were upon the seas from the NewWorld. They were coming to interest the King in behalf of Sir John. Sofar the Duke had kept everything from his Majesty and must also keepthese "bumpkins" from tormenting him with importunities of so rustic anature as "western lands. "

But the Duke had made provision, --should his designs be curtailed bylaches--delegating himself to the post of intercessor, whereby hecould fool both the King and the emissary. Serious injury would bedone to no one, unless Cedric might feel poor for a short time. Butwhat were the odds; the Duke of Ellswold would soon die and Cedric'swealth would be unlimited. He would, with a handsome young wife, forget his finances ever were in depletion. 

Buckingham had already disposed of some of Sir John's jewels andrare laces, brought over by La Fosse and stored in the chest atthe monastery. There was, however, in the great Duke a vein ofcompunction, and for its easement he had refrained from selling somerare and costly miniatures belonging to Sir John's wife, evidentlyhanded down through a long line of consanguinity. These he resolved insome way to return; perhaps he should find it convenient to presentthem to Mistress Penwick. 

And so the thick, fierce clouds rolled up and gathered themselvestogether, hanging low, over the head of handsome, careless, rich, young Lord Cedric. 

The village of Crandlemar was indignant that he had allowed toexist for so long a time the privilege of the monastery. And theseexceptions, with a hint of some foul murder committed at the castle, reached the nobles roundabout and stirred up a general demur. Beside, it was whispered in the shire-moot that the woman about to be espousedby him was a rank Papist and had already placed popish pictures aboutthe Chapel that was contiguous to the castle. This was all thatpossibly could be said against her, as she was known to be mostgracious to the poor Protestants in and about Crandlemar; givingequally to both factions with a lavish hand. But these matters wereall brought up to militate against his lordship. 

Lord Cedric was already feeling the first thrusts of his enemy, Misfortune; for 'twas very evident that his Grace of Ellswold wasnear his death. Warming-pans were of no avail. He grew very cold; hisextremities were as ice; while the attendants of his bed-chamber wereas red as cooked lobsters from the natural heat of the midsummer's dayand the steaming flannels that were brought in at short intervals. 

Her Grace walked back and forth outside his door continually, LordCedric joining her at times. 

The Castle seemed inured to quiet by his Grace's long illness; but nowthere fell a subtle silence that presaged the coming of an unwholesomevisitant. In a room apart lay Adrian Cantemir, weak and sick, butcursing every breath he drew; excited at times to actual madness, andsaying, --Why had he come a minute too late? Why had he not followedhis own inclinations and broken away from the gambling table at theinn an hour earlier? such thoughts making him absolutely furious. 

He had arrived some time after dark at Crandlemar village, and, putting up at the hostelry, he resolved to pay his visit to the castleearly on the morrow. He was now beginning to feel that he was destinedto gain his point, or why had he so far thwarted Lord Cedric, and whyhad he escaped the anger of the monks by a well worded and quicklymanufactured tale, and even gained their help by it, when they foundhim bound in the passage, left so by Buckingham. So he had feltsomewhat at ease, but love and ambition were strong and stirred him toleave wine and cards and ride out into the open; and, unwitting it maybe, to the castle gates. He travelled without groom; so fastening hishorse, he entered the avenue a-foot, soon reaching the dark pile ofstone which appeared in absolute darkness. Aimlessly he left theavenue and sauntered across the terraces. He had heard a peculiar lowmurmuring of voices and drew near only to hear Katherine made thewife of another man; hardly understanding until the Chaplain gave theblessing. He knew what Katherine did not; that she was the wife ofLord Cedric and not Sir Julian. He flung himself with all his furyupon the bridegroom to no avail, as has been seen. 

These inflammable thoughts, as Cantemir rehearsed them over and over, set his brain afire and before night he was in a fever. The kind andgentle Lady Bettie Payne, who had arrived late in the afternoon, hadgathered nosegays and made bright his chamber, for she truly hadcompassion upon him. He called her Katherine, as she gave him coolingdraughts with her own hand. 

Lord Cedric was somewhat surprised the next evening to that of hiswedding to see the Duke of Buckingham standing in the great hall ofthe castle. And when the Duke's business was thrust upon him, therecame also dark forebodings; a separation of indefinite length from hisyoung wife, should he be taken to the Tower. Great was his surpriseat the Duke's first words, for they were that Katherine's father wasalive and well and in London. He gave quickly the whole story of SirJohn's escape, also the attempt to recapture him. Then came what hisLordship expected;--a request for a fortune. Of course, while Cedricthought the amounts asked would not be wholly a loss, yet he knew theamounts allowed of a great margin of perquisites, and to whom theseperquisites would go, he could guess. However, without question orcomplaint, he agreed to give what the Duke asked for; indeed thematters were settled there and then. 

"If Sir John's life is in danger, I know of no better place of safetythan here. He had better come with all haste--'twould be my wife'sdesire!"

"Wife, so soon?" And the great Duke raised his eyebrows--a smallaction, but with him it had a world of meaning in it. "I congratulatethee, my lord, but--if her ladyship knew the danger that would besether father upon such a journey, I feel sure she would wait patientlya time that must of necessity be of some length. I beg my lord not tothink of bringing Sir John hither. As I hinted before, if this matteris brought out and he is proven guiltless of those little mattershinted of, then he could meet her without this heaviness that soweights him. I am sure if such a thought as meeting his daughter werementioned, he would heartily beg for its postponement and--especiallynow that she is my Lady of Crandlemar. " It stood Buckingham much inhand to keep Sir John and Lord Cedric from meeting, for he had, notonly told truth, but had heartlessly impugned the former's characterto line his own pocket with the latter's wealth. The truth of thematter was that he was tight caught in a network of financial andpolitical intrigue, and this was the only means to disentanglehimself. 

After this first business was settled, a second affair was introducedand the Duke spoke of his lordship's matters at Court. He said:

"The King is hard pressed by the nobles--or a portion of them. Theyinsisted that thou wert aiding the Catholics in such a manner thatthe lives of Protestants in this vicinity were in danger. They evenwhisper that a plot is being formulated to murder Monmouth. The Kingfelt it incumbent to send for thee, and as the courier was aboutto start forth, he received word that the messenger he had sent inpursuit of my Lady of Candlemar had been foully dealt with by no otherhand than thine. This stirred the King into a frenzy and straightwayhe charged thee with treason and--one comes now to take thee to theTower or wherever it pleases his Majesty to put thee. Indeed, he mayhave so far forgiven thee by the time thou dost see London, he willoffer thee half his bed or--any unusual favour. So take heart. TheKing loves thee. " The illness of Ellswold precluded the Duke frompaying any visits within the castle, and he hastened back to London. 

