Simon the page opened the door and announced Colonel Blood.
In another moment Colonel Blood entered the room.
He was most magnificently attired in a semi-official kind of costume.
In his hand he carried a hat, looped with a diamond, and ornamented with a plume of feathers that, as he bowed, swept the floor.
Simon the page had had just time enough to let Colonel Blood know who he had to meet in the wainscot chamber, and why he had to meet them, so that the bold colonel was pretty well prepared to face the affair out with all the nonchalance possible.
“Well, Blood,” said the king, “we have sent for you to ask you a favour, for the subject of this interview is not one concerning which we feel justified in impressing a command upon you.”
“I am your humble servant ever, sire,” said Colonel Blood. “Your requests should be commands to those who are true to your person.”
“Well, well. Blood, that is all very well; but here are three gentlemen with grievous complaints.”
“Of me?”
“In some degree.”