"One moment, uncle. Geoffrey de Fynes comes to London this day from Lewes on business of State. He longs for active service, and he is heartsick with his present mode of life.
"Let me hie to the Ambassador at once and propose that De Fynes's name be added to ours.
He will be here to-night, and I can vouch for him that he will rejoice to join us."
The Treasurer hesitated for a moment, then said—
"Yes, go, William, and at once. De Fynes is a brave man and true, I could not ask for a better comrade for my boys; I think it can be done."
Thereupon he left them, and William prepared to go also. A deep sigh from Susan, almost a groan was it, arrested his steps.
The poor girl had thrown herself upon a couch in an attitude of despair.
William knelt at her side.
"What is it, my dear one?" he said compassionately.
"Oh, William," Susan murmured, "was it not enough that I should lose my two brothers in one day that you must needs take my lover also?"