Lord Cedric felt if he could only tell Katherine that her father waswell and in London, it might bring a reconciliation, and his eyeswandered to the hour-glass, and as he noted the golden sands, hethought there was yet time for a lover's quarrel and then a sweetmaking-up, which should have no limit of time; but, alas! suchblissful moments would doubtless be cut short by the arrival ofthe King's messenger. All of a sudden a wicked thought came, as heremembered how but a few moments before she had turned coldly from himas he met her in the gallery, and he resolved 'twould be a good timeto make her feel a little of how he had suffered. Separation from herwas all he feared now, and she could not help that. She was fast tiedto him, and he was satisfied; and now why not torment some of thoseSatanic whims out of her. "Aye, 'tis the thing to do!" Even as hethought of her, she had gone with Janet and Lady Bettie to Cantemir'schamber, for the latter in a lucid moment begged Lady Bettie to bringher to him. He gave her the letter he bore from her father, requestingher to come to him at once. She was quite beside herself with joy;yet, such is human nature, she on a sudden was in no hurry to leaveLord Cedric. Then she thought he might go with her--but she neverwould ask him. So after much thinking and feverish deliberation, shesent the letter to him by Janet. Cedric compared the handwriting withthe letter he still carried of Sir John's. There was no doubt that thechirography was the same. He was again thwarted by the Russian. He wasto gain his wife's ear by this very news. But there were other ways, and he said, --

"I have but a few moments to spend with her ladyship; go to her andtell her so; say that a courier is now upon the highway and--will soonarrive to conduct me to Tyburn-tree by order of the King--"

"Good heavens, surely your Lordship is not serious!"

"I have been forewarned, Janet. Go, tell her the news. Do not mincethe sorry tale. Let her have the weight of it--if weight it be for herpent affection. Indeed, make it strong, blandish it with no 'ifs' or'mayhaps' or 'possible chances of a change of mind with the King. 'Thou must make up quickly a whole catalogue of the horrors enacted atTyburn. Go, go, hasten thyself, good nurse. I will wait for her here. "

Hardly had Janet disappeared when the door again was thrown open andthe footman announced a gentleman upon the King's errand. 'Twas indeedhis Majesty's guardsman with his order, and Cedric listened withflushed face and beating heart, not to what he said, but for the soundof a silken rustle upon the great hall parquetry; and as he heard it, he raised his voice and said sternly to the courier, --

"And this means Tyburn-tree--a farewell forever to my friends--" Therewas at these last words a suspicious trembling in his tones that wasnot wholly natural, --"an _adieu_ to all this world that begun for meonly--yesterday at the singing of the nightingale--" the sentence wasleft unfinished, for Katherine now fell at his feet and embraced hisknees and said with blanched lips, --

"What is this horrible tale, my lord? Say 'tis not so!" Great unbrokensobs made her voice tremble, and there was such extreme misery in herface and attitude the guardsman was about to utter a protest, for theorder had said nothing of Tyburn, and at such unwarranted display ofgrief at a summons--why he would put a stop to it; but his lordshipput up his hand. "Say 'tis not so, " she repeated. 

"Nay, I cannot say it, for I know not what lies before me. " Katherinewas unable to control her grief, and as it broke out, the guardsmandiscreetly walked to the farther end of the room. Cedric had raisedher from the floor and half-supported her as she poured out her griefin words of pleading and entreaty; but Cedric was as adamant, he wouldnot bend to offer any hope. This unbending quality she could notunderstand, and took it as an omen of ill. In very truth she felt shewas to lose for all time her heart's idol. And when Cedric spoke tothe guard and told him he was ready to go, she cried "Nay, nay, nay!"in such awful agony he came near relenting. She turned white and wouldhave fallen, had not Cedric supported her. Janet had already enteredthe room and now came running to her mistress, whom she took in herarms. Cedric turned to the guardsman, saying, --

"My wife is ill. If thou wilt return to London, I will follow within aday or so!"

"In the name of the King I beg my Lord of Crandlemar--"

Janet broke in at this and said with a ringing voice, --

"Thy order is for the Lord of Crandlemar?"

"It is, madam. "

"Then I will tell thee, sir, Lord Cedric of Crandlemar is not here. This is the Duke of Ellswold. " She turned to his lordship as she spokeand saw his face grow white. He loved his uncle tenderly. There was amoment of palpable silence; the guardsman bowed to the floor, and thelong plumes of his hat swept it in homage, as he raised his hand tohis breast. Katherine had swooned and did not hear Janet's assertion, nor did she hear the King's other order for the Duke of Ellswold. The King was aroused and would allow of no mischance. Cedric must gobefore his Majesty at once. 

After a few moments in the death chamber, Cedric started for London. Before they had reached the confines of the city, however, the news ofthe old Duke's demise had reached the King, who was in high humour, and the result was, a courier had been sent to tell Cedric to returnto his castle until after the funeral. So Cedric, accompanied by theKing's guard, rode on to the Seat of the Dukes of Ellswold, where inthe old Abbey there was much pomp in the putting away of the lateDuke. 

It was a great disappointment to Cedric not to see Katherine, andhe was grieved to learn she had not, after so many days, entirelyrecovered from her swoon. He was consoled, however, by his aunt'sassertion that her illness was not serious. He turned from Ellswoldand hastened back London way, impatient to know why he was sent for, and to have matters settled satisfactorily for all time, that he mightwith an unburdened heart go to Crandlemar and claim his Duchess; who, he now knew, would be the sweet and loving wife she should. He wastruly sad at the loss of his uncle, and for this cause alone he rodeinto London with downcast appearance. He feared not the evils of theTower or Tyburn-tree or the menace of either Catholic or Protestantparty; neither the importunities of Buckingham; had he not now a greatfortune?--ah! but death had brought it him, --and the bitter was mixedwith the sweet. There were other matters to menace his peace of mindthat had not come until that very moment. What if the Crown shouldconfiscate his property; what was he to do with his wife? There washis aunt, Sir Julian and Lady Bettie Payne, they would care for her. Then his thoughts wandered to Constance, and for a while he halfbelieved he had forgiven her. Then he wondered if she had aught to dowith his present condition. 

The King in the meantime was not to be duped by Lady Constance. Sheprided herself upon being discreet, but she was not enough so for theKing's sharp eyes. 

"Odd's fish, " said he, "the boy is a woman!" And though he had asaturnine and harsh countenance, his disposition was both merry andlenient. He teased her unmercifully, threatening to promote so finea lad to a gentleman of his bed-chamber. He bade a woman bring someclothing suitable for a female and gave the lady into the hands offemale attendants. 

