They plunged and kicked at
first, and tried all they could to get rid of him, but they sunk so
deep into the muck that they were soon tired out; and after a month,
they were all three tolerably quiet to ride.
The snow was so deep all over the country that there was little
communication with the metropolis. The intendant's letters spoke of
King Charles raising another army in Holland, and that his adherents
in England were preparing to join him as soon at he marched southward.
"I think, Edward," said the intendant, "that the king's affairs do now
wear a more promising aspect; but there is plenty of time yet. I know
your anxiety to serve your king, and I can not blame it. I shall not
prevent your going, although, of course, I must not appear to be
cognizant of your having so done. When the winter breaks up I shall
send you to London. You will then be better able to judge of what is
going on, and your absence will not create any suspicion; but you must
be guided by me."
"I certainly will, sir," replied Edward. "I should, indeed, like to
strike one blow for the king, come what will."
"All depends upon whether they manage affairs well in Scotland; but
there is so much jealousy and pride, and, I fear, treachery also, that
it is hard to say how matters may end.
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