“Nothing, sire, but that this injured maid may be restored to her old father’s arms.”
“Rash youth,” said the king, “know you not that I could with one word call around me a whole regiment of soldiers?”
“I know it,” Ned replied, with an ironical bow; “you could do so, of course, sire, but you are much too wise to attempt it.”
This was uttered with so much emphasis and meaning, that it staggered the king.
And, without saying another word, Ned Warbeck conducted Ellen Harmer from the apartment by the secret back stairway; and before the king could utter a word, the door was locked upon him, and the fair fugitive was safe in the hands of friends.
CHAPTER LXI.
COLONEL BLOOD HAS HIS REVENGE—STORMY INTERVIEW—MEETING IN THE WOOD—A STARTLING INCIDENT—DISCOVERY OF THE VICTIM—THE DEATH-BED CURSE.
It was a bold thing for Wildfire Ned to do, but he had sworn to accomplish the rescue of Ellen Harmer, and the gallant deed was accomplished.
Outside the palace gardens stood a carriage and four noble horses, ready to convey the fair Ellen to her father’s home.