The easy manner of the time gave the courtiers license to taunt her. This made her very uncomfortable. The queen's ladies' eyes were uponher. The King's mistresses, not recognizing her as a rival, poked funat her from behind their fans. But Lady Constance would bear a greatdeal for the sake of gaining her point. She had posted herself uponthe King's affairs with the Duke of Ellswold, and was in a state ofgreat expectation when she heard that the latter was to be brought tothe Tower immediately after his uncle's funeral. His entire demesnewas out of his hands, he was sadly impoverished; this she bought fromBuckingham's menials. It greatly delighted her, for she had morewealth than she knew what to do with, and Cedric, seeing her sopampered by his Majesty, would surely begin to see what a great ladyshe was, and perhaps would offer her some attention. She did not knowthat Katherine was already the Duchess of Ellswold. She heard fromMonmouth that Mistress Penwick was to be brought to the palace at thesame time Cedric was brought to London, and that 'twas not altogethersure whether his Grace of Ellswold would be taken to the Tower or bemade a Royal guest, as the King was first cursing, then praising thenew Duke. So Constance began to picture Cedric standing before her, his face flushed as she remembered it to be, his eyelids that he knewso well how to lower, then raise ever so slightly, sending forth frombeneath an amorous glance that made her tremble with a sweet thrillof pleasure. Thus she lived from hour to hour, waiting for his Grace, little guessing the awful disappointment that awaited her. She fairlycounted the moments. 

To her great joy she saw him again. He was brought to the palace, instead of to the Tower. When the King saw the Duke, he forgot, orappeared to forget, that the Duke was a prisoner, and openly embracedhim and had him placed near his own apartments. His Majesty was inhigh good humour, hearing from the Duke's own lips that he had nothingto do with the hiding away of his messenger, and explaining sundryother matters to his satisfaction. "The Duchess, " for so the Dukespoke of Katherine for the first time before his Majesty, was unableto arise from her couch, and therefore could not as yet be broughtto the palace. The King said he was pleased that so noble a Duke hadgained his point, even though he had outwitted his King. 

"Odd's fish, and to be separated so soon! it must not be!"

Lady Constance was joyous when she saw Cedric arrive withoutKatherine, but at once it made her very curious to know why the "wenchwas left behind; for was it not the King's order?" She sent a maid toinquire among the servants of the Duke. When the maid returned andtold her that Katherine was the Duke's wife, she fainted away. Butafter a few hours of awful depression and heart-sickness she againnerved herself to battle harder, if possible, than heretofore. 

The Duke's trial was begun, and nothing it seemed could be absolutelyproven against him. It appeared the King shut his eyes and ears toanything that would incline against his Grace. Not so Constance, whoworked secretly. She was determined, if possible, to see him go to theTower, as the only immediate means of separating him from his wife, who was expected any week at the Royal abode. She informed some ofthe nobles that were against him that their principal witness, AdrianCantemir, lay ill from a sword thrust at Crandlemar Castle. To besure, they had almost forgotten the young man, who had been such aleader in the beginning. This held the case in suspension and the Dukestill a prisoner; but the King gave him no time for thought; theyrode, walked, drank, theatred and supped together. If 'twere not forthe Duke's love for his wife, and his mourning for his uncle, whichcast so deep a shadow over his natural gaiety, 'twas possible he mighthave been drawn by his Majesty into intrigues of a feminine character. 

Constance was ever throwing herself in his path, but he deigned not aglance her way. She appeared content to watch him, whether he paid herany attention or not. She was careful to learn of his fortunes, as theKing to appease the Protestant nobles had confiscated the Ellswoldestates and everything else that Buckingham had not taken. But thissort of thing was a matter of form with his Majesty. His mind wasfully made up. He was not to be frighted or cajoled. He even went sofar as to assure the Duke that as soon as his character was proven, giving the nobles no chance to gainsay, he should at once takepossession of his estate. The Duke, however, had only his jewels toborrow on, and that was insufferable to his pride. He had a largeretinue to support, servants that were aged; these he must look after. Thus matters stood for weeks and months. 

Cantemir was at last able to be moved, and was brought to London, where he again tried to communicate with Sir John Penwick, butBuckingham intercepted all letters. There also came word from the newLord of Crandlemar, that he was about to take up his abode in England. This made Ellswold uneasy and impatient; for he had not moneysufficient to place his Duchess in his town house, had he been atliberty to do so, for the great place had not been kept in repair andit must be renovated according to her own ideas. If his trial couldonly be at once and he could go for her and take her to Ellswold! TheKing saw his unusual depression and gained from him a confession ofhis troubles, and without letting the Duke know, sent for the Duchess, who he said should remain at the palace until the Duke should be freeto go. When his Majesty told the Duke--for he could not keep thesecret--the latter was grateful and felt it was the only alternative, and was much comforted that soon he should see and be with hisDuchess, who, he had learned had regained her colour and was in goodspirit. 

"The King, not caring for the pomp and state his predecessors hadassumed, was fond of exiling the formality practiced by a sovereignand taking on the easy manners of a companion. He had lived, when inexile, upon a footing of equality with his banished nobles, and hadpartaken freely and promiscuously in the pleasures and frolics bywhich they had endeavoured to sweeten adversity. He was led in thisway to let distinction and ceremony fall to the ground as useless andfoppish, and could not even on premeditation, it is said, act for amoment the part of a King either at parliament or council, eitherin words or gesture. When he attended the House of Lords, he woulddescend from the throne and stand by the fire, drawing a crowd abouthim that broke up all regularity and order of the place. " In this freeand unrestrained way he had put his arm through the Duke's and saidconfidently, --

"The House of Ellswold shall be honoured in an unusual way; that atleast should be a great comfort to thee; but I promise, no matter howthe Council act in these matters of thine, thou shalt soon enjoy thecomfort of thy new estate at Ellswold. "

CHAPTER XXIII

THE COCOANUTS OF THE KING'S CELLAR

Matters at Crandlemar were comparatively quiet. There was nothingunusual, unless indeed it was the assiduousness of the young Duchess, who from morning until night ceased not to offer hecatombs for thesafety and freedom of her lord. She prayed, fasted and sacrificed forher every desire. She gave alms, offering condolence and sympathy. In her petitions she threw aside all contumely, calling the poorest, sister. She allowed not her thoughts to go astray, strivingcontinually for a pure and meek heart, begging forgiveness for heruntowardness toward her husband. Perhaps one of the most remarkable ofher acts was the one performed at twilight--discovered by Janet, thewise. 

