“Some of the most confidential of his servitors he had conferred with, and the conference had deepened the shadow of his countenance.
“He returned at twilight; his young wife did not honour the repast with her presence.
“She was unwell, and not to be disturbed. The gay Redgill was the life of the board.
“‘Thou carriest a sad brow to-day, Sir Charles,’ said he. ‘Good faith! thou hast caught it from the dull air.’
“‘I have something troubles me,’ answered Sir Charles, forcing a smile, ‘which I would fain impart to thy friendly bosom. The night is clear, and the moon is up, let us go forth alone into the garden.’
“Redgill rose.
“And he forgot not to gird on his sword as he followed the knight.
“Sir Charles led the way to one of the most distant terraces that overhung the lakes.
“‘Redgill,’ said he, pausing, ‘answer me one question on thy honour. Was it thy step that left my lady’s bower yester eve at vesper?’
“Startled by so sudden a query, the wily Redgill faltered in his reply.