Norton laughed as he replied, “If Lieutenant Harford, who has so courteously heaped coals of fire on my head by filling me this excellent cup of sack, will withdraw, I will explain to you what I mean, Major. I assure you my intentions are wholly honourable.”
The Major made an expressive gesture of the shoulders, evidently doubting whether he and his visitor put the same construction on that last word. Gabriel bowed and was about to leave the room when his friend checked him.
“Do not go, Lieutenant,” he said, decidedly. “I wish to have you present as long as Colonel Norton remains.”
“As you will,” said Norton, easily. “I am here entirely in your interest, sir.”
The Major drummed impatiently on the table.
“You seem to doubt that I have an eye to your interests,” said Norton, laughing.
“Well, sir, I have known you all your life, and I dare swear ’tis the first time you have considered anyone except yourself,” said Major Locke, sententiously.
“You have a cursed long memory,” said Norton, cheerfully. “But look you, Major, I know for a certainty that, early to-morrow, Prince Maurice will send troops to besiege your house. The Manor is in a position which will serve his purpose, and he intends to have a garrison there. Your property will be ruined, your household turned out, or should they resist, made prisoners, or mayhap, slaughtered. With one word you can save such a disaster.”
“And pray what word may that be?” said the Major, frowning.
“Your word of honour that you will give me your daughter Helena in marriage.”