The nurse went to seek her one evening, and found the young woman ina dense cloud of blue that emanated from a costly thurible, which shewas swinging before the crucifix in the Chapel. Ascending with thesweet incense was a psalm of contrition uttered from a truly penitentheart. A tall candle burned, lighting up the white-robed figure, andthe filmy incense that enveloped it to a saintly vision. Though Janetwatched her mistress thus environed with sacredness, yet the deepimpression was somewhat charged with a sense of humour; "for, " sheopined to herself, "people are so much more ridiculous in mending abreach than they are in making it!" But Janet was not a Catholic, andbeside, she made few mistakes and could condone an offence only whenmade by one she loved. Knowing Katherine as she did, she admired theoutward show more than the spirit, and thought of the two the formerwas more stable. Katherine often prayed aloud, and Janet hearing her, caught the burden of her prayer, and there was actual pain in hervoice when she cried out that Cedric might be forgiven for the murderof Christopher. Now Janet knew that the lad had only been slightlyinjured by Hiary and had fully recovered, and she determined to sendfor him, and at the Vesper service introduce him into the Chapel andthereby cause to cease her mistress' plaints. And so it came about inthe late autumn, when Crandlemar was about to receive its new masterfrom Wales, and the plate and all belongings of the Duke had been sentto Ellswold, and Katherine herself was to set forth for London withina few days, she entered the Chapel for her customary devotions. As sheprayed, she was aroused by the opening of the outer door. She lookedup and saw Christopher before her. Janet was surprised at her calmnessand was amazed when Katherine said to him that she had been expectingto see him all day, as she had heard the evening before that he wasalive and had been seen near the castle grounds. Now it was impossibleto make Katherine think it was a direct answer to prayer, though Janetdid her best. But as it proved, a great weight had fallen from theDuchess' heart, for she became perfectly joyous and positivelyneglected her devotions in the Chapel. She was delighted to set forth, for the moment had actually arrived, and within a few days she wouldsee Cedric, and, she hoped, her father also; but the latter's abodewas unknown to her, save only that 'twas in London. 

The night of her arrival at the Royal Palace had closed down darkand stormy. The King and Queen, with the ladies and gentlemen of theCourt, had repaired to the Duke of York's theatre to see played the"Black Prince, " written by the Earl of Orrery. The King had insistedupon the Duke of Ellswold accompanying them, but the latter declaredthe play would be a torture, when he should be thinking that perhapshis wife might arrive in his absence. Other thoughts also assailedhim, of which he hinted not to the King; but he was confidentConstance meant mischief, and he was unwilling to give her any chanceto put the weight of her anger on the Duchess. 

The great cream-hued chariot bearing Katherine rolled past the Malland up to the palace. The sleet was falling rapidly and the windblowing such a gale the sound of the coach was not heard by the Duke, as he paced his chamber. She was trembling and eager, and heard notthe admonitions of Janet and Angel to mind the ice-clad step that waslet down. She was expectant and eager to see her spouse; but she stoodwithin her apartment and Janet was loosening her capes when the Dukecame bounding to her side. He took her in his arms and gazed andgazed, and they minded not the presence of the two nurses, who on asudden became busy unpacking her Grace's chests. He kissed her untilher face was rose-red, and she was drunken with love. 

When Lady Constance heard that Katherine had arrived, she became veryimpatient to catch one glimpse of her. She had heard many things aboutthe young wife, and she had her suspicions and upon them she formeda plan to throw a taunt upon her Grace, bringing both Monmouth andCantemir into the case. She resolved to make Katherine as unhappyas possible. She scrupled at nothing. Now the fair Constance pridedherself upon being a prisoner of the King; but she was not so certainof his favour that she dare make one single open move againstKatherine. She must taunt her in secret; but how to do this waspuzzling, for she kept her apartment, partly from fatigue after herlong ride, and it may be from a disinclination to go abroad. So shebided her time and ungraciously as she saw the popularity of the noblewoman grow and grow; she was fast becoming a great favourite. Indeed, she was constantly visited by the King and Queen, and the greatestladies of the Court. The Queen had grown very fond of her, spendinghours in her company and oftentimes taking her for a walk or ride. Before the Duchess had been within the Palace a month, she wasimitated in every way. Great ladies became so familiar, they wouldtake up her articles of the toilet and copy the manufacturer's name. They in a short time were using the same concoction of rouge andperfumes. Their maids must learn what Janet did for her mistress inthe way of baths, for "never was there such healthful and daintycomplexion. " And when the Duke began buying cocoanuts by the wagonload at an enormous expense, and 'twas known that her Grace drank themilk of it by the quart, the King's cellar became too small to holdthe quantities that were brought to the ladies of the Court. And 'twassaid many of the young fops also used the milk for their complexion. Constance had not yet ordered any of this fruit, but she ascertainedwhere the Duke's were kept and how it might be possible to obtain afew of them for an object that was at least original. Before, however, she resorted to the arts of chemistry, there was an opportunity togive the Duchess a thrust. Two great chests were being unbound inthe corridor just outside of her Grace's door. Constance knew theycontained an elaborate and costly _layette_; so she hurried to her ownapartment and wrote in a disguised hand a billet that threw out theworst of insinuations, and as a finale she added a _pasquinade_ copiedhastily from some low and bitter lampoon. She returned through thecorridor, and, unnoticed, thrust the paper into a crevice of one ofthe chests. But Katherine never saw the billet, she was not disturbedin the least, and her ladyship soon saw some one else had gotten holdof it, for there was not a shadow on her Grace's face. This goadedConstance to a perfect fury, and she resolved upon extreme measures. 

One very dark and stormy day she left the palace dressed as a servant, and drove in a public conveyance to an old chemist's, who resided ina remote portion of the city. Here she procured materials that ifproperly handled and successively served would bring the youthfulDuchess to her death. She resolved in this case to work slowly andcautiously, allowing of no mischance. It so happened the chemist didnot have the articles she required, but promised for a liberal sum toprocure them from a certain celebrated physician. This of course wouldtake some time. But the physician was in France and would not returnfor at least a fortnight. So a fortnight went by and another andanother, until Constance' patience was exhausted, and as she went tothe shop for the last time, vowing to wait no longer, if the chemisthad not the things, lo! they were there; and after learning how simpleit was to use them, she hastened to the palace, there to be met by thenews that the Duchess had brought forth a son of rousing weight andstrength. Constance fell into a fever, and was obliged to keep her bedfor some weeks; then she arose and after being seen again among theladies of the Court and appearing as unconcerned as possible, whenspeaking of the Ellswold heir, she found her way below stair and madesiege upon the King's cellar and looted a good dozen cocoanuts. 

