You are the very picture
of your father. Although a boy at the time, I knew him well, Master
Beverley; a more gallant Cavalier never drew sword. Come, we must be
sworn friends in life and death, Beverley," continued Chaloner,
extending his hand, which was eagerly grasped by Edward, who then
confided to Chaloner the history of his life. When he had concluded,
Chaloner said,
"We all heard of the firing of Arnwood, and it is at this moment
believed that all the children perished. It is one of the tales of woe
that our nurses repeat to the children, and many a child has wept at
your supposed deaths. But tell me, now, had you not fallen in with me,
was it your intention to have joined the army under your assumed name
of Armitage?"
"I hardly know what I intended to do. I wanted a friend to advise me."
"And you have found one, Beverley. I owe my life to you, and I will
repay the debt as far as is in my power. You must not conceal your
name to your sovereign; the very name of Beverley is a passport, but
the son of Colonel Beverley will be indeed welcomed. Why, the very
name will be considered as a harbinger of good fortune. Your father
was the best and truest soldier that ever drew sword; and his memory
stands unrivaled for loyalty and devotion.
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