“Sire,” said the colonel, smiling, “I am always your majesty’s most faithful subject.”

“And when shall I see this pretty wench, colonel?”

“To-morrow night, your majesty.”

“’Tis well. Have you made all the arrangements?”

“Yes, sire; but she knows not who you are.”

“So much the better. To-morrow night, then; come early, Blood.”

“I will, sire.”

CHAPTER LX.

THE ROYAL LOVER.