She had procured from the chemist a protrusile instrument for lettingfluid through the hard outer covering, and in this manner intended toinoculate the milk of the nut with a slow poison. These, of course, after such treatment, would be returned to their fellows, and thedeath of Katherine with that of the young lord would be assured. 

After a few trials she succeeded in obtaining a result that wasentirely satisfactory, if the hole thus made could be effectuallyplugged. She filled the aperture with a viscous matter that would ina few moments harden if placed in the sun, and to this end she openedthe window and laid the cocoanut in the sun's rays upon the sill. 

She was quite alone, yet she feared; indeed, so deadly was her intent, she jumped at every noise, and upon hearing some sound without, slipped on tip-toe from the window to the door and listened, thencautiously drew the bolt and looked without. The corridor seemed evenmore quiet than usual. Her fears were subdued and as she turned aboutto close the door, a suction of air caught the curtain and swelledit through the open window, thereupon sweeping the cocoanut to theground, where it fell at the very feet of his Majesty. When Constancesaw what the vile wantonness of the wind had done, she fell upon herknees in wild despair and tremblingly remained thus for an instantonly, for a bit of hope sprang up. She arose and quickly ran to thewindow, --she hesitated, then, ever so slowly she peeped over the sill, and there stood the King with the nut in his hand. "Ah!" she said, drawing back quickly, for they were not looking up, and she feltrelief that they did not see her, but unfortunately for her, a lackeywas standing some little distance from his Majesty and saw everything. 

Of course treason was suspected. It was thought the nut had beendropped to crush the King's head; but upon examination 'twas foundthere oozed from a small opening curdled milk. The Royal chemist wassummoned, and in a moment all knew that the fruit was poisoned. Thelackey had already told the King from what window it fell. Constancewas cold with fright. She forgot her love, ambition, revenge, herwhole paraphernalia of desires, in this disaster. 

Out she went into the corridor to ascertain, if possible, what wasa-foot below stairs. "Would they be able, " she thought, "to find fromwhence the nut came?" At the very idea she fled back to her chamberand gazed about in agony, for there lay every condemning thing in thefloor, and where was she to hide them, for a search would certainlybe made in a few moments. A hiding-place must first be found forthe nuts. She looked at the bed; surely that would be searched. Shethought to sew them in the sleeves of her gowns, but that would lookbulky and there was not time. She flew about in wild anxiety. Shelistened at the door to the sounds below, and, seeing a lackey, askedwhat the noise meant. He said a cocoanut had been dropped and theywere going to search for the one who did it. Again her ladyshipfled to her chamber and began to look behind chairs and screens andportable cabinets; but to no avail; she found no safe hiding. At last, the great, high, nodding tester caught the glance of her anxious eye. She hastily placed first a small table--the only one she was able tocarry--then a chair upon the bed, and with the one upon the otherwas able to see the top of the tester. But alas! it was cone-shape. Invention, however, was not out of Constance' line, and quickly sheplaced a box upon the pinnacle and in it five cocoanuts. Therewere yet at least a half-dozen more to hide, beside the poison andinstrument. She thought to place these in one of her great hatsand raise them to the tester also. As she was about to mount theimprovised lift, she heard approaching footsteps. Hardly had shewithdrawn the table and chair and placed the hat--well bent--beneaththe low stool whereon she had been sitting, and arranged the folds ofher heavy brocade like a valance about her, when the door was thrownopen. 

"My God!" said she, under her breath; "'tis the King himself!"

His Majesty accompanied by a number of gentlemen in waiting, enteredthe room. He appeared in high, good humour, and inclined to befacetious. He advanced straight to her. She, hardly rising from thestool, made a deep curtesy. It was well done, without disarranging thefull folds of her stiff brocade, that inclined to stand whether sheso honoured the King or not. He laid his hand familiarly upon hershoulder, bearing somewhat upon it, until she turned quite red, eitherfrom his intent or her own guilt. 

"We are looking for secrets. Hast thou any, my little beauty?"

"Your Majesty doth honour me greatly; first by thy presence andsecondly by thy thought that I might have a secret--as if woman couldkeep even the shade of one from her King!"

"But sometimes there is more happiness in the shade than in thesubstance. " His keen eyes did not leave her face. But hers were turnedwith an apprehensive stare upon the King's gentlemen, who were lookingand prying impudently here and there about the rooms and closets. Hergowns were even pressed here and there among their paddings. Tablesand cabinets were opened; the bed was examined. They lifted the heavyvalance and one got upon his knees and prodded beneath with his sword. As he withdrew with a very red face, some one shook the curtains withsuch vigour the tester miscarried and down rolled, one by one, thecocoanuts. The King fairly yelled with laughter, holding on to hissides, his gentlemen joining him with mirth restrained somewhat by theseriousness of the case. 

"Indeed, the young Duchess hath turned all heads by her gorgeousbeauty, and all would be like her, whether or no!" said the Kingbetween great bursts of laughter. Lady Constance' mind was ready andcaught quickly at his words, and she turned to him with a gay laughthat somewhat veiled her terrible fear and nervousness. 

"Indeed, 'tis the fashion to use the cocoanut milk for drinking andointment, and the silly wenches of maids doth steal it dreadfully andI was compelled to hide them. "

"But 'twill do thee no good, 'tis not thy nature to be round. Hastthou seen the young heir? He is a lusty fellow; and 'tis well worth ajourney to the nursery to see him, " and he took her hand and raisedher to her feet. "Come, we will go and call upon his lordship. "

There was an agonized expression on Constance' face as she wascompelled to move at the King's bidding. Slowly she moved. Itseemed every motion was full of painful effort. All eyes, for someunaccountable reason, appeared to turn to the train of her dress thatrustled subtlely; even Constance turned to look back and down withbulging eyes on that silken train, and though she moved ever socautiously the bristling folds caught upon the edge of the stool andturned it over, the cocoanuts, poison bottle and all falling a-sprawl. The King bent down and picked up the vial, then dropped it quickly, saying, --

"Odd's fish, the female that did don man's attire and flirt about withfoppish airs is trying to play the hen and has made a nest and goneto setting on spoiled eggs that will hatch nothing but shades, andwraiths, and mandrakes!" And he lifted a cocoanut, from which the milkwas oozing out slowly and in a curdled state. 

"And who, mistress of the chemist's shop, hath taught thee his art?"

