We can then pass through the
country in safety, as we shall be supposed to be one of the parties
looking for the king."
"That is a good idea," replied Chaloner, "and the sooner it is done
the better."
"Well," said Edward, wiping his sword, which he still held drawn, and
then sheathing it, "I will take the spoils of this fellow nearest to
me: he fell by my hand, and I am entitled to them by the laws of war
and chivalry; but first, let us dismount and look to the wounded."
They tied their horses to a tree, and having given what assistance
they could to the wounded men, they proceeded to strip three of the
Parliamentary troopers; and then laying aside their own habiliments,
they dressed themselves in the uniform of the enemy, and, mounting
their horses, made all haste from the place. Having gained about
twelve miles, they pulled up their horses, and rode at a more
leisurely pace. It was now eight o'clock in the evening, but still not
very dark; they therefore rode on another five miles, till they came
to a small village, where they dismounted at an ale-house, and put
their horses into the stable.
"We must be insolent and brutal in our manners, or we shall be
suspected."
"Very true," said Grenville, giving the hostler a kick, and telling
him to bestir himself, if he did not want his ears cropped.
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