"
The intendant handed three letters to Edward, by which it was evident
that all the king's friends in England were of opinion that the time
was not ripe for the attempt, and that it would be only a sacrifice to
stir in the matter; that the Scotch army raised was composed of those
who were the greatest enemies to the king, and that the best thing
that could happen for the king's interest would be that they were
destroyed by Cromwell; that it was impossible for the English
adherents of Charles to join them, and that the Scotch did not wish
them so to do.
"You are no politician, Edward," said the intendant, smiling, as
Edward laid the letters down on the table. "You must admit that, in
showing you these letters, I have put the utmost confidence in you."
"You have, indeed, sir; and, thanking you for having so done, I need
hardly add that your confidence will never be betrayed."
"That I am sure of; and I trust you will now agree with me and my
friends that the best thing is to remain quiet."
"Certainly, sir, and in future I will be guided by you."
"That is all I require of you; and, after that promise, you shall hear
all the news as soon as it arrives. There are thousands who are just
as anxious to see the king on the throne again as you are, Edward--and
you now know that I am one of them; but the hour is not yet come, and
we must bide our time.
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