"'Tis a great and awful thing that hath happened; indeed, oh! King, Iknew not the things were under the stool--"

"Then 'twas unfortunate thou shouldst remain seated before thy King;in this case 'twas condemning. " And he turned and cried, --

"Hi! hi! call the guard! Thou shalt go into durance until I havesifted this dairy business. " Before the unfortunate woman could openher mouth to plead further, the King was gone and two stalwart guardsstood at either side of her, ready to conduct her behind bolts andbars. 

Now the King was inclined to be easy with all his subjects, but whentreason lay so open before him, he was quick to punish. Constance, being a cousin of the Duke of Ellswold, he put the case before him. Onthe instant, the Duke gave a solution to Constance' aims, explainingeverything to the King. He also--for he dreaded what the King mightdo--said 'twas possible she was not of sound mind. His Majesty saw theDuke's drift and declared that death should not come upon her, but sheshould be imprisoned. This satisfied the Duke, for he was seriouslyafraid for the young heir and his wife. 

Now Constance was utterly without hope. She was degraded at Court, nevermore to rise again, and of course this state of things would beknown at every street corner. Even though she could make her escape, where could she go? Who would accept her as the noble Lady Constanceagain? She would wander up and down the world, friendless; whileKatherine would have love, wealth and honour, all one could wish for, all there was in life to have. 

"Nay, nay, nay!" she cried in her agony. "I shall have one morechance. " She threw out her arms to the air and ground her teeth anddragged herself from end to end of her bare and lonely cell. "One morechance, " she cried, "and 'twill be death to her; aye, death!"

CHAPTER XXIV

WHAT HAPPENED IN THE TOWER

Sir Julian had been striving for months to make peace with the youngDuchess; but all effort appeared futile, until Providence suddenlystepped in and aided him. Cantemir had turned religious, owing to thetaking hold upon him of a mortal disease; and though he had not beenabout to undo any of his schemes in Cedric's case, yet he intended todo so as soon as he was able. He was not idle, however, as he wrotemany letters and received visits from the ones who were foremost inthe fight. Nor was he long in discovering that their feelings werealready changed toward Ellswold, for they saw 'twas unpopular to bestriving against the King's desires, and against a nobleman who wouldbe very powerful when he should regain his fortunes. The Count wroteto Pomphrey, saying he wished to speak face to face with him. 

At this interview the Russian unburdened his heart of all malice andhatred, and gave vent to ill-gotten secrets, of which Buckingham'sschemes were foremost. So open and frank was the Count in hisassertions there was no doubt in Sir Julian's mind but what he hadcreated an wholesome feeling with his conscience; and for himself, recognized the interview as nothing more nor less than the comelyintervention of Providence. 

Sir Julian determined upon an immediate _rendezvous_ with Sir JohnPenwick, to the end that a concerted movement might effectually bringthe Duke to his senses. He loved Buckingham, but he loved the Duchessof Ellswold more, and for this cause of peace, intended to hedge theDuke about with an impenetrable wall. 

Buckingham soon saw that the strings were closing about him, and that'twas Sir Julian who held the taut ends. But the great Duke had stillone more move, a move so venturesome, so involved with hazard, thatwhen 'twas made, the King himself admired and paid homage to itsprojector. 

The Duke knew that Sir Julian, with a whisper in the King's ear, could send him to the Tower. So at the point of Sir Julian'ssword--metaphorically--he was forced to go to the King and straightenmatters as best he could. This the great Duke did, with the mostexquisite urbanity. He knew well the King's humour, and the mostpropitious moment in it, and propinquity played him fair, and therevibrated in his Majesty's ear the dulcet tones of George Villiersmagnetic voice, saying, --

"Oh, King! may I tell thee of what foul issue fulsome Nature hathbrought forth, and what travail I suffer for--"

"Odd's fish! what hast thou been doing, George, what hast thou--"

"Oh, King!" and the Duke bowed upon his knee and touched with his lipsthe great ring upon his Majesty's hand; "I did engender with a brainunwebbed by wine, a body ample of strength and health, my soulabsolved, my heart palpitant with pure love and rich intention; butcorruptible Nature hath adulterated and brought forth an oaf, to whichI lay no claim--"

"Egad! Duke; we'll wager a kilderkin of chaney oranges at four penceeach and a dozen cordial juleps with pearls that thy conscience isabout to bewray thee. "

"Your Royal Highness doth honour me by the assumption that such akingly component is mine. I cannot gainsay thy assertion, but who butmy King could touch to life the almost undefined limning of moralfaculty that has been my poor possession heretofore--"

"And who but thy King would give to thy swart issue a, no doubt, condign interest; come, curtail loquacity!"

"Then, your Majesty, to be brief, I have raised for thee the subsidiesthou were too modest to ask the House for--"

"Odd's fish, and this is thine oaf; oaf, callest thou it, when ithas brought unspeakable joy to thy King? Not so, 'tis an issue thatoutshines in weight, point of beauty and actual worth that bouncingyoungster of Ellswold's. "

"But, oh! King, I counted not upon the exigencies of thy love. Ithought only of the pleasure 'twould give thee to have subsidieswithout plea, and I have made two of thy favourites my victims. Howshould I know that the Duke and Duchess of Ellswold were to becomenestlings in thy cradle of love?" The King's face darkened, but for amoment only, as the sunshine of full coffers had penetrated the vistaof his needs, and a cloud even though it bore the after-rain was notto darken his expectations. "I beg thine indulgence to allow me topresume upon fancy. Supposing Sir John Penwick was alive and hadcommitted a crime that made it impossible for him to seek the aid ofhis beloved King; that the said Sir John has vast possessions in theNew World that rightfully belonged to the English crown as hostage forhis own life, that had been in the hands of the French; that thesematters had been brought to the King's ear, but his Royal Highness hadbeen troubled with weightier affairs at home, and that one of his verylowly but loyal subjects had undertaken, without aid of Government, to secure these possessions for his King, calling to his aid thegenerosity of Ellswold, who was willing to give all without knowingwhy, save 'twas for his King and--"

"And Penwick has proven guiltless and comes to his King to claim hisrightful possession;--and the subsidies--"

"Are still thine, and thou shalt have them within a fortnight, if thouwilt grant me one small request, oh! King. "

"Thou hast it. Be brief. "

"Of my appointment, a new keeper of the Tower. " The King started andhalf turned from the Duke, while through his mind ran hurriedly thenames of "Chasel, Howard, Baumais" and "who hath he in mind. " Thenlike a flash came the thought of Lady Constance, and he turned aboutquickly and said with severity, --

"Thou hast our word, " and with a gesture gave the Duke his _congé_. 

