"My father fell at the battle of Naseby, at the head of his
retainers," said Chaloner, after a pause; "and they have contrived to
fine the property, so that it has dwindled from thousands down to
hundreds. Indeed, were it not for my good old aunts, who will leave me
their estates, and who now supply me liberally, I should be but a poor
gentleman."
"Your father fell at Naseby?" said Edward. "Were you there?"
"I was," replied Chaloner.
"My father also fell at Naseby," said Edward.
"Your father did?" replied Chaloner; "I do not recollect the name--
Armitage--he was not in command there, was he?" continued Chaloner.
"Yes, he was," replied Edward.
"There was none of that name among the officers that I can recollect,
young sir," replied Chaloner, with an air of distrust. "Surely you
have been misinformed."
"I have spoken the truth," replied Edward; "and have now said so much
that I must, to remove your suspicion say more than perhaps I should
have done. My name is not Armitage, although I have been so called for
some time. You have set me the example of confidence, and I will
follow it. My father was Colonel Beverley, of Prince Rupert's troop."
Chaloner started with astonishment.
"I'm sure that what you say is true," at last said he; "for I was
thinking who it was that you reminded me of.
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