That very night just as the early moon began to whiten the Towers ofold London, the key turned in the door of Lady Constance' cell; butturned so lazily--either from indolence or an unaccustomed hand--thather ladyship looked up and saw to her surprise a new gaoler. Hesmiled, thereby giving to the heart of its object a great thrill ofjoy, for it meant kindliness and kindliness is often predicated ofselfishness or a desire for things one has not. 

"What is thy name, fool?"

"Just plain Fool, " and he gave her due obeisance. 

"And why so?"

"Is it not enough to be so christened by so great a lady?"

"Then thou art not a subsidiary but chief factotum?"

"Aye, the other is ill and I have spent the afternoon in learningthe--names. "

"Thou shouldst be well paid for so short a season. --Is he serious?"

"I hope so, good lady. "

"Oh! if thou wouldst make profit of thy time, begin by bringing hitherfor my supper good ale and wine, with sugar and spices; and I willbrew thee such a horn as thou hast ne'er thought on before. And thoufor each good turn shalt drink a wassail to thy buxom wench and shalthave money for the basset-table. "

It is needless to say that Buckingham knew his man, and Constance'desires for one whom she could bribe. The latter's first and onlydesire was for means of escape, and to this end tried to bribe thekeeper for man's attire. This was not the Duke's aim, and Constance, being thwarted, struck quickly upon another means. 

She succeeded in getting the promise of a visit from Cantemir, who waslittle able to be about, but he intended to see her of his own accord, that he might move her to a lively interest in the salvation of hersoul. 

In anticipation of his visit, Constance had obtained through thegaoler certain drugs of nondescript virtues. These she carefully hidand made her final preparations for a speedy flight. 

Cantemir stopped for a moment, as he stepped from the chair, andlooked up at the prison walls, that were made grey and indistinct bythe clouded moon and falling rain. Religion had changed him even morethan the ravages of disease. His true self had awakened, and thebeauty of it had devoured the Satanic expression that was wont to lieupon his countenance. His face fairly beamed with a light that camefrom within, where his soul stirred now free from sin's fetters. 

He was conducted by the keeper through the windings of the sombrecorridors to the cell of Constance, who greeted him with the words:

"Now, Adrian, we can excuse wantonness in the devil, but neverslothfulness in religion. We have no shrines here as abroad; what haskept thee from thy captive cousin?"

"I am not late, Constance; thou art impatient, and as for shrines, Icarry one in my heart all the time, and thou must have one, too--"

"Damn! We have no time to prate. I must get out of this vilehole. --Hast thou seen the devil Duchess lately?"

"Aye, yesterday I saw her riding out. She is very beautiful, but shehas changed--"

"Changed--how?"

"She has grown fleshy--"

"Ah! say not 'fleshy' but fat! fat! Now what good fortune is this? TheDuke will be getting a divorce, for he doth abominate a fat woman. Good, good! I must see her. I shall pay her a visit before I leave forFrance. "

"Thou wilt have far to journey, for they leave at once for Ellswold. The case will be settled within a few days at most. "

"A few days at most? Legal folderol, a mere shade of a trial. Aye; Imust see her Grace. I have a message for her. "

"I will serve thee; Constance, I will take thy message--" Adrian wasinterrupted by the entrance of the gaoler, who brought in cordialjuleps. Her ladyship made the fellow drink, before she would allow himto go. Then, as he left them again, she said, --

"Thou canst not; it is a message no one can deliver but me, " and as ifto seal her words she poured down a good, round bumper. 

"What dost mean, Constance? Thou art too subtle for me!"

"Too subtle? Hast thou lost the art of penetration? Then I'll tellthee, thou--the 'Ranter, ' as they call thee. Thou who hast becomeBunyan's squire. I am going to poison my lady or give her a daggerthrust. She must die. "

"Thou art the devil, Constance; but there is one who can outwit thedevil, and he will do it, too. "

"What hast thou to say about it?"

"Thou shalt not do it. "

"What wilt thou do to prevent it?"

"I will put the house of Ellswold on their guard. "

"Thou wilt not help me to escape, and thou wilt run with tales toEllswold. Thou wouldst keep me here, that I might soon die, so thoucouldst have my estates. Poor, puny thing, that art upon death'sthreshold now. Thou wouldst have me die, so thou couldst liveluxuriously and use as much of my wealth as thou couldst, leavingbehind a paltry residue for the Crown. Thou wouldst indeed!" saidConstance, scornfully, as she fumbled in the folds of her dress forthe small bottle hidden there. 

"Constance, " said Cantemir, under his breath, as he lifted one of themixtures before him, "thou must not kill. Let me awaken thy betternature--"

"Nay; she must die!"

"I will not remain longer with thee, if thou dost hold such foulintent. Take back thy words. I will give thee no rest until thou dost. There is a God who will sweeten thy ill feeling for Katherine--"

"Shut thy mouth, fool!" and she spoke with such fury Adrian's heartsank within him, and his head fell upon his arms upon the table. "Thouwilt have a season of prayer, then; so be it. Maybe, if thou prayestwith thy whole heart for sixty seconds, mine will change, " and as shesaid the words, she dropped some deadly thing into his glass. 

The wine was not moved nor discoloured, and as Cantemir raised hishead, took hold upon it, and lifted and drank it nearly half. 

"I love thee, cousin, with a Christian spirit, and I cannot see theelose thy--soul. " A shiver passed through his thin frame, and whenhe again began to speak, he drooled sick'ningly. "I say thou shaltnot--kill her--and some one--else says it--I will watch thee inspirit--"

Constance wished him to die quickly, that she might not be obliged tolook upon prolonged horrors. She could easily arrange his position, with his head upon the table, to look quite natural, as if in drunkensleep, and when the keeper came, she would give him a like portion, before he could make any discovery, and when they were bothdespatched, she would don Cantemir's attire and take the keeper'skeys and be gone. She quickly poisoned another glass, then looked atCantemir. So horrible was the glassy glare in his eye, she made asif to arise from the table, but he leant over and grasped her hand. Constance' face was livid with fear, and beside, she heard the gaoler. As the keys were turned in the door, Cantemir's head dropped backagainst the chair, and he sat upright, but dead; his hand fastenedtight upon his cousin's. She screamed and fell, half-fainting, acrossthe table. The keeper sprung to her aid, and took hold of the fullgoblet of wine and pressed it to her lips. She tried to recoverherself, seeming to know 'twas not the time to indulge in a faintingfit; but the strain was too much, her body was stronger than her mind, and she mechanically took the goblet and poured the contents downher throat. A thought must have come to her with the rapidity oflightning, for she jerked the goblet from her mouth, spilling the darkfluid over her. She glared at the empty cup with distended eyeballs, and screaming once wildly, fell heavily across the table. 

It had turned out differently and better than Buckingham had thought;and after making a hasty trip into France, whence he was immediatelyrecalled by his King--who was luxuriating in the easement of pecuniarydifficulties--he journeyed to Ellswold to present to the youngDuchess certain rare laces, gems and porcelains he had found--so heintimated--among the Russian Count's possessions. 

CHAPTER XXV

THE GARDEN OF YOUTH

The meeting of Katherine and her father was a joyous one. As Sir Johnpressed her to his heart, Janet knelt at his feet, kissing the handhe held out to her. And there stood by the Duke of Ellswold and SirJulian, the latter having received at last the most gracious welcomefrom the Duchess. 

But yet Pomphrey was not happy; his conscience troubled him beyondmeasure. So he set about to make himself right with the world. Heargued that adoration should be given to God only, and when one was soselfish and thoughtless to give it to another being, it was time helooked to his soul. And for the correction of this serious fault, he left Ellswold and went into France, and in a short time became adevout _religieux_. 

Lady Bettie Payne was so wrought upon by this great change in SirJulian's life, for a fortnight she remained within her chamber, tryingto feel what 'twould be like to live the life of a nun. But thisseason of devotion was suddenly interrupted by a visit from St. Mar, of whom she was very fond. He asked her hand in marriage and wasaccepted. 

In course of time a family of three boys and two girls were born tothe Duke and Duchess. A great christening party was in preparation. The Duchess was worried about the christening robe, that had not yetarrived, and she said to Janet, --

"Indeed, Janet, this delay reminds me of my anxiety over the cheststhat were to bring me my first finery--dost remember, at Crandlemar?"

"Aye. It does not take much of a memory to think back seven years!"

"Seven years! Why, Janet, thou art growing old!"

"Nay, sweet Mistress; but the two generations I now nurse are veryyoung. "

"'Tis true. --But what thinkest thou could detain the chest? FatherPomphrey cannot be kept waiting for a christening robe. And to thinkof Lady Ann being baptized in a common frock! 'Twould make Bettie St. Mar laugh; she already feels quite jealous because we are the firstto have Father Pomphrey. And methinks, Janet, now that she is inexpectancy--she will so vibrate 'twixt France and England, --fearingshe will not be near Father Pomphrey for the christening--that littleJulian and François will forget which is home. "

"She need not do that; he could go to France. "

"Nay, not so; for he leaves at once for Rome and will not return toEngland ere summer, meaning not to stop at all in France. "

"Ah! that makes me think of what I heard him say to Monsieur St. Marin the nursery. 'Twas something about a christening. Monsieur said:'Thou art expected at Crandlemar Castle?' and Father Pomphreyanswered: 'Aye, sometime before next Michaelmas. '"

"Then Lady Bettie will remain in England mayhap. "

"'Tis possible. "

"What did he say of the children, Janet?"

"Of my lord Duke's and thine?"

"Aye. "

"He said not a word of them in particular, but fondled all alike, calling each by name, and now I think on't, I wonder he could remembera dozen or so, when he has not yet been three days in the castle. 'Twas 'Lady Mary' and 'Sir Jasper' and 'Lady Jane' and 'Lady Kate' and'Lord Ivor'; and for each he had a story. And Monsieur grew tired, andmy lord Duke asked Sir Julian if the children did not tire him also, and he answered: 'Duke, there is a peculiarly wholesome knowledgethat we cannot obtain save through a child's mind; and while in thecompanionship of children, we are surrounded by a field of flowers, whose glory fructifies the good germ within us, and Wisdom--thattallest flower, that knows no harvest--springs up at prime, blossomsforth at compline and grows a fragrant staff, upon which man leans inthe night of life. ' Then they walked away, and I heard no more. "

"Dear Father Pomphrey--" Then for a moment the Duchess looked with afar-away expression out upon the snow-covered landscape, then, ona sudden, she said, almost pettishly, --"But, Janet, what keeps thechest?"

"Perhaps 'tis Providence. "

"What dost mean; how Providence?"

"Thou hast ordered the robe to be so perfect, so in accordance withthe Royal mode, the child will be in torment. Indeed, I am afraid'twill make the little lady ill to be so encased. Ah! but thou artgreat folk, and, as Dent hath said, such people 'spend their time intricking and trimming, pricking and pinning, pranking and pouncing, girding and lacing and braving up themselves in most exquisitemanner;--these doubled and redoubled ruffles, these stroutingfardingales, long locks and fore tufts;--it was never a good worldsince starching and steeling, buskes and whalebones, supporters andrebatoes, full moons and hobbyhorses came into use. ' I doubt not thatFather Pomphrey himself will demur at such cruelty. "

But the chest came in time, and Katherine was satisfied. 

The castle was filled with guests, and the nurseries full ofbright young children waiting impatiently to be taken to the greatpicture-gallery, where, under the limned faces of many generations, the christening was to take place. 

An altar had been raised; and upon it was the golden service, a littleapart the font, and upon either side of the long gallery were flowersbanked 'neath specially honoured portraits. 

At the appointed hour the children defiled down the long room, thencame the other guests, and finally Sir Julian Pomphrey in his robe ofoffice--Father Pomphrey, so elegant, loving, good; a princely priest. Then came Janet with little Lady Ann in her arms; the child appearinglike an Egyptian mummy in white bands. The Duke and Duchess lookedhandsome and proud, And when the celebration was concluded, all formwas dissipated, the children gathering about the youngster for a"peep, " then scampered to the flowers. And as the elder folk lookedon, some one opined that the human nosegay was more gorgeous ofapparel and glow of cheek than the Ayrshire rose or the twistedeglantine. Then suddenly the children gathered about a single portraitof remarkable rich colouring, and little Lady Margaret came runningand saying with a lisp, --

"Come, see, Father; 'tis the prettiest picture here, and there are noflowers 'neath it. "

"What, no flowers?" and Father Pomphrey looked down in feignedsurprise. 

"Why, here _is_ a flower!" and the child lifted a crushed immortellefrom the parquetry and gave it to the priest, who quickly made thesign of the cross and said something almost inaudible about the flowerbeing prophetic; and then he leant close to the child's ear, saying, --

"Will Lady Margaret do something for Father Pomphrey?"

"Aye, anything--"

"Remember always to pray for the soul of Lady Constance Clarmot. " Thenraising the flower, he said abstractedly, --"What gems of thought wefind in the Garden of Youth!"